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FWC to Reveal New Design of Manatee License Plate

Press Release

December 18, 2007

Contact:

Carli Segelson, FWC (727) 896-8626 (727) 224-3674 (cell)

FWC TO REVEAL NEW DESIGN OF MANATEE LICENSE PLATE

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will unveil the newly redesigned Florida manatee license plate at 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 20, in the Garden of the Springs at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parking for the manatee plate unveiling will be available at the park’s west entrance.

FWC Regional Director Greg Holder will unveil the new plate.

Other speakers include Save the Manatee Club Executive Director Patrick Rose and artist Nancy Blauers. After the unveiling, researchers will be on hand to answer media questions regarding manatee programs.

“We expect the new plate will help generate new funding, crucial to the FWC’s battle to steer this treasured species away from the threat of extinction,” said Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto.

Proceeds from the sale of the plate are the primary source for Florida’s manatee research and conservation. In the 2006-2007 fiscal year, the manatee plate generated over $1.2 million. The state’s manatee programs also receive money from the sale of manatee decals, boat registration fees and donations. 
 
To purchase the new manatee plate, visit your local tax collector or log on to www.buyaplate.com.  As a unique gift idea, manatee plate gift certificates are available at any authorized tax collector’s office.

The FWC will post a graphic of the new plate on Thursday, Dec. 20 following the unveiling.  For more information on the manatee license plate or to view the new plate graphic once published, visit the Manatee License Plate section.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park features manatee rehabilitation and education programs and the opportunity to view manatees in their natural environment. 

For park information, visit www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings.