FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Contact:  Steve Boutelle, Engineering Manager, Lee County Natural Resources Division
                        (239)479-8128
                        (239)479-8109 Fax
                        e-mail: boutelsj@leegov.com

Lee County has received additional funding from the Natural Resource Conservation Service to assist with the removal of hurricane debris from waterways. This funding is being used to clean major obstructions that are either a hazard to navigation or an impediment to drainage from creeks, rivers, and canals throughout unincorporated Lee County. To date, the County has cleaned hurricane debris from over 38 miles of waterways. Items being removed include roofs, downed trees, and other large pieces of debris. This funding will not be used to remove nuisance debris such as small branches, foam insulation, or small pieces of floating debris nor will it be used to remove debris or obstacles that are the result of poor maintenance.

To report problem areas, residents can request assistance by calling Lee County DOT's Request for Action line at (239) 694-3334 or via e-mail at rfa@leegov.com. A link to the RFA system is also available at www.leegov.com. The deadline for requesting action is January 31, 2005.