Governor Applauds Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Postponement of Manatee Vote

Press Release

GOVERNOR APPLAUDS FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION ON POSTPONEMENT OF MANATEE VOTE

Governor Charlie Crist today met with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, commending members for postponing until December the vote to reclassify the Florida manatee from endangered to threatened. Earlier this week, the Governor sent a letter to Chairman Rodney Barreto requesting that the vote be postponed until newly appointed members of the commission had the opportunity to adequately access the best course of action for the Florida manatee.

"I am grateful to Chairman Barreto and the rest of the commission for taking the time to consider what is best for Florida's manatee population and ensuring that the right decision is made," stated Governor Crist. "The Florida manatee is a state treasure. To act hastily in changing its classification could prove irresponsible to the conservation of this gentle giant."

Following his meeting with the commissioners, the Governor visited Stetson University's College of Law, where he toured the Elder Law Center and addressed an ethics class about the importance of public service and the valuable role attorneys play in shaping public policy.

"Public service is one of the greatest callings a person can have in a democratic society," said Governor Crist. "The opportunity to shape and influence the future of our state and our nation requires great leadership and courage. Taking on such a challenging and rewarding profession is an enormous responsibility but provides a deep sense of gratification."

Governor Crist also visited All Children's Hospital to meet Florida's first sextuplets, born to Karoline and Ben Byler on September 1, 2007.

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