Team Everglades-
Polluted discharges from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee River continue. Devastating discharges to the St. Lucie River have resumed. Nestle is exhausting our natural springs in North Florida, while US Sugar and Florida Crystals are draining the Everglades of its life source.
Water is not only the public’s asset and greatest resource, but also our heritage. Today, in too many parts of our state, our water and waterways are in a world of hurt.
But on the horizon, there is hope. Keeping his promise to all Floridians, Governor Ron DeSantis is bringing online the most critical components for true Everglades restoration, at record funding levels for the state. With Everglades restoration finally recognized as a vital player in mitigating the effects of climate change, and with the nearly unanimous support of Florida’s congressional delegation, our chances at record-level funding from Congress and President Biden are bright.
For now? Catch up on what you missed this week in the Everglades. And stay tuned!
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
“Anyone know where we can put 5.3 billion gallons per day until June 1? There is only one place to put that much water under the current design of Florida’s long-busted plumbing system — the sea. What everyone reading this column needs to keep in mind is that nearly every drop of this water once flowed into the Everglades.”
TC Palm: Zombie estuaries: 2021 Lake O discharges will be bad for Caloosahatchee, St. Lucie River
It is highly likely you’ve never seen a Florida panther. That’s because the official state animal is elusive, shy, and endangered. But one Florida man, who was definitely in the right place at the right time, spotted five of them in a single day – and four of them were at the same time!
Nestle is exhausting our natural springs in North Florida, while US Sugar and Florida Crystals drain the Everglades.
Water is the most basic of human needs. The continued disconnect between public officials and the public’s interest is mind-numbing.
Editorial: Florida is still failing to save our natural springs
“Sen. Marco Rubio and all 27 U.S. House members from Florida signed the letter to Biden. Sen. Rick Scott was the only Florida delegation member who didn’t sign it.” Bad decision, Senator Scott. The feds are woefully behind in funding their share of the projects. The clock is ticking faster, restoration demands are more apparent than ever. “Now is the time to put the pedal to the metal to stop discharges and send the water south once and for all.” Congressman Brian Mast, R-Palm City, said Thursday.
TC PALM: Florida congressional delegation asks Biden for $725 million for Everglades restoration
“Is recent crazy weather tied to climate change?” Some of it is. Learn more. It is important.
The New York Times: Climate Change Is Complex. We’ve Got Answers to Your Questions.
Following the launch of the new book, Moving Water: The Everglades and Big Sugar, comes a spirited discussion between the author, Amy Green, and Everglades restoration pioneer Mary Barley. Rounding out the panel, two veteran investigative reporters share insights into the environmental and economic fiasco we continue to battle.
Watch: An Evening with the Everglades, featuring Amy Green and Mary Barley
We are thrilled with this progress. Watch this quick video from Captains For Clean Water to catch up on the latest and greatest. Explosions here are good news for restoration!
Watch: The EAA Reservoir: Cornerstone project for Everglades restoration