It allows the developer to build houses all over the snake's habitat. Conservationists say much of the 1,200 acres that would be protected under the settlement cannot be developed because of environmentally sensitive wetlands and restrictive Pinelands zoning rules. Barbaccia, however, said another 66 homes could have been built on this land. State and federal laws established the Pinelands region during the late 1970s. It has been recognized worldwide as a unique ecosystem for hundreds of endangered and threatened animals and plants.
Environmentalists say the settlement violates that plan.
Pinelands commissioners say it does not. Timid and secretive, the timber rattlesnake is the only rattlesnake in New Jersey and is one of only two venomous snakes found in the state. Its designation as an endangered species protects it from being harassed, harmed or killed. Part of the settlement calls for educating Evesham Township officials and Sanctuary residents about how best to live in the midst of rattlesnakes. Montgomery said yesterday he was not sure what kind of court action his group would take.