(BLACK PR WIRE) (December 17, 2009) JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District and its federal and state partners unveiled a new public service campaign today to highlight the statewide problem of invasive species.
The unveiling took place during a press conference held on Dec. 16 at the USDA Invasive Plant Research Laboratory in Fort Lauderdale; Fla. Invasive species highlighted in the campaign include the Nile Monitor, the Burmese Python and the Sailfin Catfish. The announcement also included a new web site – www.dontletitloose.org – and the toll-free number (1-877-CERP-USA) to call to learn more about invasive species and the campaign.

“The first phase of the public service campaign will increase awareness of invasive animals that threaten the Everglades and Everglades restoration,” says Nanciann Regalado, Jacksonville District strategic communication and outreach program manager. “In the spring, we hope to launch the second phase of the initiative with invasive plants.”

Highlights of the press conference included remarks from Stu Appelbaum, deputy for Restoration Program Management and Chief of Everglades Division for the Corps of Engineers; David Hallac, Everglades National Park biological resources branch chief; Paul Souza, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service field supervisor; Chuck Collins, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission south regional director; and, William Long, director of the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association (FOAA) board of directors.
The Florida Outdoor Advertising Association donated billboard space throughout the state for the campaign. Billboards will be placed along the state’s roadways and main highways beginning this month.
For more information on the statewide public service campaign, call 305-948-8063.


Media Note: Images of the billboards are available, upon request. To obtain a copy, contact Bernadette Morris at 305-948-8063