The Split Oaks Forest is a natural habitat for over 30 different species, including the endangered Bald Eagle and Gopher tortoise. The trees and wildlife will be completely wiped out, to move in 500,000 people over the next 50 years. The road alone will ruin over 200 acres. The expressway Authority is disputing the claim that the land is protected and believes it will handle the growing traffic. The burning of the trees will also effect the people breathing in the smoke in the air nearby.