Marion County Wildlife Officer Marty Griffith places collection container
Patrols take wildlife officers into the far reaching corners and to the popular spots for hunters and anglers. They appreciate conversations and feel kindred to those enjoying the outdoors. A love of nature is the backbone of a wildlife officer’s career. They signed on to uphold the TWRA mission because they care for our resources. So when Marion County wildlife officer Marty Griffith saw monofilament fishing line entangled around popular docks and shoreline, he decided he could do something about it.
Officer Griffith built and has placed monofilament line collection containers in a few key spots for anglers to use in Marion County. Instead of littering or leaving it behind to entangle birds or other wildlife, simply stuff the line in the available container. Mr. Griffith said, “It is hard to see people disrespect nature and leave their trash behind for others to deal with or worse yet, entangle wildlife. This is a simple solution and I hope anglers utilize the containers.”
If the containers are successful, Wildlife Officer Griffith plans to build and install more collection containers. Of course he asks for the support of the public. “A program isn’t successful without utilization. This is a small effort but it can make a big difference if everyone jumps on board and makes a commitment to stop littering,” he said.
For more information about wildlife officers or the TWRA mission statement visit: tnwildlife.org
Wildlife Officer Griffith (right) stands by the new monfilament collection container with fellow officers Russell Vandergriff (left) and Sean Edgmon