The Department of Environmental Protection does not just make rules. They provide needed funding to communities to protect Florida’s water for all of us.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/…/bulletins/18c170c
Department of Environmental Protection does not just make rules
Earth Hour
Earthy hour is this Saturday at 8:30 pm. Please participate if you can! Thank you! https://www.earthhour.org/
Manatees and their babies
On March 21, 2017 a mother manatee was seen swimming the waters of Pinellas County, Florida. Manatee babies known as calves, will stay with
It’s Imagine Our Florida Night at Painting With A Twist – Painting with a Purpose
You asked for it and it’s here. Mark Your calendars. Wednesday April 12 at the Altamonte Springs Painting with a Twist. Bring your friends and family. Enjoy a wonderful night with your friends and meet new friends who care about Florida’s natural resources. A portion of the proceeds will benefit IOF. It’s a win – win for you and for our wildlife. Cost $35 each. Ages 10 and up.
BLACK BEAR HABITAT RESTORATION ACT
The Florida Black Bear Habitat Restoration Act will be heard in the Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee on March 28th. If your senator is on the EPC committee, (see link below) tell him/her how you feel about this habitat restoration act. Senators may sponsor bills. To ask your Senator to sponsor SB1304 find your Senator here: http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/…/Repre…/myrepresentative.aspx
Read the Bill here: https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2017/01304
Celebrate Spring!
It’s a beautiful day to connect with nature.
Today is the day that begins the season of rebirth, new beginnings, longer days and warmer weather.
Take a walk in your yard or in a park today. What signs of spring do you see? New buds? Nests being prepared?
Our ancestors connected with the sun as their calendar. The spring equinox marked the first day of the season to plant seeds. What will you plant in your garden this summer? An edible garden? A native plant, shrub or tree? Will it offer nectar for the bees and butterflies or food and a place to hide for birds and other wildlife?
No matter what your plans, take some time to reconnect with nature. Imagine the possibilities this day of new beginnings will bring to you!
Urban Coyotes
Did you know that there are coyotes in Florida? The coyote, a member of the dog family, is not native to the state and once could only be found living in the western area of the United States, but now live in every state except Hawaii. Coyotes were brought to Florida in the 1920’s – to be hunted – and have since spread to every county in the state, except the Florida Keys. Generally, the medium-sized animals present no danger to humans unless provoked. Rather, they prey on smaller animals, such as squirrels, rats, opossum, raccoons, rabbits, and snakes, and also eat fruit, and… neighborhood cats.
You may be wondering how to successfully coexist with these amazing animals. There are some very important habits to put into practice – whether dealing with coyotes, bears, or any other wild animals. These include: 1) securing your trash in animal-proof containers; 2) not letting small pets run free outside, particularly at dawn, dusk, and at night; always making sure the area around bird feeders is clean; and 4) not leaving your pet’s food outside, and 5) making sure there is no fruit lying on the ground in your yard. By following these practices, you should be able to minimize the possibility of attracting a coyote. However, should you see one, just stay calm and be prepared to shoo it away by making lots of noise. Chances are, the coyote will be more frightened of YOU and run away! Be sure to stand your ground until the animal leaves or it may become emboldened and return at a later time.
For information about coyotes in Florida, check out this interesting video series from the University of Florida and the Manatee County Extension Service. 
http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/FMNP/video.shtml
Illegal Eagles?
Did you know that it is against federal law to possess an eagle feather, if one is not Native American? Under 16 USCS § 668 (50 CFR 22), the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act passed in 1940 (modified in 1962 to include the Golden Eagle), it is illegal to, “knowingly, or with wanton disregard for the consequences of his act take, possess, sell, purchase, barter, offer to sell, purchase or barter, transport, export or import, at any time or in any manner, any bald eagle commonly known as the American eagle, or any golden eagle, alive or dead, or any part, nest, or egg thereof of the foregoing eagles, or whoever violates any permit or regulation issued pursuant to this Act…” Eagle feathers vary according to the age and species. For an idea of what these look like, check out the National Eagle Repository site at: https://www.fws.gov/eaglerepository/photos.php
First time violators may face a fine of up to $5,000 or one year in prison. For individuals caught and convicted a second time, the fine increases to $10,000 and not more than two years in prison. So, should you see an eagle feather on the ground, respect its cultural meaning and admire its beauty, while allowing it to remain in its natural setting.
Meet Rosie
Meet Rosie, IOF’s Education and Event Coordinator for the Ocala area. Rosie brings with her a lifetime of experience and wisdom which she freely shares with all of us. IOF is honored and grateful that Rosie has joined the team. We look forward to advancing our mission together with you Rosie!
https://www.imagineourflorida.org/team/rosie-birnbaum/
Your voice is important
Don’t ever think your voice is not important. When combined with others, together, you create a roar that’s hard to ignore. This is a recent email sent by Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine. “Citizens Can Win!”
Oceanic White Tip Sharks
Not long ago the Oceanic White Tip Shark was abundant throughout the world and included waters surrounding Florida. Recently a drastic population reduction has occurred. As the Endangered Species Act petition states, ” an estimated 200,000 to 1,200,000 oceanic whitetips are killed annually to support the international fin trade (Bonfil, et al., 2008 at 7; E-CoP16-Prop-42 at 8; see also Clarke, et al.)” You can help this open ocean shark by making public comments. These sharks may seem scary but cleaner fish rely on them for food. When the sharks come close to reefs small fish like the one in this picture will feed off parasites that may be attached to the shark or other open ocean dwellers. If these cleaner fish don’t get access to these parasites regularly they will start to feed off the flesh of the fish within the reef areas. This can create open wounds and infections and can hurt smaller fish who naturally live in these areas. These sharks help to keep our unique ecosystems in balance and healthy. Please, make public comments at the link below and support the ESA petition to list these sharks.
Thundering Spirit Pow Wow update
We had the great honor to be granted a space to pitch our tent and reach hundreds of folks at the Thundering Spirit Pow Wow. People of all ages, stopped by our tent and learned that without human intervention, Nature provides our bears with a way to assure their population will never outgrow their available food sources. It is with extreme gratitude that IOF wants to recognize our volunteers who helped table this event. Rosie Birnbaum, Lourdes Brown, Julia Sable, Stephany Gustafson and Alyssa, we couldn’t have done it without you!
Robinwood Neighborhood gets Bear Resistant Trash Cans
Another win for Seminole County Bears! Thank you to Virginia Oros, ambassador for Wekiva Wild and Scenic and Kate McFall from The Humane Society of the United States,who partnered in this program after being inspired by Commissioner Lee Constantine’s active role in the human-bear conflict issues in Seminole. This is what happens when constituents work with lawmakers. It’s a good day for the people and bears of Seminole County.
Lake Okeechobee Update from Florida Senate
——–Lake Okeechobee Update from Florida Senate——-
This statement was released March 3, 2017 regarding progress with Lake Okechobee and how to handle the water crisis.
TO: All Senators
FROM: Joe Negron, President
On Monday and Tuesday of this week, I had the opportunity to meet in Washington with Senator Rubio, Senator Nelson, Members of Congress, senior budget staff, and high-level representatives of the Army Corps of Engineers to discuss the best way to reduce and ultimately eliminate the devastating discharges from Lake Okeechobee. After completing these meetings and reviewing related documents, here are five things I know:
1. If Florida advances funds to complete the rehabilitation of the Herbert Hoover Dike around Lake Okeechobee, the federal government will not repay the money to Florida. We will have simply spent hundreds of millions of dollars of General Revenue funds on what is unquestionably a federal responsibility.
2. As I have consistently advocated from day one, Florida’s best scientists should determine the Lake Okeechobee Release Schedule (LORS) and not the Army Corps of Engineers. Achieving this goal would take an act of Congress, a highly unlikely outcome.
3. Once the Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation is complete in 2024, the Army Corps of Engineers is not committed to storing one more gallon of water in Lake Okeechobee. The LORS must go through a multi-year review process, with the Corps predicting only negligible modifications to the release schedule. The Corps wants to avoid expected negative impacts it believes would result if the Lake is managed at higher levels than the present.
4. Under both the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) and the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP), redirecting damaging Lake Okeechobee discharges southward to improve the flow, timing, and distribution of water through the Everglades has already been authorized. The issue is not if we will have additional southern storage, it is when and where.
5. If the Florida Legislature approves and funds additional water storage south of Lake Okeechobee, the Army Corps of Engineers will reevaluate the order of priority in the 2016 Integrated Delivery Schedule (IDS). Florida is a partner in Everglades restoration and its decisions influence and impact federal participation in the 50-50 matching program. An example of this reality is the Corps’ recent initiation of the Lake Okeechobee Watershed one year earlier than planned after adverse discharge events.
I look forward to discussing this important issue further when we reconvene in Tallahassee next week.
http://www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressReleases/Show/2658
Science has proven
Science has proven that a bear population, in the absence of human influence and when only natural food sources are available, will not outgrow its food sources. If food is scarce, bears will have fewer, and in some cases, no cubs.. With all of the conversions, revitalization work and other human disruptions in our forests, IOF believes that we should assess all of these projects and their impact on our Florida Black Bears. Please let your lawmakers know how you feel.
Find Your Senators and Representatives: http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Secti…
Find a Senate Bill, Committee, watch action on the floor: https://www.flsenate.gov/
https://www.flsenate.gov/Senators
Occupational Safety
——-Occupational Safety——-
Commercial vehicle drivers have a tough job. Long hours, traffic, and deadlines to meet. Extra caution must be used when to avoid accidents. Wildlife often need to cross roads to avoid dangers and look for food. It’s important to keep a watchful eye. If you have commercial vehicle drivers at your place of business you can feel free to print this reminder to help keep our wildlife and our commercial drivers safe. The file can be downloaded from the following link.
Think like a Bear
——Think Like a Bear——-
This video by Bear Smart Society puts into perspective why bears take many of the risks they do when interacting with humans. Here in Florida there were 5,132 bear calls last year. Much work has been done in that time including $850,000 in grant money for bear proof trash cans awarded to various areas within bear prone areas. However, Florida has been experiencing a high fluctuation of new residents at an estimated 1,000 people a day. Education is the key to getting these new residents on board. Please, share this video with your community groups, friends, and family so we can work together and coexist peacefully with our majestic wildlife.
https://vimeo.com/71380613
Mt. Dora Pow Wow update
Last weekend, we had the great honor to be granted a space to pitch our tent and reach hundreds of folks at the Thundering Spirit Pow Wow. People of all ages, stopped by our tent and learned that without human intervention, Nature provides our bears with a way to assure their population will never outgrow their available food sources. It is with extreme gratitude that IOF wants to recognize our volunteers who helped table this event. Rosie Birnbaum, Lourdes Brown, Julia Sable, Stephany Gustafson and Alyssa, we couldn’t have done it without you! 
Update on Mediterranean Blue event
Mediterranean Blue hosted IOF for a night of good food and good company.. Thank you Jen for organizing the event, then inviting your family to celebrate your birthday with us. Thank you Arlene and Stephany for helping meet and greet. Thank you to everyone who came out and enjoyed the deliciously wonderful,authentic Greek food and learned about our iconic black bears. When you are in south Orlando, be sure to stop into Mediterranean Blue and show your gratitude by supporting Bob who so generously gave back to our state with his donation to IOF. 
🙂 Thank You Bob!
Pasco County Residents – Critical Feedback Needed
—-Pasco County Residents—-
—Critical Feedback Needed—
It is important to keep recyclables out of our ecosystems for the sake of our wildlife and humans too. Increased recycling will delay an approx cost of 190 million to Pasco County taxpayers. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RecyclePasco2017
Florida Panther population update Feb. 2017
Florida panther population estimate updated
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have updated the estimated number of endangered Florida panthers in their breeding range south of the Caloosahatchee River.
The updated population estimate is 120 to 230 adult and subadult Florida panthers, according to a February 2017 report from the agencies collaborating on conservation and recovery efforts. The previous Florida panther population estimate was 100 to 180 adult and subadult panthers in 2014. These population estimates do not include kittens, which are still dependent on their mothers.
The panther population report is available on FloridaPantherNet.org.
The report emphasizes both the importance and difficulty in obtaining accurate panther population estimates, which is similar to estimating other puma populations in western states. Currently, Florida scientists are evaluating several methods to refine their ability to estimate the panther population size, including the use of trail cameras and panther road mortality data. The current numbers, developed jointly by USFWS and FWC scientists, use annual counts of panthers primarily conducted on public lands. Density of panthers on these areas is then multiplied across the larger area that makes up the primary breeding range in south Florida. Although there are some panthers outside of this range in south Florida and in areas north of the Caloosahatchee River, they are primarily dispersing males and do not significantly contribute to the breeding population.
“This latest Florida panther population estimate is good news, an indication that conservation efforts are on track in helping recover this endangered animal,” said Kipp Frohlich, FWC’s Deputy Director for the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation. “In the 1970s and 1980s, it was estimated only 20 to 30 panthers remained in Florida.”
Larry Williams, the USFWS’s Florida State Supervisor of Ecological Services, believes the new numbers indicate things are trending in the right direction — due in part to a strong partnership with the state of Florida.
“Continued recovery will require a long-term concerted effort by many partners committed to finding common-sense solutions that balance many different and competing interests, yet are grounded in a shared purpose of conserving the lands that support Florida’s native wildlife and its ranching heritage,” Williams said.
The public is encouraged to report sightings of panthers or their tracks, and in particular photos, to MyFWC.com/PantherSightings to help with panther research and management. Biologists are especially interested in pictures of panthers north of the Caloosahatchee River, which runs from Lake Okeechobee to Fort Myers.
Floridians also can help panther conservation efforts by purchasing the “Protect a Panther” vehicle tag from local tax collector’s offices.
New Life Village and IOF
Imagine Our Florida, Inc. partnered with Florida Skunk Rescue to bring an educational event to the community at New Life Village and educate the kids about animal behavior and to change their outlook on some animals that are typically misunderstood including the majestic bears and lovable skunks.
New Life Village (NLV) is an intergenerational community designed for families raising foster and adopted children. Its mission is to reduce the number of children in foster care by encouraging more families to adopt and by providing these adoptive families a loving, supportive place to call home. NLV residents have either adopted a child or are in the process of doing so. The Village was founded by Sister Claire LeBoeuf, CSC of the Congregation of the Sisters of Holy Cross. Sister Claire has spent her entire adult life advocating for abused and neglected children. Several seniors also call NLV home. They serve as surrogate grandparents and volunteers to the children and to the mission. The Village offers a reduced rent incentive to assist these families. The Village also offers several onsite programs to support parents and children
To learn more about the village visit the website at http://newlifevillage.org/
Mediterranean Blue -Restaurant Fundraiser
Monday, February 27 at 6 PM – 9 PM
at Mediterranean Blue -Fundraiser – https://www.facebook.com/events/136827683503337/
Experience the Best Greek food in Orlando while helping IOF reach folks throughout the state. IOF is on a Mission to preserve and protect our natural resources, wildlife and land via science based education and by showing people how to connect with our natural world. A portion of the proceeds from the evening will benefit IOF. Delight your taste buds while helping reach people of all ages throughout Florida. Bring your family and friends and join us! See you all at Mediterranean Blue
Mon 6-9 PM · 435 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806-4555
Mediterranean Blue has limited parking. (Add’l parking available next door at the insurance company and the lot across the street (brown building). If those are filled, you may park on Jersey Street behind the restaurant.)
We need your help!
March 3,4,5 Mt Dora Thundering Spirit PowWow
http://thunderingspiritfamily.com
Volunteer tabling opportunity. We still need volunteers for Sat and Sunday.
Educate people of all ages while enjoying the native american spirit.
Contact us at info@imagineourflorida.org to schedule when you can help.
We don’t have to be SuperHeroes
If each of us gives a little, together we will have
——— SuperHero STRENGTH ————–
Imagine Our Florida has provided several opportunities for you to participate in.
-Volunteer for one of our tabling events and help teach folks of all ages about our iconic black bears. There is a hunt to be voted on and our bears need our voices.
– Enjoy a meal at one of our upcoming IOF nights at Central Florida restaurants.
– Come out to Gandy Beach and let’s get it cleaned up together!
-Attend an FWC meeting and show your support for our bears.
-Keep an eye out for Painting With a Twist opportunities in Miami, Ocala and Orlando
We are exploring a river cleanup in Central Florida too!
Do you have an idea? Would you like to host and event? Contact us. We will work together to protect and preserve our natural resources, wildlife and land 🙂
– In addition to the events below, we need a few volunteers for Earth Day events in the Sunrise/Miami area
LETS PUT ON OUR IMAGINARY CAPES AND DO WHAT WE CAN
Public Comments Hardrock Mining
The below docket proposes holdoing hardrock miners financially responsible for environmental damage. It states, “EPA expects this proposed rule will, when made final, increase the likelihood that owners and operators will provide funds necessary to address the CERCLA liabilities at their facilities, thus preventing owners or operators from shifting the burden of cleanup to other parties, including the taxpayer. In addition, EPA expects that by adjusting the amount of financial responsibility to account for environmentally safer practices, it would provide an incentive for implementation of sound practices at hardrock mining facilities and thereby decrease the need for future CERCLA actions.’
Feel free to make public comments at the below link.
https://www.regulations.gov/comment…
Public Comments for Drinking Water
——–Public Comments for Drinking Water——–
The EPA does a review every six years to determine water regulations. Do you have concerns about the safety of your drinking water? Submit your concerns here.
Sandhill Cranes are saying goodbye
Sandhill Cranes are saying goodbye as they begin their early journey north. The effects of Climate Change are revealed all around us, if only we will take time to listen.
“Three subspecies live year-round in Florida, Mississippi, and Cuba. Three other subspecies migrate from northern North America to the southern United States and northern Mexico.” Learn more here:
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/gu…/sandhill_crane/lifehistory
Poaching
This photo was taken by a Florida resident who discovered a poached alligator near Okeechobee, FL. It was left to die while being tied by the neck. Alligator season ended on November 1, 2016. According to FWC it is required that a harvest report is produced for any alligator killed. Their website also states, “Floridians and non-residents who are at least 18 years old to take up to 2 alligators per permit. Applicants who are awarded a permit must pay for two CITES tags and an Alligator Trapping License, or provide proof of possession of an Alligator Trapping License valid through the end of the alligator harvest season.”
FWC officers said they see situations like these occasionally. It’s important to report any poaching within the state. This is necessary to reduce the chance of species being hunted to extinction. To report violations you can do so with the following options.
Phone:1- 888-404-FWCC (3922)
Online: https://publictemp.myfwc.com/LE/WildlifeAlert/AlertMap.aspx
Text: Tip@myFWC.com
IOF Vice-President Addresses FWC
During public comments and today’s FWC meeting Vice-President Aymee Laurain addresses the commissioners with the following regarding Forest Plan Amendment to reassign Management Areas on the Ocala National Forest (Amendment 12).
“I wanted to thank FWC for backing our request to have the Florida Black Bear incorporated into the Forest Plan Amendment to reassign management areas on the Ocala National Forest (amendment 12.) This amendment focuses on management of 50,000 acres of bear habitat within the Ocala National Forest.
According to information from this report of the estimated 1,084-1,564 black bears in the Ocala and St. John’s population there are approximately 310-400 bears within the Ocala National Forest. Many are females of which future bear populations rely on.
The biological assessment for this project identified the following risks for the bears.
“Pre-burn roller-chopping and maintenance burning without prior roller-chopping occurring during the denning months (January 1 to April 15) would cause denning females within these stands to flee and likely abandon cubs.”
“Abandoned cubs could in turn be killed by chopping or burning activities.”
The assessment also states that while xeric oak scrub would in the long-term produce a better harvest yield, the landscape would decrease available denning habitat.
Both scrub oaks and palmetto would not produce a sufficient mast for 2-7 years after fire or mechanical vegetation removal.
We hope the commission will recognize that while these are necessary projects that would benefit many species long term, the short term effects could have a negative effect on the currently black bear populations and similar projects over the past few years, which also provide benefits to other species as well as important benefits to correct water flow from years of soil and landscape damage, many have already impacted the bear population and could have interfered with population estimates. I hope the commission will recognize the need to further monitor the bear populations and make every attempt to withhold from any population reduction. Thank you.”
FWC Meeting Live
Tune in Wednesday and Thursday for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissioner meeting. Meetings start at 8:30 a.m. both days.
For the meeting agenda:
http://myfwc.com/…/commission-meet…/2017/february/08/agenda/
Watch at: http://thefloridachannel.org/
APHIS
Recently a branch of the USDA in charge of monitoring inspections of facilities, monitoring of animal health and disease, and agricultural inspection of imports and exports to ensure safety from parasites and invasive species removed information about facilities which was previously made available to the public. The branch known as APHIS, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, was an important tool which the public could use to monitor potential facility inspections including wildlife rehabilitation facilities and zoos and aquariums who frequently work with FWC to rehabilitate wildlife. While this is an inconvenience, you can still request this information via the Freedom of Information Act. Here’s a link directly from the APHIS page explaining how you can submit it. Feel free to share.
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/…/ct_how_to_submit_a_foia_request
Florida Water Problems are not for the Birds
-FloWour coastal waters. We have eutrophication from agricultural drainage ditches and Lake Occechobee washing into estuaries, nuclear power plant leaks in Biscayane Bay, waste water pumping, leaks, and overflow all along our coasts causing various bacterial problems, and ongoing problems that remain from the Deep Water Horizon oil spill. When we know the problems it’s much easier to develop solutions. In the case of Coffee Pot Bayou in St. Petersburg, FL we are still unsure what is causing the death of dozens of brown pelicans. There are several theories out there. The good news is some of these birds were able to be rehabilitated which gives some hope.
St. Pete pelicans released back into the wild after weeks of rehabilitation
FCC Legislative Priorities
From our Friends at the Florida Conservation Coalition
————–FCC Legislative Priorities—————–
Below is a summary of some of the environmental legislation that has been filed thus far in the 2017 Legislative Session. The FCC has agreed to focus on funding for statewide conservation land acquisition and legislation to protect Florida’s waters. We will keep you updated as bills move through the House and Senate and hope you will stay engaged and contact your legislators about the proposed legislation below.
Please feel free to reach out to the FCC and our Member Organizations if you have any questions.
Best,
Gladys
Environmental Appropriations
The FCC will continue to advocate for increased funding for conservation land acquisition in step with the will of the voters who overwhelmingly passed 2014’s Amendment 1, the Florida Water and Land Conservation Amendment.
Appropriations will be shaped by last year’s Legacy Florida Act and several other bills discussed below.
Other Environmental Legislation of Interest
Land Acquisition Trust Fund (2014’s Amendment One Dollars)
SB 10 (Sen. Bradley), “Reservoir Project in the Everglades Agricultural Area”: This bill is related to Senator Negron’s proposal to buy land in the Everglades Agricultural Area, south of Lake Okeechobee, for construction of a reservoir to help reduce discharges to coastal estuaries and send water south into Everglades National Park. SB 10 permits all costs associated with the reservoir, including the costs for land acquisition, construction, and operation and maintenance, to be funded out of the Florida Forever program – historically the primary source for statewide conservation land acquisition. The bill authorizes bonding of $1.2 billion to purchase land either through a willing seller or by executing the existing contract with U.S. Sugar. The FCC is still analyzing the bill to determine how it will impact allocations from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund and funding for other conservation priorities.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation (February 7, 2:00 PM, 412 Knott Building); Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
SB 112 (Sen. Brandes), “Flood Hazard Mitigation”: This bill would:
Subject to appropriation, allocate up to $50 million annually from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund (2014’s Amendment One dollars) for flood hazard risk reduction policies and projects, including the acquisition of flood-prone property and development of green infrastructure to reduce the risk of flooding. Funds would be used for a matching grant program through the Division of Emergency Management.
Require an annual appropriation of a sum not to exceed $820,000 from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund to the Emergency Management, Preparedness, and Assistance Trust Fund for nonrecurring administrative costs of implementing the grant program.
Add Flood Mitigation Projects to the list of projects that the Florida Communities Trust program can fund, undertake, and coordinate.
Senate Referrals: Banking and Insurance; Community Affairs; Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development; Appropriations
SB 230 (Sen. Artiles), “Nonnative Animals”: This bill would allocate $300,000 annually, for two years, from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund (2014’s Amendment One) to implement a pilot program focused on mitigating the impact of tegu lizards and other invasive species on public lands. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in consultation with the Department of Environmental Protection, would establish this pilot program with the goal of examining the benefits of using strategically deployed hunting teams to target the invasive species and simultaneously collect information for research purposes. FWC would submit a report of findings and recommendations regarding the pilot program to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives by January 1, 2020.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
SB 234 (Sen. Bradley), “Land Acquisition Trust Fund”: This bill would require an annual allocation from (2014’s) Amendment One dollars for the St. Johns River Water Management District to help fund projects dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of the St. Johns River and its tributaries or the Keystone Heights Lake Region. The allocation is for $35 million annually.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
HB 551 (Rep. Stone), “Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems”: This bill would require an annual appropriation of $20 million from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund (Amendment One dollars). These funds would be used to help property owners retrofit their septic systems or switch to central sewer when DEP finds that their septic systems are contributing excess nutrient pollution to the Indian River Lagoon and the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie estuaries. The funds would also be used for muck dredging and storm-water improvements in the northern Indian River Lagoon.
Additionally, this bill would require the adoption of septic tank remediation plans where DEP determines they’re necessary for meeting pollution reduction goals set by Total Maximum Daily (Pollution) Loads for water bodies. Plans would include options for septic system repair, upgrade, or replacement; drain field modification; the addition of effective nutrient-reducing features; and connection to central sewer.
Water
HB 285 (Rep. Fischer; Rep. Leek; Rep. Massullo), “Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Inspections”: This bill would require septic system inspections at the point of sale for real estate transactions.
House Referrals: Agriculture & Property Rights Subcommittee; Natural Resources & Public Lands Subcommittee; Commerce Committee
HB 413 (Rep. Antone), “Water Oversight and Planning”: This bill would establish a Water Oversight & Planning Board to oversee regional water supply and water quality planning, flood protection planning, and environmental restoration. The board would include two members appointed by the Governor, several industry-minded members, and one representative from an environmental organization. The stated purposes of this Board are basic functions of the water management districts. The Board would further weaken the autonomy of the water management districts.
SB 532 (Sen. Galvano/Sen. Stewart), “Public Notification of Pollution”: This bill would require the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to publish a list of substances that would present an immediate and substantial risk to public health, safety, or welfare if released at specified quantities. If these substances are released into the environment, the owner or operator must report the release to DEP within 24 hours. If an owner or operator of an installation fails to comply with this law, they would be subject to up to $10,000 per day of civil penalties for each violation.
The bill would also require to DEP to share each report under this law with the public within 24 hours.
“Fracking”
HB 35 (Rep. Jenne), “Well Stimulation Treatments”: This bill prohibits a person from performing well stimulation treatments for exploration or production of oil or natural gas, including “fracking.”
House Referrals: Natural Resources & Public Lands Subcommittee; Agriculture & Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee; Government Accountability Committee
SB 98 (Sen. Farmer), “Stop Fracking Act”: This bill would ban extreme well stimulation techniques, including “fracking,” in Florida. It would prevent a person from performing these operations and DEP from authorizing these operations.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Community Affairs; Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
SJR 108 (Sen. Farmer), “Extreme Well Stimulation Ban Resolution”: This resolution proposes an amendment to the Constitution that would ban extreme well stimulation techniques, including “fracking,” in Florida.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Community Affairs; Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
SB 442, (Sen. Young/Sen. Perry/Sen. Farmer/ Sen. Latvala/ Sen. Stewart), “Advanced Well Stimulation Treatment”: This bill would ban “advanced well stimulation” techniques, including “fracking,” in Florida. It makes it clear that a permit for drilling or operating a well doesn’t authorize the performance of “advanced well stimulation treatments.”
An identical bill has been filed in the House by Rep. Miller: HB 451.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources; Appropriations
Environmental Regulation Commission
SB 198 (Sen. Stewart/Sen. Rodriguez), “Environmental Regulation Commission”: This bill would:
Establish a deadline of 90 days for filling vacancies on the Environmental Regulation Commission (ERC)
Require a supermajority of the ERC to approve standards in rules relating to air pollution; water quality standards; regulation of consumptive usage of water; hazardous substance release notification; ambient air quality standards; emission standards for stationary sources; surface water quality standards; ground water classes, standards, and exemptions; and drinking water classes, standards, and exemptions.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Ethics and Elections; Rules
Renewable Energy
SB 90 (Sen. Brandes), “Renewable Energy Source Devices”: This bill would implement 2016’s Amendment 4.
Previously renewable energy source devices were exempt from consideration when assessing the value of residential property. This bill extends this exemption to commercial properties as well.
This bill would also exempt renewable energy source devices from ad valorem taxation until December 31, 2037.
Senate Referrals: Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities (February 7th, 2:00 PM, SOB 301); Community Affairs; Appropriations Subcommittee on Finance and Tax; Appropriations
SB 456 (Sen. Rodriguez), “Public Utilities”: This bill would exempt certain producers of renewable solar-based energy from being defined as a public utility. It would allow, for example, apartment complexes who produce solar power to sell power to their tenants without having to go through a utility.
Plastic Bags
SB 162 (Sen. Rodriguez), “Disposable Plastic Bags”: This bill would allow coastal communities with a population of fewer than 100,000 to implement pilot programs testing regulations or bans of disposable plastic bags. The pilot programs would take effect on or after January 1, 2018 and would end on or before June 30, 2020. The pilot regulations or bans cannot include new taxes or fees on the use or distribution of disposable plastic bags. Municipalities that implement such pilot programs would collect data on the impact of their regulations or ban and submit a report by April 1, 2020 with this information to the governing board of their municipality at a public hearing. They would also provide a copy of this report to the Department of Environmental Protection.
Senate Referrals: Environmental Preservation and Conservation; Community Affairs; Commerce and Tourism; Rules
Terracycle has accepted IOF as one of the recycle charities
——–Help us raise money while recycling odd items——-
Do you have odd items around your house that you can’t put in your recycling bin? Items such as snack bags, Bausch + Lomb contact lenses, Earths best baby food pouches, Colgate Oral Care items, cigarette butts, and more can be recycled. Sign up at Terracycle and start collecting. Send them in for points and assign Imagine Our Florida, Inc. as your charity. Help us continue our education outreach efforts while making the planet a greener place.
https://www.terracycle.com/en-US
Black Bears are not scary after all.
They are actually almost vegetarian!
http://www.zmescience.com/ecology/animals-ecology/myth-buster-bears-not-ferocious-flesh-eaters/
Eutrophication
Eutrophication occurs when excessive nutrients build up in waterways such as rivers, lakes, and streams. This creates high amounts of nutrients for plants and algae. When algae blooms occur,
Florida scientists are researching Florida’s water issues
Clay Henderson, Executive Director of the Stetson University Institute for Water and Environmental Resilience, discusses the water issues facing
Senator Dana Young of Tampa has filed a bill to ban fracking in Florida
*Breaking News*
Senator Dana Young (R) of Tampa has filed a bill to ban fracking in Florida!
“I believe, and it is the belief of most Floridians, that our fragile limestone geology and fragile environment as a whole is incompatible with fracking of any kind. So it’s a balancing act.”
Read more here: http://www.bradenton.com/…/politics-…/article128368889.html…
Bears bite off their foot pads in the winter
—–Fun Fact—-
Did you know that bears bite off their foot pads in the winter?!
They grow fresh foot pads so they won’t have callouses.
It’s like a mani-pedi for bears!
Apopka Birdapalooza
So many hearts to touch. So many minds to change. Will you volunteer with us?
Imperiled Species Management Plan rule changes
Imperiled Species Management Plan rule changes are in effect
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
(Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.)
Jan. 18, 2017
Suggested Tweet: Imperiled Species Management Plan rule changes in effect. @MyFWC: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/…/bulletins/18133ff #Florida #wildlife
The Imperiled Species Management Plan rule changes are now in effect, including changes in listing status for many species. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved the groundbreaking plan in an effort to achieve conservation success with dozens of imperiled species throughout the state. The plan outlines the steps to conserve 57 species along with the broader vision of restoring habitats essential to the long-term survival of multiple fish and wildlife species.
“Florida is charting an ambitious new path for wildlife conservation success on a statewide scale,” said FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski. “Seeing a roseate spoonbill wading in shallow waters, a black skimmer resting on the beach or a Big Cypress fox squirrel sitting in a pine tree is an essential part of the Florida experience. This innovative plan is designed to keep imperiled species like these around for many generations to come.”
Nine rules were revised in support of the ISMP, focusing on changes to listing status, adding authorizations in a management plan or Commission-approved guidelines, preventing possession of species coming off the list, and accomplishing overall rule cleanup and clarification. Among the nine rules, one rule affecting inactive nests of non-listed birds is still pending.
Under the rule change that updates species’ listing status:
Fifteen species will no longer be listed as imperiled species because conservation successes improved their status: eastern chipmunk, Florida mouse, brown pelican, limpkin, snowy egret, white ibis, peninsula ribbon snake (lower Keys population), red rat snake (lower Keys population), striped mud turtle (lower Keys population), Suwannee cooter, gopher frog, Pine Barrens tree frog, Lake Eustis pupfish, mangrove rivulus and Florida tree snail. These species still are included in the plan for guidance in monitoring and conserving them.
Twenty-three species are newly listed as state Threatened species, a change from their former status as Species of Special Concern: Sherman’s short-tailed shrew, Sanibel rice rat, little blue heron, tricolored heron, reddish egret, roseate spoonbill, American oystercatcher, black skimmer, Florida burrowing owl, Marian’s marsh wren, Worthington’s marsh wren, Scott’s seaside sparrow, Wakulla seaside sparrow, Barbour’s map turtle, Florida Keys mole skink, Florida pine snake, Georgia blind salamander, Florida bog frog, bluenose shiner, saltmarsh top minnow, southern tessellated darter, Santa Fe crayfish and Black Creek crayfish. Threatened species have populations that are declining, have a very limited range or are very small.
Fourteen species keep their state Threatened status: Everglades mink, Big Cypress fox squirrel, Florida sandhill crane, snowy plover, least tern, white-crowned pigeon, southeastern American kestrel, Florida brown snake (lower Keys population), Key ringneck snake, short-tailed snake, rim rock crowned snake, Key silverside, blackmouth shiner and crystal darter.
Five species remain Species of Special Concern: Homosassa shrew, Sherman’s fox squirrel, osprey (Monroe County population), alligator snapping turtle and harlequin darter. These species have significant data gaps, and the FWC plans to make a determination on their appropriate listing status in the near future.
Important things to know about the Imperiled Species Management Plan:
It includes one-page summaries for each species, including a map of its range in Florida and online links to Species Action Plans. The 49 Species Action Plans contain specific conservation goals, objectives and actions for all 57 species.
It also has Integrated Conservation Strategies that benefit multiple species and their habitats, and focus implementation of the plan on areas and issues that yield the greatest conservation benefit for the greatest number of species.
Learn more about the plan at MyFWC.com/Imperiled.
New Sponsor
Imagine Our Florida is more than grateful to our sponsors, Marie and Matthew from SeaLife Aquarium in Apopka. Your friendship and support are valued by all of us at IOF.
Wildlife Crossing Proposal
Recently, we submitted a proposal to Google with a vision of getting wildlife crossing alerts on the google map app.
Sabal Trails Gopher Tortoise Turmoil
Sabal Trails Gopher Tortoise Turmoil
by: Aymee Laurain
A recently released bi-weekly report on the Sabal Trail pipeline demonstrated some insight on the ecological effects of the gopher tortoise in the area. The report Docket No. CP15-17-000 stated the following:
●Spread 3, Georgia, a total of 4 burrows were investigated and eliminated and 2 gopher tortoises were captured and excluded from the workspace.
● Spread 3, Florida, 80 burrows investigated, 43 excavated, and 20 tortoises relocated.
●Spread 4, 135 burrows were investigated, 103 excavated, and 35 gopher tortoises were captured and excluded from the workspace.
● Spread 5, 602 burrows were investigated, 369 excavated, and 153 gopher tortoises were captured and excluded from the workspace.
●Spread 6, excavations continue, 20 burrows were investigated, 15 excavated, and 7 gopher tortoises were excluded or relocated.” Is there a reason the remaining tortoises are not being relocated?
Imagine Our Florida, Inc. contacted FWC regarding the information in the document. The response was as follows:
“I am happy to answer your question, but would like to know what report you are referring to in your request below since it is not from a FWC report. Knowing the source and dates of your information will be helpful! Also the reports to FWC are not yet submitted, but I am told that the Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent is working on entering the data this week. So we may not have the info you are asking about right now. This information contained in the gopher tortoise permits are viewable/searchable by the public online at http://myfwc.com/gophertortoise/permitting. See attached for an overview of the FWC permit system.
As I noted previously we do not yet have reports from ST about the relocation that has occurred. However, I was able to obtain clarification regarding the data in the FERC report. The burrows investigated included all gopher tortoise burrows that had been documented during any of the previous tortoise burrow surveys. Some of those burrows had either become abandoned or were no longer intact burrows. The remainder of the non-excavated burrows ether occurred outside of the pipeline work area corridor or were just at the edge and going off-site; those burrows were excluded from the corridor work area with silt fencing. They only excavated and relocated tortoises could not be excluded, and were in the right of way, resulting in the difference of numbers of burrows v. excavated v. tortoises.
Once the report is entered into the online permit system, you will be able to access the tortoise data from that system. Please let
me know if you have any further questions on this project.”
With the numbers previously documented compared to those recently found it would appear there has already been a reduction in the population. Following the message we asked if there be any follow-up research to determine the actual impact of this project on the tortoises?
“Each tortoise will use multiple burrows over the course of a season or year, but each burrow does not typically host multiple tortoises. The average occupancy rate for gopher tortoise burrows is 50%, but that rate fluctuates per site. On sections of the corridor, the occupancy rate was lower, which is not uncommon, as rates can range from 30%-70% depending on habitat conditions and soils. Therefore the number of burrows does not indicate the population size. There was no evidence of mortality and the population appears healthy.
We partnered with UCF and Sabal Trail on a research project at Halpata Preserve associated with temporary exclusion of tortoises from the right of way corridor, and the UCF researcher will complete this study next fall. We have issued permits for the temporary exclusion (v. permanent relocation to another site) for many years and will learn more about the tortoises re-homing ability back to the corridor once the exclusion fencing is removed. Regardless of the study, temporary displacement is much preferred over permanent relocation as typically done with development projects since the habitat will be available to tortoises again after the pipeline project is completed. This also helps keep the resident population intact and minimizes stress to the animals cause by longer translocations.”
One study identified 31-68% occupancy rates throughout pine forests in Florida. (Ashton, 2008) With survival rates at only 5.8% (Auffenberg, 1969) due to predation. With odds such as these every effort should be taken to reduce threats to this already threatened species. Perhaps we need to take a step back and ask ourselves if projects such as these are really even necessary. Given the number of pipeline incidents have increased from 381 in 1996 to 715 in 2015 is would seem we should be using more modern technology and steer clear of these incidents in the future. On the brighter side, the number of fatalities appears to have dropped from 53 in 1996 to 10 in 2015 with a total of 347 deaths overall in the past 20 years. Add in the overall 1,346 injuries and that is a deal breaker for many of us. For others, perhaps the average cost of these incidents at the amount of $342,970,468 annually might be a more pressing matter. Is it really worth the risk to humans, wildlife, or tax payers?
References:
Auffenberg, W. 1969. Tortoise behavior and survival. Rand McNally, Chicago, IL.
Ashton, Ray E.; Ashton, Patricia Sawyer. 2008. The natural history and management of the gopher tortoise Gopherus polyphemus (Daudin). Malibar, FL: Krieger Publishing Company. 275 p. [73126]
http://www.fwspubs.org/doi/suppl/10.3996/062015-JFWM-055/suppl_file/062015-jfwm-055.s7.pdf?code=ufws-site
https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/animals/reptile/gopo/all.html
https://etd.auburn.edu/bitstream/handle/10415/1024/Beauman_Richard_19.pdf?sequence=1
A big Thank you to all at Paint with a Twist St. Pete
Aymee, a director of IOF, had an amazing turnout at the Painting with a Twist fundraiser in St. Pete. Imagine Our Florida Inc. would love to thank all who attended and had a great time while giving back to an amazing charity who is educating, protecting and preserving Florida’s wildlife, natural resources and land. A big Thank you goes to Painting with a Twist in St Pete. who made this all possible. 
PUBLIC COMMENT Opportunity -Sleepy Creek Lands consumptive use permit application-
Sleepy Creek Lands, previously known as Adena Springs Ranch, currently has approval to withdraw 1.46 million gallons per day from our springs. Sleepy Creek is requesting an additional 1.22 million gallons per day for pasture irrigation, crop irrigation, livestock use and commercial/industrial use.
The St. Johns River Management District Governing Board is meeting in Palatka on Tuesday, January 10th to discuss this matter.
Read more in this 2014 article at the Ocala Star Banner: http://www.ocala.com/…/adenasleepy-creek-ruling-a-watershed…
and in this more current Ocala Star Banner article:
http://www.ocala.com/…/st-johns-staff-urges-approval-of-sle…
Make Your Voice Heard.
Click on the link below then under Public input, click to submit your comment.
http://www.sjrwmd.com/facts/AdenaSpringsRanchCUP.html
Its cold outside – How do our bears stay warm?
—-It’s COLD Outside – How do our Bears Stay Warm?—-
As we know, in the fall, our bears foraged in the forests and some in our trash cans, for foods high in carbohydrates and protein. During this stage of hyperphagia, our bears got fat! Many of our Florida Black Bears, including mother bears who will give birth to cubs next month, are denning. Their deep layer of fat and their fur will keep them warm and snugly in their dens. This warmth allows them to wake easily if disturbed.
There’s more! During this denning period, bears get all the water they need from the break down of fat. Their protein comes from muscle and tissue breakdown. The bear’s bodies miraculously use the nitrogen in urea, which is found in their urine, to make new protein.
During Florida cold snaps, we humans layer our clothes, sit by fires, curl up in blankets, make warm comfort food and sip hot drinks. Our incredible bears simply sleep right through it!
http://www.pbs.org/…/na…/bear-essentials-of-hibernation.html
http://www.wec.ufl.edu/…/Garrison%20et%20al%202012%20black%…
Science Fair and Vegfest
We debuted our new program at St Pete Science Fair and at the Orlando Veg Fest this weekend. It was so incredibly easy. It is approved by Florida Dept of Education. The kids loved it and so did their parents! Who would have thought that it would all begin with bear scat!?!?!
Going forward, we want to get more teaching materials into the hands of teams throughout Florida. 
October 2016 B.E.A.R. Monitor Newsletter
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Apple Pie and Hyperphagia
Fall is the time when our beautiful black bears consume up to 20,000 calories/day. This increased
How long till it’s gone – Plastics
How long does the plastic you use on a daily basis last in a landfill?
URSUS AMERICANUS FLORIDANUS – THE FLORIDA BLACK BEAR – AN UMBRELLA SPECIES
URSUS AMERICANUS FLORIDANUS – THE FLORIDA BLACK BEAR – AN UMBRELLA SPECIES
Did you know…
Florida black bears historically roamed throughout Florida and into parts of southern Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. In the 1970s, there were 300-500 individuals left due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as overhunting. For 21 years, Florida black bears were protected from hunting and their numbers increased. However, in 2012 the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed them from the list so they are once again in danger of being hunted to extinction. Even though numbers have rebounded, they now inhabit only about 18% of their historic range.
Source: University of Florida: http://franklin.ifas.ufl.edu/blog/2014/04/25/our-recovering-florida-black-bear-population/
Did you know…
There are seven Bear Management Units (BMUs) in Florida, each representing a distinct subpopulation of the subspecies of Florida black bear. Hunting was permitted in four of the seven BMUs in 2015. Isolated from each other due to human encroachment on their habitat and lack of a contiguous wildlife corridor, each of the subpopulations of Florida black bear is in danger of inbreeding depression due to genetic isolation, thus weakening the gene pool.
Source: http://myfwc.com/hunting/by-species/bear/rules/
Did you know…
Although classified as carnivores, the Florida black bear’s diet consists of 80% plant material, 15% insects, and 5% animal matter. A major source of the bear’s diet, saw palmetto berries, has been harvested by humans for years. The berries are sold as herbal supplements. In July 2015, three months before the hunt, the state of Florida temporarily halted the harvesting of saw palmetto berries on state land. Destruction of acorn-producing oak trees is also taking away food from the bears and other wildlife. Trees are being destroyed for timber and to make way for more cattle-grazing land in our state and national forests.
Did you know…
The perceived threat of bears hurting humans is based on irrational fear. There is no documented case of a human being killed by a Florida black bear…EVER! However, humans kill an alarming number of black bears, even excluding legal hunting. While precise figures are not known, annual roadkill numbers have been close to or exceeding 150 (down from the peak of 282 in 2012). Approximately 100 so-called “nuisance” bears are killed every year, most often due to human carelessness such as leaving trash, pet food, bird seed, and dirty barbecue grills outside or in patios. Within the last few years, the FWC has adopted the “one strike you’re out” policy with regard to so-called “nuisance” bears.
Did you know…
Bears are deemed a “nuisance” merely for going in search of food carelessly left out by humans in residential neighborhoods. In preparation for denning in the winter, bears can consume in excess of 20,000 calories per day. When natural food sources are poor, bears must go in search of food often traveling many miles, which unfortunately puts them in danger of encounters with humans.
Did you know…
There is no science to support the supposition that hunting decreases human-bear conflicts or that bears that habituate to humans are more likely to be aggressive.
Did you know…
3,778 permits were sold to hunt only 320 Florida black bears in 2015, more permits than bears in the state of Florida. The first two days of the hunt, Saturday October 24th and Sunday the 25th, were guaranteed hunting days, no matter how many bears were killed. Since bears had not been hunted in 21 years, they were trusting and naïve, a recipe for disaster.
Did you know…
When the injunction to stop the bear hunt was denied, it was decided that bear monitors would be stationed at each of the hunter check stations to count dead bears. Every hour, each volunteer bear monitor across the state called in to report the number of bears brought in by hunters. It was their effort that helped prevent the Florida black bear from essentially being completely wiped out by hunters in 2015.
Did you know…
There were 28 lactating females killed during the bear hunt of 2015. With 1 to 4 cubs born to each mother, that means that an average of 70 cubs were left orphaned. Bear cubs remain with their mother for 1 ½ to 2 years. With cubs born in January, these cubs were only 9 months old at the time of the hunt in October.
Cubs weighing less than 100 pounds were also killed, although the rules stated by the FWC included that the bear must weigh at least 100 pounds (live weight). For the most part, hunters were not fined for these infractions.
This cub weighed only 76.7 pounds field dressed, which would put it at about 88 pounds intact (add approximately 16 percent of the field dressed weight). The hunter got away without even a warning. Photo by Alex Foxx
Did you know…
The number of bears killed in the hunt was 304. However, that number doesn’t count:
- The bears who were injured by hunters, ran away, and later died
- The orphaned cubs that didn’t survive without their mothers
- The bears illegally poached, including a bear cub later found floating in the Suwannee River
While FWC’s target was 20% including death from means other than hunting, the known death toll was over 21.5% of the total population of Florida black bears. Meanwhile, the human population in Florida continues to grow by more than the entire bear population every week.
Did you know…
Approximately 78% of the bears killed were on private lands. Many hunters bragged that the bears they shot just walked under their tree stands. While baiting was prohibited, many bears killed had corn in their teeth indicating they had recently visited deer feeding stations set up by hunters. According to the rules set forth by the FWC, both the hunter and bear were to be at least 100 yards away from a feeding station to be legally killed. However, there was no way to enforce this rule.
Did you know…
An estimated 75% of Florida residents who voiced their opinion were opposed to the bear hunt. This includes phone calls, letters, and emails to the governor and FWC, as well as media polls. Still, the FWC and Governor Scott ignored public opinion and did not stop the hunt.
Did you know…
Most hunters do not eat the bears that they kill, making this a blood sport, thrill kill, and trophy hunt. Most of the hunters wanted a bear rug or to mount the head of their kill on a wall, and this could be seen by the overwhelming number of bears brought into the hunter check stations unpreserved (not on ice) hours after they had been killed.
Did you know…
The hunt was supposed to last a week with a guaranteed hunt in the first two days without regard to numbers killed. Within 13 hours of the hunt, quotas were exceeded in the East panhandle and Central regions. The hunt in these two regions was brought to a halt on the first day, thanks to the efforts of Chuck O’Neal, volunteers who took the calls keeping a tally of dead bears, and the monitors themselves who volunteered to count dead bears. By the end of the 2nd day, the hunt was called off completely.
Region Orig. Est. Targeted Actual % of Target
East 600 40 112 280%
North 550 100 23 23%
Central 1,300 100 139 139%
South 700 80 21 26%
Did you know…
Non-lethal solutions exist to prevent human-bear encounters. A 12-month study in a Volusia County neighborhood showed that bear-resistant trash cans reduced such encounters by 95%. Coupled with preservation of the bears’ natural food sources, providing bear-resistant trash cans in every county within bear country is a compassionate, non-lethal solution to the prevention of human-bear conflict.
We will never forget
Take a Quick Exploratory Survey for Wildlife Overpasses
FWC just released the Florida Panther Mortality Update and it is heartbreaking. (link below) Now, more than ever, we need safe wildlife passages. Public Project Planning Chair Ginger Goepper and Director Aymee Laurain have launched a wildlife planning project for safe wildlife passages. They need your help to show public support to FWC, DOT, insurance companies and other agencies they are working with. Please SIGN and SHARE this survey. The survey is to show interest only and not a request for donations. Let’s all work together to bring wildlife passages to Florida for our panthers, bears and the other furry animals whom we share Florida with.
How to be an advocate for ordinances and resolutions to your county commissioners
Your local officials want to hear from you, their constituents. They are citizens just like you. Whether you are good at public speaking or not, talk to your officials like a friend. Tell them your concerns and offer a solution. You never know when a brainstorming idea will become a law for the safety of all of us and our wildlife. Here is a sample powerpoint presentation.
This white paper just released
This white paper just released from Dr. Matthew J. Aresco
Director, Nokuse Plantation, Joseph M. Guthrie, M.S.
Conservation Biologist, and Dr. Joseph Travis
Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor
Department of Biological Science
Florida State University to the FWC has stated everything our research team has been saying along. Click on the picture to read.
Bear With Us
The Florida black bear population actually consists of about eight isolated subpopulations: six core and two remnant subpopulations. These subpopulations have been isolated due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by human encroachment onto their habitat. Adult males may range over 120 square miles in search of food and a mate. In the fall, bears require approximately 20,000 calories PER DAY as they prepare for denning in the winter.
Squeezed in by major roadways and development, it is no surprise that human-bear interactions have increased in recent years. The human population in Florida is at an all-time high of approximately 20 million and steadily rising. Forests and woods make way for strip malls and residential subdivisions. Acorn-producing oak trees in the remaining forests are felled to provide timber and to make way for cattle grazing. That’s right, this is happening in our state and national forests. Acorns are a high-calorie food source on which many wildlife species depend, including our Florida black bears.
The primary food source of the Florida black bear, the saw palmetto berry, has been taken from them as well. Truckloads of berries have been harvested on both private and state lands for years to provide for the herbal medicine industry. Forestry officials issued permits for $10 a day of unlimited berry picking between July and November. This practice was temporarily ceased in July of 2015 when the FWC decided to have another bear hunt.
Hunting has not been proven to help the situation of human-bear interactions. In fact, it may actually make the problem worse in some situations where orphaned cubs and juveniles wander in search of easily obtainable food in the form of garbage left out by humans. They haven’t been given enough time to learn from their mothers how to forage for food in the woods.
So, what is the solution?
It is really simple. If a bear cannot access food from human trash, chances are he will stay out of your neighborhood. Bear-resistant trash cans can decrease human-bear conflict by as much as 95% as a study in a Volusia County neighborhood has shown. Such bear-resistant trash cans are successfully being used in many communities throughout the states as well as in Canada. Even with bear-resistant containers, it is good practice and common sense to not put trash out the night before if you live in bear country.
Other bear attractants include pet food, bird seed, and dirty barbecue grills left outdoors or in patios, lanais, and even garages. Keeping barbecue grills cleaned after use and taking these other attractants indoors will keep bears out of your yard. Together with restoring and preserving the bear’s natural habitat and food sources, these measures will help ensure that bears stay in their forest homes.
References:
http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/black-bear/
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-seminole-county-bear-trash-cans-20151011-story.html
The Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is a subspecies of the American black bear.
Did you know…
Florida black bears once historically roamed throughout Florida and into parts of southern Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. In the 1970s, there were 300-500 individuals left due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as over hunting. For 21 years, Florida black bears were protected from hunting and their numbers increased. However, in 2012 the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed them from the list so they are once again in danger of being hunted to extinction. Even though numbers have rebounded, they now inhabit only about 18% of their historic range.
Source: University of Florida: http://franklin.ifas.ufl.edu/blog/2014/04/25/our-recovering-florida-black-bear-population/
Did you know…
There are seven Bear Management Units (BMUs) in Florida, each representing a distinct subpopulation of the subspecies of Florida black bear. Hunting was permitted in four of the seven BMUs in 2015. Isolated from each other due to human encroachment on their habitat and lack of a contiguous wildlife corridor, each of the subpopulations of Florida black bear is in danger of inbreeding depression due to genetic isolation, thus weakening the gene pool.
Source: http://myfwc.com/hunting/by-species/bear/rules/
Did you know…
Although classified as carnivores, the Florida black bear’s diet consists of 80% plant material, 15% insects, and 5% animal matter. A major source of the bear’s diet, saw palmetto berries, has been harvested by humans for years. The berries are sold as herbal supplements. In July 2015, three months before the hunt, the state of Florida temporarily halted the harvesting of saw palmetto berries on state land. Destruction of acorn-producing oak trees is also taking away food from the bears and other wildlife. Trees are being destroyed for timber and to make way for more cattle-grazing land in our state and national forests.
Did you know…
The perceived threat of bears hurting humans is based on irrational fear. There is no documented case of a human being killed by a Florida black bear…EVER! However, humans kill an alarming number of black bears, even excluding legal hunting. While precise figures are not known, annual roadkill numbers have been close to or exceeding 150 (down from the peak of 282 in 2012). Approximately 100 so-called “nuisance” bears are killed every year, most often due to human carelessness such as leaving trash, pet food, bird seed, and dirty barbecue grills outside or in patios. Within the last few years, the FWC has adopted the “one strike you’re out” policy with regard to so-called “nuisance” bears.
Did you know…
Bears are deemed a “nuisance” merely for going in search of food carelessly left out by humans in residential neighborhoods. In preparation for denning in the winter, bears can consume in excess of 20,000 calories per day. When natural food sources are poor, bears must go in search of food often traveling many miles, which unfortunately puts them in danger of encounters with humans.
Did you know…
There is no science to support the supposition that hunting decreases human-bear conflicts or that bears that habituate to humans are more likely to be aggressive.
Did you know…
3,778 permits were sold to hunt only 320 Florida black bears in 2015, more permits than bears in the state of Florida. The first two days of the hunt, Saturday October 24th and Sunday the 25th, were guaranteed hunting days, no matter how many bears were killed. Since bears had not been hunted in 21 years, they were trusting and naïve, a recipe for disaster.
Did you know…
When the injunction to stop the bear hunt was denied, it was decided that bear monitors would be stationed at each of the hunter check stations to count dead bears. Every hour, each volunteer bear monitor across the state called in to report the number of bears brought in by hunters. It was their effort that helped prevent the Florida black bear from essentially being completely wiped out by hunters in 2015.
Did you know…
There were 28 lactating females killed during the bear hunt of 2015. With 1 to 4 cubs born to each mother, that means that an average of 70 cubs were left orphaned. Bear cubs remain with their mother for 1 ½ to 2 years. With cubs born in January, these cubs were only 9 months old at the time of the hunt in October.
Cubs weighing less than 100 pounds were also killed, although the rules stated by the FWC included that the bear must weigh at least 100 pounds (live weight). For the most part, hunters were not fined for these infractions.
This cub weighed only 76.7 pounds field dressed, which would put it at about 88 pounds intact (add approximately 16 percent of the field dressed weight). The hunter got away without even a warning. Photo by Alex Foxx
Did you know…
The number of bears killed in the hunt was 304. However, that number doesn’t count:
- The bears who were injured by hunters, ran away, and later died
- The orphaned cubs that didn’t survive without their mothers
- The bears illegally poached, including a bear cub later found floating in the Suwannee River
While FWC’s target was 20% including death from means other than hunting, the known death toll was over 21.5% of the total population of Florida black bears. Meanwhile, the human population in Florida continues to grow by more than the entire bear population every week.
Did you know…
Approximately 78% of the bears killed were on private lands. Many hunters bragged that the bears they shot just walked under their tree stands. While baiting was prohibited, many bears killed had corn in their teeth indicating they had recently visited deer feeding stations set up by hunters. According to the rules set forth by the FWC, both the hunter and bear were to be at least 100 yards away from a feeding station to be legally killed. However, there was no way to enforce this rule.
Did you know…
An estimated 75% of Florida residents who voiced their opinion were opposed to the bear hunt. This includes phone calls, letters, and emails to the governor and FWC, as well as media polls. Still, the FWC and Governor Scott ignored public opinion and did not stop the hunt.
Did you know…
Most hunters do not eat the bears that they kill, making this a blood sport, thrill kill, and trophy hunt. Most of the hunters wanted a bear rug or to mount the head of their kill on a wall, and this could be seen by the overwhelming number of bears brought into the hunter check stations unpreserved (not on ice) hours after they had been killed.
Did you know…
The hunt was supposed to last a week with a guaranteed hunt in the first two days without regard to numbers killed. Within 13 hours of the hunt, quotas were exceeded in the East panhandle and Central regions. The hunt in these two regions was brought to a halt on the first day, thanks to the efforts of Chuck O’Neal, volunteers who took the calls keeping a tally of dead bears, and the monitors themselves who volunteered to count dead bears. By the end of the 2nd day, the hunt was called off completely.
Region Orig. Est. Targeted Actual % of Target
East 600 40 112 280%
North 550 100 23 23%
Central 1,300 100 139 139%
South 700 80 21 26%
Did you know…
Non-lethal solutions exist to prevent human-bear encounters. A 12-month study in a Volusia County neighborhood showed that bear-resistant trash cans reduced such encounters by 95%. Coupled with preservation of the bears’ natural food sources, providing bear-resistant trash cans in every county within bear country is a compassionate, non-lethal solution to the prevention of human-bear conflict.
Did you know…
The last complete census of the Florida black bear population was done in 2002. We don’t really know how many Florida black bears exist, but estimates ranged approximately 3,000-3,500 before the hunt of 2015.
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