NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

June 9, 1999

CONTACT: Officer Steve Grigg (352) 732-1225

VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR TOMOKA RIVER WATCH PROGRAM

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is holding a Tomoka River Watch meeting on Friday, June 25 from 7-8:30 p.m., at the Nova Community Center, 440 Nova Road., (map) in Ormond Beach. This will be the initial, organizational meeting for Tomoka River Watch, a citizen volunteer program developed by the FWC, similar to Neighborhood Watch.

"We plan to hold regular meetings to offer our volunteers interesting informational and educational programs, as well as to encourage them to volunteer their time and expertise to FWC projects along the Tomoka River," said Wildlife Officer Steve Grigg, local program coordinator.

One of the program*s objectives is to show participants how to identify violations of the state's fish and wildlife laws, and how to report the violators to the FWC. Future programs will include a variety of topics including boating safety, alligators, nuisance wildlife and fishing. The program also hopes to recruit volunteers to help with various FWC projects, such as constructing informational kiosks at boat ramps. "This is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys the river to help keep it a safe and pleasant place to recreate," said Grigg.

For more information on River Watch call Officer Grigg or Lt. Jeff Gier at (352) 732-1225.