The Southwest Florida Water Management District was recently recognized by the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF)/Wheelin’ Sportsmen for its commitment to providing disabled outdoor enthusiasts opportunities to enjoy the wilderness.
The NWTF’s Wheelin’ Sportsmen, which facilitates outdoor events for the disabled, honored the District during the organization’s 30th Annual Convention and Sport Show in Nashville, Tennessee and later at a chapter banquet in Wildwood, Florida. In Nashville, the District received the 2005 Agency Achievement Award and the Patron Life Sponsor Award.
The District’s partnership with Wheelin’ Sportsmen allows disabled people to participate in planned events throughout the year, including a variety of game hunts and a fishing derby. A five-year agreement to hold seven events on District-managed land per year was signed last year after a successful pilot program was completed.
“The successful partnership we have with the District is the prototype for all other potential partnerships with government agencies,” said Mike Blanton, regional coordinator for the Wheelin’ Sportsmen.
“The District strives to make public land available for everyone to enjoy,” said Fritz Musselmann, land resources director. “It’s very rewarding to know that by making District land more accessible through this partnership, we are achieving that goal.”
In addition to the honor received at the national convention, Blanton thanked the District and its employees for their dedication to making the project a success during a local banquet.
“The help we’ve received from the District’s land management staff has really made a difference in the quality of life for many disabled people,” said Blanton. “Just being able to go out in the woods and spend time with other outdoor enthusiasts means a lot to them.”
Those who participate in Wheelin’ Sportsmen events are preselected through an application process. For more information about participating in upcoming Wheelin’ Sportsmen events throughout Florida, visit the National Wild Turkey Federation web site at www.nwtf.org.