DYK: World Wildlife Day Highlights the Continued Progress to Restore South FL’s Ecosystems

In recognition of World Wildlife Day, the South Florida Water Management District (District) is highlighting the continued progress to protect, restore and manage natural ecosystems that provide important habitat for native wildlife.

DID YOU KNOW: Florida's native birds and wildlife are a key indicator for the success of Everglades restoration.

ENSURING HEALTHY AND BALANCED ECOSYSTEMS: Our team of wildlife biologists, land managers and other staff work year-round to protect native wildlife and ensure the health of our natural ecosystems.

As part of our 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, including the gopher tortoise, the crested caracara, the eastern indigo snake, the Everglade snail kite, black-necked stilts, Florida burrowing owls and more.

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:

• 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.

PROTECTING NATIVE WILDLIFE: In addition to trainings, District staff also monitor sites for birds and other wildlife while instituting protection measures 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 in accordance with state and federal permits and regulations to ensure the protection of our natural resources and wildlife.

LEARN MORE: We encourage you to visit SFWMD.gov/Restoration to learn more about the District's continued efforts to restore and protect natural ecosystems that support native wildlife.