Sept. 12, 2011 – The Future Fisherman Foundation and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have announced a regional training seminar for all parties interested in aquatic education training. Camp Ocala, located at 18533 NFS 535 Altoona, Fl. 32702 will be the site of this year’s event.
This seminar is open to not only teachers from around the state, but also 4H leaders, Boy/Girls Scout leaders, FFA personnel and a host of others who are interested in getting students involved with aquatic education. Learning the principles of successful programs, such as Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs, will be the focus of this two day seminar.
“The intent of this seminar is to give everyone a good working knowledge of what aquatic education is all about and also instill in them the confidence to train others in their respective organizations,” commented F3 Executive Director, Mark Gintert. “We also intend to show them a host of other available resources and some “next steps” for their programs, once they get established,” added Gintert.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will also be participating in this event, which will cover a wide variety of topics including biology, habitat, conservation, equipment operation and life skills.
“The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is always interested in finding ways to reach out to, not only schools, but other organizations who deal directly with students across the state,” commented the FWC’s Angler and Aquatic Education Coordinator, Steve Marshall. “This event will bring together a diverse group who share the same goals of getting students involved with the great outdoors and learning to be stewards of Florida’s aquatic environments,” echoed Marshall, who will also help lead the seminar.
A travel stipend is available for participants through a Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF) grant, so the cost to attend is minimal. Interested parties can go to www.Futurefisherman.org to register for this event. Space is limited so be sure to get registered early.
About the Future Fisherman Foundation
Established in 1986, the Future Fisherman Foundation unites the sportfishing industry and a nationwide network of state outdoor educators, national conservation groups and youth organizations dedicated to introducing America’s youth to angling and the outdoors. These efforts help people of all ages have safe and enjoyable fishing experiences that foster conservation ethics. Visit www.futurefisherman.org.