Gopher tortoises safe in Bonita
By Naples Daily News staff report
Originally published 3:35 p.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Updated 3:35 p.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2008
BONITA SPRINGS —
Bonita Springs City Council approved unanimously Wednesday a resolution proclaiming the city a Gopher Tortoise Safe Place.
Under the resolution, development occurring within 25 feet of a burrow might be affected. Developers will need to contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission for further assistance.
The resolution will also require the city to mark gopher tortoise burrows along the right-of-way to ensure they are not mowed over or affected by drivers, as such actions would entomb the tortoises or other threatened species within the burrows.
Citizen education on the gopher tortoises will also occur as part of the resolution.
Councilwoman Janet Martin brought the resolution to the council.
City Manager Gary Price reassured council that the costs to complete the work can fit in the city's current budget.
"Yeah!, the tortoises," Martin exclaimed after the motion passed.
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This resolution was set in place years and years ago in Collier County and in many areas of Florida. You need a take permit to relocate the turtles or you pay hefty fines.
#1 Posted by GatorBite on October 15, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wonder, next time it floods will they offer them shelter at the Estero Community Center?
#2 Posted by swampbuggy on October 15, 2008 at 3:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In other news the Bonita Springs City Council will be relocating the tortoises to foreclosed properties around the city.
#3 Posted by fromhere on October 15, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
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