By CONNIE MERTZ

By now, you have noticed the license plate of the river otter gracing vehicles. This playful critter was nearly extinct because of water pollution and over trapping. Like many of our wild species, there's a happy ending. Due in part to the Wild Resource Conservation Fund, it has been reintroduced into waterways throughout Pennsylvania. In fact, the license plate as of June has brought in $300,000 for education and research.

What is the Wild Resource Conservation Fund? It originated in the 1980's by then head of the Pennsylvania Fish Commission, Ralph Abele. It addresses the lesser-known species; Abele called them the "creepy crawlers." The fund also supports studies on species of rare plants and fungi. From bats to butterflies and birds, including the success of the peregrine falcon, it is playing a vital role in research, educating the public and restoring uncommon species to the wild. The fund does not receive any monies from the General Fund.

For individuals interested in the Wild Resource Conservation Fund, a quarterly publication is available called "Keystone WILD! Notes." It keeps the public informed on the work now in progress and the results of some of the research. To make a personal donation or to be placed on the mailing list, write to: The Wild Resource Conservation Fund, PO Box 8764, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8764. If interested in a river otter license plate, the cost is $35 with $15 going to the Fund. They can be purchased anytime of the year. Applications for the plates can be obtained from the address above or from PennDOT offices, Photo ID centers and state parks.