The Miccosukee Tribe of Florida has filed an Endangered Species Act lawsuit against Interior Secretary Gale Norton and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The tribe says Interior is causing "irreparable harm" to the snail kite, a type of hawk, and its critical habitat. The tribe wants a new study, more consultation and a revision of water policies in the Everglades.

Interior temporarily closes five water gates that move floodwater into Everglades National Park in order to protect a group of seaside sparrows. The birds can't adequately reproduce if their nesting grounds are flooded, according to the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Get the Story:
Tribe sues Interior secretary over Endangered Species Act (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 11/23)
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Relevant Links:
Miccosukee Tribe - http://www.miccosukeetribe.com

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