Press release from FWC-

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requests public comment on Florida’s draft peregrine falcon management plan.

As a result of pesticide regulations and breed-and-release efforts, the peregrine falcon made a dramatic comeback from precipitously low numbers in the 1970s. As a result, the FWC decided in June 2008 to remove the peregrine falcon from the state’s endangered species list. However, before that can occur, the commission must approve a management plan.

The FWC seeks written comments on the plan, including conservation recommendations and information on the expected economic and social impacts of implementing the plan.

Written comments will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. April 15. The draft plan will be presented at the April 15 commission meeting in Tallahassee.

Written comments should be addressed to Peregrine Falcon Management Plan, 1239 S.W. 10th St., Ocala, FL 34471-2797 or submitted to Peregrine@MyFWC.com.

The commission will give staff direction on the draft plan at the April 15 meeting, with a final vote approving the plan and delisting action possible at the June meeting in Crystal River.

To see the draft peregrine management plan, go to MyFWC.com and click on the link in “Quick Clicks.”