PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 12, 2008 - In preparation for fiscal year 2009-2010, the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program is seeking proposals for its annual work plan. Work plan objective are to:

• Fund projects that effectively implement the actions identified within the Updated 2008 Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (available at http://irl.sjrwmd.com)
• Form partnerships with government agencies, non-government organizations and others to improve the lagoon's water quality; conserve, protect, restore and enhance the lagoon's resources and natural habitats; and educate and inform residents and visitors about the fragile balance of the ecosystem and actions they can adopt to lessen their personal impacts

Interested persons are encouraged to submit a "Notice of Interest" with the lagoon program office. Messages may be sent to Wayne Mozo, project administrator, at wmozo@sjrwmd.com, with the phrase NOTICE OF INTEREST in the message subject line and should include a brief, descriptive statement with the amount of funding requested and contact information. A Notice of Interest must be submitted by Jan. 9, 2009; project proposal applications must be received by the lagoon program office by Jan. 30, 2009. Additional information is available at www.irl.sjrwmd.com.