NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

December 5, 2000

CONTACT: Danon Moxley (863) 499-2421

PUBLIC MEETING ON TENOROC FMA SCHEDULED FOR DEC. 14

Citizens will get a chance to voice their opinions about future planning on the state-owned Tenoroc Fish Management Area (FMA) in Lakeland. As part of a standard review of the area's Conceptual Management Plan (CMP), a public meeting has been scheduled at the Lakeland Police Training Center on Thursday, Dec. 14, at 6 p.m. by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The training center is located on the McIntosh Power Plant access road, between East Lake Parker Drive and Combee Road.

Tenoroc FMA is well-known as a premier destination for largemouth bass and panfish anglers. In addition, the FMA also has an extensive system of horseback riding trails, hiking trails, picnic facilities, a dove hunting field and a million dollar public shooting range. Citizens can comment on additions to or modifications in the CMP with regard to these or other proposed uses on the area.

"Community forums are an important part of an ongoing process that helps fine tune land use and management goals for publicly owned lands," said Danon Moxley, Tenoroc area manager.

Each state owned tract has its own CMP, a framework document used to guide management strategies and land uses. On areas larger than 160 acres, Florida Statues require that managing agencies review and update CMPs every five years. CMPs are developed with the assistance of a Management Advisory Group and public comment. The resulting plan undergoes an audit and approval process through the state's Acquisition and Restoration Council who report to the governor and cabinet.

The general public is invited to join the FWC for comments and suggestions about the future of the Tenoroc FMA. For further information, visit the FWC's Web site at www.state.fl.us/fwc or call the Tenoroc FMA office at 863-499-2421 during regular business hours.