Welcome to the interactive web schedule for the 2017 SEAFWA Conference! For tips on how to navigate this site, visit the "Helpful Info" section. To return to the SEAFWA website, go to: www.seafwa.org/conference/overview
Note: Session titles beginning with an asterisk (*) have student presenters.
AUTHORS: Rae Waddell, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
ABSTRACT: Public-private partnerships are key in delivering youth and family conservation programs and activities and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is unlocking that potential through its Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network (FYCCN). Launched in 2010, the FYCCN now has over 325 partner sites that serve as activity hubs for youth to experience hands-on learning about fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, boating, archery, shooting sports, hunter safety, and fish and wildlife conservation. This method of recruitment and retention has advanced FWC’s strategic goal of Expanding Participation in Conservation (EPIC) among Florida’s increasingly diverse population. The FYCCN empowers its partners by providing training, equipment and other resources so they can provide FWC programming to their audiences, which previously were beyond FWC’s reach. Leveraging FWC staff and programs to increase the number and diversity of youth and family participants has required a shift in resources and positions as well as a change in cultural mindset. Learn how FWC’s experience in promoting agency-wide understanding and acceptance of R3 strategies has been critical to engaging diverse audiences in a range of outdoor activities and creating future stewards of our natural resources.