In recognition of World Wildlife Day, we are highlighting our continued efforts to protect and restore natural ecosystems that provide important habitat for native wildlife.

DID YOU KNOW: The South Florida Water Management District’s team of wildlife biologists, land managers and other staff work year-round to protect native wildlife, including the gopher tortoise, the crested caracara, the Eastern Indigo snake, the Everglade snail kite, Black-necked stilts, Florida burrowing owls and more.

PROTECTING NATIVE WILDLIFE: Florida’s native birds and wildlife are a key indicator for the success of Everglades restoration. As part of its mission, the District conducts extensive research and monitoring of key wildlife, coordinates with partner agencies on conservation activities for threatened and endangered species and protects critical habitat for native wildlife populations.

COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING: Ensuring the protection of birds and other native species on our project sites is very important, including when these projects are being constructed. The District's wildlife management team conducts comprehensive trainings for staff and contractors that cover:

• The importance of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• State and federally-listed species that might be encountered on a project site.
• What to do if/when you see a protected species.
• How to avoid disturbing or otherwise negatively impacting these species and nesting activities.

ENSURING HEALTHY AND BALANCED ECOSYSTEMS: The District works year-round to protect, restore and manage natural areas and ecosystems that support native wildlife.

In addition to trainings, District staff also monitor sites for birds and other wildlife while instituting safety precautions such as reduced speed limits on project sites. You may even notice barriers, instructions and signage to alert site visitors of nearby protected species. All construction activities are completed under appropriate state and federal permits to ensure the protection of our natural resources and wildlife.

By protecting our native wildlife, we can help ensure our ecosystems stay healthy and balanced.