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APPOINT AN ANIMAL-lOVER!

Ask Gov. Scott to name a birdwatcher to wildlife commission

The deaths of 304 bears during last month's hunt are a tragedy. The hunt was approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) despite the agency not knowing how many bears there are in Florida, and strong public opposition. Florida's panthers are also at risk, as the FWC has proposed weakening protections for the endangered animals.

The FWC has exclusive authority under the Florida Constitution to regulate fish and wildlife. Its decisions affect black bears and panthers, manatees and sea turtles, gopher tortoises and alligators, and the many other animals who call Florida home.

Florida's wildlife belongs to all Floridians. The FWC should be representative of the interests of ALL Floridians. Most residents of Florida are not hunters. Unfortunately, each of the current Commissioners boasts about their hunting and fishing backgrounds. It is time that the FWC has a Commissioner who represents "non-consumptive use" of Florida's fish and wildlife.

You Can Help
The terms of all of the current FWC Commissioners will expire by the time Governor Rick Scott leaves office in January 2019. It is also possible that one or more commissioners will resign their seat before their term expires and the governor will have to appoint a replacement to fill the unexpired term (this has happened several times in recent years).

We need your help to persuade Governor Rick Scott to appoint a birdwatcher, a nature photographer, or an individual with a background in wildlife conservation, to fill the next vacancy on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Please consider writing and mailing a letter to Gov. Scott. Emails may be less effective.

Office of Governor Rick Scott
State of Florida
The Capitol
400 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Click here to e-mail the Governor.

Please send a copy of your letter to the Appointments Office, which helps the Governor select appropriate people to fill vacancies.

Governor's Appointments Office
The Capitol Building
Lower Level, Suite LL-09
Tallahassee FL 32399
E-mail: appointments@eog.myflorida.com

Sample text (it's best to use your own words):

"Dear Governor Scott:
In the coming months and years you will be called on to fill vacancies on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. When that happens, I urge you to consider a birdwatcher, or an individual with a background in wildlife conservation, for the position. Birdwatching, along with hiking, nature photography, canoeing and kayaking are the fastest-growing outdoor activities in America. The appointment of a "birder" would add an important perspective to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Thank you,"
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