NWFWMD hosts Operation Outdoor Freedom for Wounded Veterans

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 10, 2015
CONTACT: NWFWMD Public Information Office (850) 539-2663 or Jim.Lamar@yopmail.com

NWFWMD Hosts Operation Outdoor Freedom for Wounded Veterans

HAVANA – The Northwest Florida Water Management District recently played host to Operation Outdoor Freedom, a weekend deer-hunting experience for wounded veterans of the United States military.

The hunt included six veterans representing the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard and Marines and took place during the weekend of Feb. 6-8 in the Econfina Creek Water Management Area in Bay and Washington counties. It was hosted with support from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service, Friends of Florida State Forests and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

“Operation Outdoor Freedom Hunt is one of the most rewarding experiences we participate in each year,” said Northwest Florida Water Management District executive director Brett Cyphers. “It is an honor to host these veterans and provide them a chance to get outdoors and enjoy the natural resources here in northwest Florida.”

Operation Outdoor Freedom is an endeavor of the Florida Forest Service that offers recreational opportunities, including hunting and fishing, to wounded veterans on state forests and other public and agricultural lands. Through the program, designated areas are equipped to accommodate the special needs of wounded veterans, providing an opportunity for recreation and rehabilitation that is not available through any other state program.

“We have now had hunters coming back for a second or even third time to take part in this event,” said Tyler Macmillan, District Bureau Chief of Land Management Operations. “That shows this event is as popular with the veterans as it is with our own staff.”

The only lowlight to the weekend’s activities was the theft of two ground blinds from District lands that were set up exclusively for the event. The blinds were stolen prior to the hunt despite a warning sign on one explaining it was to be used for wounded veterans participating in the event.