Two radio DJs were temporarily suspended after some in the public paniced when Val St. John and Scott Fish told listeners that Dihydrogen monoxide (water...ha,ha!) was coming from taps. Ignorance...or confusion with Carbon monoxide; you decide. [Felony Charges?] [News Press]

The new president & vice president of CRCA are Wayne Daltry & Marti Daltry. Marti previously served two terms as president but this is the first CRCA officer role for Wayne. Standing committee chairs were also appointed at the Apr 3 board meeting. [Nominating Committee Report] [Election & Appointments]

The March 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [March Newsletter] [HTML Version] [Newsletter Archive]

The Conservancy of SW FL & the Center of Biological Diversity plan to sue the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service over its intent to turn over enforcement of endangered species protection to the State of Florida. Letting the fox gaurd the henhouse is wrong. [CBD Press Release] [Sierra Club Press Release]

The Babcock Ranch city project is back after going dormant due to the 2005 housing crash. Ground-breaking is in 2014. Kitson sold 73,000ac of ag tracts, undevelopable wetlands & forest to the state for $5000/ac, leaving 19,000 ac for development. [News-Press] [Syd Kitson] [History] [Video] [Kitson & Partners]

A proposed state law (HB 33 and SB 466)would make it easier for Florida cattle ranchers and other owners of property next to state-owned land to acquire or lease that public land, in exchange for a conservation easement on their property. [Florida Today] [Video]

For the first time in six months, biologists detected no presence of red tide along the Southwest Florida coast. Red tide can cause fish kills and respiratory illnesses in mammals, including humans, once levels reach 10,000 cells per liter or higher. [New-Press]

More than $882.4 million in excise tax revenues generated in 2012 by sportsmen and sportswomen will be distributed to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies to fund fish and wildlife conservation and recreation projects across the nation. [Outdoor Hub]

The USFWS, under legal pressure from environmental groups, proposed designating 740 miles of beaches from North Carolina to Florida to Mississippi as critical habitat for loggerhead sea turtles. Public comment on the proposal accepted until May 24. [Naples News]

Logging and recording your trip and catch information at Angler Action not only builds valuable data for recreational fisheries, but also functions as a record of your own fishing activity. Be a part of improved fisheries management. [Angler Action Info Center]

Just in time for Spring Break vacationers, Dept of Health reminded people to use caution when on the beach or in waters with red tide. Adverse health effects on humans and pets can be prevented by staying away from affected areas (the beach). [Press Release]

Thanks to extensive research and noticeable changes in weather and storm prevalence, it’s getting harder to turn a blind eye to the reality of climate change. The extreme weather of the last decade is at least partially caused by global warming. [Learn Stuff] [Climate Change Infographic]

The trial against BP stemming from the 2010 explosion of a drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico began on Feb 25, 2013 in New Orleans. The plan, worth a total of $16 billion, would limit the fines paid by BP under the Clean Water Act to $6 billion. [New York Times]

DEP has created an online project submittal form for the public to suggest potential projects for the state to consider submitting for RESTORE Act Funding. Project submittals will be evaluated carefully by DEP in consultation with FL FWC Commission. [Details] [Potential Projects] [Submit a Project] [Website]

On Mar 19, state officials, local dignitaries and conservationalists gathered to celebrate the completion of the first phase of the Tamiami Trail bridge project. The Tamiami Trail bridging seeks to restore historic water flows to the Everglades. [WLRN] [Audubon of Florida] [Photo]

Environmentalists are asking a federal judge to set deadlines and order the state of Florida to bring the Everglades back to health. Chief U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno delayed any order until after the state's legislative session ends in May. [Sun-Sentinel]

There are two features of climate change that make it importantly different from other environmental problems, not just in degree but in kind: 1) carbon dioxide is not like other pollutants; 2) climate change is irreversible. [Grist] [Carbon Bath]

Southwest Florida is in dire need of more native slash pines in our yards, business landscapes and public spaces. Planting more pines creates shade, habitat, noise buffering, storm protection, visual screening and a sense of place. [Details] [Flyer] [Press Release]

Three of the most powerful unelected, unpaid government seats in South Florida are vacant as of this month, and Governor Rick Scott is expected to soon announce which of the 11 candidates will fill those voids. [News-Press]

On Mar 26, the Lee County Commissioners reviewed the draft Ceitus Mediation Agreement with Cape Coral. Commissioner Manning motioned to add the tolling provision and approve the Mediation Agreement, which was accepted by a 4 to 0 vote. [Details] [Buchanan Remarks to BOCC]

The mysterious deaths of dozens of manatees and hundreds of pelicans may be an indication that the ailing Indian River Lagoon, among the state's most magnificent waterways, is headed for one of the more epic collapses of a Florida ecosystem in years. [Orlando Sentinel] [Video interview with Kevin Spear]

A House water-quality bill was modified Mar 20 after Lehigh Acres Rep. Matt Caldwell, and groups such as Audubon of Florida made agreements and concessions in Tallahassee. Amended bill will actually increase the amount farming companies will pay. [News-Press] [Palm Beach Post Editorial]

Mussels make use of what are called byssal threads-strong, silky fibers-to attach to rocks, pilings and other hard substrates. Now, scientists have discovered, the effects of ocean acidification are causing mussels get tossed about by wind and waves. [National Science Foundation ]

The Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative has wrapped up its 2012-2013 harvest, producing the 7th largest crop in its 51-year history - 5.3 tons of sugar per acre from this year's harvest, demonstrating no stress from lack of irrigation water from Lake O. [Palm Beach Post]

Phil Buchanan urges Lee County Commissioners to reject the Ceitus mediation agreement and resume enforcement of the Clean Water Act for the sake of our environment, our quality of life, our tourist-based economy, and our taxpayer coffers. [Details]

Photos in a report by David Bogert show that Cowbone Marsh was dredged through solid peat soil, not floating tussock vegetation. Cutting into soil was not an authorized action. The damage to the Marsh and Fisheating Creek needs to be repaired. [David Bogert Report] [USACE Article]

The Pine Island Land Plan, a major feature of Pine Island for the last 25 years, is again under attack. This is the third time the Plan has come under attack-all three times by the Lee Co. Attorney's Office and all three times at interval of 7 years. [Details]

Since Oct 2012, the construction of many seawalls, docks and boatlifts has been on hold in Cape Coral because of a pending study on the smalltooth sawfish. In Jan 2013 USACE announced projects will begin flowing again, albeit with some restrictions. [Cape Coral] [SWFL Real Estate News] [Cartoon]

For information on the recommendations for your plant community, bring your ideas to the Coccoloba Native Plant Sale at Rotary Park on Saturday, Apr 20th, from 9am to 2pm. Experts will be on hand to provide advice and answer your questions. [Majesty of the Oak] [Flyer]

Dr. Richard Weisskoff in his review of James Beever's recent report on Estimating and Forecasting Ecosystem Services, commented Beever's report as a stunning, ambitious, and potentially highly-effective report, not available in the literature yet. [Weisskoff Review] [Beever Report] [James Beever]

On Mar 19 Patrick Field & Bennett Brooks of Consensus Building Institute in Cambridge MA began interviewing Riverwatch officers & many others to initiate the Caloosahatchee Ecological Vision Process. Field & Brooks have So. Florida issues experience. [Poster] [Patrick Field] [Bennett Brooks] [Web site] [Q&A] [Consensus Building Institute]

Phil Buchanan points out that USACOE is doing FPIR/FEIS for the Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands project on the east coast to "spread" storm water into the wetlands, while FDEP agrees to dismantle the very same type system on the west coast. [Details] [Cartoon]

The salinity readings continue to indicate that the only salt water entering the Spreader is in the dry season through the opening created by the removal of the Ceitus Barrier. With the Ceitus Barrier, the Spreader would be fresh water year-round. [Details] [Salinity Readings] [Buchanan recording salinity readings]

Leo Amos of Matlacha believes FDEP has done nothing for our environment in Lee County, except to make a consent order that created five years of animosity between Lee County and the city of Cape Coral over the replacement of the Ceitus barrier. [News-Press] [Ceitus Cartoon]

New evidence reveals humans & marine ecosystems around the world are contaminated with mercury and that mercury levels in humans & fish regularly exceed health advisory guidelines. High levels of mercury can permanently damage the brain and kidneys. [Press Release] [Report by IPEN & BRI] [Global Mercury Hotspots] [Mercury-Free Initiatives]

Join world-renowned Nobel Peace Prize climate scientists Dr. Pier Vellinga and Dr. Henry Pollack for three special engagements in Sarasota and St. Petersburg to learn the latest science and projections for sea level rise in Florida. [Details] [Rising Seas website]

The Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) wants to fill in part of the Fisheating Creek channel. A hearing on this issue was held in Tallahassee from Mar 4-11, 2013. Looks like we are still in the same old battles that Ellen Peterson waged for years. [Details]

8 candidates-7 Republicans & 1 Democrat-are vying for 3 vacant seats on the SFWMD board. Terms will expire in Mar for board chairman Joe Collins, vice chair Kevin Powers & board member Dan DeLisi who resigned to become the district's chief of staff. [Palm Beach Post]

Southwest Florida representative Dan DeLisi resigned from South Florida Water Management board and accepted the district's executive staff position of Chief of Staff. DeLisi was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott in May of 2011 and was to serve until 2015. [News-Press 1] [News-Press 2] [Dan DeLisi Letter of Resignation] [Video]

Lee Co & Cape Coral signed a mediation agreement, agreeing to a scientific study of the North Spreader Canal. Buchanan says both are effectively opposing restoration of the Ceitus Barrier. So don't expect the "scientific study" to be "scientific." [Details] [Mediation Agreement] [Captiva Sanibel]

The draft projects recommendation list for the RESTORE program (funded by BP oil spill monies) shows CRCA as requesting $6.5 million to purchase parts of Beautiful Island, which the property appraiser lists as taxed at $225,000. [RESTORE Project List] [Location Map] [Parcel Values] [20/20 Map] [Lee Conservation 20/20 Review]

The DEP's mini comment period for the triennial review has been extended up to March 4. Public effort also helped to get victory for Blackwater State Forest to stop the proposed legislative bill by Rep. Broxson that would allow oil & gas drilling. [Triennial Revenue]

CHNEP & USF have produced a water atlas with the purpose of presenting key geographic & scientific information in ways that are meaningful to people and to implement our data management strategy. [CHNEP Water Atlas] [Florida Water Atlas]

On Feb 23 Phil was at Phillips Park at Pine Island Center for a book signing of "The Nature Lover's Guide to Pine Island." A retired attorney, Phil completed the UF-IFAS FL Master Naturalist training program. Calusa Land Trust benefits from sales. [Nature Lovers]

On Feb 20, the DEP took a major step forward in drawing up a detailed restoration plan for Lake O & met with key area stakeholders. The DEP also committed $4 million toward restoring the lake through an Istokpoga Marsh water quality advance project. [Details] [Audubon Input] [BMAP map]

BP approved $1.3 million to be shared among the cities of Marco Island & Naples & Collier County to build a new system of artificial fishing reefs offshore. If the county decides to account for future lost revenues, the damage claim can go up. [Naples News]

The 2013 Canoe Contest winners are: 1st Place (MadRiver Canoe): Rhonda Roff & children, 2nd Place (Estero River Outfitters Guided Kayak Trip for 4): Diane Penn, & 3rd Place (Family Membership in Caloosa Nature Center): John Venham. Congratulations! [Valholly Frank & Justin Roff]

A Swedish study found traces of the anti-anxiety drug oxazepam downstream of a waste water treatment plant and also in fish tissues at high concentrations, reflecting bio-accumulation. The drug changed the behavior of the fish as well. [Medicated Fish] [Fish Hooked]

Views or opinions expressed in the CRCA web site & newsletter are solely those of the author(s) & do not necessarily represent those of “Riverwatch.” Comments & questions about editorial content & facts can be directed to John Capece, CRCA Secretary. [Disclaimer Image] [Cartoons Cartoon]

The February 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [February Newsletter] [HTML version] [Newsletter Archive]

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium has provided the third prize for the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival canoe contest - a family annual pass to the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Thank you to CNCP! [CNCP]

This is the 6th year Estero River Outfitters has provided the second prize for the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival canoe contest - a guided tour for 4 on Estero River. So, whenever you are looking for a fun day paddling SW Florida, remember Estero. [Estero River Outfitters]

CRCA thanks the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. & Joe Frank for their annual donation of a Mad River 14-ft canoe for the Riverwatch contest at Swamp Cabbage Festival. This is the 6th year the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. has sponsored the contest.

The Feb 16 cold front dropped 2-3 inches of rain. This runoff combined with a 10-day pulse release from Lake O to reduce salinities at Fort Myers. The 30-day moving average dropped below 10 psu to put it back into MFL compliance. [SCCF Caloosahatchee Report]

While 40,000 climate change activists rallied in DC, Obama left on his 747 for a round of golf in Florida. But Riverwatch members Joe Frank & Rhonda Roff (& children) tracked him down and single-handedly brought the climate rally to the President. [TCPALM] [Climate Concern Message] [Signs for Obama] [Climate Change Gathering] [Climate Rally] [Roff/Frank Family Rally]

Riverwatch VP Margaret England and Treasurer Ron Zimmerly were featured on Fox 4 Morning Blend telling the viewing public about the upcoming Big O Birding Festival in Hendry & Glades Counties from March 12-16. [Link to FOX 4 Morning Blend Big]

SB 948 by Sen. Denise Grimsley, filed on February 18 would expand role of agriculture in water supply planning. SB 948 was filed amid concerns about billionaire Frank Stronach's recent purchase of 12,000 acres in Taylor County to raise beef cattle. [The Florida Current] [Water Presentations to Subcommitte] [Adena Spring Ranch Permit]

On Jan 19 delegates from more than 130 nations adopted the first legally-binding international treaty aimed to reduce mercury emissions. Mercury contamination is a major problem which has serious implications for pregnant women and young children. [The Hindu] [Treaty Negotiation Document] [Mercury Treaty Information]

All are invited to a public meeting on Fisheating Creek on March 27 from 2:00-4:00 pm at Glades County Courthouse in Moore Haven. General subject matter to be considered: Fisheating Creek. Plans for hiking, biking and canoe trails and canoe access. [Details] [Map]

Starting February 18th Fish Rules App 2012 will no longer be supported (it won't have any regulations). If you enjoyed Fish Rules 2012, please go to the App Store and download Fish Rules 2013 for just 99 cents a year. [Details] [Download Fish Rules 2013]

SFWMD has moved away from deep (high-bermed) reservoirs and is focusing on shallow (4ft) Flow Equalization Basins or FEBs to feed water to the STAs. But FEBs won't move significantly more water south from Lake O towards the Everglades in the rainy season. [Details]

Florida Natural Areas Inventory has recently published a Summary of Florida Conservation lands including Less-than-fee Conservation Lands with funding provided by Florida Department of Environmental Protection. [Conservation Land Summery]

Everglades bill filed on Feb 11, 2013 has been described as merely a starting point for the upcoming debate in the Legislature. SB 758 by Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, incorporates Gov. Rick Scott's 2012 Everglades restoration plan into Florida law. [The Florida Current]

In her letter to President Obama, Sarah Heard, chair of the Martin County Commission highlighted the importance of the Everglades restoration project and how vital his continues support is in saving this national treasure. [TCPALM]

Neither Cape Coral’s ASR wells, nor the SFWMD projects to divert Gator Slough water to the east, will do anything to help return historical fresh water flows to the fish nursery in the mangrove fringe, only the Ceitus Barrier restoration can do that. [Details]

Feb 11 was the 5th day of a 10-day pulse release. Higher flows from the current release are having the desired result providing a downward salinity trend at Ft Myers. A Red Tide Advisory & shell fishing ban remain in effect in Lee County. [Details]

A federal judge approved Transocean Ltd.'s agreement with the Justice Department to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge & pay $400 million (2nd highest in environment criminal fines in U.S. history) for its role in the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill. [Hoffingtonpost] [Finger Pointing] [Tansocean Cartoon]

SCCF is offering 2.5-hour Caloosahatchee River cruises on Sundays (March 10, April 21 and Mothers Day, May 12). Reservations required. $40 per person. Space is limited. For reservations, call 472-2329. [Details]

SFWMD is applying for RESTORE funds (from BP oil spill fine) for Caloosahatchee Estuary projects citing needs based on the settings that result from the lack of the Ceitus Boat Lift. Still, DEP rejects to require Cape Coral to replace the structure. [Project Proposal]

Diverting rainy season storm waters away from Gator Slough will improve Matlacha Pass but will make things worse for the Caloosahatchee, & won't do anything to help the fish nursery in the Cape mangrove fringe (where the storm water actually belong). [Ecosystem Restoration Project Proposals ]

CEPP aims to send more water to the south, to the Everglades by reducing flow from Lake O to the river St. Lucie & Caloosahatchee to lower the salinity level in estuary. It is possible only through joint effort of all stakeholders to eliminate flow. [TCPALM]

On May 1 & 2, 2012 a group of agricultural land owners who collectively manage more than 5 million acres of ranch & crop land across the U.S., agreed that agricultural leaders must join with other water stewards to address water supply & mgt. issues. [Agricultural Water ] [Water Stewarrdship ]

UF researcher & the US Geological Survey found that manatee population is sharing the same single gene pool which is risk to the endangered marine mammal. The US Fish & Wildlife Service is considers moving the manatee from endangered to threatened. [Naples News] [Downlisting Decision Meeting] [Letter to Governor Crist] [IUCN Red List] [State Issues Articles] [Manatees & Weather]

The Florida Clean Water Network says that DEP came up with a very difficult statistical method that no one can understand & can be easily manipulated to achieve whatever the politically powerful polluters want. [Triennial Meeting Update] [Previous Meeting Details]

"The corrupt & illegal agreement by DEP & Cape Coral Government to dismantle the North Spreader system was based on political thoughts, not ecological science or FL law. Some newspapers are spreading wrong message underestimating its capacity." [Details] [Recent Salinity Reading] [Ecosystem Management Agreement] [Final Amendment Order] [Original Consent Order]

Since 1945, 50% of salt marshes were lost due to physical infrastructures development. Now they are threatened by sea level rise. Jim Beever of SWFRPC offers 10 solutions to help prevent salt marsh losses as sea level rise. [News Press] [Video]

The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) report on “2013 sportsmen’s economic impact on U.S. economy” states that hunting & fishing are huge & important parts of U.S. economy. In 2011, these sports contributed $90 billion to the U.S. economy. [Outdoorhub] [Economic Impact Report]

Florida DEP proposes to regulate carcinogenic chemicals at a MUCH less protective level than the EPA recommends. For all but four carcinogens are proposed to be regulated 3-5 times that required even in Alabama. [Details] [Carcinogens in Water]

According to Audubon, large amounts of phosphorus are still streaming into the big lake and, because of that, its condition is actually declining while it is supposed to be improving. The state has been working to improve Lake O since the 1980's. [Florida Newszap]

The collaborative approach used to reduce nitrogen pollution in Tampa Bay has been formally designated by EPA as meeting new federal standards for water quality. Tampa Bay now has more seagrass than at any time since 1950 thanks to reduced N2 loads. [Details] [EPA New Water Rules]

Earthjustice filed a legal challenge on behalf of the FL Wildlife Federation to block Gov. Rick Scott & FL cabinet from allowing Big Sugar & corporate vegetable plantations to continue farming state-owned land in the Everglades for extra 30 years. [Earthjustice] [Final Petition]

Riverwatch thanks Gus & Anita Mastracci of The Villages and Bonita Beach for their generous contribution to Riverwatch, helping make possible the Southwest Florida Water Resources Conference co-sponsored by CRCA, Watershed Council, Audubon, & others.

Estuary salinity at Ft Myers rose up to 12–13.5 psu in response to 4 days of little or no flow at the beginning of the pulse. The 30-day moving average at Ft Myers also exceeded 10 psu, establishing the 6th consecutive year of MFL exceedence. [29 Jan to 4 Feb]

Storm water release from Lake “O” degrades the estuary ecosystem by algal blooming that kill off oysters & seagrasses. It also creates human health problem raising coliform levels in the water. Storm water flow to south to the Everglades is vital. [TCPALM] [Polluted Water Image]

The SFWMD’s 2013 Water Conservation Exposition & Vendor Fair will be held on Apr 12 from 8:30am-5:30pm in West Palm Beach. This event is a great opportunity for commercial & institutional facility managers to learn about water efficiency initiatives. [Details] [Flyer] [Map]

The 1st international treaty on mercury emissions reduction which aims to protect human health from serious neurotoxin will be signed in Oct 2013. In the study of mercury contamination impact on fish & wildlife, scientists found unexpected results. [Details] [Bioaccumulation Process] [International Treaty]

Abandoning fishing hooks & monofilament in the wild is the biggest danger to Pine Island birds. Other dangers include well-meaning but ill-advised feeding practice & improper use of rat poison. All of these risks are created by humans, so be careful! [Letter to the Editor]

On February 5, Lee BOCC meeting, Commissioner Hall motioned for the commissioners to review Ceitus issues before the 6 March mediation proceeding. The next BOCC review will be conducted on February 19 after the regular weekly meeting. [Details]

A new report analyzes the effects of global change on the natural environment, agriculture, energy production & use, land & water resources for the next 25 to 100 years. It shows an area the size of Lee County could be submerged in FL by 2100. [Technical Input Report 2013]

UF researchers rank Miami as the city with the second most vulnerable water supply out of a list of 225 US cities. Miami's low relative water availability is due to its low storage capacity and environmental limits on withdrawals. [Science News] [Water Availability Ranking Cities]

In 2012, the St. Lucie River Issues Team proposed funding for 5 different projects (Oyster Restoration, Drainage Projects to Benefit St. Lucie River) to SFWMD. Those proposed projects were approved in Jan meeting by the District’s Governing Board. [SFWMD News Release]

NWF’s report on "Wildlife in a Warming World” covers 8 regions of the U.S., from the Arctic to the Atlantic coast, & details concrete examples of wildlife struggling to adapt to the climate crisis. It explains 4 best ways to oppose the climate crisis. [Thinkprogress] [NWF's New Report ]

The final Everglades Restoration Transition Plan (ERTP) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is available online. The Record of Decision for the plan was signed on Oct 19, 2012. This project is non-CERP (Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. [Final ERTP EIS] [Record of Decision] [Comments & Response]

On Jan 31, 2013, Gov. Rick Scott announced that $75 million budget is reserved for the FL Forever land buying program & another $60 million for the Everglades. Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg said governor’s commitment is appreciated. [News-Press]

The possibility of fracking in FL is low due to it’s geology. FL lies in limestone bed, so natural gas extraction is possible without fracking. The audio file of a fracking interview at the 22nd annual water & energy conference is available online. [WGCU News] [Fracking Talk] [FL Fracking Interest] [Audio File]

Marine debris is something in the marine environment that doesn't naturally occur there & most of them need long time to biodegrade. These can introduce toxic chemicals into marine living tissue such as in dolphins & can lead to serious injuries. [News_Press]

Florida springs are in trouble. What will it take to fix them? According to state water officials, $122.4 million, just to start. That's 10 times what the state spent on springs last year, & 4 times what the state budgeted for Everglades restoration. [Tampa Bay Times]

Land acquisition in critical sites is key to achieving Everglades restoration. This approach not only provides space to treat the water & restore the natural resources but also gives opportunity to some South FL land owners as restoration partners. [News-Press]

Carie Call, chairman of Lee County’s Conservation 20/20’s advisory board was replaced by the Former Clerk of court, Charlie Green. Green is not against buying land for conservation purposes but criticizes the county’s land buying process. [News-Press]

The January 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [January Newsletter] [HTML version] [Newsletter Archive]

Salinity in the upper estuary is increasing and are hovering at the 10 psu MFL harm threshold at Ft Myers & extending above 5 psu in the upper range at beautiful Island. The flows through S79 reduced compared to last week averaging 367 cfs. [Report Jan 15-21] [Past Reports]

The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council released The Path Forward to Restoring the Gulf Coast: A Proposed Comprehensive Plan focuses on how to ensure the long-term health, prosperity, & resilience of the Gulf Coast. [The Sacramento Bee] [Final Restoration Path]

Fracking experts from Florida and Pennsylvania describe hydraulic fracturing as it applies to both oil & gas wells and Aquifer Storage & Recovery in Florida. They say the biggest problem is the dirty water that comes back up a fracked well. [Christopher Brown] [David Yoxtheimer] [Radisav Vidic] [Presentations] [Profiles]

The CWN update explains how DEP has refused to set criteria for some toxics such as mercury. DEP uses an over-weight, white male who doesn’t eat much fish as their target for the greatest protection, not reflecting minority fish consumption rates. [Flyers] [Hg in Fish Cartoon]

Riverwatch & Watershed Council members talked water issues with students at the 22nd Annual Southwest FL Water Resources Conference on Jan 25. Joining 70 professionals were 80 students from 6 FL campuses at the gathering co-hosted by CRCA. [Details] [Dr. Ed Hanlon & Marisa Polgar] [Hanlon & Ouellette]

Oil companies, especially Penn Virginia Oil & Gas, have plans to take land in lease for exploring & developing oil. One focus area for fracking in Florida is on the lower, unexplored part of the Sunniland Trend, at depths reaching 17,000 feet. [News-Press] [Fracking Cartoon by Snowden & Cochrane] [DoInMyToons.com]

Several states are experiencing greater drought conditions compared to past years. Parts of Southwest FL over to Miami are rated as being abnormally dry, very suitable condition for fire. So, wildfire officials hope for more cold fronts & rain. [News-Press] [US Drought Map]

FL water pumping permits are based on faulty science, leading to pollution. State officials made decision based on computer models that use a false assumption. The models assume that the aquifer flows at a steady rate through layers of sand & gravel. [Tampa Bay Times] [Modeling Cartoon]

Winning the student poster contest at the SW FL Water Resources Conference on Jan 25 were 1st - Veronica Aponte (USF), 2nd - David Spelman (FGCU) & 3rd - Katie Indarawis (UF). Gustavo Toledo & Jane Anstey (FSU) won the two $500 scholarships. [Poster Viewing] [Poster Discussion] [Katie Indarawis] [Conference Web Site] [Veronica Aponte] [Poster Contest Sponsor]

A study by Europe's leading food safety authority, EFSA, has for the 1st time labeled Bayer's clothianidin as an "unacceptable" danger to bees. This study could be a major breakthrough to convince the EPA to take emergency action & suspend its use. [Details] [Pesticide & Honey Bees] [Neonicotinoid Pesticides] [EPA Pesticide Permission] [Sign the Petition ]

New House committee chairman Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) said the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee will give top priority for water infrastructure improvement. The bipartisan supports plays key role to pass the water bills for this term. [NWRA] [Bipartisan Effort]

Richard Atwater has recommended some infiltration strategies to capture the storm water. He states: "Billions of gallons of storm water flow to the ocean because of inadequate storm water capture projects in place to recharge underground aquifers". [Details] [Flood Vent Technology] [Hydraulic Solutions] [Green Infrastructure] [Voodoo Pitfalls]

"We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children & future generations. Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires." [Speech] [Thinkprogress] [Speech Video]

FL new water permit rules offered by DEP are opposed by environmentalists. They say the rules will tie the hands of water management districts as they restrict overuse of water. However, DEP claims the rules conserve water & increased wastewater use. [The Florida Current] [Article 2012] [Conservation/Privatization] [Water Permit Rule]

Audubon’s Charles Lee says that parts of an agreement with Florida Crystals "that stink to high heaven," the environmental community is "holding our noses" because of the importance of STA 1 West water quality plan. [Tampa Bay Times]

The Everglades restoration projects provide clean drinking water for more than 7 million Floridians & also create many jobs & economic benefits to the nation. So, Congress should approve the water bills 2013 to strengthen the FL's & nation's economy. [Tampa Bay Times] [Bi-partisan Proposals]

SFWMD is working with its federal, state & local partners on various strategies designed to increase water storage & move more clean water south to the Everglades. These strategies will minimize freshwater releases from Lake O to the Caloosahatchee. [Strategies Summary ] [Kissimmee] [DWMP] [HHD Brochure] [C_43 Storage] [CEPP]

Cape Coral City Council appointed Mayor Sullivan as a representative of the Ceitus meditation proceeding. He said the mediation is over & it's on to the legal proceedings. 7 voted for him to represent the Cape and only 1 vote was against (McGrail). [Details]

DEP says that current oil & gas regulations in FL do not prohibit hydraulic fracturing. However, if such techniques proposed further research study is essential to evaluate the potential oil & gas conservation benefits and the environmental risks. [Fracking Issues ] [Fracturing Information]

Rae Ann Wessel, former Riverwatch president, will be honored on Feb 25 for her environmental achievements in the awards ceremony for Women Who Make Southwest Florida. 21 women from various fields will get award. RSVP by Feb 15 due to limited seating. [Details]

The SCCF report delivers scientific information on the current conditions in the Caloosahatchee River & Estuary & how these conditions affect the health, productivity & function of the system. This week river flow has decreased compared to last week. [Current Condition] [Past Condition]

2012 had an average temperature of 55.3°F for the contiguous US states, which eclipsed 1998, the previous record holder, by a full 1°F. Many more temperature records fell in 2012. If anyone still doubts climate change, this should end their denial. [Skeptical Science] [National Geographic News] [YubaNet] [Thinkprogress] [Linear Graph] [Stacks Up Graph]

Astronomy Programs at Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park in Alva will be held on Feb 8 at 6:45pm & Mar 15 at 8:15pm Registration for Feb is open now & for March, opens on Feb 13. Anyone Interested can register online or call for participation. [Flyers]

The negotiation for global mercury treaty began in Geneva from Jan 11. The Global Mercury report shows that the mercury level exceeded the U.S. EPA human health advisory guidelines. The Pacific Bluefin is already in danger of disappearing due to its exposure. [Mercury Treaty] [Vulnerable Blufin] [Global Report] [Mercury Details]

On Jan 15 US Army Corps of Engineers Col Alan Dodd joined state leaders from the SFWMD, & Everglades National Park as well as state & local partners to celebrate the completion of the C-111 Spreader Canal Western Project in south Miami-Dade. [DEP News]

Watery Foundation has recommended 7 different measures to make the overall water management governance system better. He suggested forming the Regional water supply authorities statewide, offloading water supply development, nominating council, etc. [New Governance] [Official Board] [Management Reform]

River Rally 2013 registration, starting from May 17-20 at St. Louis is open. The rally includes more than 80 educational workshops, field trips, the river heroes banquet, etc. Eligible member can request financial assistance during the registration. [Brochure] [Registration]

Lionfish can permanently harm the underwater ecosystem. They eat anything that fits into their mouths. The director of the Collier County Sea Grant program, Bryan Fluech says the marine life on a reef decline by 80% within few weeks of their arrival. [Naples Daily News]

The new rules for Consumptive Use Permitting allow withdrawing surface & ground water for reasonable & beneficial uses. The DEP conducted a series of public workshops to understand the interests of concerned stakeholders including environmentalists. [New Rules] [Proposed Changes] [Draft Rules] [Declaration]

Margaret England, leader within Riverwatch, Audubon and several other organizations, received this year's Kabler Award from the Everglades Coalition in recognition of her volunteer and public education work for Everglades’s restoration. [Details] [Photo] [About Margaret]

On Dec 12, 2012, DEP officials decided to implement Basin Management Action Plans for reducing nutrients of concern flowing into the estuary, Hendry Creek & the Imperial River & to increase storage options & restore more natural water flows. [Naples Daily News] [Caloosahatchee Pollution]

Kevin Spear of the Orlando Sentinel has written series of 3 articles on the current state of FL Rivers. He wrote these reports visiting 22 rivers across FL & talking to dozens of people. Although report seems very short, it provides full information. [Articles] [Water Quality Standards]

The Palm Beach Pack & Paddle West Palm Beach, & the Paddlers of Stuart are sponsoring 2013 FL Paddlers' Rendezvous. Paddling will start from Oct 24 to 27 in Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, FL. There are many paddle trips & events. [Handout] [Website]

FL loggerheads are threatened species. They have increasing threats from entanglements in fishing gear at sea &, along the coasts, from rising sea levels & encroaching coastal development, but, Obama administration still lacking their protection. [naplesnews] [Loggerheads]

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar joined Everglades’s activists, elected officials & business leaders to discuss state & federal restoration projects. The 3 day Everglades Coalition Conference was held Jan 10-13 in Coral Gables. [Details] [Conference]

SFWMD gets 2900 acres and gives 8700 acres in a special deal with Florida Crystals & extended their lease of state land for sugarcane farming for 30yrs - the effective life of the muck soils in many parts of the EAA. That's a sweet deal for Crystals. [SunSentinel] [Palm Beach Post] [Everglades Restoration]

Activists held a rally in Tampa on Jan 17 at an EPA hearing on water quality regulations for Florida. They demanded that EPA strength its oversight in Florida, and not let DEP pretend to protect waterways. They displayed photos of FL degraded waters. [Flyers] [Tampa Tribune] [Sign] [EPA Details] [Photos] [Video]

FL Congressmen claim to be partnering on bi-partisan proposals to restore the Everglades. Freshman Congressman Patrick Murphy is looking to partner with Tom Rooney, a Congressman who helped block funding for the important C-43 reservoir project. [wfsu]

Claws should be at least 2 & 3/4 inches long to be legally harvested. In FL, crab claws are the source of income for commercial fisherman. The annual income from claws in FL is about $17 million. The Gulf coast provides 2.6 million pounds of claws. [Huffington Post]

Fresh water from Lake O is making life good for the Caloosahatchee River’s tape grass, oysters & recreational fishermen. Corps of Engineers releases of water from the lake to the Caloosahatchee will protect the lake’s environment too. [News Press]

Glades County commissioners asked SFWMD to delay their now-approved purchase of 638 acres of Duda sugarcane fields in Glades County. The land is intended to expand the Lake Hicpochee water storage project needed to relieve the Caloosahatchee Estuary. [News Press] [Glades Letter to SFWMD] [2008 Detailed Plan] [Storage Project] [2005 Reservoir Options]

The number of Manatees deaths statewide is dependent on natural conditions such as weather, infant mortality, etc. In 2012, 392 Manatees died, which is lower than during the 3 previous years. The warmer weather favors Manatees survival. [Florida Today] [News Journal] [Youtube]

The U.S. Census Bureau declared that more people move to FL/year than to any other state. According to the Sunshine State campaign director for the Center for Biological Diversity, FL is not too late to save FL biodiversity but needs to act now. [The Miami Herald]

According to the Seattle PI, President Obama is about to nominate outgoing Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire as the new head of the EPA. Gregoire was Director of Washington’s Dept of Ecology before being elected Attorney General in 1992. [EcoWatch]

Gov. Rick Scott wants DEP to look at Florida's springs & wants to ensure the flow of natural gas to the state is not interrupted. On Friday, Scott met with The Florida Current staff & was asked to lay out his legislative agenda on a variety of issues. [Details]

The Python Challenge started on Jan 12 with a kick-off event of training & talks on identifying & handling pythons at the UF Research and Education Center in Davie. The hunt ends at Feb 10 and an awards ceremony will be held on Feb 16. [Sun Sentinel] [Python Cartoon by Snowden & Cochrane]

The criminal penalties levied against BP and the recent penalties announced against Transocean will be available to Gulf States, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the National Academy of Sciences to fund Gulf ecosystem restoration. [Details] [Manatee County Plans] [Request Letter]

Adam Putnam thinks that EPA approved Florida's Numeric Nutrient Criteria Rule because Florida's approach is based on sound science. The truth is probably more that EPA is just too weak to put up a proper fight for improved, rapid standards. [Sunshine State News]

Managers debate the pro's & con's of "Stacking" payments for ecosystems services provided by projects designed to reduce nutrient runoff, mitigate green house gas emissions & address other environmental needs. There is lack policy guidannce/research. [Risk & Solutions] [Stacking & Bundling]

The USDOJ stated that the Transocean Deepwater Inc. agreed to plead guilty to violating the Clean Water Act (CWA) & to pay a total of $1.4 billion in civil & criminal fines & penalties, for its conduct in relation to the BP oil spill disaster. [LA Times]

Recently, the Crystal River has turned dark due to excess fertilizer, leaky sewers, septic tanks, & domestic animal waste. The nitrates from those sources are stimulating a blooming of Lyngbya that has become a human health problem in the springs. [Tampa Bay Times] [Lyngbya Summary ]

A new report, Florida Wildlife 2060, draws the connection between the health of Florida's waters and the health of its wildlife. It points out that Florida's population growth will put increasing pressure on natural habitat. [Wild Turky History] [Wildlife 2060]

Bonita Springs Native Plant Society, University of Florida & other groups are holding a Native Plant sale in Riverside Park on Old U.S. 41 on Feb 9. Also offered is a rainbarrel workshop for capturing & storing roof runoff. [Flyer] [Announcement]

There are top 10 best Kayaking in Southeast Florida but it's always hard to find good places to kayak or canoe. Out of 10 places, four of them are located in Palm Beach County, seven are in Broward County & three are in Miami Dade County. [Description]

The Global Water Footprint Standard was developed through a joint effort of the Water Footprint Network, its partners, & scientists of the University of Twente in the Netherlands. The standard can be found in the Water Footprint Assessment Manual. [Press Release] [Standard Information] [Manual]

On Jan 2, Dr. Paul Gray presented at the CRCA meeting. He talked about the stakeholder connectivity due to bird migration, about Lake O and about Fisheating Creek. He also discussed nutrient pollutions in Lake Okeechobee & Caloosahatchee River. [Presentation]

The best reality TV is right here in N Ft Myers. Dick Pritchett Real Estate installed and maintains the SW FL Eagle Cam in a tree on their property. A chick is being nurtured by Ozzie & Harriet who have called this tree their home since 2007. [Winter Cam] [Eagle Details] [Youtube] [Eagle Cam] [Cartoon]

Dianne was chosen to attend the Climate Reality Leadership training in San Francisco, put on by Vice President Gore & his scientists. Dianne became an official Climate Reality Presenter & can give climate PowerPoint lecture to interested audiences. [Presenter Details] [News]

The concepts & programs of the recent Ecosystems Services conference in Ft. Lauderdale are forwarded to the Central Everglades Project Plan (CEPP) by John Arthur Marshall. The Corps plans to make CEPP a case study for Ecosystems Services valuation. [Details] [PCAST Report]

The new River Network report “Burning Our Rivers" found that for every gallon of water used in an average household, 5 times more water is used monthly to provide that home with electricity via hydropower turbines & fossil fuel power plants. [River Report] [Summary] [SW FL Water & Energy Conference]

If you have some ideas on how to protect & restore water & rivers, please share them through the River Network's web site & its Facebook page. Check out the 13 river resolutions for 2013 linked to this news box. We can each adopt a few or all. [Resolutions Details] [Website]

According to Climate Vulnerable Forum, failure to implement Climate Change mitigation programs will result 100 million deaths worldwide by 2030 from catastrophic effects. Since FL is the topmost state threatened by CC, FL leadership is essential. [SunSentinel] [Public Perception ] [Kresge Foundation Grant]

By debating for 14 years the question of how much cleaner Florida waters need to be, Florida has probably lost 30 years since it will take 15+ years to get back to the water quality levels of 14 years ago. But at least now we have standards. [Tampa Bay Times]

Learn about Monatee food, habitat & challenges they are facing to survive involving in Monatee program (MP) from 2nd Jan - March 30, 2013. MP opens at 8am & the program continue from 11am & 2pm daily. Parking fee $ 2 to 5/hr & registration free. [Details] [News Press] [Events Schedule] [Registration]

The December 2012 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [December Newsletter] [HTML version] [Newsletter Archive]

90% of the BMAP water quality projects have already been completed for the first 5-year cycle and 44% of the required nitrogen reduction has supposedly already been met for local urban areas. But pollution has actually increased, 50% in some areas. [Cassani Editorial] [Despite Good Intentions Cartoon]

Paula Dockery, a Republican and former state senator from Lakeland apparently regrets that she voted to confirm DEP head Herschel Vineyard given what he and Governor Scott have been doing to DEP, DCA, and Florida’s environment in general. [Florida Voices]

Lisa P. Jackson is stepping down as administrator of the EPA after a four year tenure. She began her journey with high hopes of sweeping action to address climate change & other environmental problems but ended with a series of rear-guard actions. [New York Times] [Climate Change Challenges] [Science News] [News Press]

The Riverwatch donation letter was sent out in mid December. Thank you to those who already sent in very generous donation checks or credit card payments. It is your support that allows CRCA to continue its River Advocacy on all our behalf. [Donation Request Letter] [CRCA Highlights] [Donate Online] [Request a Remittance Envelope]

A former DEP employee asserts that 58 employees were laid off by DEP in a concerted effort to loosen regulation of polluting industries. DEP was never great, but now it's all a political sham. It will take Florida decades to recover from this. [Tampabay News]

The meaning of Lake Okeechobee (Lake O) is "big water in the Seminole language. It has also been called Mayaimi, Serrope, & Mayacco. Lake “O” is the largest lake in the SE US with a surface area of 730 square miles & average depth of 9ft.

The Seasonal guided walks at Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve in North Fort Myers will start from 2013, 2nd Saturday of each three consecutive months (Jan to March). The walking time ranges from 9 to 10:30 a.m. There is no program & parking fee. [News Press] [C2020 Flyer]

Sarah Sumoski published a study of seed dispersal in the eelgrass beds of Chesapeake Bay. It shows that marine animals can disperse eelgrass seeds. Eelgrasses are declining in the Caloosahatchee as well so this research may also help our region. [Sportsman News] [Caloosahatchee eel grass]

Stop pumping! That's the most effective way to restore aquifer levels in North Florida so says a new report by Dr. Robert White to Suwannee River WMD. The report looks at other solutions like direction injection and recharge basins. [Lake News] [Aquifer Recharge]

A new study finds that the western part of the massive West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) is experiencing nearly twice as much warming as previously thought and could upset the surface mass balance of the ice sheet, accelerating sea-level rise. [National Science Foundation] [Claims Journal]

Despite below-average temperatures in Nov, 2012 was a hot one for Southwest Florida, with the mean temp of 76.5F, the 4th warmest on record. SW FL has had temperatures of at least 80 degrees 290 times this year & 15 times in December. [News Press] [Monthly] [Yearly] [Climate Change Denier Cartoon]

This year's wading bird nest total is 39% below average. Back to back droughts followed by a rainy 2012 resulted in yo-yoing water levels that disrupts nesting. Also, the small prey fish prey base has yet to recover from previous droughts. [Huffington Post]

The second Obama's term will include increased ESA listing decisions, continued disputes between environmental groups, agencies, & developers over energy development on public lands; & disputes over the designated areas for wildlife. [Article] [2009 Controversy] [First Term ]

Glades & Hendry counties are the mecca for bird watching from Mar 12 to 16 during the Big "O" Birding Extravaganza The event is a Glades/ Hendry County cooperative event on the Southwest shores of Lake Okeechobee. [Daily Schedule] [Flyers]

The EPA released a progress report on its national study to understand the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources. Next, EPA is hosting a public webinar in Jan 3rd & 4th 2013 to talk about project specific updates. [Details] [Article] [Fracking Water Cycle Graphic]

The DEP announced adoption of 2 Basin Management Action Plans in Southwest Fl, one for Hendry Creek & Imperial River & the other for the Caloosahatchee River (CR). Stakeholders are expected to reduce 148,000 pounds/yr of total N2 in 1st 5 year. [News Press] [CR BMP ] [CR Final Order]

Americans are eating fish from waters where mercury accumulates from atmospheric emissions derived from the burning of fossil fuels. Scientists have created the first complete picture of the way mercury moves from these sources & up to food chain. [Article] [Sources to Seafood] [Youtube]

According to a new report, declining quality & availability of fresh water in Florida is putting wildlife at risk. There are 10 species that are endangered as a result of water mismanagement. The FL Snail Kite is one of the top ten in list. [New Report] [Public News Service]

The 2012 Concurrency Report was accepted by Lee County Commissioners on Nov. 13. The report inventories infrastructure for solid waste disposal, surface water management, potable water, sanitary sewer, parks and recreation. [Concurrency Report]

The Sierra Club & their coalition partners sent more than 40,000 letters to President Obama demanding action to clean up the slime in Fl waterways. The EPA gave attention to demands & they are considering strong nutrient criteria to protect water. [Take Action] [Public Influence]

The Conservancy of SW FL’s Dalton Discovery Center recently opened in Naples. It features state-of-the-art experiences with SW FL ecosystems: Uplands, Everglades, Mangroves, Sandy Beaches, & Ocean. [Press Release] [Naples News]

22 rivers were studied from Miami to Pensacola. Nearly half are in decline because of pollution from lawns, street runoff, wastewater and agriculture, & because of shrinking flows caused by drought & rising demand for water by cities and industries. [Florida Rivers] [Caloosahatchee] [Rae Ann Comments] [Internactive Graphic] [Special Reports]

The EPA has launched a new app & website to help people find information on the condition of thousands of lakes, rivers & streams across the United States from their smart phone, tablet or desktop computer. These app & website uses GPS technologies. [Details] [Waterway Factsheet] [Pollution Categories] [User help] [Questions & Answers]

When people think about global warming sea level rise, they envision a far distant future, problem that their great-grandchildren will have to deal with. That may not be the case. Ocean levels have already risen 7-8 inches over the past 50 years. [Article]

Riverwatch Secretary Dr. John Capece and his research team presented talks & posters addressing issues of the Caloosahatchee, EAA, and water storage at the ecosystems services valuation conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Dec 10-13. [County Level Program] [LCA Poster] [Ecosystem Services]

As of Nov 27, 2012, total number of documented Florida panther deaths is 24. Two thirds died due to vehicle strikes. While building road underpasses could help, a loss of habitat to development is putting a constant squeeze on this endangered specie. [Naples News] [Opinion]

State & private agencies say EPA should have let FL implement & regulate its own water rules rather than those set by the EPA that they say will cost the state millions of dollars to comply. After all, FL has such a great record on protecting water. [Article] [EPA Action in FL Waterways] [EPA Approval] [Causes of Federal Rules]

FDACS is requesting additional fund from lawmakers to develop best management practices (BMPs) for ranches & farms around Lake O, & in the St. Lucie & Caloosahatchee River watersheds. BMP is critical to reduce the historical phosphorus loads. [History of FDACs] [Everglades Review] [Ripple Effect]

The Florida House is proposing that private landowners can gain ownership to adjacent public lands by placing the state lands under conservation easement. The question is whether the easement will really hold or if the public loses future control. [Legislation] [Summary]

Senate's Environment & Public Works Chair B. Boxer (D-CA) & ranking D. Vitter (R-LA) hope to move Water Resources Development Act 2012 (WRDA) out of committee within the first month of the new Congress. But House chair J. Mica (R-FL) is hedging. [ENS WRDA Update] [Houma Today] [Politico]

More than 60 species of mussels and clams live in Floridaʼs freshwaters. They are an important functional component of the freshwater ecosystems, because they function as the rivers’ filters as well as food source for many fish, birds, and mammals. [Biologicaldiversity.org] [Florida's Freshwater Mussels] [Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society]

The CREW Land & Water Trust has been awarded a Public Outreach Grant from the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program to partially fund second year of its scholarly nature walks led by professionals, known as CREW Strolling Science Seminars. [Press Release] [Strolling Science Seminars]

SFWMD announced a "new vision" process for Caloosahatchee estuary restoration. With progress at a stand-still on previously identified problems & solutions, the stakeholders need to revisit the issues and update their plans, priorities & schedules. [News Release] [Opinion] [Visioning] [Strategies] [LWC Water Supply Plan]

SFWMD approved its Lower West Coast Water Supply Plan for the Caloosahatchee region. Responding to criticism that the Plan lacks its required restoration component and vision, SFWMD is creating a working group to update goals and assess status. [Approved Water Supply Plan] [LWC Planning Document]

South Florida had its driest November on record (only 0.29 inches, which is 1.50 inches below normal). Regardless, the Corps continued to drain water out of Lake O, although releases have been reduced in recent weeks as the Lake continues to drop. [Sun Sentinel] [Lake O Stage] [Warm Weather]

A proposal to funnel water from Martin County's largest rock mine to West Palm Beach could result in larger discharges of polluted water from Lake Okeechobee to the St. Lucie River. This project is also associated with a trail of political donations. [TC Palm] [Web Site]

Florida's new water protection rules haven't entirely prevailed over the USEPA. The Feds are issuing their own rules on 82,000 of 100,000 miles of waterways. Meanwhile, the state DEP anti-pollution criteria will cover just the remaining 18,000. [Industry Reaction] [Associated Press]

EPA seeks public comment on its recently released rules for inland & coastal waters. EPA will host a public information sessions in Tampa on Jan 17-18, along with web-based public hearings on Jan 22-24 to gather input. [EPA Approval Water Rule] [EPA Decision] [EPA Approval Letter] [Cartoon] [Eric Smith Cartoon Web Site]

CHNEP created a poster of the animals that live in estuaries. Posters show the geographic & biological diversity of estuaries which are home to 80% of world’s fish species & 45% of US endangered species. Interested groups can distribute the posters. [Charlotte Harbor Newsletter] [Poster Image]

Tufts University's Stockholm Environment Institute released a white paper entitled Valuing Florida's Clean Waters. The paper finds that algae & red tide outbreaks caused by water pollution cost Floridians from $1.3 to 10.5 billion/year. [Water Pollution Cost Article] [White Paper]

FDEP is initiating a study on aquatic life in South Florida canals. The objective is to provide resource managers with recommendations by assessing the aquatic life & determining their interrelationships with other affecting variables. [South Florida Canals] [Legacy Canal & Aquatic Life]

On Dec 4 the Obama Administration released the 2012 America's Great Outdoors Progress Report, detailing key successes of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative, including advancing local conservation priorities. [Progress Report (photos omitted)] [Web Site]

A water quality project in which Lee County invested $10 million has started to move forward. The intent is to use an old grove in Glades County on the south shore of the Caloosahatchee as a treatment area to remove nitrogen from Lake O discharges. [Project Management Plan] [Wetland Performance Evaluation] [Conceptual Plan]

FRESP was initiated in 2005 and currently includes 8 water storage projects. Another 8 contracts spanning Okeechobee, Polk & Highland counties are being planned. New projects will add 4,800 acre-ft. of regional water storage. [Water Program Expanded] [FRESP Details]

Hydraulic fracturing is expected to create more jobs & even make the nation independent on the foreign fossil fuel. However, many harmful environmental impacts come along with the drilling & extraction process. Floridians should learn & take action. [Fracking News] [The Washington Post ]

EPA asserts that the FWC Fisheating Creek channel clearing contractor did in fact cut into sediments (dredge). FWC is thus resposible for $1.25 million in restoration costs. This finding supports the assertion of Lykes, Army Corps, & Audubon. [News Press] [Cookie Cutter] [EPA FINDING & ORDER] [Fisheating Creek Documents] [Legal Case]

In discussing south Florida water management problems, Leon Abood from the River Coalition proposes that politicians be required to wear "NASCAR jackets" so the public knows which donors are sponsoring which politicians and by how much. [NASCAR Jacket] [YouTube Video]

Lee County Clerk, Charlie Green released a series of critical audits of county land purchases over recent years. A committee, including Watershed Council founding member Noel Andress, has recommended improvements to the Lee County Commission. [Committee Roster] [County Clerk Audit] [Committee Recommendations] [News Press]

Documenting the demise of Florida’s springs and its inland aquifers reveals the true story behind the firing of one of Florida’s longest-serving and most respected WMD directors, David Still. He sought to protect the springs and was pushed out. [Tampa Bay Times] [Special Report]

Water releases from Lake O turned kayak fishing in St. Lucie Estuary from sight-fishing fun to blind-casting frustration. The Corps stopped lake releases on Nov  7. But estuary waters are still murky, making sight-fishing impossible. [The Miami Herald]

The News-Press now has a special web site called "Playing In Paradise" featuring videos by journalist Kevin Lollar & amazing photographs by Andrew West. Lucky for Kevin, this whale shark only eats algae, something we have lots of in SW Florida. [Kevin Cam]

Various components of Florida Everglades are degrading day by day. This degradation can be stopped only through the collaborative work of scientists, policy makers and reasonable cost effective management practice. [Details]

With the rainy season over, Lake Okeechobee has started to drop. Storing more water north of the lake is a primary tool for reducing damage from high water discharges to the Caloosahatchee. But filling all available storage reduces flood protection. [Lake News] [Lake Stage Graphic]

It was another picture-perfect Florida day for the 16th annual Caloosahatchee River Ride on Nov 11. Over 100 riders joined in the event. Thank you to all riders! We look forward to seeing you again next year. Congrats to event organizer Keith Kibbey! [Photos]

During many years the Caloosahatchee Estuary lacks fresh water to maintain dry season salinity balance. Computer simulations show a WSA strategy can provide some of the needed fresh water for the Estuary. CRCA seeks a water reservation from any WSA. [Details] [CRCA position on Backpumping (2007)]

Judah was the environmental crusader, fighting to keep land and water preserved & pristine, willing to battle any powerful adversary. Bigelow was a risk taker, willing to take stands on issues, asking the tough questions. Both supported Riverwatch. [News-Press]

Given that Hurricane Sandy is widely credited with reversing Romney's presidential race momentum, climate change is suddenly a hot topic again. The issue is resurfacing in talks about a once radical idea: a possible carbon tax. [The Washington Post] [Karl Rove]

All five Lee County commissioners have agreed to proceed to the next stage of the litigation, which is to arrange for the appointment of a mediator as required by Chapter 164 of the Florida Statutes. [Details] [cartoon]

How long will water be available to nourish life on Earth? Researchers will address water resources management & policy in a changing world at American Geophysical Union conference in December. In the U.S., more than 36 states face water shortages. [NSF.gov]

In his salinity data collection for the North Spreader Canal System for the 2012 rainy season, Phil Buchanan focused on Back Bay, the Matlacha area most directly affected by the removal of the Ceitus Barrier. [Details] [Salinity Readings]

Former CRCA director Karen Bickford, who since 2006 has handled water quality planning for Lee County, was been awarded the Together We Mean Community award for Q4,2012 which recognizes employees who go above and beyond their assigned duties. [Details]

DEP employees who survive the ongoing staffing purges are being directed to drum up instances of how they have achieved "job creation" and cost savings for regulated industries, suggesting a fundamentally new, bizarre mission for DEP. [PEER]

China's massive population is gradually crawling out of poverty and seeking the food consumption levels people in the West have enjoyed for decades. This has huge implications on China's and the world's water and land resources. [PBS]

After Hurricane Sandy, NY City is faced with possibly constructing flood gates at a cost of $20 BILLION. Coastal areas everywhere will face similar costs since climate change deniers & the politicians they supported blocked progress on the issue. [Storm Water]

UF/IFAS, Lee County Extension Sustainability Program in collaboration with Skyheat Assoc. present Solar Workshop - Solar Cell phone chargers with Professor Richard Komp on Dec 5 from 9am-4pm in Ft. Myers. Reserve now, space is limited to 30 people. [Details] [Flyer] [Web site]

With 1.63 million cows, Florida ranks 11th in beef cows and 19th in total cattle nationally. With so many acres in pasture, it's important that ranching areas not invade, but provide wildlife-friendly connectivity between Florida's natural lands. [On Earth]

Every year, the state of Florida produces more than 8 billion pounds of coal ash-a toxic byproduct. A Clean Water Fund report says coal ash poses significant threats to public water resouces and public health (cancer & nervous system damage). [Creative Loafing Tampa]

In the Fisheating Creek legal action, one side seems to be claiming that no dredging occurred whereas maybe they should be asserting that legitimate attempts to restore navigation for canoes & kayaks went awry due to improper dredging by an agency. [The Miami Herald]

Join the December 2012 public programs at the Caloosahatchee Regional Park located at 18500 North River Road in Alva. For more information, call Kelly at (239)822-5212. Register online at the Lee Parks web site or by calling (239)533-7440. [Programs]

After 50 days, the Army Corps of Engineers on Nov 7, halted releases of polluted, silt-laden fresh water from Lake Okeechobee into the brackish St. Lucie River estuary. As of Nov 1, the flow has been about 850 cubic feet per second since Sep 19. [TCPalm]

For the first time in almost 30 years, climate change was not talked about in the presidential or vice presidential debates. But the candidates cannot ignore the reality of climate change, especially in Fla. Climate change must be faced by everyone. [News-Press] [Huffington Post]

Cape Coral said "No one is happy about paying this money because of federal regulations." in grudgingly buying Alva land for under $1 million to mitigate Scrub Jay habitat impacts from building the 215-acre Festival Park that cost them $27 million. [News-Press] [CapeCoral.com] [Daily Breeze] [Cape Fact Sheet]

The 11th Circuit Court refused to review an EPA rule that exempts the transfer of polluted EAA canal water into Lake Okeechobee. These transfers are therefore not subject to the permitting requirements of the Clean Water Act. [Opposing Views] [Court Ruling] [Save the Twinkie cartoon]

Australia development triggered a massive coral collapse at the Great Barrier Reef more than 50 years ago. Polluted runoff clouded the pristine Pacific water & poisoned the native species. It also promoted algal blooms which prevented coral regrowth. [Fox News]

Cape Coral’s City Council voted 7-0-1 not to extend Ceitus negotiations with Lee County. The only astention was incoming councilman Marty McClain. Abstention is the nearest thing to a progressive stance that can be found in the Cape these days. [News-Press] [Daily Breeze]

With the elections over Rae Ann Wessel of SCCF submitted a letter to local papers thanking Com. Ray Judah for his great service over the past 24 years. He has been a powerful force for the environment and our community on the Lee County Commission. [Island Reporter]

Join Fish & Wildlife Service on its new E-tram for a journey through Pelican Island NWR to experience wildlife up close while making a strong connection to the natural world. Space is limited. MUST call for reservations. See poster for details. [Poster] [Facebook]

SFWMD report chapter 3B updates the status of mercury and sulfur monitoring in South FL and highlights the progress on research findings. Along with Volume III, Appendices 3-1 and 3-2, this chapter fulfills the Everglades Forever Act requirement. [Report]

Leo Amos points out how the state contract "mediator" has been consistently attempting to "Manufacture Consent" by creating the illusion that the majority of Ceitus issue stakeholders agreed to what was really just a minority report created by DEP. [Email]

As budgets and political will shrink, the burden of violations detections shift to advocacy groups, such as Riverkeeper. One wonders if this is the most effective and efficient way for the public to achieve accountability and legal adherence. [The Augusta Chronicle]

On Oct 26 researchers with Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota collected water samples containing Karenia brevis off Sanibel to better learn about the mysterious formation & life cycle of the microscopic marine algae that causes red tide in SW FL. [News-Press]

Warmer waters could significantly change ocean distribution of populations of phytoplankton, tiny organisms that could have They will thrive near the poles and shrink in equatorial waters, with a major feedback pushing climate change. [NSF.gov] [Photos]

Margaret England was awarded Audubon Volunteer Award for Everglades Conservation, presented at the Audubon Assembly in Sarasota Oct 27 by Audubon FL CEO Eric Draper. Margaret is President of Hendry-Glades Audubon and Vice President of Riverwatch.

As of Oct 22, flows to the Caloosahatchee Estuary continue to run at 3400 cfs, well above the maximum advisable limit of 2800 cfs. Shore waters are also experiencing red tide and other phytoplanton blooms resulting in fish kills. [SCCF Conditions Report]

After testing for Mercury, Florida advises eating no more than 1 meal per month of bass taken from the Caloosahatchee or Lake Okeechobee. But bass from Fisheating Creek area should not be eaten at all. Some other types of fish can eaten weekly. [Eating Limits]

The Libertarian Party position on environmental issues puts the burden of action and responsibility on landowners and individuals. They believe environmental advocates and social pressure are the most effective means of changing public behavior. [Libertarian Environmental Platform 2012] [Full Libertarian Platform] [Cartoon]

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the federal agency overseeing plans by the British genetic engineering firm Oxitec to release altered mosquitoes in the Keys, part of a plan to head off outbreaks of dengue fever. [Details]

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam urged the state to review which agencies are managing particular tracts of state land and he expressed concerns about spending more money on buying conservation land. [The Florida Current]

Florida lawmakers have cut conservation spending more deeply than any other part of government. Conservation is a value all Floridians deeply cherish across party lines. The Water & Land Legacy amendment simply seeks to hold the environment harmless. [Details] [Take Action Today!]

Several of the counties belonging to a consortium that is preparing a plan to spend some BP oil spill money objected to a request by Gov. Rick Scott to appoint one-fourth of the consortium and its chairman. [The Florida Current]

The SW FL Watershed Council met on Oct 25 at the Royal Palm Yacht Club. Dr. Darren Rumbold of FGCU spoke about the levels and impacts of mercury contamination in fish plus its linkages to the sulfur in water and soil. [Dr. Darren Rumbold Bio] [Details] [Presentation Summary]

State Sen. Joe Negron wants to strip the Corps of Engineers of its power to manage water levels in Lake O. But the Corps is the one agency trying to ensure the Caloosahatchee gets some water during the dry season. Turn it over to SFWMD...really? [TCPalm] [Graham: SFWMD Did Not Show Up] [Cartoon]

Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades announced 2012 Recipients of Annual Champion of the Everglades Awards: U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Ron Bergeron and Florida Wildlife Federation. Awards will be presented on Dec 8, 2012. [Details] [Web site]

A red tide has worsened along Collier County beaches bringing dead fish onto Naples-area beaches. The bloom of microscopic algae can release a toxin that kills marine life and causes watery eyes, coughing and a throat tickle. [Naples News]