The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is organizing a public hearing regarding the Suwannee Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area Management Plan Amendment. The event will take place on Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m. at the Hamilton County Courthouse Annex in Jasper, Florida.
The Suwannee Ridge WEA spans 1,429 acres in southern Hamilton County. It serves as a crucial habitat within a network of conservation lands along the Suwannee River. This area is vital for many species of birds and wildlife that migrate through it. Additionally, it conserves the gopher tortoise, an imperiled keystone sandhill species.
"Mobility-impaired quota hunts continue to be a popular recreational activity on the SRWEA," stated Christina Omran, FWC Biological Administrator. "Other public uses include hiking, photography, nature study and wildlife viewing."
Interested parties can request a copy of the draft management prospectus by contacting Cedar Spirk or Christina Omran via email. Attendees will have opportunities to comment on and ask questions about the plan amendment during the hearing. Various informational materials will also be available.
For more details about this and other upcoming public hearings, individuals are directed to visit MyFWC.com/Conservation under "Terrestrial Conservation" and "Management." It should be noted that hunting and fishing regulations are not part of this plan or hearing but are addressed separately.
In accordance with Chapters 253 and 259 of Florida Statutes, all lands acquired with public funds require a Land Management Plan to ensure proper management consistent with their intended purposes.
Public participation is open without discrimination based on race, national origin, sex, religion, disability or family status. Individuals needing special accommodations due to disabilities should notify FWC five days before the meeting using specified contact methods. Concerns about discrimination or requests for more information can be directed to FWC's Office of Human Resources in Tallahassee or the Department of Interior's Office of Diversity in Washington D.C.