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MEDIA CONTACT
Kevin Anderson
360-7255452
kevin.anderson@psp.wa.gov

Linda Farmer, APR, Director of Communication
(360) 725-5445
linda.farmer@psp.wa.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
07-26-2007

Partnership seeks applicants to design education and outreach program for marine invasive species

 

The Puget Sound Partnership seeks applicants to design a two-year outreach and education program that will build awareness of marine invasive species, and move boat-related industries and the boat-owning public in Puget Sound to adopt practices to stop their spread (i.e. get their hulls checked/cleaned).

 

Methods for the outreach and education program could include mass-media information, financial incentives, peer-to-peer education, special events, community-based social marketing techniques and other behavior change ideas. Ideally, the campaign will begin in early 2008.

 

Applicants must be licensed to do business in the State of Washington and have at least 10 years of combined relevant experience in designing effective education and outreach programs. Applicants’ experience should include a demonstrated ability to launch outreach programs designed to reach specific audiences. Experience in working with state natural resource agencies and diverse not-for-profit organizations is desirable.

 

Aquatic invasive species are non-native plants or animals that threaten the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of infested waters, or the commercial, agricultural and recreational activities that depend on such waters. After habitat loss, non-native marine invasive species pose the greatest threat to the diversity of Puget Sound by out-competing native species for food and space.

 

Non-native species enter Puget Sound through various pathways including ballast water discharged from ships, discarded aquarium plants and animals, hitchhikers on hulls of recreational boats, and hitchhikers associated with imported aquaculture species.

Proposals are due by close of business Aug. 13. The overall budget for this project cannot exceed $20,000. For more information on the RFQQ, contact Stephanie Lidren, 360.725.5445, stephanie.lidren@psp.wa.gov.

 

For more information about the Partnership’s Aquatic Nuisance Species Program, contact Kevin Anderson, kevin.anderson@psp.wa.gov, 360.725.5452

 

About the Puget Sound Partnership

The Puget Sound Partnership is a state agency established in 2007 to lead efforts to protect and restore Puget Sound and its spectacular diversity of life, now and for future generations. Learn more at www.psp.wa.gov.

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