Media contact:   Karen Killebrew

                            (530) 878-1330

                            karen@NatureMedia.net

California Watchable Wildlife Issues Call for Nominations

California Watchable Wildlife is accepting nominations for wildlife viewing sites to be considered for inclusion in the state wildlife viewing network.

The goal of the California Watchable Wildlife Project is to address the growing interest in wildlife viewing and nature tourism by educating the public about where and how to view native wildlife and habitats in a respectful and sustainable way while building support for the long-term protection and management of California’s natural resources.

All 200 existing sites in the network and newly nominated sites will undergo rigorous assessment to ensure that sensitive and threatened wildlife and habitats are protected from overuse by directing visitors to areas with appropriate facilities.

Viewing sites are nominated by site managers. The online nomination form contains sections with site description, a list of commonly viewed species, best seasons for viewing, facilities, contact information, directions to the sites along with sections on community involvement.

To initiate the nomination process, visit www.cawatchablewildlife.org/viewing_guide.htm. Contact the appropriate agency representative, who will assign a log-on and password. Once complete, the nomination will be reviewed by the agency representative and forwarded to the California Watchable Wildlife Committee for evaluation and assessment.

Nominations will be accepted through December, 2007. Independent assessments will be conducted through February, 2008, with final site selection made by May, 2008. Sites selected for inclusion in the California Watchable Wildlife network will be promoted on the website www.cawatchablewildlife.org, identified by the posting of directional road signs, and considered for inclusion in a future revision of the “California Wildlife Viewing Guide”.

California is one of 44 states that participate in the nationwide Watchable Wildlife network. Watchable Wildlife is a program designed to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities for the public. The objectives are four-fold: wildlife-associated recreation, economic development, education, and conservation.

The California Watchable Wildlife Committee is comprised of representatives from local, state and federal agencies, non-profits and private businesses, and strives to educate the public by coordinating and promoting ethical wildlife watching. For information about the California Watchable Wildlife Project, visit www.CAWatchableWildife.org, or contact Karen Killebrew, Outreach Coordinator, (530) 878-1330 or email karen@NatureMedia.net.