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This letter was sent by
Alligator Point Environmental Conservation Organization * American Oceans Campaign * Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch * Audubon of Florida * Caribbean Conservation Corporation * Coast Alliance * Coastal Wildlife Club, Inc. - Turtle Division * Friends of the Carr Refuge * National Audubon Society * Sea Turtle Preservation Society * The Ocean Conservancy * Turtle Time, Inc.
August 13, 2001
Re: Land Acquisition funding for the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
Dear Congressman,
We are writing to request your assistance in conference on the FY 2002 Interior Appropriations bill to increase the amount of funding in the House passed bill from $1.0 to $2.5 million for acquisition of critical sea turtle nesting habitat within the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. We are concerned that without this additional funding, the undeveloped portion of this unique property will be lost forever to development.
This beachfront property represents the single largest contiguous stretch of undeveloped sea turtle nesting habitat within the refuge not yet in public hands. Scientists familiar with the refuge have found that, in some years, the beaches of this inholding host the highest density nesting of the entire refuge. Specifically, nesting data compiled over several years shows that this particular property has nesting densities of over 1000 sea turtle nests per mile. Clearly, this is an exceptional stretch of beach. However, this is also highly desirable Florida beachfront property. Land to the south of this tract is already being developed. Consequently, we believe that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire some of the best remaining nesting habitat for sea turtles on Florida's rapidly growing coast.
We urge you to do everything you can in conference to secure $2.5 million in this year's Interior Appropriations bill to fund this critical acquisition. Thank you, in advance, for your continued efforts on behalf of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge.
Sincerely,
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