Friends of Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Crystal River Florida.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex consists of Crystal River, Chassahowitzka, Egmont Key, Passage Key and the Pinellas National Wildlife Refuges.

CURRENT EVENTS

2012

Saturday, February 11, 2012 - Open House at Three Sister's Springs. 8 AM - Noon. This will be the last Open House of the season at the Springs. (click here for more info)

March 3-4, 2012 - Strawberry Festival in Floral City. The Friends will be there. Stop by to visit our outreach booth and gift shop.

April 22, 2012 - Have you ever seen a manatee in a tuxedo or a whooping crane in an evening gown? To view these rare sightings you will want to join the Friends at their annual fundraiser at the beautiful Skyview at Terra Vista Country Club. Be a part of "An Elegant Evening with the Friends" from 5-8 PM. Food-Fun-Music-Silent Auction. A portion of the funds will support the new education center at Three Sisters Springs. SAVE THE DATE - More inf. coming soon!

Mission of the non-profit 501c(3) FRIENDS organization:
• Conserving, protecting and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people;
• Supporting the stewardship of the National Wildlife Refuge System;
• Promoting a better awareness, appreciation, conservation and responsible utilization of the Refuge Complex;
• Promoting the preservation of the natural and historical resources of the Refuges, foster their use and enjoyment by the public consistent with the protection and preservation of the environment, and engage in such educational, scientific and civic activities to assist the Refuges.

2011 Board of Directors (Click on a name for biography)

Lace Blue-McLean - President
Ardath Prendergast - Vice President
Shirley Knudsen - Treasurer
Al Peterson - Secretary

Jo Claycomb
John Peterlin
Pat Purcell
Warren Blodgett

Friends of Crystal River NWR donate new Manatee Rescue Truck to Refuge

Thanks to member support and other grants and donations, the Friends were able to purchase and donate a new Manatee Rescue Truck to the Crystal River Refuge Complex.

The new Manatee Rescue Truck will aid in the transportation of sick and/or injured manatees to a facility for medical care and rehabilitation. The truck will allow for constant observation and medical attention during transport by allowing access by staff to the manatees not previously available.

It replaces a converted horse trailer previously used. This donation promotes the mission of the Friends.