FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  February 10, 2004
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither,  (850) 245-2118

Film and Photographs Bring Florida's Aquatic Preserves to Life

-- Clyde Butcher exhibit and PBS documentary capture Florida’s “Living Waters”--

FLORIDA’S LIVING WATERS – Through film and photographs, take a magical journey into the living waters of Florida’s aquatic preserves. Airing statewide on public television this spring, the documentary Living Waters: Aquatic Preserves of Florida showcases a dozen of the State’s 41 aquatic preserves, highlighting their natural and cultural significance.

“Living Waters captures the essence of Florida’s diverse water wonderlands,” said Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary David B. Struhs. “Through first-hand accounts from those who live, work and enjoy these waters, the film highlights the environmental, economic and recreational significance of Florida’s coastal waters.”

Florida designated its first aquatic preserve, Estero Bay, nearly four decades ago. Recognizing the environmental diversity and alluring beauty of Florida’s coastal waters, the 1975 Florida Aquatic Preserve Act ensured that aquatic preserves’ “natural condition…their aesthetic, biological and scientific values may endure for the enjoyment of future generations.”

“Situated where the land meets the sea, our aquatic preserves’ abundant seagrass beds and mangrove forests provide homes for marine life, and attract wading and shorebirds, manatees and other endangered species,” said DEP’s Director of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas Katherine Andrews. “Florida’s preserves truly are an irreplaceable natural resource.”

The film and Living Waters photography exhibit, by renowned Florida artist Clyde Butcher, will be featured together in museums around the state. The documentary premieres at the State of Florida History Museum, Tallahassee on February 20. Clyde Butcher’s exhibit will be on display at The Mary Brogan Museum of Art and Science through May 16.

Produced and directed by the Live Oak Production Group’s Elam Stoltzfus, the documentary is hosted by Butcher and features original music by Floridian Sammy Tedder. The film increases awareness and appreciation for the preserves, while encouraging responsible recreation and stewardship.

DEP, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, The Ocean Conservancy and The Gulf of Mexico Foundation supported the film’s production.

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