Carl Enis’ legacy continues offshore with new memorial reef structures placed near Dog Island. Additional reefs honoring Bill Mickler and Buddy Ward expand Florida’s growing network of artificial habitats. These sites now stand as lasting tributes for anglers, divers and conservation advocates.

Lawmakers are moving through Interim Committee meetings with major questions ahead for the 2026 session. Budget pressure, property tax proposals, and the FWC bear hunt are expected to spark debate. Leadership has not yet outlined clear environmental priorities.

A federal judge allowed Michael Colosi’s challenge to Charlotte County’s Scrub-Jay fee to move forward, citing direct financial harm and delays to property use. The ruling highlights rising tension between ESA rules and private property rights in Florida. The case now proceeds with both county and federal agencies required to respond.

Submerged aquatic vegetation in the Lower St. Johns River has struggled since Hurricane Irma, with lower light and grazing slowing recovery. Recent plantings, clearer water and coordinated restoration work are helping eelgrass rebound in key areas. Long-term monitoring continues to guide the path toward recovery.

Publix and Novolex are working together to strengthen Florida’s recycling system for bags and packaging. Store drop-off bins, recycled-content manufacturing, and local investments are helping close the loop. Their partnership gives Floridians confidence that recycling truly makes an impact.

Florida Forever Program Hits Milestone: 200th Conservation Easement Secured Deer Creek Ranch —

FDOT’s Old Tampa Bay Water Quality Improvement Project has delivered major environmental and transportation benefits by restoring tidal flow and expanding seagrass habitat. Monitoring shows reduced pollutants and more than 60 acres of new seagrass growth. The project stands as a model of innovation and stewardship.

TEXAS Base Power Raises $1 Billion for Home Battery Installations Base Power, an

The 30th Florida Remediation Conference When: Nov. 3-5 Where: Rosen Centre Hotel Orlando

The Northwest Florida Water Management District has launched a Watersheds Partnership Program to identify and support projects that improve water quality, habitat, and water supply across the Panhandle’s seven watersheds. Public workshops helped pinpoint priority sub-basins for future work plans. The program relies on coordination with local governments, state agencies and regional partners.

The South Florida Water Management District has launched DBHydro Insights, a modern tool that gives the public easier access to water levels, rainfall and water quality data. Users can download charts, view interactive maps and track real-time conditions across the region. The District also updated its elevation reference system to NAVD88 for more accurate reporting.

Florida communities are learning that vulnerability assessments only work when they clearly explain how and why assets are at risk. Tampa and Palmetto show how detailed, place-based data can guide real adaptation projects. With better methods, vulnerability studies can directly shape resilient infrastructure investments.

District permits help protect water resources by regulating water use, new development and well construction. This guide explains when permits are required and how they safeguard wetlands, floodplains and water supplies. A new ePermitting system will soon make applications and searches easier.

COMMISSIONER WILTON SIMPSON ANNOUNCES $25M FUNDING OPPORTUNITY TO SUPPORT AGRICULTURAL WATER RESOURCE PROJECTS