Subject:
Title
Resolution Designating April 10th, 2026 as Gopher Tortoise Day and the Month of April as Gopher Tortoise Month - District 4
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Fiscal Impact:
There is no impact to the General Fund
Dept/Office:
District 4 Commission Office
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board of County Commissioners approve a Resolution designating April 10th, 2026 as Gopher Tortoise Day and the month of April as Gopher Tortoise Month.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
Gopher tortoises originated approximately 60 million years ago, and are one of the oldest living species on the planet and the only native North American tortoise species east of the Mississippi River. They are relatively small: about 9-11 inches long and 10 pounds fully grown, but, once they reach adulthood, gopher tortoises can live to be over 90 years old.
Additionally, the gopher tortoise is a keystone species, meaning they have an outsized impact on their environment. This impact is largely due to their burrows. Gopher tortoises have large, elephantine hind limbs and flattened, shovel-like forelimbs that are uniquely designed to dig burrows up to 40 feet long and 10 feet wide. At least 300 other species also use their burrows, including rare species such as the Eastern indigo snake, gopher frog, Florida mouse, and hundreds of rodents and invertebrates. Gopher tortoises and other animals use the burrows to shelter from the elements, including fire, and from predators. Many species would not survive without gopher tortoises.
The goal of Gopher Tortoise Day is to increase awareness, appreciation, and to educate others on the importance of protecting gopher tortoises.
Clerk to the Board Instructions:
Please frame 1 Resolution