Florida Senate to Consider Major Changes to Water Management Districts | Tallahassee Democrat
The Florida Senate is considering significant changes to the state’s water management districts, aiming to refocus them on their core mission of flood control and stormwater management while affirming commitment to Everglades restoration.
Florida Springs Rules Draw Challenge | Citrus County Chronicle
A springs advocacy group is challenging newly proposed state rules, saying they will not adequately prevent water withdrawals that could harm what are designated as “Outstanding Florida Springs.” The Florida Springs Council filed the challenge last week after the state Department of Environmental Protection held a Jan. 6 hearing on the proposed rules, which are designed to carry out a 2016 law.
Florida Senate Panel Approves Bill Banning Golf Courses, Courts, and Lodges in State Parks | WUSF
The Florida Senate committee advanced a bill to prevent the construction of facilities like golf courses, pickleball courts, and large lodges in state parks. This legislation comes in response to the controversial “Great Outdoors Initiative” proposed last year, which sparked bipartisan opposition.
‘My Most Sacred Place’: Scholars, Activists Celebrate the Human Element of Florida Springs | WUFT
Scholars and activists gathered to discuss the cultural and historical significance of Florida’s springs, emphasizing the need for stronger conservation efforts. The event highlighted the deep connection between these natural landmarks and Florida’s indigenous and local communities.
Palm Coast officials are considering significant increases in water rates to fund critical infrastructure improvements. To fund these improvements, the city is proposing a 32% increase in utility bills over the next two years, implemented through four 8% rate hikes.
Mysterious tar balls have been found on several Florida beaches, prompting an investigation into their origin. Environmental officials are assessing whether the pollution stems from a recent spill or a natural seepage event.
Gulf Dredging Raises Questions About Red Tide and Beach Conditions | WINK News
Concerns have emerged over a dredging project’s potential impact on red tide and coastal ecosystems. Scientists are studying whether sediment disturbances could worsen algae blooms and affect water quality along Florida’s shoreline.
SFWMD Recognizes the Women of the District Who Safeguard Our Water Resources | Lake Okeechobee News
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by highlighting the contributions of women in their organization. These women play crucial roles in managing and overseeing complex water restoration and quality improvement projects across a 16-county region.
Manatee County Commission Targets Overdevelopment in Wetlands | WMNF
Manatee County, Florida, is experiencing rapid growth, prompting county commissioners to reconsider wetland protection measures that were removed in 2023 to facilitate development. The commission is now focused on reinstating local wetland buffers to protect sensitive environmental areas from overdevelopment.
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