We, concerned citizens of Lakeland, Florida, kindly request a change in the route of the annual Lakeland Christmas parade to protect and preserve the precious wildlife around Lake Morton.

Lake Morton is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including graceful swans and other waterfowl. These animals have become an integral part of our community's identity and deserve our utmost respect and protection. However, the current parade route poses potential risks to their safety and well-being.

1. Disturbance to Nesting Sites: The current parade route around Lake Morton can disrupt nesting sites for waterfowl during their breeding season. This disturbance may lead to abandonment or even destruction of nests, impacting population growth.

2. Noise Pollution: Parades are often accompanied by loud music, sirens, and cheering crowds that can cause significant stress among wildlife populations residing near Lake Morton. Studies have shown that excessive noise pollution can lead to behavioral changes in animals such as altered feeding patterns or increased aggression, not to also mention how frightening these sudden noises might be to our waterfowl. 

3. Trash Accumulation: Large public events like parades generate substantial amounts of waste materials such as food wrappers, plastic cups, and confetti – all posing potential hazards if ingested by wildlife or polluting their natural habitat.

By rerouting the Lakeland Christmas parade away from Lake Morton's immediate vicinity while still maintaining its festive spirit within our beloved city center streets (provide alternative routes if possible), we can ensure a safer environment for both residents and wildlife alike.

We propose a more wildlife-considerate parade route and wish to work with the individuals responsible for organizing this event who are interested in protecting natural habitats like Lake Morton's ecosystem. These waterfowl deserve a peaceful environment and for them to suffer at the expense of our Christmas Parade, it just isn't fair. 

Together we can create a wildlife-friendly parade experience that showcases the true spirit of Lakeland's Christmas celebration while safeguarding our cherished wildlife.

Sign this petition today to urge the organizers of the Lakeland Christmas parade to change its route away from Lake Morton, ensuring a more comfortable environment for both our community and its natural inhabitants!

Sources:
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
- National Park Service (NPS)
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)