FWC chairman, officers to participate in Ft. Lauderdale dive expo

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News Release

Rodney Barreto, Chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), will participate in a panel discussion on ocean ethics and rulemaking at the Blue Wild, a two-day event for dive and spearfishing enthusiasts. The Chairman's discussion begins at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 6, at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale.

Prior to Barreto's presentation, FWC Lt. David Bingham will participate in a discussion about dive flag safety. Bingham was involved in last year's passing of a resolution by the Florida Cabinet and Gov. Charlie Crist, proclaiming "Dive Flag Awareness Week," which helped to educate boaters and divers about the dive flag law. Blue Wild organizers recently awarded Bingham with the "Jeff Simonds Award" for his work on dive safety, his life-long commitment to conservation, and his efforts to bring law enforcement and the dive community together. The award is named after the late FWC marine biologist Jeff Simonds.

Immediately following Bingham's presentation, FWC Officer Hank Juntunen will demonstrate game detection with his K-9 partner, Gauge.  The black Labrador retriever helps sniff out illegal lobster and fish catches.

The Blue Wild is being held June 5 and 6 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. The admission price is $30 for one day or $50 for the weekend. The admission covers seminars, workshops and the vendor expo. The marine art exhibit is free. Twin Palms Center for the Disabled will be the recipient of the event proceeds. For more information about the organization, go towww.twinpalmscenter.org.