MONROE COUNTY CALLS FOR FEDERAL SUPPORT TO STRENGTHEN KEY DEER MONITORING

BIG PINE KEY, FL – The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution Wednesday requesting that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service direct additional funding to the National Key Deer Refuge to restore population data collection for the endangered Key deer.
 
The resolution highlights the importance of comprehensive biological monitoring for the continued protection and recovery of the Key deer; a species found only in the lower Florida Keys. Since 2019, staffing shortages at the National Key Deer Refuge have prevented the collection of population census data.
 
Historically, the refuge provided annual population surveys, mortality summaries, and scientific analysis that Monroe County relies on to meet federal reporting requirements under its former Habitat Conservation Plan and Incidental Take Permit. While mortality data has continued to be collected, the absence of population census information has limited the county's ability to complete the comprehensive monitoring reports required under federal endangered species protections.
 
"The Florida Key deer is an iconic symbol of the Lower Keys and an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage," said Mayor Michelle Lincoln. "Reliable scientific data is essential to protecting this endangered species and helping make informed decisions about conservation and responsible growth."
 
For more information, visit the Monroe County Planning & Environmental Resources Department at monroecounty-fl.gov/environmentalresources.​