Elise Bennett, the Florida and Caribbean director at the Center for Biological Diversity, stated that gopher tortoises play a crucial role in the ecosystem. However, their population is experiencing a significant decline.
"They are these incredible ecosystem engineers," said Bennett, Florida and Caribbean director and an attorney at the Center of Biological Diversity. "The ultimate decision-makers of the state are not biologists or conservationists, they're appointees for the governor. That definitely creates some hurdles for us in trying to advocate for the species. So many other species depend on them for everyday life and survival."
According to Health News Florida, it is projected that 75% of the current population may disappear. Despite this alarming trajectory, the federal agency has resisted invoking the Endangered Species Act. Gopher tortoises are naturally found east of the Mississippi River and inhabit many areas in Florida. Their contribution to the ecosystem is substantial; by burrowing their own shelters, they provide habitat for over 300 species. Predictions suggest that by 2100, almost 75% of the gopher tortoise population could cease to exist.
Health News Florida also reported that due to the federal agency's inaction, it has been sued by both the Center for Biological Diversity and Nokuse Education Inc. Several follow-up actions are planned to effect change, including an appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals. Urbanization has posed a significant threat to these tortoises; habitat loss accounts for their most considerable endangerment, with up to 97% of their habitat having been lost. In response to these issues, Brent Fannin has begun filming documentaries on current issues affecting Florida's economy, including one focused on gopher tortoise conservation.
The Center for Biological Diversity reveals that Bennett received her law degree from Stetson University in California and earned a certificate of concentration in environmental law. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and policy from the University of South Florida. Bennett's work primarily involves overseeing conservation efforts related specifically to endangered species.
