Save Our Key Deer, a nonprofit, applied for a permit to create a rehabilitation facility and a Sanctuary for the Endangered Key Deer. Save our Key Deer will provide the funding for this project. As of this date, USFWS has not responded to the permit proposal. 

On July 10, 2023, Save Our Key Deer, Inc. organized a community meeting with crucial agencies to discuss protocols for injured deer, the necessity of a local sanctuary and rehabilitation facility, and strategies to mitigate vehicle strikes—a leading cause of Key deer mortality and injuries.  With the strong backing of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Save Our Key Deer, Inc. applied for a permit for the establishment of a Sanctuary and Rehabilitation facility in Big Pine Key. This initiative aims to address the needs of injured Key Deer through rehabilitation and provide a safe haven for those with permanent injuries unable to thrive in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has yet to respond to the permit proposal submitted on 7/20/23. 

We earnestly request your support in writing to the representatives listed below, urging them to expedite the processing of the permit for the Key Deer Rehabilitation and Sanctuary.  The permit application can be reviewed at 

https://saveourkeydeer.org/rehab-sanctuary-permits-fwc/

The email addresses to the agency representatives are below.  

 1. brian_powell@fws.gov
 2. christopher_putnam@fws.gov
 3. Nikki_Colangelo@fws.gov
 4. Lourdes_Mena@fws.gov
 5. Larry_Williams@fws.gov
 6. christian_eggleston@fws.gov
 7. greg_boling@fws.gov
 8. kevin_kalasz@fws.gov
 9. Martha_Williams@fws.gov
 10. exsec@ios.doi.gov

Your voice holds the key to preserving Key Deer in their natural habitat and ensuring their continued well-being. Together, we can secure their future.

Thank you for your unwavering support.