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JOE has certified wildlife biologists who assist with the supervision of compliance, monitoring and management.



Red-Cockaded Woodpecker

JOE has teamed with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service to increase the population of red-cockaded woodpeckers in its Wetappo Creek Conservation Area. As a result of JOE's voluntary efforts, the Wetappo Creek woodpecker went from a declining population of four males in 2001 to approximately 30 woodpeckers today. JOE will soon begin to donate birds from Wetappo Creek to other areas of the Southeastern United States.



The Gold Standard in Green

Wildlife

PROTECTING THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

JOE has worked closely with conservation and environmental organizations, academic institutions and government agencies to preserve critical habitats and protect threatened and endangered species.

Flatwoods Salamander. JOE has helped to fund important research that will develop a method to identify and protect flatwoods salamander breeding ponds. The research will be used to guide timber companies and help them avoid high-quality salamander habitats.

Gopher Tortoise. JOE made a decision many years ago that our activities would not harm gopher tortoises. For many years, JOE has been relocating gopher tortoises found on development sites. More recently, JOE entered into a voluntary partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Forest Service to relocate gopher tortoises from company development sites to the Apalachicola National Forest. At SouthWood, JOE has established a permanent conservation area to relocate tortoises.

Choctawhatchee Beach Mouse. In 2003, to offset small impacts on habitat at our WaterColor community, JOE partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to introduce six pairs of beach mice in more than 80 acres of protected habitat at WaterSound Beach. JOE provided three times the amount of critical habitat required by law.

Sea Turtle. JOE developments feature the latest innovations in sea turtle–friendly lighting. JOE wildlife biologists work closely with local volunteer groups to plan successful sea turtle nesting events.

Tupelo Bend Waterfowl Area.  JOE purchased this land in Gulf County, formerly a 6,000-acre rice and crawfish farm, and restored and enhanced 1,100 acres of wetlands. The area provides an important foraging habitat for migrating waterfowl; raptors; and shore, wading and song birds. The abundant bird life makes this area a favorite stop for birders attending the St. Joe Birding Festival.

Rare Plants. Florida is home to numerous rare plant species. JOE works to enhance and establish these plants in new areas.