"Programs of the FWC 2011-12" is also available as a PDF file. 
(3.4 MB)
From the Executive Director...
December 2011
Dear Reader:
Abundant and diverse fish and wildlife resources make Florida a special place to live or visit. We are the state agency responsible for championing the stewardship of these precious, natural wonders. But we know successful stewardship cannot be achieved without the help and support from the citizens of this great state. We at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) thank you for your contributions, support and continuing interest in the conservation of our fish and wildlife resources.
Our primary goal is to ensure Florida has abundant and diverse fish and wildlife for this generation and generations to come. We manage 575-plus species of wildlife and 700 species of freshwater and saltwater fish, using science-based conservation practices blended and balanced with the needs of people. To determine what these needs are, we work with private landowners and stakeholder partners on a broad spectrum of conservation issues.
As you look through "Programs of the FWC" and MyFWC.com, you will read about the various divisions and offices tasked with making sure that Florida can sustain its rich heritage of fish and wildlife and their habitats. At the same time, we work to increase our residents' and visitors' enjoyment of these assets through wildlife viewing and other recreational opportunities. Florida's wildlife and associated recreational and tourism activity form an economic engine bringing billions of dollars annually to the state.
In times of a natural or manmade crisis, Floridians depend on our Division of Law Enforcement for special skills and equipment for search and rescue. FWC officers, charged with law enforcement throughout Florida, partner with other state and federal agencies to protect the resources and the people of Florida. Likewise, scientists at our Fish and Wildlife Research Institute are instrumental in providing timely and accurate information during normal times and amidst disasters. Highly trained fisheries and wildlife biologists and technicians in our other divisions work tirelessly to achieve science-based management of fish and wildlife populations and habitats across a mosaic of Florida's public and private lands.
In addition to forming partnerships to accomplish our objectives of maintaining sustainable wildlife populations, we provide young people opportunities to experience the wonders of Florida's wildlife and the enjoyment possible as a sportsperson or conservationist. We do this, particularly through the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, to create the next generation of adults who know and care about fish, wildlife and their habitats.
Our mission of managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people is simple in design and complex in execution, but our staff is dedicated to this mission and challenge. We hope you take advantage of the many opportunities to enjoy wildlife and their habitats, share responsibility as stewards and pass the stewardship torch to the next generation.
With regards,
Nick Wiley
Executive Director
Persons with Disabilities