Keeping wildlife safe during drawdown and construction at two stormwater ponds in Tallahassee

City of Tallahassee - Market District Wildlife Recovery

With a necessary public works project taking place near two stormwater ponds in its Market District, the City of Tallahassee wanted to minimize impacts on wildlife in the area. Based on past successful collaborations, the City engaged us to provide wildlife monitoring and relocation services.

To determine best practices for the unique and challenging on-site conditions, our team tested various capture methods for effectiveness and safety prior to use. Working under a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) Special Use Permit, we used live trapping along with seine and dip nets. We captured and safely relocated 46 resident freshwater turtles, belonging to three different species, away from the impacted area. Additionally, we monitored a mating pair of resident Canada geese to mitigate disruption and coordinated with the FFWCC in removing an alligator from the site.

Through these efforts, the city completed the necessary drawdown and construction activities while respecting local fauna.