Last modified Wed., April 30, 2008 - 04:19 PM
Originally created Thursday, May 1, 2008

Florida Fish and Wildlife moves aboard NAS Jax

By Lt. Rebecca Rebarich, Public Affairs Officer

Capt. Gary Klein, Lt. John Conboy and Lt. Brad Givens of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's North Central Region moved aboard NAS Jacksonville last month. Photo by Lt. Rebecca Rebarich

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) North Central Area Operations Office moved aboard NAS Jacksonville last month.

In total, 33 FFWCC personnel are assigned to NAS Jacksonville. These personnel consist of one captain, six lieutenants (including one intelligence lieutenant affiliated with the fusion centerassuming the position survives the legislative session), 24 officers and three investigators who are sworn law enforcement officers, as well as two non-sworn administrative personnel.

In addition to personnel, FFWCC is moving vessels to the Navy base. Currently, they have two vessels assigned to slips at Mulberry Cove Marina with a 32' Fincat catamaran hull vessel slated to arrive at NAS Jacksonville in late May to early June.

In total, FFWCC North Central Region operates 24 total vessels within their area of operations ranging from a 13' Boston Whaler for skinny water usage to 32' Fincat catamaran hull vessels.

Capt. Gary Klein, FFWCC NC Region 2, said that the benefits of moving aboard NAS Jacksonville are several. "By working out of NAS Jacksonville, FFWCC NC Office is now centrally located within their area of responsibility, comprised of Nassau, Duval, Baker, Clay and Bradford Counties," he said.

FFWCC's former location at Jacksonville Beach was not efficient for their continuity of operations plan. The access road would often flood during strong spring and fall tides, not to mention tropical storms or hurricanes.

The security for FFWCC evidence and assets are enhanced by being located on a military base. Previously, FFWCC experienced multiple thefts, including a boat trailer stolen and two winches taken off our spare stored vehicles.

Additionally, by co-locating with military personnel, FFWCC has the ability to recruit viable law enforcement officer candidates from Navy personnel who are completing their service.

"The task of moving an office as well as arranging for an evidence and storage compound has been an onerous one," stated Klein.

"However, all the personnel with the U.S. Navy have been extremely helpful with facilitating our move as well as making us feel at home. After planning and coordinating the move for over a year it is a tremendous relief to be on base. We look forward to being a meaningful partner with the U.S. Navy for many years to come."