Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Nissan helps revamp Florida Keys in wake of Hurricane Irma

It's been over two months since Hurricane Irma slammed the southeastern U.S., but the devastation left behind remains – and one of the industries hit hardest is fly fishing. That's why Hilary Hutcheson, a top fly-fishing guide based in Montana, teamed with Nissan and other outdoor brands to help with cleanup efforts in support of the Florida Keys Fishing Guides' Association.

Nissan TITAN helps revamp Florida Keys in wake of Hurricane Irma
Nissan TITAN helps revamp Florida Keys in wake of Hurricane Irma
"When I saw my friends in the Keys lose 30 guide days in the wake of Hurricane Irma – as well as their boats and homes in some cases – I felt a burning concern that was perhaps fueled by my own experience in the harsh smoke of Montana's devastating wildfires," said Hutcheson. "But I only lost nine days of guiding, not 30. I wanted to help those who took a gale-force slugging in the Keys."

Equipped with a powerful 2017 Nissan TITAN, Hutcheson and a crew of fellow outdoor industry members hauled truck-loads of debris to community trash piles to support the clean-up efforts.

Among those assisted was Bill Becker, a local radio host who chose not to evacuate during the storm so he could deliver up-to-date news to all locals who stayed behind. While broadcasting from his house to keep residents informed, Becker says his yard was destroyed. After a full day of clean up, Hutcheson wasn't done. She and her crew participated in a local fly-fishing tournament over the weekend to raise money for local guides – and the effects of that event are sure to be felt long after this past weekend as cleanup efforts continue.

"We wanted to make a statement that the Keys are open for business and that one of the best ways to keep the guides on the poling platform is to book a charter with them," said Hutcheson. "I'm grateful to everyone who participated in this effort and to those who are doing so many small and large things to help."

At Wesley Chapel Nissan, we're honored to be part of the Nissan family and community, who comes together in times of need.

28519 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
Contact: (888) 533-8431