FDEP Sebastian Inlet State Park Cove Swimming Area: Gopher Tortoise Relocation Services

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FDEP Sebastian Inlet State Park Cove Swimming Area: Gopher Tortoise Relocation Services

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) was in the process of planning and constructing a new parking area and restroom facility for patrons utilizing the Sebastian Inlet State Park when gopher tortoises were discovered within the project limits. Gopher tortoises are listed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as threatened and requires Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agents are that are licensed by FWC to survey, relocate, and handle gopher tortoises. As part of the permitting requirements required for improvements of the Sebastian Inlet State Park Cove Swimming Area, DRMP was hired by FDEP to provide all environmental services.

DRMP’s FWC Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agents conducted surveys for gopher tortoises on-site, obtained FWC permits, and completed the backhoe excavation and relocation of tortoises to an approved recipient site location. Sebastian Inlet State Park Cove Swimming Area was able to continue with construction of the new parking area and restroom facility, and DRMP’s ecological services ensured that gopher tortoises were relocated to an approved location protected under a conservation easement. All while managing project schedule, avoiding delays, and combining relocation efforts to reduce costs.