Proposed legislation could limit Saw Palmetto berry harvests on state lands

The not-for-profit conservation group Speak Up Wekiva is proposing the Florida Black Bear Habitat Restoration Act to be introduced to the Florida legislature in 2016. The legislation seeks a permanent ban on permits to harvest Saw Palmetto berries on all state lands, including state forests, parks and conservation easements, identified as Black Bear habitat by a panel of scientists appointed by the President of the Senate. It also seeks a permanent ban on sale of timbering rights to acorn-producing oak trees in all state forests and state parks identified as bear habitat by the expert panel. Other provisions include adjusted burn schedules to encourage regrowth of native oaks and palmettos and the establishment of a loan fund from which municipalities can borrow for the purchase bear-resistant garbage containers. Speak up Wekiva has posted the proposed legislation text at this link to gather supporter signatures:
https://www.change.org/p/the-florida-legislature-the-florida-black-bear-habitat-restoration-act

Saw Palmetto berries are harvested in large numbers by pharmaceutical/nutritional supplement companies. While a permitting process exists, it is often bypassed by individuals whose livelihood depends on the size of their harvest. In June, the Florida Forest Service stopped issuing permits for the harvest of berries on state forest lands.

Related media coverage:

Equal Voice, Nov 2015

AP/Washington Times, Nov 2015

Naples News Press, August 2015

Orlando Sentinel, June 2015

Tags: advocacy