Florida has joined a 20-state coalition in submitting formal comments on EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed update to the definition of WOTUS. The letter broadly supports the agencies’ effort to narrow federal Clean Water Act jurisdiction following Sackett v. EPA; it also identifies several areas where, in the coalition’s view, the proposed regulatory text still risks overextension, ambiguity, and renewed litigation.
Florida Senate Approves ‘Rural Renaissance’ Bill, Fate Unclear in State House | Sun Sentinel 💲
The Florida Senate unanimously approved the “Rural Renaissance” bill (SB 250), a priority of Senate President Ben Albritton and sponsored by Sen. Corey Simon. The proposal aims to strengthen health care, education, transportation, and economic development in rural communities, though its future in the House remains uncertain.
Save Crystal River has launched restoration work on Parker Island, the first of several islands planned for rehabilitation in Kings Bay. The project includes reopening a historic channel along the island’s north side and installing natural-looking wave break systems to reduce shoreline erosion from boat wakes and storms.
Florida Lawmakers Consider Bill Targeting Marine Debris, Plastic Pollution | Local 10 News
SB 240, sponsored by Sen. Ileana Garcia, would preempt new local regulation of single-use plastic containers while directing the Department of Environmental Protection to create Florida’s first marine debris reduction plan. The bill also preserves existing local rules, such as Miami Beach’s ban on foam containers, while assigning the state broader responsibility for managing marine debris.
Bills filed this session are raising concerns among environmentalists. SB 1658 would expand cattle grazing leases on state-managed lands, while SB 1628 would prohibit local governments from adopting “net-zero” emissions targets.
Florida Bill Seeks to Shield Endangered Species from Exploitation | MyPanhandle
In response to a viral video last summer of a manta ray being captured, a new bill is being proposed that would prohibit the collection and transport of endangered or threatened marine animal species from Florida waters for education or exhibition purposes.
Florida Lawmakers Consider Regulations for Large Data Centers | GovTech
House Bill 1007, filed by Rep. Philip “Griff” Griffitts Jr., would establish new rules for large data centers, requiring public hearings and advance notification for nearby property owners within a 10-mile radius. The measure also directs that costs associated with new facilities not be passed on to local utility customers.
Florida’s Citrus Industry Could See a Decrease This Season | WUSF
Florida’s citrus production is projected to decline slightly this season, with orange and grapefruit harvests expected to fall while tangerine and tangelo output remains steady. Lemon production is forecast to rise.
University of Florida Team Researches Environmental Impact of Water-Soluble Polymers | WCJB
A University of Florida research team led by Dr. Guilhem De Hoe is studying the biodegradation and environmental fate of water-soluble polymers, common ingredients in soaps and cosmetics. The group’s goal is to understand how these materials break down in different environments and their potential long-term effects on ecosystems.
Florida Master Naturalist Training Class Now Open for Registration | WGCU
The Florida Master Naturalist Program, developed by the University of Florida, provides in-depth courses on the state’s coastal, freshwater, and upland ecosystems. Participants gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and guided instruction, using the training to volunteer, teach, or advance careers in environmental education and conservation.
17 Pythons. $600. Hunter Wins Florida Elimination Challenge for December | Naples Daily News
Kevin Pavlidis captured 17 Burmese pythons in December to win the South Florida Water Management District’s monthly Python Elimination Challenge, earning $600 for most pythons removed. Pavlidis, who also won in February and November, received additional prizes for the longest python at 17 feet, 3 inches, and for capturing 15 or more snakes.
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