Why is the CCCL Program developing a Habitat Conservation Plan?
As urban growth and development continue in Florida’s coastal counties, instances of take are expected to rise. The FDEP has therefore decided to pursue a federal Incidental Take Permit (ITP), which requires the development of a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). FDEP has determined that the best approach is to create a single, wide-ranging HCP that will take a proactive approach to addressing cumulative impacts to species across the state from all activities regulated by the CCCL Program. This will streamline the permit application process making it less time-consuming and more efficient. The FDEP thereby hopes to provide a new and improved tool to support the work of conserving the environment.
