Sea turtle nesting season could stall hurricane repairs along Volusia County coast

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Sea turtle nesting season could stall ongoing construction projects to repair hurricane damage along the Volusia County coast.

Jeanne Duffin said she and several other neighbors were given a notice saying if construction to repair their homes doesn’t start before May 1, they’ll have to wait until turtle nesting season is complete.

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She said she’s had her permits filed since November, but hasen’t been able to start any work because she’s still waiting on approval.

Daytona Beach Shores PIO Tammy Marzik said the city is looking for a loophole that protects the turtles  but also helps homeowners who have no other option.

Read: Volusia County puts damage from Nicole at $522 million

“There was a call last week where a lot of this was discussed so we’re just waiting to see where those discussions got us,” Marzik said.

Marzik said many projects are pending federal approval and in the meantime, residents should focus on finishing work the state allows.

“Everybody is out there advocating, you know, saying push those permits through,” Marzik said.

Read: Vandals cause $1M in damage to dam built to protect Volusia County’s dunes, homes

Duffin said she is tired of waiting and worries even the smallest storm could have a huge impact.

“I don’t wanna lose my house. I don’t. I don’t deserve to lose my house,” Duffin said.

A Volusia County spokesperson said they are working with multiple agencies to see what kind of work may be allowed during turtle nesting season.

So far, the county has received no official guidance.

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