Outcry for public safety along Santa Fe River
High Springs, Florida (AP)
The Santa Fe River area of High Springs, Florida holds much of Florida's natural beauty. It is seen as one of the last unspoiled areas of Central Florida, home to many public boat ramps and crystal clear springs, both public and private. Many daystayers prefer to float downstream on inflatable tubes, called "tubing." This brings much of the tourist revenue to the area, as well as scuba divers and day swimmers.
However, a new tourist has made its home along the banks of the Santa Fe River, the North American River Otter. As was found in Blue Spring just a few short months ago, these animals pose health and safety issues which must be addressed. Two creatures were found to have bitten guests who failed to follow posted park rules on not feeding wildlife.
These two animals, having bitten approximately 12 people, caused the park's closure for nearly a month and cost Gilchrist County part of its tourist revenue due to nasty publicity.
Shortly after Blue Springs' reopening in April, a new threat posed by the furry creatures arrived, the Columbian River Otters. This began a turf war on the banks of the Santa Fe River, not seen since tribes warred in the days predating European Occupations. The new force of otters have come bearing their all. Local law enforcement has been unable to put an end to this newfound threat. The local Division of the Florida Game Commission has lost three boats, two Officers,and a channel marker buoy to the war of the tides.
National Guardsmen from the Ft. Lauderdale Reserve Unit have been called since the downing of a Cub Scout Commuter plane, believed to have been shot down by Rabid Propelled Grenades. Fortunately, no Cub Scouts were injured in the downing of the plane. Claiming responsibility for the vicious assault was The Southern Santa Fe Columbian River Otter Rabid Liberations Brigade. So far, it is believed they may have had involvement in the Blue Springs incident, disguising it to throw a cloud on their introduction into the area. State officials have begun instituting an eradication program, but this may take several years. The Otters on both sides are heavilly armed and well trained in Otter and, River Warfare.
The public has all its hopes resting on the shoulders of our formidable specialized assault units in the Guard Reserves.
out in the ocean?
