ML26041A264
| ML26041A264 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Saint Lucie  |
| Issue date: | 02/10/2026 |
| From: | Jonathan Rivera US Dept of Interior, Fish & Wildlife Service |
| To: | Dehmer M US Dept of Interior, Fish & Wildlife Service, FL Ecological Services Office |
| References | |
| 2022-0011212 | |
| Download: ML26041A264 (0) | |
Text
7915 Baymeadows Way, #200 Jacksonville, FL 32256 (352) 448-9151 1601 Balboa Avenue Panama City, FL 32405 (352) 448-9151 777 37th St Suite D-101 Vero Beach, FL 32960 (352) 448-9151 United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Florida Ecological Services Field Office February 10, 2026 Mitchell Dehmer, Environmental Scientist Environmental Technical Review Branch 1 Division of Rulemaking, Environment, and Financial Support Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards Service Consultation Code: 2022-0011212 Date Received: December 19, 2025 Project: St. Lucie Plant, Units 1 and 2, Subsequent License Renewal Applicant: Florida Power and Light County: St. Lucie County
Dear Mr. Dehmer:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has reviewed the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) request to initiate consultation dated December 19, 2025, for Florida Power and Lights (FPL) St. Lucie Plant, Units 1 and 2, Subsequent License Renewal. The NRC determined that the proposed Project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the federally threatened crested caracara (Caracara plancus audubonii; caracara), eastern black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis jamaicensis), eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon couperid; indigo snake), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) North Atlantic DPS, loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) Northwest Atlantic Ocean DPS, piping plover (Charadrius melodus) Atlantic Coast Population, southeastern beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus niveiventris), wood stork (Mycteria americana),and endangered Everglade snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus),
leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), and piping plover (Charadrius melodus) Northern Great Plains population. The NRC has also determined that the proposed Action will not adversely modify the loggerhead sea turtle critical habitat and West Indian manatee critical habitat. This letter also addresses the conference concurrence of the proposed threatened monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), and the green sea turtle proposed critical habitat. This letter is submitted in accordance with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act) (87 Stat. 884; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION St. Lucie is a two-unit nuclear power plant located on Hutchinson Island in St. Lucie County, Florida, approximately eight miles southeast of Fort Pierce, Florida that is owned by
Page 2 FPL. The site consists of approximately 1,130 acres located on Hutchinson Island. St. Lucie is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Indian River Lagoon to the west.
By letter dated August 3, 2021, FPL applied for subsequent license renewal of St.
Lucies current renewed facility operating licenses. The current renewed facility operating license for Unit 1 expires at midnight on March 1, 2036, and the current renewed facility operating license for Unit 2 expires at midnight on April 6, 2043. The NRCs Federal action is to determine whether to issue subsequent renewed facility operating licenses that would authorize FPL to operate St. Lucie for an additional 20 years. If the NRC subsequently renews the current renewed facility operating licenses, FPL would be authorized to operate Unit 1 until midnight on March 1, 2056, and Unit 2 until midnight on April 6, 2063.
THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES Crested caracara Caracaras are found in St. Lucie County but typically occur in the western portion of the county.
Caracaras prefer prairie habitat, but since prairies are experiencing habitat loss, caracaras can also be found in some less desirable habitats such as freshwater marshes. There are some small areas of freshwater marshes in the Action Area. FPL reports no observations of the crested caracara on the St. Lucie site (NRC 2021). However, individuals may occasionally occur in the Action Area in transit between more preferred habitats.
Levels and intensity of noise, lighting, and human activity associated with continued day-to-day activities and site maintenance during the subsequent license renewal term would be similar to ongoing conditions since St. Lucie began operating, and such activity would only occur on the developed, industrial use portions of the site. While these disturbances would cause behavioral changes in migrating or resident birds, such as the expenditure of additional energy to find alternative habitat, the NRC staff assumes that protected birds, if present in the Action Area, have already acclimated to regular site disturbances. Additionally, FPL maintains a company-wide Avian Protection Plan that it developed in accordance with the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee and Service Avian Protection Plan Guidelines (FPL 2019). The plan includes guidelines for working around federally listed birds and their nests and procedures that workers follow to ensure that listed birds are protected during site activities, such as vegetation maintenance, power restoration, and continued use of existing facilities. FPL also has established nest buffers for protected avian species that may occur in the Action Area (FPL 2022). The nest buffer for the crested caracara is 985 ft (300 m) during nesting season (November-April) (FPL 2019). With adherence to these protection measures, the continued operation of St. Lucie during the subsequent license renewal term would not cause behavioral changes in birds to a degree that would be able to be meaningfully measured, detected, or evaluated, or that would reach the scale at which take may occur, and therefore, is not considered further.
Page 3 To date, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment activities, additional land clearing, development, or construction during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area. No loss of habitat is expected for the crested caracara.
The risk of collisions with tall structures and in-scope transmission lines poses a threat to protected birds. FPLs Avian Protection Plan includes guidance for reporting bird mortalities, nest management procedures, staff training, and a mortality risk assessment (FPL 2021). FPL uses bird deterrent designs onsite, including bird discouragers, perch guards, and insulator shields, to reduce risk of electrocution (FPL 2021). To date, there have been no federally protected bird mortalities within the Action Area. Since 2015, there have been no recorded protected bird mortalities of any species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with buildings, infrastructure, or in-scope transmission lines during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, vehicular traffic from truck deliveries, site maintenance activities, and personnel commuting to and from the site would continue in a similar manner to the current license term. Vehicle use would occur primarily in areas where federally listed avian species would be less likely to frequent, such as along established county and State roads or within the industrial-use areas of the St. Lucie site. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with vehicles during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely and, therefore, is not considered further.
Given the small amount of habitat present in the Action Area and the use of the Avian Protection Plan, the Service finds that all potential effects on the crested caracara would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the crested caracara.
Everglade snail kite FPL reports no observations of everglade snail kites on the St. Lucie site (NRC 2021). The invasive Cuban brown snail (Zachrysia provisoria) is the only snail documented in the Action Area. However, the Action Area contains scattered freshwater marshes that could provide suitable feeding and foraging habitat. Everglade snail kites may use nearby wetlands and coastal marshes to forage and nest (FFWCC 2025A). Therefore, individuals may occasionally occur in the Action Area when moving between nearby areas of more suitable habitat.
Levels and intensity of noise, lighting, and human activity associated with continued day-to-day activities and site maintenance during the subsequent license renewal term would be similar to ongoing conditions since St. Lucie began operating, and such activity would only occur on the developed, industrial use portions of the site. While these disturbances would cause behavioral changes in migrating or resident birds, such as the expenditure of additional energy to find alternative habitat, the NRC staff assumes that protected birds, if present in the Action Area, have already acclimated to regular site disturbances. Additionally, FPL maintains a company-wide Avian Protection Plan that it developed in accordance with the Avian Power Line
Page 4 Interaction Committee and the Services Avian Protection Plan Guidelines. The plan includes guidelines for working around federally listed birds and their nests and procedures that workers follow to ensure that listed birds are protected during site activities, such as vegetation maintenance, power restoration, and continued use of existing facilities. FPL also has established nest buffers for protected avian species that may occur in the Action Area. FPLs Avian Protection Plan requires an active nest buffer of 500 feet (with 1,640 feet limited-activity buffer zone) for everglade snail kites (FPL 2019). With adherence to these protection measures, the continued operation of St. Lucie during the subsequent license renewal term would not cause behavioral changes in birds to a degree that would be able to be meaningfully measured, detected, or evaluated, or that would reach the scale at which take may occur, and therefore, is not considered further.
To date, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment activities, additional land clearing, development, or construction during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area. Any alteration to hydrology may affect the Everglade snail kite. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, FPL would not modify any wetland habitat or alter any hydrology outside of the operation of the Open Marsh Water Management (OMWM) area. No loss of habitat is expected for the Everglade snail kite.
The risk of collisions with tall structures and in-scope transmission lines poses a threat to protected birds. FPLs Avian Protection Plan includes guidance for reporting bird mortalities, nest management procedures, staff training, and a mortality risk assessment (FPL 2021). FPL uses bird deterrent designs onsite, including bird discouragers, perch guards, and insulator shields, to reduce risk of electrocution (FPL 2021). To date, there have been no federally protected bird mortalities within the Action Area. Since 2015, there have been no recorded protected bird mortalities of any species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with buildings, infrastructure, or in-scope transmission lines during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, vehicular traffic from truck deliveries, site maintenance activities, and personnel commuting to and from the site would continue in a similar manner to the current license term. Vehicle use would occur primarily in areas where federally listed avian species would be less likely to frequent, such as along established county and State roads or within the industrial-use areas of the St. Lucie site. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with vehicles during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely and, therefore, is not considered further.
Given the small amount of habitat present in the Action Area and the use of the Avian Protection Plan, the Service finds that all potential effects on the Everglade snail kite would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the Everglade snail kite.
Page 5 Eastern black rail FPL reports no observations of the species on the St. Lucie site (FPL 2025A). However, because the species inhabits a variety of marsh types, individuals may occasionally occur in the Action Area during migration. The NRC concludes that the eastern black rail may occur in the Action Area year-round throughout the undeveloped portions of the St. Lucie site, which include onsite marshes, wetlands, and the intercoastal habitat consisting of both salt, brackish, and freshwater environments.
Levels and intensity of noise, lighting, and human activity associated with continued day-to-day activities and site maintenance during the subsequent license renewal term would be similar to ongoing conditions since St. Lucie began operating, and such activity would only occur on the developed, industrial use portions of the site. While these disturbances would cause behavioral changes in migrating or resident birds, such as the expenditure of additional energy to find alternative habitat, the NRC staff assumes that protected birds, if present in the Action Area, have already acclimated to regular site disturbances. Additionally, FPL maintains a company-wide Avian Protection Plan that it developed in accordance with the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee and the Services Avian Protection Plan Guidelines. The plan includes guidelines for working around federally listed birds and their nests and procedures that workers follow to ensure that listed birds are protected during site activities, such as vegetation maintenance, power restoration, and continued use of existing facilities. With adherence to these protection measures, the continued operation of St. Lucie during the subsequent license renewal term would not cause behavioral changes in birds to a degree that would be able to be meaningfully measured, detected, or evaluated, or that would reach the scale at which take may occur, and therefore, is not considered further.
To date, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment activities, additional land clearing, development, or construction during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area. Any alteration to hydrology may affect the eastern black rail. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, FPL would not modify any wetland habitat or alter any hydrology outside of the operation of the OMWM area. No loss of habitat is expected for the eastern black rail.
The risk of collisions with tall structures and in-scope transmission lines poses a threat to protected birds. FPLs Avian Protection Plan includes guidance for reporting bird mortalities, nest management procedures, staff training, and a mortality risk assessment (FPL 2021). FPL uses bird deterrent designs onsite, including bird discouragers, perch guards, and insulator shields, to reduce risk of electrocution (FPL 2021). To date, there have been no federally protected bird mortalities within the Action Area. Since 2015, there have been no recorded protected bird mortalities of any species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with buildings, infrastructure, or in-scope transmission lines during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, vehicular traffic from truck deliveries, site maintenance
Page 6 activities, and personnel commuting to and from the site would continue in a similar manner to the current license term. Vehicle use would occur primarily in areas where federally listed avian species would be less likely to frequent, such as along established county and State roads or within the industrial-use areas of the St. Lucie site. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with vehicles during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely and, therefore, is not considered further.
Given the small amount of habitat present in the Action Area and the use of the Avian Protection Plan, the Service finds that all potential effects on the eastern black rails would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the eastern black rails.
Eastern indigo snake There is a known indigo snake occurrence 2.5 mile to the south of the Action Area. There is habitat connectivity between the Action Area and the known occurrence area, the habitat on both sites is also similar.
FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment, additional land clearing, development, or construction activities during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area.
Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of habitat loss, degradation, and modification on the eastern indigo snake during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely.
Because the eastern indigo snake is known to travel within large home ranges, snakes may be killed or injured by vehicle traffic when crossing roadways within the Action Area. As previously stated, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment or additional land clearing activities during the proposed subsequent license renewal term and there is no planned increase of vehicular traffic within the Action Area. To date, there have been no reported mortalities of the eastern indigo snake due to vehicular collisions. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of road mortality on the eastern indigo snake during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be discountable and therefore, is not considered further.
During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, FPL would continue to apply pesticides according to labelled instructions with certified applicators. Pesticides would only be used in previously disturbed areas and would not be applied to native vegetation. FPL does not maintain a site-specific pesticide management plan but does maintain a stormwater pollution prevention plan. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of pesticide and contaminant exposure on the eastern indigo snake during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be discountable, and therefore, is not considered further.
Page 7 Given the lack of refurbishment or additional land clearing activities, the Service finds that all potential effects on the indigo snake would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the indigo snake.
Green sea turtle Green sea turtle nests are common on Hutchinson Island. In 2023, 2,270 green sea turtle nests on South Hutchinson Island, over 100 of those nests were located within the Action Area.
FPLs contracts Inwater Research to conduct their in water and beach sea turtle work. Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit, which authorizes them to conduct various activities related to green sea turtles and their nesting habitats. These activities include nesting surveys, stranding and salvage operations, nest relocation, hatch success evaluations, post-hatch nest content evaluations, net and hand capture, turtle tagging, necropsies, boat transect surveys, blood and skin biopsies, and night surveys (FFWCC 2025B). All individuals operating under this permit must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Marine Turtle Conservation Handbook, developed by the Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
(FFWCC 2016).
Additionally, within the Action Area, FPL leases a portion of its land to St. Lucie County, which has established the Walton Rocks Beach Dog Park. To protect the green sea turtle nesting areas, FPL committed to installing signs to inform dog owners that dogs should not travel north of the designated dog beach onto its property and into turtle nesting areas (FPL 2025C). These signs may reduce incidents of dogs disturbing nesting turtles. FPL also will collaborate with local authorities to ensure regular monitoring and enforcement of these guidelines to deter noncompliance, as needed.
FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment, additional land clearing, development, or construction activities during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, including within suitable green sea turtle habitat (FPL 2025A). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of habitat loss, degradation, and modification of nesting beach habitat on the green sea turtle during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Marine debris and pollution present significant threats to green sea turtles, particularly due to the ingestion of marine debris. Green sea turtles often mistake plastic bags, balloons, and other debris for food. Ingesting these materials can lead to intestinal blockages, malnutrition, and even death. Additionally, the ingestion of microplastics can introduce toxic substances into their bodies, further compromising their health. Entanglement in marine debris is another threat.
Fishing nets, lines, and other debris can entangle green sea turtles, restricting their movement and ability to surface for air, which can result in drowning. Entanglement also can cause severe injuries, such as cuts and amputations, leading to infections and long-term disabilities. Pollution, particularly chemical pollutants, poses additional risks. Runoff from agricultural and industrial activities introduces harmful substances into marine environments. These pollutants can accumulate in the tissues of green sea turtles, leading to various health issues, including
Page 8 weakened immune systems, reproductive problems, and developmental abnormalities.
Furthermore, pollution can degrade the quality of nesting beaches and foraging habitats. Oil spills, for example, can contaminate beaches, making them unsuitable for nesting. Contaminated foraging areas can reduce the availability of healthy food sources, impacting the overall fitness and survival of green sea turtles. FPL maintains and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, a stormwater pollution prevention plan that is expected to minimize the potential for pollutants to enter the environment through runoff (FPL 2025A). Additionally, Inwater Research maintains, and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, the beach habitat for green sea turtles in accordance with its ESA Section 10 permit (FFWCC 2025B).
Artificial beachfront lighting poses significant threats to green sea turtles (88 FR 46376-27).
Hatchlings, which naturally orient themselves towards the brightest horizon to find the ocean, are frequently disoriented by artificial lights from beachfront developments. This misorientation often results in hatchlings moving inland, leading to increased mortality due to dehydration, predation, and other hazards. Furthermore, adult female green sea turtles exhibit a preference for dark, undisturbed beaches when selecting nesting sites. The presence of artificial lighting can deter these females from coming ashore to nest, thereby reducing the number of successful nesting events. Additionally, if a nesting female is disturbed by artificial lights, she may abandon her nesting attempt and return to the seaa phenomenon known as a false crawl.
Conservation efforts to protect nesting habitats from artificial lighting are essential for the survival and recovery of green sea turtle populations. These efforts include measures such as shielding lights, installing motion sensors, and planting vegetation to obstruct light from reaching the beach.
The suitable green sea turtle nesting habitat within the Action Area is approximately 1,312 feet (400 meter) east from the disturbed portion of the St. Lucie site. This area includes a road and wetland habitat buffer. Two disturbed areas connect directly to the beach; these areas are the intake canal and discharge canal. FPL maintains shielded lighting with red coverings at all locations near suitable turtle beach nesting areas. In May 2025, a lighting study was conducted and confirmed that there is no visible light observable on the beach (FPL 2025D). Additionally, Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit to conduct research on nesting sea turtles, and this permit outlines several conservation measures to ensure the conservation of the species and nesting habitat. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of artificial beachfront lighting on the green sea turtle and its nesting habitat during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Given, the added signage on the dog beach, the results of the 2025 beach lighting survey, and the planned response to the unlikely beach debris and pollution, the Service finds all potential effects on the green sea turtle would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the green sea turtle.
Page 9 Green sea turtle proposed critical habitat The proposed critical habitat is in-water areas from the mean high-water line up to 66 ft depth near Hutchinson Island and the Caloosahatchee River system. These zones support green sea turtle nesting beaches and foraging habitat.
Table 1. ESA Effect Determinations for the Physical and Biological Features (PBF) of the Proposed Green Sea Turtle Critical Habitat.
The Service finds all potential effects on the green sea turtle proposed critical habitat would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project will not adversely modify the green sea turtle proposed critical habitat.
Page 10 Leatherback sea turtle There havent been any leatherback nests within the Action Area, but there were two nests in 2023 within a mile from the Action Area.
FPLs contracts Inwater Research to conduct their in water and beach sea turtle work. Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit, which authorizes them to conduct various activities related to leatherback sea turtle and their nesting habitats. These activities include nesting surveys, stranding and salvage operations, nest relocation, hatch success evaluations, post-hatch nest content evaluations, net and hand capture, turtle tagging, necropsies, boat transect surveys, blood and skin biopsies, and night surveys (FFWCC 2025B). All individuals operating under this permit must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Marine Turtle Conservation Handbook, developed by the Service and FWC (FFWCC 2016).
Additionally, within the Action Area, FPL leases a portion of its land to St. Lucie County, which has established the Walton Rocks Beach Dog Park. To protect the leatherback sea turtle nesting areas, FPL committed to installing signs to inform dog owners that dogs should not travel north of the designated dog beach onto its property and into turtle nesting areas (FPL 2025-C). These signs may reduce incidents of dogs disturbing nesting turtles. FPL also will collaborate with local authorities to ensure regular monitoring and enforcement of these guidelines to deter noncompliance, as needed.
FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment, additional land clearing, development, or construction activities during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, including within suitable leatherback sea turtle habitat (FPL 2025A). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of habitat loss, degradation, and modification of nesting beach habitat on the leatherback sea turtle during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Marine debris and pollution present significant threats to leatherback sea turtle, particularly due to the ingestion of marine debris. Leatherback sea turtle often mistake plastic bags, balloons, and other debris for food, such as jellyfish. Ingesting these materials can lead to intestinal blockages, malnutrition, and even death. Additionally, the ingestion of microplastics can introduce toxic substances into their bodies, further compromising their health. Entanglement in marine debris is another threat. Fishing nets, lines, and other debris can entangle leatherback sea turtles, restricting their movement and ability to surface for air, which can result in drowning.
Entanglement also can cause severe injuries, such as cuts and amputations, leading to infections and long-term disabilities. Pollution, particularly chemical pollutants, poses additional risks.
Runoff from agricultural and industrial activities introduces harmful substances into marine environments. These pollutants can accumulate in the tissues of leatherback sea turtles, leading to various health issues, including weakened immune systems, reproductive problems, and developmental abnormalities. Furthermore, pollution can degrade the quality of nesting beaches and foraging habitats. Oil spills, for example, can contaminate beaches, making them unsuitable for nesting. Contaminated foraging areas can reduce the availability of healthy food sources, impacting the overall fitness and survival of leatherback sea turtles. FPL maintains and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, a stormwater
Page 11 pollution prevention plan that is expected to minimize the potential for pollutants to enter the environment through runoff (FPL 2025A). Additionally, Inwater Research maintains, and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, the beach habitat for leatherback sea turtles in accordance with its ESA Section 10 permit (FFWCC 2025B).
Artificial beachfront lighting poses significant threats to leatherback sea turtles. Hatchlings, which naturally orient themselves towards the brightest horizon to find the ocean, are frequently disoriented by artificial lights from beachfront developments. This misorientation often results in hatchlings moving inland, leading to increased mortality due to dehydration, predation, and other hazards. Furthermore, adult female leatherback sea turtles exhibit a preference for dark, undisturbed beaches when selecting nesting sites. The presence of artificial lighting can deter these females from coming ashore to nest, thereby reducing the number of successful nesting events. Additionally, if a nesting female is disturbed by artificial lights, she may abandon her nesting attempt and return to the seaa phenomenon known as a false crawl. Conservation efforts to protect nesting habitats from artificial lighting are essential for the survival and recovery of leatherback sea turtle populations. These efforts include measures such as shielding lights, installing motion sensors, and planting vegetation to obstruct light from reaching the beach.
The suitable leatherback sea turtle nesting habitat within the Action Area is approximately 1,312 feet (400 meter) east from the disturbed portion of the St. Lucie site. This area includes a road and wetland habitat buffer. Two disturbed areas connect directly to the beach; these areas are the intake canal and discharge canal. FPL maintains shielded lighting with red coverings at all locations near suitable turtle beach nesting areas. In May 2025, a lighting study was conducted and confirmed that there is no visible light observable on the beach (FPL 2025D). Additionally, Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit to conduct research on nesting sea turtles, and this permit outlines several conservation measures to ensure the conservation of the species and nesting habitat. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of artificial beachfront lighting on the leatherback sea turtle and its nesting habitat during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Given, the added signage on the dog beach, the results of the 2025 beach lighting survey, and the planned response to the unlikely beach debris and pollution, the Service finds all potential effects on the leatherback sea turtle would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the leatherback sea turtle.
Loggerhead sea turtle Loggerhead sea turtle nests are common on Hutchinson Island. In 2023, 14,360 loggerhead turtle nests on South Hutchinson Island, over 300 of those nests were located within the Action Area.
Page 12 FPLs contracts Inwater Research to conduct their in water and beach sea turtle work. Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit, which authorizes them to conduct various activities related to loggerhead sea turtle and their nesting habitats. These activities include nesting surveys, stranding and salvage operations, nest relocation, hatch success evaluations, post-hatch nest content evaluations, net and hand capture, turtle tagging, necropsies, boat transect surveys, blood and skin biopsies, and night surveys (FFWCC 2025B). All individuals operating under this permit must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Marine Turtle Conservation Handbook, developed by the Service and FWC (FFWCC 2016).
Additionally, within the Action Area, FPL leases a portion of its land to St. Lucie County, which has established the Walton Rocks Beach Dog Park. To protect the loggerhead sea turtle nesting areas, FPL committed to installing signs to inform dog owners that dogs should not travel north of the designated dog beach onto its property and into turtle nesting areas (FPL 2025C). These signs may reduce incidents of dogs disturbing nesting turtles. FPL also will collaborate with local authorities to ensure regular monitoring and enforcement of these guidelines to deter noncompliance, as needed.
FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment, additional land clearing, development, or construction activities during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, including within suitable loggerhead sea turtle habitat (FPL 2025A). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of habitat loss, degradation, and modification of nesting beach habitat on the loggerhead sea turtle during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Marine debris and pollution present significant threats to loggerhead sea turtle, particularly due to the ingestion of marine debris. Loggerhead sea turtle often mistake plastic bags, balloons, and other debris for food, such as jellyfish. Ingesting these materials can lead to intestinal blockages, malnutrition, and even death. Additionally, the ingestion of microplastics can introduce toxic substances into their bodies, further compromising their health. Entanglement in marine debris is another threat. Fishing nets, lines, and other debris can entangle loggerhead sea turtles, restricting their movement and ability to surface for air, which can result in drowning.
Entanglement also can cause severe injuries, such as cuts and amputations, leading to infections and long-term disabilities. Pollution, particularly chemical pollutants, poses additional risks.
Runoff from agricultural and industrial activities introduces harmful substances into marine environments. These pollutants can accumulate in the tissues of loggerhead sea turtles, leading to various health issues, including weakened immune systems, reproductive problems, and developmental abnormalities. Furthermore, pollution can degrade the quality of nesting beaches and foraging habitats. Oil spills, for example, can contaminate beaches, making them unsuitable for nesting. Contaminated foraging areas can reduce the availability of healthy food sources, impacting the overall fitness and survival of loggerhead sea turtles. FPL maintains and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, a stormwater pollution prevention plan that is expected to minimize the potential for pollutants to enter the environment through runoff (FPL 2025A). Additionally, Inwater Research maintains, and would continue to maintain during the proposed subsequent license renewal term, the beach habitat for loggerhead sea turtles in accordance with its ESA Section 10 permit (FFWCC 2025B).
Page 13 Artificial beachfront lighting poses significant threats to loggerhead sea turtles. Hatchlings, which naturally orient themselves towards the brightest horizon to find the ocean, are frequently disoriented by artificial lights from beachfront developments. This misorientation often results in hatchlings moving inland, leading to increased mortality due to dehydration, predation, and other hazards. Furthermore, adult female loggerhead sea turtles exhibit a preference for dark, undisturbed beaches when selecting nesting sites. The presence of artificial lighting can deter these females from coming ashore to nest, thereby reducing the number of successful nesting events. Additionally, if a nesting female is disturbed by artificial lights, she may abandon her nesting attempt and return to the seaa phenomenon known as a false crawl. Conservation efforts to protect nesting habitats from artificial lighting are essential for the survival and recovery of loggerhead sea turtle populations. These efforts include measures such as shielding lights, installing motion sensors, and planting vegetation to obstruct light from reaching the beach.
The suitable loggerhead sea turtle nesting habitat within the Action Area is approximately 1,312 feet (400 meter) east from the disturbed portion of the St. Lucie site. This area includes a road and wetland habitat buffer. Two disturbed areas connect directly to the beach; these areas are the intake canal and discharge canal. FPL maintains shielded lighting with red coverings at all locations near suitable turtle beach nesting areas. In May 2025, a lighting study was conducted and confirmed that there is no visible light observable on the beach (FPL 2025D). Additionally, Inwater Research holds an ESA Section 10 permit to conduct research on nesting sea turtles, and this permit outlines several conservation measures to ensure the conservation of the species and nesting habitat. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of artificial beachfront lighting on the loggerhead sea turtle and its nesting habitat during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further.
Given, the added signage on the dog beach, the results of the 2025 beach lighting survey, and the planned response to the unlikely beach debris and pollution, the Service finds all potential effects on the loggerhead sea turtle would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the loggerhead sea turtle.
Loggerhead sea turtle critical habitat The critical habitat is defined as nearshore reproductive habitat and constricted migratory habitat in the nearshore waters from the mean high-water line to the 100 ft depth contour off Floridana Beach to the Martin County/Palm Beach County line (79 FR 39856). All of Hutchinson beaches and the beaches within the Action Area are included in the critical habitat.
Table 2. ESA Effect Determinations for the Physical and Biological Features (PBF) of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle Critical Habitat.
Page 14 The Service finds all potential effects on the loggerhead sea turtle critical habitat would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project will not adversely modify the loggerhead sea turtle critical habitat.
Monarch butterfly Monarch butterflies have been documented within a six-mile vicinity of the St. Lucie site and the species is likely to occur within the Action Area. FPL reports no presence of milkweed species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B).
FPL has not proposed any activities that would result in habitat loss, land disturbance, or other activities that would degrade existing natural areas or potential habitats for butterflies during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. Milkweed, which is essential for the monarch life cycle, is not known to exist on the St. Lucie site, though the presence of invasive tropical milkweed is apparent throughout Florida. Onsite mowing is restricted to the industrialized area where the presence of monarch would be minimal. Continued preservation and enhancement of natural areas onsite would benefit monarch butterflies. Invasive plant species and woody plant encroachment degrade monarch habitat quality and quantity. There are no activities proposed during the proposed subsequent license renewal term that would increase the prevalence of invasive plants. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of habitat loss, degradation, and modification on the monarch butterfly during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be discountable, and therefore, is not considered further.
Page 15 Most insecticides are nonspecific and broad-spectrum in nature. Furthermore, the larvae of many Lepidopterans are considered major pest species, and insecticides are specifically tested on this taxon to ensure that they will effectively kill individuals at the labelled application rates (Service 2024). Insecticide use is most often associated with agricultural production.
Studies looking specifically at the dose response of monarchs to neonicotinoids, organophosphates, and pyrethroids have demonstrated monarch toxicity (e.g., Krischik et al.
2015; James 2019; Krishnan et al. 2020; Bagar et al. 2020). Moreover, the magnitude of risk posed by insecticides may be underestimated, as research usually examines the effects of the active ingredient alone, while many of the formulated products contain more than one active insecticide.
During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, FPL would continue to apply herbicides as needed and according to labelled uses but has no plans to apply herbicides in natural areas.
Continued herbicide application could directly affect butterflies in the Action Area by injuring or killing individuals exposed to these chemicals. Certain herbicides such as glyphosate (e.g.,
Round Up') can kill milkweed, which could affect the ability of the species to lay eggs and the availability of larval food sources. Continued herbicide application could affect butterflies in the Action Area by indirect exposure to these chemicals. However, all herbicide applications would be targeted and, therefore, unlikely to result in hazardous levels of contaminant exposure.
Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of adverse effects of insecticides on the monarch butterfly during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be discountable, and therefore, is not considered further.
Given the lack of habitat loss, minimal land disturbance, and only targeted herbicide application, the Service finds that all potential effects on the monarch butterfly would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the monarch butterfly.
Piping plover Piping plovers from both the Atlantic Coast and Northern Great Plains populations migrate to Florida from late July through September and disperse from late February through April. The Action Area only contains some habitat on the beach dunes. FPL reports no observations of piping plovers on the St. Lucie site (NRC 2021). However, individuals may occasionally occur in the Action Area during the migratory period when moving between nearby areas.
Levels and intensity of noise, lighting, and human activity associated with continued day-to-day activities and site maintenance during the subsequent license renewal term would be similar to ongoing conditions since St. Lucie began operating, and such activity would only occur on the developed, industrial use portions of the site. While these disturbances would cause behavioral changes in migrating or resident birds, such as the expenditure of additional energy to find alternative habitat, the NRC staff assumes that protected birds, if present in the Action Area,
Page 16 have already acclimated to regular site disturbances. Additionally, FPL maintains a company-wide Avian Protection Plan that it developed in accordance with the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee and the Services Avian Protection Plan Guidelines. The plan includes guidelines for working around federally listed birds and their nests and procedures that workers follow to ensure that listed birds are protected during site activities, such as vegetation maintenance, power restoration, and continued use of existing facilities. With adherence to these protection measures, the continued operation of St. Lucie during the subsequent license renewal term would not cause behavioral changes in birds to a degree that would be able to be meaningfully measured, detected, or evaluated, or that would reach the scale at which take may occur, and therefore, is not considered further.
To date, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment activities, additional land clearing, development, or construction during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area. No habitat loss is expected for piping plovers.
The risk of collisions with tall structures and in-scope transmission lines poses a threat to protected birds. FPLs Avian Protection Plan includes guidance for reporting bird mortalities, nest management procedures, staff training, and a mortality risk assessment (FPL 2021). FPL uses bird deterrent designs onsite, including bird discouragers, perch guards, and insulator shields, to reduce risk of electrocution (FPL 2021). To date, there have been no federally protected bird mortalities within the Action Area. Since 2015, there have been no recorded protected bird mortalities of any species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with buildings, infrastructure, or in-scope transmission lines during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, vehicular traffic from truck deliveries, site maintenance activities, and personnel commuting to and from the site would continue in a similar manner to the current license term. Vehicle use would occur primarily in areas where federally listed avian species would be less likely to frequent, such as along established county and State roads or within the industrial-use areas of the St. Lucie site. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with vehicles during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely and, therefore, is not considered further.
Given the small amount of habitat present in the Action Area and the use of the Avian Protection Plan, the Service finds that all potential effects on the piping plovers would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the piping plovers.
Southeastern beach mouse Suitable habitat is present in the Action Area, but FPL reports no occurrences of the southeastern beach mouse at the St. Lucie site. The 2019 five-year review suggests that southeastern beach mouse is maybe extirpated from Hutchinson Island.
Page 17 FPL has identified suitable dune habitat within the Action Area. However, there are no activities planned during the proposed subsequent license renewal term that would impact suitable dune habitat.
Due to the lack of land disturbing activities within potentially suitable habitat, the Service finds that the effects on the southeastern beach mouse would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the southeastern beach mouse.
West Indian manatee critical habitat This letter is only addressing the critical habitat determination and not the determination for West Indian manatee (manatee) species. The potential for manatee take during the proposed subsequent license renewal term will still need to be addressed to complete the consultation with the Service.
West Indian manatee critical habitat is present within the Action Area within Indian River Lagoon and Big Mud Creek to the west of Hutchinson Island. Manatees are present in the area known as Big Mud Creek within the St. Lucie site. This area has been closed to public access due to NRC security concerns. Additionally, Big Mud Creek has a year-round idle zone restriction as dictated by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act (Fla. Stat. 68C-22). To date, there have been no mortalities of manatees as a result of FPL boating operations.
FPL stated that no dredging in Big Mud Creek is anticipated during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025B). FPL maintains a stormwater pollution prevention plan to minimize polluted runoff and would be subject to the conditions of its NPDES permit (FPL 2025A). Finally, FPL has no coastal development planned during the proposed subsequent license renewal term.
FPL also operates an emergency intake system, located on Big Mud Creek, during quarterly safety testing as required by St. Lucies technical specifications and would also operate this system if plant conditions were to require such operation. Currently, there is no grating, screens, or other methods for preventing biota from entering the intake canal. FPLs NPDES permit limits water flow/withdrawal from Big Mud Creek to four million gallons per year (FPL 2025B).
The average operating time during quarterly testing is under two minutes in duration. In coordination with the Service, FPL has committed to physically or remotely observing Big Mud Creek for biota entering the canal while quarterly emergency cooling intake testing occurs (FPL 2025C).
The Service finds all potential effects on the manatee critical habitat would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project will not adversely modify the manatee critical habitat.
Page 18 Wood stork FPL reports no observations of wood storks on the St. Lucie site. However, sightings have occurred on Hutchinson Island, and the Action Area contains wetlands and mangrove areas that could provide suitable feeding and foraging habitat (NRC 2021). Individuals may occasionally occur in the Action Area during the migration period.
Levels and intensity of noise, lighting, and human activity associated with continued day-to-day activities and site maintenance during the subsequent license renewal term would be similar to ongoing conditions since St. Lucie began operating, and such activity would only occur on the developed, industrial use portions of the site. While these disturbances would cause behavioral changes in migrating or resident birds, such as the expenditure of additional energy to find alternative habitat, the NRC staff assumes that protected birds, if present in the Action Area, have already acclimated to regular site disturbances. Additionally, FPL maintains a company-wide Avian Protection Plan that it developed in accordance with the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee and the Services Avian Protection Plan Guidelines. The plan includes guidelines for working around federally listed birds and their nests and procedures that workers follow to ensure that listed birds are protected during site activities, such as vegetation maintenance, power restoration, and continued use of existing facilities. FPL also has established nest buffers for protected avian species that may occur in the Action Area (FPL 2022). FPLs Avian Protection Plan requires a nest buffer of 500 to 1500 feet for active wood stork nests (FPL 2019). With adherence to these protection measures, the continued operation of St. Lucie during the subsequent license renewal term would not cause behavioral changes in birds to a degree that would be able to be meaningfully measured, detected, or evaluated, or that would reach the scale at which take may occur, and therefore, is not considered further.
To date, FPL has not identified the need for refurbishment activities, additional land clearing, development, or construction during the proposed subsequent license renewal term (FPL 2025A). Any land disturbing activities, such as maintenance of roadways, piping, fencing, and other infrastructure, and mowing would take place within the previously disturbed industrialized area. No habitat loss is expected for wood storks.
The risk of collisions with tall structures and in-scope transmission lines poses a threat to protected birds. FPLs Avian Protection Plan includes guidance for reporting bird mortalities, nest management procedures, staff training, and a mortality risk assessment (FPL 2021). FPL uses bird deterrent designs onsite, including bird discouragers, perch guards, and insulator shields, to reduce risk of electrocution (FPL 2021). To date, there have been no federally protected bird mortalities within the Action Area. Since 2015, there have been no recorded protected bird mortalities of any species within the Action Area (FPL 2025B). Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with buildings, infrastructure, or in-scope transmission lines during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely, and therefore, is not considered further. During the proposed subsequent license renewal term, vehicular traffic from truck deliveries, site maintenance activities, and personnel commuting to and from the site would continue in a similar manner to the current license term. Vehicle use would occur primarily in areas where federally listed avian species would be less likely to frequent, such as along established county and State roads or
Page 19 within the industrial-use areas of the St. Lucie site. Accordingly, the NRC staff finds the likelihood of federally protected avian collisions with vehicles during the proposed subsequent license renewal term to be extremely unlikely and, therefore, is not considered further.
Given the small amount of habitat present in the Action Area and the use of the Avian Protection Plan, the Service finds that all potential effects on the wood storks would be insignificant or discountable during the proposed subsequent license renewal term. The Service concurs with the NRCs determination that the proposed project may affect but is not likely to adversely affect the wood storks.
Thank you for your cooperation in the effort to protect fish and wildlife resources. If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact Lindsay Needs at 772-226-8158.
Sincerely yours, Jose Rivera Acting Manager, Division of Environmental Review Florida Ecological Services Office Enclosures cc: electronic only NRC, Briana Arlene (briana.arlene@nrc.gov)
JOSE RIVERA Digitally signed by JOSE RIVERA Date: 2026.02.10 14:03:00 -05'00'
Page 20 LITERATURE CITED Bagar, T.A., M.L. Hladik, and J.C. Daniels. 2020. Uptake and toxicity of clothianidin to monarch butterflies from milkweed consumption. Peer J 8:e8669, Bethesda, Maryland.
[FFWCC] Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2016. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Turtle Conservation Handbook. Tallahassee, Florida.
[FFWCC] Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2025A. Everglade Snail Kite.
Tallahassee, Florida. Accessed January 27, 2026, at https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/birds/raptors-and-vultures/everglade-snail-kite/
[FFWCC] Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 2025B. Marine Turtle Permit.
Tallahassee, Florida. ADAMS Accession No. ML25219A079..
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company). 2019. FPL Avian Protection Plan 2019. (proprietary and not releasable to the public)
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company. 2001. Applicants Environmental Report - Operating License Renewal Stage St. Lucie Units 1 & 2, Docket Nos. 50-335 and 50-389. Juno Beach, Florida. ADAMS Accession No. ML013400221.
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company). 2022. Letter from W.D. Maher, Licensing Director -
Nuclear Licensing Projects, to NRC Document Control Desk, dated June 14, 2022, regarding Subsequent License Renewal Application - Environmental Audit Requests for Clarification of / Additional Information (RCI/RAI) Response. Jupiter, Florida.
ADAMS Accession No. 33 ML22165A180.
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company. 2025A. Letter from K.A. Mack, Director, Licensing and Regulatory Compliance, to NRC Document Control Desk, dated February 3, 2025, regarding St. Lucie Units 1 and 2 Docket Nos. 50-335 and 50-389 Renewed Facility Operating Licenses DPR-67 and NPF-16. Jensen Beach, Florida. ADAMS Accession No. ML25034A029.
FPL (Florida Power & Light Company). 2025B. Letter from K.A. Mack, Director, Licensing and Regulatory Compliance, to NRC Document Control Desk, dated July 8, 2025, regarding St. Lucie Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and 2 Docket Nos. 50-335 and 50-389 Renewed Facility Operating Licenses DPR-67 and NPF-16. Subsequent License Renewal Application Environmental Review Supplemental Environmental Audit Response to Requests for Confirmation of Information and Requests for Additional Information.
Jensen Beach, Florida. ADAMS Accession No. ML25190A290.
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company. 2025C. Email from S. Fitzgerald, Director, Environmental Services, to M. Dehmer, Environmental Scientist, NRC, dated August 12,
Page 21 2025, regarding St. Lucie FWS Conservation Measures. Jensen Beach, Florida.
ADAMS Accession No. 9 ML25224A183.
[FPL] Florida Power & Light Company. 2025. Email from K. Eaton, Environmental Services, to M. Dehmer, dated September 17, 2025, regarding [External_Sender] RE: FWS Section 7 Final Questions. Juno Beach, Florida. ADAMS Accession No. ML25260A063.
James, D.G. 2019. A Neonicotinoid Insecticide at a Rate Found in Nectar Reduces Longevity but not Oogenesis in Monarch Butterflies, Danaus plexippus (L.). (Lepidoptera:
Nymphalidae). Insects 10(9):276, Bethesda, Maryland..
Krischik, V., M. Rogers, G. Gupta, and A. Varshney. 2015. Soil-Applied Imidacloprid Translocates to Ornamental Flowers and Reduces Survival of Adult Coleomegilla maculata, Harmonia axyridis, and Hippodamia convergens Lady Beetles, and Larval Danaus plexippus and Vanessa cardui Butterflies. PLoS One 10(3):e0119133, San Francisco, California.
Krishnan, N., Y. Zhang, K.G. Bidne, R.L. Hellmich, J.R. Coats, and S.P. Bradbury. 2020.
Assessing FieldScale Risks of Foliar Insecticide Applications to Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) Larvae. Environmental Toxicology Chemistry 39(4):923-941.
[NRC] U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission). 2021. St. Lucie, Units 1 and 2, Application for Subsequent Renewed Facility Operating Licenses. Washington, D.C. ADAMS Accession No. 28 ML21215A314.
[Service] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2024. Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus), Species Status Assessment Report, version 2.3. Bloomington, Minnesota.