ESPN Conservation

CELEBRATION, Fla. — In conjunction with the start of the 2008 Bassmaster Elite Series season, BASS Conservation will make a contribution to the future of Florida's fisheries via the new Florida Bass Conservation Center (FBCC).

BASS will donate $20,000 to the construction and enhancement of the FBCC, whose mission is to propagate and rear the various strains of Florida largemouth bass, advance research into genetics and biology of Florida's largemouth bass and provide public education and outreach opportunities for the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

"On behalf of FWC and Wildlife Foundation of Florida, I sincerely thank BASS for this donation to the Florida Bass Conservation Center to further efforts in Florida bass conservation and management," said Darrell Scovell, FWC Director of Freshwater Fisheries Management. "The FBCC is the focal point for bass conservation, research and management in Florida, and this donation demonstrates the commitment of BASS members to preserving and enhancing the state's valuable bass resources, so that Florida will remain the Fishing Capital of the World."

To help raise awareness for the unique facility, which will protect and enhance one of the most popular sport fish in America, BASS will present its FBCC contribution to the FWC at each of the Bassmaster Elite Series' first two tournaments this month in Florida: the March 6-9 Sunshine Showdown at Harris Chain of Lakes and the March 13-16 Citrus Slam at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.

"We would like to make this donation to the FWC and the Florida Bass Conservation Center on behalf of our Florida host communities and as a gesture of appreciation for Florida's efforts to protect and conserve a species of fish near and dear to the hearts of BASS members everywhere," said Chris Horton, BASS Conservation Director.

BASS Conservation is built on three foundations: A full-time, knowledgeable staff; education outreach; and tactical support from BASS Federation Nation chapters. Today, those fundamental elements help BASS continue to promote sound fisheries management, habitat restoration/improvements, education, angler advocacy and research.

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