LOUISIANA ENVIRONMENTAL ED
Northwest Louisiana Wildlife & Aquatic Education Program
1989-2007

History of Achievements:
1989-First fishing clinics organized  in cooperation with Bossier Parks & Recreation, Bossier Parish Sheriff Department, and Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries. Bossier Parish Schools participate.

1991-Aquatic Education Program developed

1992-Fall program known as “Wildlife Weeks” begun in September by Diane Cappo-Bossier Parks & Recreation, in cooperation with the Bossier Parish School Board, Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, and local sporting goods businesses.

1992-Sponsors expand to include: Northwest Louisiana Quail Unlimited, Northwood Bait & Tackle, Bossier City Police Department, Bossier Parish Sheriff Department, Cypress Lake Nature Center, North Louisiana Fly Fishers, Ark-La-Tex Gun Collectors, Cavalier Booster Club, Bossier Medical Center.

1992-Animal Tracks program (Wal-Mart sponsored) incorporated into Aquatic and Wildlife Education Programs. Renowned wildlife artist Susan Morrison, co-founder of Animal Tracks, visits.

1993-Caddo Parish Schools begin participation.  Program becomes part of curriculum.

1994-Program participation expanded to 120 mile radius.(Ark-La-Tex)

1995-Northwest Louisiana Wildlife and Aquatic Education Program moved to Bayou Bodcau.

1996-National Wildlife Federation Symposium. Hirsch Coliseum rally with over 8,000 youngsters. Teacher’s workshop held.

1997-Northwest Louisiana Wildlife and Aquatic Education Program becomes own non-profit entity under the Aquatic & Wildlife Education Foundation. Diane Cappo-Director, Affiliation with Louisiana State University.

1997-National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grant

1998-Durden House Environmental Education Center dedicated by Senator John Breaux for the Northwest Louisiana Wildlife and Aquatic Education Program.

1999-Cross Lake Fish Hatchery used for Aquatics Field Trips.

1999-C. Bickham Dickson Park becomes part of environmental ed resources.

1999-International Paper Foundation becomes sponsor.

2000-Haygood Environmental Education Trail built at Bayou Bodcau.

2000-S.A.F.E. (Sustainable Agriculture & Forestry Education) Program begun.

2000- Affiliation with YMCA of Shreveport /Bossier.

2005- J. Bennett Johnston Regional Visitor Center used for summer programs.

2006- 1st Annual Ark-La-Tex Water Resource Festival.

2007- 2nd Annual Ark-La-Tex Water Resource Festival with Coast Guard Search & Rescue Re-enactment and 1,500 life jackets given to public.

2008-3rd Annual Ark-La-Tex Water Resource Festival with Coast Guard and 500 life jackets given to public.