News that may affect early season in Fl. Glades

[tikitiki]

A little info I just downloaded from FWC.

High water prompts temporary restrictions for Everglades Wildlife Management Area
August 21, 2008
Contact: Gabriella B. Ferraro, 772-215-9459
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Executive Director Ken Haddad has issued an executive order closing the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area to taking game other than fish and alligators.
The order, which takes effect Saturday, Aug. 23, also prohibits vehicles, airboats, ATVs and other public access, except by special permit and in Conservation Area 2 from the L-35B levee north to the east-west airboat trail.
The order is necessary because of high water that is jeopardizing the area’s wildlife.
This order does not apply to people permitted to participate in the statewide alligator egg collections or alligator hunts or persons operating boats (other than airboats) within the established canal systems and within 1 mile of adjacent marshes the wildlife management area. However, participants in the statewide alligator egg collections or alligator hunts must maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards from any tree island and the L-5 South and L-4 South levees when operating a vessel or airboat to minimize disturbance to upland wildlife.
To report a violation of this order, any wildlife violations or a boating emergency call the toll free Wildlife Alert number at 1-888-404-3922.

[tikitiki]

FYI,

I just spoke to Gabriella B. Ferraro to clarify the above statement on temporary restrictions for Everglades Wildlife Management Area.
She said that it will remain closed until the water levels are down, it could be weeks or even months for that matter.
Acces is only available on the main canal systems.
I figure you guys down here should know because I'm sure the fines/penalty for this would be hefty.
No need to mention early season is getting close......

[YaFlyYadie]

As usual, we got $******, sometimes by the super intelligent water management guys and now by Mother Nature. (Nothing we can do about it).
At least, we are all okay and Hurricanes have not hurt us as much as our friends up Noth and West, we are very lucky no matter what.
One thing to say: LAKE OKEECHOBEE, HERE WE GO.!!!!!!!!!!

[pacompay]

Now WHAT?.................................