FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 5, 2002
Florida
State Park Employees Save $175,000, Earn Recognition
TALLAHASSEE
-- Employees at
three Florida State Parks were recognized this week with
Davis Productivity Awards for saving money and improving
visitor services at Florida’s award-winning State Park
system, a division of the Department of Environmental
Protection. Florida Tax Watch presented the awards at
ceremonies in Gainesville and Orlando.
“These
awards recognize the dedication and professionalism of
Florida Park Service employees,” said Florida State
Parks Director Wendy Spencer. “Their commitment to
resource protection, customer service and efficient use of
resources has brought national recognition to our state
park system and provided an enjoyable family destination
for our guests.”
Ichetucknee
Springs State Park, north central Florida’s popular
tubing destination at Fort White, received the Davis
Productivity Awards 2002 Commemorative Plaque for savings
generated through the use of inmate labor to carry out
park projects. Under the supervision of Itchetucknee
Springs Park Ranger Cecil Sheffield, an inmate work squad
from the Department of Corrections completed 50 percent of
the park’s maintenance needs. Inmates also worked at
nearby Troy Springs and Peacock Springs State Parks. Along
with Sheffield, four other park rangers and a park
volunteer were honored. Ichetucknee Springs also received
an Honorable Mention for significant cost savings on
landscaping and construction of handicapped facilities at
the park.
Lake Griffin
State Park, at Fruitland Park near Leesburg, was honored
with a Certificate of Commendation for increased revenues,
improved customer satisfaction and cost savings. Lake
Griffin Park Manager Doug Watson and four park employees
shared the honor.
The Prescribed
Burn Team at Wekiwa Springs State Park, near Orlando,
received an Honorable Mention for saving $30,000 with
efficient prescribed burning -- a technique used to
prevent wildfires and restore natural areas. Park Manager
John Fillyaw and 11 Florida Park Service employees were
recognized.
Last year,
nearly 18 million visitors experienced Florida State
Parks, recently voted ‘America’s Best’ by the
National Parks and Recreation Association.
-30-
Press Office
