Environmental Group Moves to Sue Federal Government Over Manatee Protection at Crystal River Refuge
CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — An environmental advocacy group has initiated legal proceedings against the federal government, aiming to bolster protections for manatees within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. The Center for Biological Diversity submitted a formal notice alleging that inadequate staffing compromises the refuge’s ability to protect these endangered marine mammals, especially during the harsh winter months. According to the group, the refuge is critical for approximately 20 percent of Florida’s manatee population, offering warm-water springs and abundant vegetation as refuge during colder weather. The notice highlights concerns over what the group terms “take,” … Read more