The Southwest Florida Water Management District and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF)/Wheelin’ Sportsmen have agreed to continue a successful partnership that allows disabled outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to participate in planned events on District land throughout the year.
As part of a pilot program, three events were jointly organized by the District and the NWTF/Wheelin’ Sportsmen last year including a deer/hog hunt, a turkey hunt, and a fishing derby. The success of these events led to the District’s Governing Board signing a 5-year agreement with NWTF/Wheelin’ Sportsmen to hold seven events on District land each year starting fiscal year 2006, which begins in October.
This partnership allows the District to expand handicapped accessible use of the land. District lands provide a variety of potentially suitable venues for various types of events. At developed park facilities there are paved trails, shelters, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-approved facilities and handicapped accessible boardwalks and fishing piers. There are also more remote areas that are suitable for shooting and hunting sports for the disabled.
The Wheelin’ Sportsmen is dedicated to providing all people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. The group organizes hunting and fishing events, recreational shooting and other outdoor activities.
Those who participate in Wheelin’ Sportsmen events are pre-selected through an application process. For more information about participating in future events, visit the National Wild Turkey Federation web site at www.nwtf.org.