Florida Lawmakers Target Climate Efforts Done on the Local Level | WGCU
A Senate committee voted 5–3 along party lines to approve a bill (SB 1628) that would restrict cities and counties from adopting local climate policies such as “net-zero” goals. Sponsor Sen. Bryan Avila said such efforts increase costs for residents and businesses.
Florida legislators are considering a ban on a toxic firefighting foam used to suppress flammable-liquid fires that has been linked to contamination of water and soil. The foam, already banned in several countries and U.S. states, is being phased out by the Department of Defense due to health and environmental concerns.
Port Grant Could Change the Trajectory of Pensacola | Florida Politics
Pensacola has secured initial approval for a $76 million Triumph Gulf Coast grant to establish Birdon America Inc.’s Southeastern headquarters and an advanced ship manufacturing facility at the Port of Pensacola. The project is expected to create up to 2,000 jobs with average salaries ranging from $68,000 to $112,000.
JEA, City of Jacksonville Reaches Milestone in Septic Tank Phaseout Program | News4JAX
Jacksonville officials have completed two major sewer conversion projects in the Biltmore and Beverly Hills neighborhoods, connecting over 1,000 properties to the city’s sewer system. The effort is part of a long-term plan to replace failing septic tanks in neighborhoods near waterways, with additional projects now in development.
South Florida Celebrates Major Everglades Project Completion | Florida Specifier
Federal, state, and local officials celebrated completion of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project in Collier County. The 55,000-acre effort, begun in 2007, removed 260 miles of roads and plugged 48 miles of canals to restore natural water flow, revitalize wetlands, and improve water quality across the region.
Why Florida Must Fund the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program | The Invading Sea
Advocates are urging lawmakers to increase funding for Florida’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, which uses conservation easements to preserve agricultural land and wildlife habitat. Supporters say expanding the program will help maintain working farms, strengthen food security, and protect the state’s natural landscapes.
Bill Promoting Cattle Grazing on Public Lands Advances Through Florida House Panel | Politico Pro
A House committee advanced a bill that would promote cattle grazing on Florida’s public lands, building on previous programs that pair agricultural use with conservation goals. Supporters argue the proposal will aid land management and preserve rural economies.
Florida Scientists Say Algae Blooms Are Expanding Worldwide | WFSU
A new global study led by the University of South Florida and NOAA researchers found that floating algae blooms have expanded significantly worldwide between 2003 and 2022. The analysis used AI to process 1.2 million satellite images, identifying trends across 13 ocean zones and five types of macroalgae.
Lines in the Water: Snook Season Kicks Off Feb. 1 for Florida East Coast Anglers | MSN
Snook season opens February 1 on Florida’s Atlantic coast, with anglers required to follow slot limits and bag restrictions to support sustainable fish populations. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reminds fishermen to use proper handling techniques to improve post-release survival rates.
Researchers are combining drone imagery with artificial intelligence to detect celery diseases before visible symptoms appear. The technology, developed through a University of Florida-led project, could help farmers intervene earlier, prevent crop losses, and reduce pesticide use.
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