Southwest Florida is a wet place, and much of our wildlife lives in or near the water. The Wildlife Center of Venice receives many calls that require use of a boat either to capture an injured animal or to simply get to its location. Kayaks and canoes are how our rescuers respond to most such calls, but motorboats are needed for others. It is immensely important for our rescue efforts that we know who has the right watercraft, in the right areas, and the time to put them to good use.

That’s where I’m hoping some of you can help us. Time is of the essence, and our “naval” fleet needs expanding. Rescue experience is helpful but not necessary. Often, all that is needed is a water taxi for our land-locked rescue team. Most of us who do rescues, learn on the job, and our training classes are free and informal.