EPA Announces WOTUS Redefinition to Fit Sackett, Reverses Biden-Era Rule | Florida Specifier
The EPA has redefined the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule in response to the Supreme Court’s Sackett decision, scaling back federal jurisdiction over wetlands and water bodies. The change reverses a Biden-era regulation and has sparked debate over environmental protection versus regulatory overreach.
Legislature Could Limit County’s Agricultural Land Use Regs | Chronicle Online💲
A proposed bill in the Florida Legislature seeks to curb local governments’ authority to impose additional regulations on agricultural land use. If passed, counties would be limited to state and federal guidelines, raising concerns among environmental advocates about potential impacts on conservation efforts and rural development.
Florida Senate Panel Backs Bill to Ban Fluoride in Public Water Systems | FOX 35 Orlando
A Florida Senate committee has approved legislation that would prohibit the addition of fluoride to public drinking water systems statewide. The proposal, which faces strong opposition from health experts, could reverse decades of efforts to improve dental health through water fluoridation programs.
US Butterflies ‘All in Trouble’ as Their Numbers Rapidly Decline, Report Finds | USA Today
New research shows a steep decline in butterfly populations across the United States, driven by habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. Conservationists are calling for stronger protections and habitat restoration efforts to prevent further losses.
Scientists are monitoring reports of sawfish exhibiting unusual spinning behavior in the Florida Keys. While the cause remains unclear, researchers stress that the phenomenon is not yet a major cause for alarm but warrants further study.
National Wildlife Refuges in Florida Hit by Trump, DOGE Firings | Yahoo News
More than half a dozen workers at national wildlife refuges across Florida, including St. Marks just south of Tallahassee, were fired in recent weeks as part of President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency’s mass layoffs. These actions have raised concerns about the management and conservation efforts within these protected areas.
Longboat Key Updates Resiliency Plan After Back-to-Back Hurricanes | Your Observer
Longboat Key is revising its resiliency plan to better prepare for rising sea levels, storm surges, and extreme weather events. The updated plan aims to enhance flood mitigation efforts and improve infrastructure to withstand climate-related threats.
Students Invited to Participate in Earth Day Poster Art Contest | Chronicle Online
Students across Florida are encouraged to showcase their creativity and environmental awareness by participating in an Earth Day poster contest. The event aims to inspire youth engagement in conservation and highlight the importance of protecting natural resources.
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