Pensacola is pleased to announce that Tourism Cares, a non-profit based in Massachusetts with a mission to preserve the travel experience for future generations, will bring volunteers to give back to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Bayou Texar on March 30, 2012.

The Tourism Cares for Pensacola program will bring members of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries together to make a difference at these sites that are in constant need of care and rejuvenation. During this Tourism Cares restoration and clean-up project, tourism professionals, from the front line workers to the corner office executives will work side-by-side with a common goal - the restoration and preservation of important sites in Pensacola. The impact of these volunteer projects is far-reaching. These projects will likely increase visitor confidence in an area, boost the area’s economy and spark further acts of responsible tourism.

This year, volunteers will help in two different and equally important projects. The Pensacola Lighthouse has towered over Pensacola Bay since 1859 and is still in use today. As with any historic structure; the elements, especially in a coastal environment, create wear and tear. Extensive painting projects of both the exterior and interior of the house will be done. Landscaping and parking lot upgrades need to be completed to accommodate an increasing flow of visitors. The impact on this venerable lighthouse and its grounds will enhance the guest experience and help develop an even greater appreciation for its history.

“The whole Pensacola Bay area is an ecological and historic treasure. Having bounced back from the scourges of a devastating oil spill, the area needs our help in bringing help and attention to its history, beauty and welcoming community.” said Bruce Beckham, Executive Director, Tourism Cares.

Volunteers will also join with The Ecosystem Restoration Section of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Northwest District in partnership with the City of Pensacola, Clean and Green, and the Bayou Texar Foundation, to participate in the conservation of Pensacola Bay. Volunteers will be installing native, wetland vegetation and nearshore oyster reefs along 1,500 feet of shoreline on Bayou Texar. This project will enhance and restore habitats, stabilize the shoreline, and serve as a natural filtration system for runoff and potential pollutants.

“The Ecosystem Restoration Section and Clean and Green are excited about partnering with Tourism Cares to assist in this restoration of habitat in Bayou Texar, Pensacola Bay,” said Amy Baldwin, Florida Department of Environmental Protection. “Projects such as this could not be completed without the aid of enthusiastic volunteers and we hope to continue this new found partnership with future endeavors.”

Registration is now open online at www.tourismcares.org/volunteer.