May 18, 2012

River news


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Dinner & Presentation (2012-03-11)

On Wed, May 2, Riverwatch hosts a presentation on the impact of sea level rise on the Caloosahatchee River by CHNEP Director Lisa Beever. Join CRCA for the gourmet buffet dinner at 6pm ($25) & the presentation at 7pm (free) at Royal Palm Yacht Club. [Details] [RSVP] [Payment]

Win The Everglades (2012-02-11)

Win a 30x40 giclee print of “The Everglades” by Caroline Krieger Comings. $5 suggested donation (5 for $20). Drawing for the winners will take place at RPYC following the Riverwatch presentation program at 8pm on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. [Email for tickets] [Krieger Art]

March CRCA Newsletter (2012-03-23)

The March 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. [March Newsletter] [HTML version] [Newsletter Archive]

SFWMD vs Caloosahatchee Estuary (2012-03-23)

On Mar 15 SFWMD voted to cut off all flow to the estuary when Lake O drops to 12.6ft (soon). SCCF is mounting a campaign to call & email SFWMD and have people attend the board meeting on Apr 12 to oppose the complete cut-off of the Caloosahatchee.

450 Not Enough...and Soon Gone! (2012-03-23)

The Corps increased average dry season flow to 422cfs, almost reaching the MFL required 450cfs. But that did not budge estuary salinity below an ecologically intolerable 15 psu. Worse, once Lake O drops below 12.60ft SFWMD takes over & all flow ends. [Flow File] [Conditions Report] [Flow Graph] [Flow Data] [Stage Data]

Drugs in Our Waters (2012-03-20)

Last Call at the Oasis was produced by Participant Media. Dir. Jessica Yu (the Oscar-winning Breathing Lessons) talked to experts ranging from hydrologists to an expert in how a cocktail of pharmaceuticals are finding their way into the water supply. [Details] [Trailer] [Facebook]

Low Marks for Congress (2012-03-20)

Environmentalists called the 2011 session "the most anti-environmental session in history," citing votes on everything from offshore oil drilling safety and royalty reform to rejecting federal efforts to impose water-quality standards on Florida. [Orlando Sentinel]

Farm Bill Conservation Programs (2012-03-20)

The Farm Bill that faces renewal in 2012 is a broad piece of legislation, with programs that influence everything from the cost of corn to how easily people can access carrots and cabbage. [Huffington Post]

Support to Pass WRDA in 2012 (2012-03-20)

Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman John Manning wrote a letter to Congressman Connie Mack requesting his support to pass the Water Resource Development Act (WRDA) C-43 Reservoir in 2012. [Letter]

Significance of Biofuels (2012-03-20)

Paul Woods, president and CEO of Algenol Biofuels Inc. stated that presidential candidate Newt Gingrich is wrong about significance of biofuels while he clearly is prognosticating about the fate of algae biofuels without any knowledge on the topic. [News Press]

Incentivize Sustainability (2012-03-20)

American Farmland Trust (AFT) urged Congress on March 15 to consider the environmental impacts of farm safety-net reform and reiterated key AFT policy positions in support of a strong and equitable farm support system. [EcoWatch]

Prank to Slow Progress on Ceitus (2012-03-20)

Cape Coral wants to stop the replacement of the Ceitus Barrier, their latest prank was to cancel a meeting between the County & them claiming that the County did not have their “science” together to show that there was a need to replace the Barrier. [Leo Amos comment] [Phil Buchanan comment]

CRCA Annual Meeting & Fun Day (2012-03-12)

CRCA members and friends are invited to the Riverwatch annual meeting and fun day to take place at Franklin Locks South on the Caloosahatchee in Alva on March 24th from 8 am to dusk at Pavilion #1. Come early, stay late! [Details] [Map]

Marshall Plan 6 (2012-03-19)

To keep the Marshall Plan 6 in the configuration proposal competition, John Marshall wrote up a description of the plan and its merits based on discussions at the March 9 CEPP workshop. [CEPP Workshop]

Big O Morning Blend (2012-03-19)

Check out the Big O Birding Festival on Fox 4 Morning Blend with Crazy Bill Wood, Margaret England (CRCA VP) and Jillian Paladin Sparks give some insight to this year's big event! [Watch the video] [Festival details]

NE Interagency Team Meeting (2012-03-18)

Northern Everglades Interagency Team Meeting is scheduled for Mar 28, 2012 from 9:30am-12:30pm at the Okeechobee Service Center Auditorium (205 N Parrott Avenue, Suite 201). Video-conferencing will be available at the Lower West Coast Service Center. [Agenda]

RESTORE Act Deal (2012-03-18)

Senator Rubio voted against a BP Oil Spill penalties bill because it included an interest rate adjustment delay of $3.5 billion (which he calls a tax increase) that would support the Land and Water Conservation Fund. [Nola]

Not Just Early Blossoms (2012-03-18)

This Spring is the 4th warmest on record. Some plants and animals are responding to early springs and longer summers in different ways and at different speeds, creating havoc for some species. [NSF 1] [NSF 2]

So Much For Good Ideas (2012-03-18)

Not only the Florida Legislature rescind its own septic tank inspection law this session, it made sure that no communities could pass local ordinances requiring regular inspections of septic tanks in support of water quality protection programs. [Details]

Whack-A-Mole Year (2012-03-18)

As has been typical of recent years in the Florida Legislature, the efforts of environmentalists have been dominated by simply stopping really bad legislation. The bill changing the definitions of high water marks to give away public lands, died. [Details]

Sleeper Bill (2012-03-18)

HB594 (Special Districts as Municipalities) may be the sleeper bill of the session. It allows special districts to more easily incorporate as cities. This could have significant statewide implications if the Chapter 298 districts pursue this.

Mutually Exclusive Logic (2012-03-18)

As the world contemplates a runaway greenhouse effect from thawing oceans and permafrost methanes, others plan to drilling & extract the remaining methane hydrates to burn and create even more CO2. [Greening of Oil]

Ethical Ecotourism (2012-03-18)

Ecotourism guides now have an additional certification program. While the UF/IFAS Natural Naturalist program has been developing nature-based guides for years, the Florida SEE has developed a more specific "best-practices" instructional program. [Web site]

Wrap-up Clean-up (2012-03-18)

In her final session as Appropriations Chair for the Florida House, Denise Grimsley introduced $500,000 funding for a water quality project of Port LaBelle Utility System. If approved the money will repair some old sewer pipes that are leaking. [Highlands Today]

Caloosahatchee Beach (2012-03-18)

Hollywood Beach is really Caloosahatchee sand from a mine in Ortona owned by E.R. Jahna Industries Inc. Other cities and counties that have used Caloosahatchee sand include Key West, Key Biscayne, North Miami Beach, Miami-Dade County and others. [Sun-Sentinel] [Hollywood Beach]

Ceitus Boatlift Meeting Cancelled (2012-03-18)

The joint board meeting with the City of Cape Coral scheduled on March 13, 2012 at 1:30 pm at the City Chambers has been cancelled at the City’s request. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date. [Details] [Cape Coral Daily Breeze]

Saving Lake Okeechobee (2012-03-18)

Florida's Everglades have a huge advocate in Nathaniel Reed, who's been fighting for decades to preserve the vast ecosystem. In the "Saving Lake Okeechobee" video, he reflects on the condition of the Everglades' lifeblood — Lake Okeechobee. [Video] [Audubon Magazine]

Temporary Closure Postponed (2012-03-18)

The Corps of Engineers has postponed the closure date of the Moore Haven Lock after taking into consideration additional concerns expressed by local business owners. The lock will now be closed effective June 11 to install the MPS on the gates. [News Release] [Moore Haven Closure Update]

Water Pollution Rules Delay (2012-03-18)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it would delay the rules — bitterly opposed by farmers, industries and utilities — because of “uncertainty” surrounding alternative standards the state has been working to complete. [The Miami Herald] [Greenwire]

Welcome Back, Mary! (2012-03-18)

The CNCP has selected former Riverwatch President Mary Rawl as their new Executive Director. Mary was president during a dynamic period, when CRCA nominated the Caloosahatchee to be named among America's 10 Most Endangered Rivers. [Announcement]

A Sharing Experience (2012-03-03)

Wayne Wilkins & his wife Julie will share hours of enjoyment in their new Mad River canoe, the 1st place prize of the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival contest. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. provided the canoe as a fundraising donation to CRCA.

Impassable (2012-03-04)

The US Supreme Court reached a decision in a case that has implications for the Clean Water Act—or doesn't, as it turns out. The case itself had really nothing to do with water quality, but instead turned on the definition of "navigable waters." [Storm Water]

10-Year Anniversary Celebration (2012-03-04)

Mark your calendar for an upcoming celebration of the 10-Year Anniversary of Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park, a lush, woodsy preserve east of Ft. Myers. The celebration will take place at Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park from 9am-2pm on Sat., April 14. [Details] [Flyer] [A Video interview with Caroline Krieger Comings]

Turning a Corner? (2012-03-04)

Recent rains combined with additional water provided by the Corps from Lake Okeechobee are beginning the halt the worsening situation in the Caloosahatchee Estuary. While salinity is still too high, it has stopped getting worse. [Caloosahatchee Condition Report 2282012]

No Nuclear Insurance (2012-03-04)

Now that its insurance policy has stopped paying for repairs, it's hard to know if the Crystal River nuclear power plant will ever reopen. It was shut down in 2009 and the cost of repairs is currently estimated at $2.4 billion. $0.3 billion is paid. [News Observer]

Legislating Profits (2012-03-04)

The Florida Legislature is reviving the proposal for a 110-mile road stretching through the ranches, farms and swamps of inland Florida, from Collier County through the Alva area and continuing up to I-4 roughly parallel to and west of US 27. [Tampa Bay]

Flushing Septic Inspection (2012-03-04)

Never missing an opportunity to undue any previous state progress on water quality issues, the Florida House has repealed the requirements for septic tanks to undergo periodic inspections to verify that they are working & not polluting groundwaters. [News Herald] [Septic System]

Flow Equalization Basin (2012-03-04)

By proposing "Flow Equalization Basins" SFWMD is backing into a larger distributed storage system in the EAA. So, why not embrace this concept and develop the modified farming systems for the region. [Presentation]

Scientifically Invalid (2012-03-04)

Brian Lapointe, a research professor at FAU, testified that the state's numeric nutrient criteria would fail to protect water quality and "To consider that (the Biscayne Bay and Florida Keys) a healthy system now would be scientifically invalid." [The Florida Current]

Billy Creek Artist (2012-03-04)

Artist and Billy's Creek resident Caroline Krieger Comings is interviewed about her involvement in Friends of Billy's Creek and how living so close to nature inspires her art. [Waters We (Billy's Creek)] [A Video Interview] [Caroline Krieger's Gallery]

Stop Ag. Fertilizer Runoff (2012-03-04)

Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch of Stuart, Florida calls everyone to sign and support the petition addressed to RIVER KIDZ: Local, State and Federal Governments: Stop Ag. fertilizer runoff to the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River. [About this Petition] [Petition Letter] [Cartoon] [Sign this Petition] [River Kidz Facebook]

FGCU Service Learning (2012-03-04)

Krista Cochran completed her FGCU Service Learning hours requirement by helping Margaret England and other Riverwatch directors talk to visitors of the CRCA booth at the 2012 Swamp Cabbage Festival. Thank you, Krista!

When It Heals (2012-03-04)

Ray Nelson of LaBelle will have to wait until his arm heals so he can fully enjoy his second place prize at the Riverwatch contest held at the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Feb 25-26. He won a kayak trip for four, guided by Estero Outfitters.

February CRCA Newsletter (2012-02-24)

The February 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. [February Newsletter] [HTML version] [Newsletter Archive]

Wrapping Up Thesis (2012-02-23)

Thanks to the help of USDA NRCS surveyor, Anthony Hernandez, the thesis research on the old river oxbows by Chloe Delhomme is wrapping up. Lenny Heisz, a snowbird from Wisconsin, provided the transportation and learned about the river's history. [Anthony Hernandez] [Lenny Heisz] [Chloe Delhomme] [LaBelle Oxbow] [John Capece Dunk Dripping]

Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. (2012-01-24)

Once again the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. has made a generous donation to Riverwatch covering costs to buy a Mad River Adventure 14 Canoe from Estero River Outfitters. Special thanks to Tribe member Joe Frank for arranging the donation.

Estero River Outfitters (2012-01-24)

Second place in the canoe contest is a guided kayak tour for 4 people on Estero Bay valued at $140, courtesy of Estero River Outfitters. The Outfitters also discounted the price by CRCA for the first prize canoe by $230. Thanks EB Outfitters! [Web site]

Moore Haven Lock Closure (2012-02-22)

The USACE has postponed the start date for installation of the Manatee Protection System at the Moore Haven Lock as a result of concerns expressed by the public at a meeting held Feb 16 in Clewiston. The lock will be temporarily closed May 14–Jul 9. [News Release] [Manatee Pass Gates Project]

Mound Key Paddle Tour (2012-02-21)

Join FPAN and Koreshan State Historic Site staff for an exclusive guided tour of the ceremonial center of the Calusa, Mound Key Archaeological State Park on Mar 23. Space is limited. Contact Melissa Timo at 239-590-1476 to make reservations today! [Flyer]

Lake O Water Release (2012-02-21)

The USACE announced it will extend water releases from Lake O in an effort to offset rising levels of saltwater in the Caloosahatchee River. The target flow to the Caloosahatchee Estuary for this release is an average of 450 cfs over a 10-day period. [TCPalm]

Florida Replaces EPA Rules (2012-02-21)

On Feb. 16 Gov. Rick Scott signed HB 7051 backing proposed water quality rules that are intended to replace federal rules opposed by utilities, industry and agriculture groups. Once approved by EPA, the rules will get on the books and implemented. [The Florida Current] [Gov. Scott Statement] [FDEP Statement]

March 6 Is Deadline (2012-02-21)

Federal Judge Robert Hinkle ruled that pollution limits must take effect Mar 6, but with limited effect in south Florida. Hinkle noted that the EPA had called for the cleanup 14 years ago, but the state had been foot-dragging, with no end is sight. [Florida Sportsman] [Tampa Bay Times]

AEI Not Sweet on Sugar (2012-02-21)

American Enterprise Institute demands the government end its current sugar support program. But replacing sugar with other crops won't help solve ecological issues. To do this we must restructure incentive systems to support sustainable farming. [In These Times] [AEI Report]

All Academic (2012-02-21)

University students routinely make the Caloosahatchee River and Watershed the subject of their university coursework projects. Chloe Delhomme at USF looked at the Caloosahatchee from a Geographic Information System (GIS) perspective. [GIS Final Project] [GIS Project]

C-43 Workshop (2012-02-21)

SFWMD invites all stakeholders and interested persons to the Water Reservation Rule Development Workshop for the CERP Caloosahatchee River(C-43) West Basin Storage Reservoir Project. The workshop will be held in Ft. Myers on Feb 27 and Feb 29. [Invitation]

Show Up & Be Counted (2012-02-21)

Please be part of a strong show of support by attending the Ceitus meeting Mar 13. The County Commissioners unanimously voted to replace the Barrier to protect the estuaries of Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve but City of Cape Coral needs convincing. [Details]

RECOVER (2012-02-21)

RECOVER (REstoration COordination & VERification) provides support to CERP (Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan). It's the latest "reorganize and rename" effort to achieve the ever elusive (or is it illusive) goals for ecosystem improvement. [RECOVER Fact Sheet] [Web site]

Army Surges Above 400cfs (2012-02-21)

The US Army Corps of Engineers has made serious efforts to increase flows to the Caloosahatchee Estuary. The average wet season flow is now 407cfs. This has stabilized salinity but not pushed it below the legal MFL goals for ecosystem health. [Sun-Sentinel] [Dry Season Flow Record]

Tracking Potential Oil Spills (2012-02-21)

Numerous articles continue to be written about oil exploration off the coast of Cuba. Some federal officials, while discussing potential spill mitigation, claim that the swift currents of the Gulf Stream will protect South Florida. Is this correct?! [Tampa Bay] [NPR] [BBS News]

STA 1,2,3s & A,B,Cs (2012-02-21)

The Stormwater Treatment Areas are SFWMD's current approach to cleaning up water. Learn where these are and how they work. Basically they mimic a natural wetland system and capture the excess nitrogen & phosphorus before sending the water downstream. [Details]

Thanks to Donors! (2012-01-24)

Riverwatch thanks those who responded to the annual appeal with donations of $250 (David and Cherly Copham, Ruy Sampaio, and Michael Dove of Alva). Many others sent in donations of $100. These individuals will be recognized in future newsletters.

Transformations in Mangroves (2012-02-17)

A USGS research report shows that elemental mercury (derived largely from coal power plants scattered throughout the world) is transformed to harmful methyl mercury in the coastal mangrove forests. This means controlling mercury sources is critical. [Methyl Mercury] [Hg Buildup] [Mangrove Mercury] [Cartoon]

County Shows Resolve (2012-02-17)

In a meeting necessary to clear a path towards legal action against Cape Coral over the Ceitus Boat Lift issue, Chief Assistant County Attorney John Turner did an excellent job of asserting the Lee County & CRCA position, according to Phil Buchanan. [Details] [NBC-2]

450 Still Not Enough (2012-02-17)

Despite the Corps delivering 450 cfs to the Caloosahatchee Estuary from Jan 8 to Feb 6, salinity continued its steady increase above harmful levels. This supports the case that 650 cfs is the actual amount of freshwater needed to the estuary. [River Condition Report]

Like He Sees Em (2012-02-17)

Paul Millar referred to the now-dead Fertilizer Ordinance Preemption legislation from the Florida House, a terrible bill. It died in the Senate thanks to the opposition votes of Senators Nan Rich, Eleanor Sobel, Steve Oelrich and Dennis Jones. [Details]

Ft. Myers River District (2012-02-17)

Fort Myers city officials have spent years planning a downtown utopia, complete with extended waterfront, a bubbling fountain, hand railings modeled after mangrove roots and quaint trolleys that shuttle visitors to and from bars and restaurants. [News-Press] [Photo 1] [Photo 2]

Wings Over Water (2012-02-15)

On Saturday, March 10 East County Water Control District will host its inaugural nature festival at Harns Marsh in Lehigh Acres. Explore nature through a variety of programs including lectures, exhibitions, guided walks and children's activities. [Details] [Flyer]

EvCo Conference Worth It (2012-02-14)

This year’s conference, held on the shores of the St. Lucie estuary & In-dian River Lagoon in Stuart, had a collaborative & optimistic tone & was well attended by key State & Federal decision-makers and advocates from across the greater Everglades. [Article] [Audio]

Florida Nutrient Rules (2012-02-17)

Legislation (HB7051) that enacts a pair of state water pollution rules supported by business, agriculture and utility interests won approval Florida Legislature and was signed by Gov Scott. Environmentalist say the rules are too weak. [Naples News] [The Current] [Scott] [DEP]

Do As I Say, Not As I Do (2012-02-17)

The Corps of Engineers plan to build a spreader canal east of Everglades National Park. The Spreader is being built there for the same purpose they were built west of Cape Coral-to restore/maintain historic fresh water flows. [Comment] [E-Notice] [Chiefs Report]

Not Enough Water to Drink (2012-02-17)

On Jan 31, Cynthia Barnett spoke to a room packed with over 200 people on the importance of developing a 'water ethic' that will help Floridians embrace a new way of thinking so that enough freshwater remains for future generations. [Islands and Paper]

Good Time to Be a Farmer (2012-02-17)

According to a new report just released from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Florida farmers are receiving significantly higher prices at the farm level for their product and a higher share of the cost of the product at the retail level. [Watery Foundation] [Statistics]

Florida Earth Course (2012-01-29)

On February 23rd and 24th, 2012, Florida Earth will hold the first session in the Florida Earth Module Series for 2012 at the FAU Jupiter Campus. Registration is $200 and covers course costs and transportation during the field trip. [Details] [Register] [Tentative Agenda]

Naples Bay Cleanup (2012-01-29)

Candidate pledges to restore Naples Bay are as much a part of Naples City Council campaigns as fundraisers & yard signs. No wonder after 5 years of water quality testing, a city report in 2011 showed little to no progress on lowering pollutant levels [Naples News]

Microplastic Food Chain (2012-02-17)

Microscopic plastic debris from washing clothes is accumulating in the marine environment and could be entering the food chain, a study has warned. Experts simply don't know the effects of nanoparticals on the human body. [BBC News]

Sirenia Park Development (2012-02-17)

Nancy Hindenach of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences wrote a recommendation to Lee County VCB requesting not to fund Sirenia Park Development until the Barrier is replaced at the south end of the Cape Coral North Spreader Stormwaterway Canal. [Letter]

Floridians Deny, Miltary Admits (2012-01-28)

While many Floridians continue to deny climate change, the Military & Intelligence agencies have long been planning for the security implications of what they acknowledge is a fact. They name "water security" as a top concern. [USA Today] [New York Times] [DOD Climate Report]

Hands Off Our Fertilizer Laws (2012-02-14)

On Jan 23, Lee County environmentalists and elected officials gathered at Centennial Park to speak out against the HB421, that would exempt landscapers from local fertilizer ordinances. Protests were also held in Clearwater, Sarasota and Stuart. [News-Press]

Natural Gas - Bridge Fuel? (2012-01-29)

According to a major new study by three Cornell University researchers, far from being a “solution” to climate change, natural gas extracted from shale is a huge contributor of greenhouse gases when both methane and carbon dioxide are considered. [Eco Watch] [Report]

More Water But Not Enough (2012-01-28)

The Caloosahatchee Estuary is getting less than its legally defined Minimum Flow & Level (MFL) amount...and only a little more flow over last year, despite there being half a foot more water in Lake O than last year. Changes require greater advocacy. [Spreadsheet] [S-79 Data] [Lake O Stage] [Flow & Stage Graph]

Having It Three Ways (2012-01-28)

Water managers treat the Caloosahatchee Estuary unfairly. They (1) dump excess Lake O water to it in the rainy season, (2) siphon off its basin runoff back to Lake O in drier wet seasons, & (3) give it too little Lake O water in the dry season.

State Seeks More Delays (2012-01-26)

DEP & SFWMD are seeking a 90-day delay in any federal court action to allow time for negotiations on cleaning up the Everglades. Judge Gold will probably allow the delays to avoid the matter going to a less demanding appeals court. [My Fox Orlando]

Expanding Phosphate Mining (2012-01-26)

The Manatee County Commission gets set to vote on a Duette phosphate mining expansion, recommended for approval by the county's planning commission. Florida must seriously evaluate the cost/benefit ratio of placating such a disaster-prone industry. [The Bradenton Times] [Bradenton Herald]

Donor Appreciation! (2012-01-24)

Riverwatch thanks $100 donors: Keith Benbenisty, Jari&Marja Vainio, Oscar Langford, Tom Harrington, Kurt Gearing, Allison Farnum&Andy Crossen, Joyce Schaffer, Peter&Connie Burkert, Cindy&Steve Novak, Margaret Allen, Skipper Miller, & Terry Nelson.

Contact Info for Elected Officials (2012-01-26)

Republicans for Environmental Protection (REP) action center provides a unique database system where you can find elected officials, including the president, members of Congress, and more, searching by zip code, the official's last name or by state. [Elected Officials]

Driest Since 1938 (2012-01-26)

After dealing with drought conditions for most of 2011, much of South Fla already is abnormally dry. Unless heavy rains arrive over the next few months, another widespread drought could be in the offing, possibly resulting in more water restrictions. [Sun-Sentinel]

Florida Forever 2012 Calendar (2012-01-26)

The LINC announces its latest conservation calendar: Florida Forever. The 2012 calendar is a collaborative work featuring 12 of the state’s leading nature photographers focused on a selection of Florida’s most vulnerable but spectacular landscapes. [Details] [Order Your Calendar Here!] [LINC web site]

January CRCA Newsletter (2012-01-26)

The January 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. [January Newsletter] [Newsletter Archive]

Carl Hiaasen Trashes Tallahassee (2012-01-24)

In his comic speech to the Everglades Coalition, Carl Hiaasen said had the annual conference's "special guest" been a character concocted for one of his books, editors would have categorically rejected it as too outrageous, even for a Hiaasen book. [Conference Speeches Audio]

Oil Exploration Could Threaten Fla (2012-01-24)

The arrival of a deep water rig to explore for oil off Cuba’s northern coast raises the prospect of huge revenues that could revive Cuba’s command economy & undermine US sanctions. It may also lead to huge oil spills that could affect the Fla coast. [Details]

Renewal Enegy Policies (2012-01-24)

When your local utility buys more renewable energy to power your lights and computers, what more do you get besides the power? You get cleaner air, fewer respiratory health problems, and lower health-care costs. [Think Progress]

Indian River Lagoon (2012-01-24)

Blend salty ocean water with freshwater from rivers and creeks and you get an estuary. The Indian River Lagoon — the most biologically diverse estuary in North America. [Details] [Web site]

CO2 is Driving Fish Crazy (2012-01-24)

According to an international scientific team study, rising human carbon dioxide emissions may be affecting the brains and central nervous system of sea fishes with serious consequences for their survival. [Think Progress]

Oceans Acidifying Much Faster (2012-01-24)

According to the Nature Geoscience study, Oceans are acidifying 10 times faster today than 55 million years ago when a mass extinction of marine species occurred. Unrestricted burning of fossil fuels threatens a new wave of die-offs. [Think Progress]

FREE Public Program Series (2012-01-23)

Join FREE public program series that will provide you with the inside tips and tricks of being a true eco-traveler here in Southwest Florida. While all programs are FREE to the public, space is limited and your RSVP is suggested at 239-432-2163 [Details]

Headwaters Refuge (2012-01-23)

An Everglades refuge and conservation area was officially established on January 18 when Interior Secretary Ken Salazar accepted the first donation of land for the project in south-central Florida. [Sun-Sentinel]

Candidates on Sugar (2012-01-23)

In their Tampa debate, both Romney and Gingrich spoke in favor of free markets for sugar (against price support program). Romney said he would work to get rid of subsidies. Gingrich said that he tried and failed when in Congress. [Huffington Post]

Old Oxbows Report (2012-01-23)

A 1978 report by James F. Milleson of SFWMD has served as the basis for Riverwatch research and restoration efforts undertaken since 1996 on the 35+ Caloosahatchee River oxbows. USF grad student Chloe Delhomme is leading the latest effort. [Milleson Report]

Shrinking To Oblivion (2012-01-23)

Even in the dead of winter, the arctic ice cap continues to set new record lows relative to total ice volume. Extrapolating the current trend suggests that the ice cap would shrink to oblivion by the year 2020. [Forbes] [Status] [Why So Fast?]

Injured Eagle Returns to Nest (2012-01-23)

The female eagle injured in Matlacha in late December has completed her rehabilitation at CROW and returned to her nest in St James City. She was released January 18 near the Eagle Preserve by CROW rehabilitor Robin Bass. [Details]

Everglades Love-fest Blows Up (2012-01-23)

An Everglades love-fest turned nasty when Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam and Everglades Foundation Chairman Paul Tudor Jones sniped about whether the agriculture industry is meeting its obligation to pay for restoring the “River of Grass.” [Post on Politics]

Drought Returns to So FL (2012-01-23)

South Florida lives one water-year at a time - paycheck to paycheck - because it consumes every drop each year. Having a dry month or more here is normal weather - abnormal is the lack of conserving water. Drought's return to So FL may be imminent. [Palm Beach Post] [Rain Map]

Submerged Lands Under Threat (2012-01-23)

Urge the House Ag & Natural Resources Subcommittee to OPPOSE HB1103 by Rep Tom Goodson, Titusville. This is the sovereign submerged lands bill that will take away our public lands and waters, land & waters, such as the Caloosahatchee Oxbows. [Details] [Web site]

Reclaimed Water a State Asset? (2012-01-23)

No state has made more use of reclaimed water than Florida. A bill by Rep Dana Young, R-Tampa, would remove reclaimed as a public resource just as it is playing a key role in water supply. The bill would allow utilities to sell their reclaimed water. [Tampa Bay Times]

Choking Birds (2012-01-23)

Birds love fish and giving the scrapes to them seems like an act of kindness. But don't do that because fish scrapes may kill the birds. That's why the Florida legislature made tossing fish scrapes to the birds illegal. [Details]

Oil Rig Complies with Standards (2012-01-17)

On Jan 9, U.S. inspectors got a look at the oil drilling rig that is headed to a job in Cuban waters and has raised concerns about the adequacy of oil spill response plans. They found the rig "to generally comply" with international & U.S. standards. [Naples News] [International Business Times]

EvCo Conference Success (2012-01-17)

27th annual conference of the Everglades Coalition at the Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort Marina attracted about 300 representatives of government and nonprofit agencies dedicated to restoration of the Everglades ecosystem. [Naples News]

2012 Legislative Session (2012-01-16)

Florida's 2012 Legislative Session started on Jan 10. Already, 1000 Friends is tracking a number of bills closely. They will keep you updated as the session progresses & may ask you to contact key legislators at critical junctures during the session. [Bills to watch]

Corps Col. Pantano Honored (2012-01-16)

Col. Alfred A. Pantano, Jr., the district commander of the Corps of Engineers, received the Bill Sadowski Award from 1000 Friends of Florida at the 27th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference in Stuart, Florida on January 7, 2012. [Sun-Sentinel] [Jacksonville]

SW Florida Sustainability (2012-01-14)

Researchers are exploring non-traditional ecological accounting methods to evaluate sustainability options for southwest Florida economic development and environmental restoration. [Sugarcane]

Septic Tank Inspection Bill (2012-01-13)

A Senate compromise bill that would repeal a statewide septic tank inspection requirement passed its first committee stop on Jan 10 despite concerns among environmentalists. The septic tank requirement was adopted by the Legislature in 2010. [The Florida Current]

Fitch Downgrades SFWMD (2012-01-12)

Fitch Ratings has taken the following rating actions on SFWMD, Florida's outstanding bonds: $500.2 million COPs downgraded to 'AA-' from 'AA'; $25.1 million special obligation land acquisition refunding bonds affirmed at 'A'; and GO bond rated 'AA'. [Business Wire]

Ceitus Barrier (2012-01-10)

After nearly 3 years, we are still battling for essential gamefish habitat in Matlacha. SF Advisory Council Member, Aaron Adams told DEP the Ceitus barrier must be reconstructed to prevent the continued degradation of Matlacha Pass and nearby waters. [Snook Foundation] [Photo 1] [Photo 2]

Lake Okeechobee (2012-01-10)

Lake O is located in central southern Florida, north of the Everglades & south of Orlando. Lake O links the Atlantic & Gulf sides of Florida via the Port Mayaca Lock on the east side of the lake and the Moore Haven Lock on the lake’s western side. [About Lake O]

Water Releases to Continue (2012-01-10)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said that it will continue releasing water from Lake O to send additional fresh water into the Caloosahatchee Estuary. As of Jan 6, the lake is 13.54 feet above sea level, so there is sufficient water for the estuay. [Palm Beach Post]

Gulf of Mexico Topography (2012-01-10)

Scientist David Valentine, Igor Mezic, a mechanical engineer at UCSB and coauthors report that they used an innovative computer model to demonstrate the respective roles of underwater topography, currents and bacteria in the Gulf of Mexico. [NSF.gov] [Images]

PURRE Advocacy Concludes (2012-01-09)

An important water advocate of the past 7 years, The PURRE Water Coalition Foundation Inc (People United to Restore Our Rivers & Estuaries), ceased operations effective Dec 31, Chairman Michael J. Valiquette announced after a board meeting Dec 16. [Valiquette Letter]

Sweet Leaks (2012-01-09)

A PBP article says Florida sugar barons mounted a disinformation campaign to undermine the U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic during the Bush administration, part of an effort to torpedo legislation that would affect international sugar trade. [Palm Beach Post]

North Spreader Priority (2012-01-09)

Russ Moody of Cape Coral says one of the serious issues facing Cape Coral is the North Spreader canal barrier controversy. He continues to oppose restoring the water quality system that Cape Coral dismantled, resulting in years of Riverwatch protest. [News-Press]

Manatee Death at Ceitus (2012-01-09)

A manatee died in Lee County waters Sunday morning, Jan 1, near the old Ceitus boat lift after an apparent boating accident. Neighbors want law enforcement to step up patrols to keep boaters from hitting any more of the endangered animals. [NBC-2]

From Denial to Planning (2012-01-09)

The news is now filled with plans to cope with climate change impacts. Where did they go, all those climate change deniers who blocked preventive action for the past couple of decades? Are they now hiding, waiting to die off with their guilt? [Workshop Details] [Online Registration] [Web site]

A Message from Bob Graham (2012-01-09)

Bob Graham said in a statewide op-ed that in 2011 the Governor & Legislature placed our state’s natural heritage in jeopardy. The Florida Conservation Coalition can (with your help) stop & reverse this ill-conceived, reckless trend. [Graham Message]

Blue Revolution (2012-01-09)

On Jan 31st at 7pm, SCCF and the Everglades Foundation are jointly presenting a Conservation Forum with a featured speaker Cynthia Barnett, a long-time journalist and an author of Blue Revolution: Unmaking America's Water Crisis. The event is free. [Details] [Purchase Blue Revolution at Amazon]

Welcome to Caloosahatchee NWR (2012-01-09)

The Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) welcomes boaters to visit the refuge. Boaters should consult navigational charts & tide schedules before attempting to visit any waters surrounding the refuge. For more information call (239)472-1100. [Details] [Web site]

Ding Lecture Series 2012 (2011-11-25)

The eagerly awaited 11-week “Ding” Darling Nature Store Lecture Series kicks off at J.N. “Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island January 20, 2012, with an expert on climate change. For more information, call 472-1100 ext. 241. [Details] [Web site]

Boat Building Festival (2011-09-08)

Mark your calendar for this wonderful event on March 8-12, 2012 at Lee Civic Center. Experience hands-on boat building with the help of professional boat builders. Registration fees will cover all tools, materials and professional instruction. [Brochure]

Ceitus Mediation Formality (2011-12-23)

The long-awaited meeting between the Lee County Commissioners and the Cape Coral City Council is on Mar 13, 2012 in Cape Coral. The purpose of the meeting is to satisfy Florida Chapter 164 requirements for mediation before the lawsuit goes to trial. [Details] [Meeting Info]

Big O Birding Festival (2011-09-13)

Mark your calendars for the largest bird-themed event on March 27-31, 2012 in South Central Florida, located on the Southwest shores of Lake O, the state's largest lake. Early registration begins in November. Call for details: 863-517-2136 [Details] [Web Site]

Three Water Events in January (2011-12-23)

2012 is shaping up to be all about water. Join SCCF in events to learn more about how our water is managed, the progress of restoration projects that can store, treat & provide water and what’s ahead to assure fresh water is available for the future. [Details]

December CRCA Newsletter (2011-12-26)

The December 2011 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] [Newsletter Archive ]

Riverwatch On Facebook (2011-06-14)

Be sure to visit and "like" the CRCA Facebook Page! Announcements, news updates, photos and more are posted on the wall. This is a great way to stay up to date with the Riverwatch and the Caloosahatchee River. Share the page to friends and neighbors! [Facebook Page]

Dispersed Water Storage (2011-12-24)

Benita Whalen of SFWMD, Sarah Lynch of World Wildlife Fund and Len Shabman of DEP Florida Ranchlands Environmental Services Project present "Dispersed Water Storage and Treatment" about a system developed as first regional eco-systems model. [Presentation]

Priddy Appointed to FWC (2011-12-24)

Audubon greeted the news that Governor Scott appointed Liesa Priddy to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with enthusiasm. Liesa is a former president of First Bank of Immokalee and former Ava Maria stewardship board member. [Audubon News] [Experience]

Mike Bauer to Serve on ERC (2011-12-24)

Governor Scott appointed Michael Bauer to the Environmental Regulation Commission of DEP. Bauer is a long-time SW FL environmental professional. He has direct experience and knowledge of the Caloosahatchee & CRCA from his years at SFWMD & Audubon. [WCTV] [Michael Bauer]

Mercury Controls Tightened (2011-12-23)

EPA released new air-pollution standards that could force expensive upgrades at some Florida power plants - but have been long-sought by environmentalist. The standards reduce allowable mercury releases. Mercury is a major FL water & health issue. [News-Press] [Mercury Cycle]

Here Is What Will Happen (2011-12-23)

Having done the scientific studies in the 90's to establish the "scientific" basis for protecting the Caloosahatchee Estuary, SFWMD now says they need more science before they will act upon conclusions of their own scientists reached a decade ago.

Here We Go Again (2011-12-23)

Despite more water in Lake O than in the past 2 years, the Caloosahatchee is getting below its minimum needs. Now, east coast people are up in arms about water going to the estuary because they want the water saved for lawn watering. [Palm Beach Post]

Profits Require Destruction (2011-12-23)

A group of 30 prominent industry groups, utilities and engineering associations signed a letter to EPA basically saying that they simply don't know how to make a profit or operate communities without destroying the environment. [Letter]

Mullet Eggs Poaching (2011-12-23)

The appearance of dead mullet floating in Cape Coral canals is evidence of illegal mullet fishermen operating in the area at night. They kill the females and throw the males back. They are after the roe (egg sacks) of red mullet, called bottarga. [Details]

We Told You So (2011-12-23)

Fishing in Lake O is the best it's ever been because a hurricane-damaged dike combined with drought has forced the lake levels lower to where the littoral zone is now healthy & vibrant. Environmentalists advocated lower lake levels for many years. [TCPalm] [Clewiston Fishing Hero]

EcoWatch by Waterkeeper (2011-12-22)

Waterkeeper Alliance recently launched Ecowatch, a website hub for all things environmental news related. You are invited to utilize the site to get your message and stories out there by submitting original content. [Web site]

The Audacity! (2011-12-22)

A rider sponsored by Senators Barrasso (R-WY) & Heller (R-NV) to HR 2354, to the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, would permanently block the Corps from protecting U.S. waters by clarifying which wetlands & streams are protected by the CWA. [Details] [Web site]

Proper New Water Definition (2011-12-22)

The Lee County BOCC will consider a resolution that implores SFWMD to establish a water reservation for the Caloosahatchee Estuary that draws from all new water generated by SFWMD projects, not just from the still unfunded C-43 West Reservoir project [Resolution] [Sharing Water]

Jane Graham Organizes (2011-12-22)

After organizing a series of discussion sessions among Caloosahtachee and other "water reservation" advocates, Audubon's Jane Graham drafted a group letter for submission to SFWMD. Groups like Riverwatch add their names to the letter. [Draft Letter]

U.S. Senate Looks At Water (2011-12-22)

A Dec 8 hearing of a Senate committee on energy & natural resources discussed U.S. & global water challenges. SFWMD's Melissa Meeker testified. By helping train international interns, CRCA works to address both local & international water priorities. [Details] [Testimony] [CSPAN]

Denham Campaign (2011-12-22)

Sanibel City Vice Mayor Mick Denham is currently leading a campaign against what he describes as an effort to "preempt local government" and undermine water quality in SWFL. Let's support Denham in this effort to protect our precious coastal water. [Island Reporter]

Ranchers Paid to Store Water (2011-12-22)

Florida's top environmental officials signed contracts with eight ranchers to store water on vast swaths of soggy pastures, as part of a simple project that officials said would require no costly land purchases, construction or complex engineering. [Palm Beach Post]

Rhetoric vs Actions (2011-12-22)

After firing national-caliber experts on Everglades and ecosystem restoration, Gov. Scott now says it's time to make progress on Everglades Restoration. This contradictory actions & talk leaves Floridians wondering what is the state's real intention. [Palm Beach Post]

Clean Water Depends on Judge (2011-12-22)

With the Florida Department of Environmental Protection reverting to what critics once derisively called "Don't Expect Protection," Floridians who want clean rivers, lakes, streams and estuaries must depend on the federal courts. [Palm Beach Post]

Hydroperiod Dictates Habitat (2011-12-22)

In Florida, habitat type is largely determined by hydroperiod (how many months of the year the land is wet vs dry). The blog produced by Rob Sobczak of Big Cypress National Preserve explains the concept in a very understandable manner. [Web site] [YouTube]

Slime Billboards on I-75 (2011-12-22)

In a movement that is sure to spread statewide (like an algal bloom) activists have erected Slime billboards on I-75. These will greet tourists returning to Florida this season. Hopefully the awareness will move the state to more action. [Article] [Billboard]

No Mining Reclamation (2011-12-22)

In its latest elimination of water quality oversight, the Scott administration intends to close the DEP office overseeing phosphate mining. This is further evidence that Scott is dismantling any agency functions problematic to corporate supporters. [Details] [Tenoroc Budget] [Tenoroc Fish Mgnt]

Untrue, Twisted & Misleading (2011-12-22)

In arguing to the ERC against a CWN amendment to surface water quality rules, DEP used "untrue, twisted & misleading" statements, says Linda Young. The amendment failed by unanimous vote of committee members, all aligning with corporate interests. [Notes] [Amendment] [Members and Agenda]

Florida Slime Crime Tracker (2011-12-22)

Sierra Club has created an interactive slime tour map called “Florida Slime Crime Tracker”. The Google map is now up and running. Unfortunately, the Caloosahatchee was fertile ground for slime pics & provided a disproportionate number of the photos. [Details] [Map]

Legal Challenge Against DEP (2011-12-21)

Earthjustice, a non-profit public-interest law firm specializing in environmental issues, filed a legal challenge against Florida’s DEP because the state agency is failing to protect residents and tourists from dangerous toxic algae outbreaks. [Florida Sportsman] [Legal Challenge]

Not Good Enough (2011-12-21)

In a letter to Gov Scott, the Feds told him that he needs to do better if they are going to take him seriously on his verbal conversion to being a supporter of FL ecosystem restoration. The letter was signed by Justice, Interior, the Corps, and EPA. [Letter] [Article]

Living In a Dream State (2011-12-21)

A Tallahassee professor takes Gov Scott to task on his recent environmental head fake. She points out that he would have to do huge ecological penance to make up for his damage done in dismantled the Department of Community Affairs, & many others. [Tallahassee Democrat] [Dream State]

Conservation Easements (2011-12-21)

"A decade ago nobody wanted to talk about conservation easements, and now they may be our only way to continue our preservation strategy," says Ag Commissioner Adam Putnam about the challenges of funding the Florida Forever land purchase program. [Tallahassee Democrat]

Ridiculous Redistricting (2011-11-28)

The proposed redistricting would put the Caloosahatchee in three primary Congressional districts (14,12,&21). Previously it was split between two. A fair redistricting would retain two districts. Lehigh is split from Lee Co. and goes with Glades Co. [SW Florida] [Old] [New] [Comparison] [Fair] [State Senate]

Caloosahatchee Algae Bloom Wins (2011-11-28)

Students from UF, USF & FGCU won cash awards for their research posters at the SW FL Water Resources Conference on Nov 18. First prize went to Laura Markley for investigating causes of algae blooms in the Caloosahatchee Estuary. [Laura] [Poster] [Group] [Conf] [All Posters]

Some Attitudes Have Changed (2011-11-22)

Demonstrating how valuation of wetlands have changed over the decades, Prof. Royal Gardner showed an old Disney video of the 7 Dwarfs destroying (reclaiming) swamps. Gardner gave an excellent presentation at the SW FL Water Resources Conf on Nov 18. [Sleepy Drains Swamp] [Presentations]

Save Our Creeks Elects President (2011-11-27)

Given the passing of Save Our Creeks president, Ellen Peterson, the organization's board of directors met on Nov 25 to elect new officers. The new SOC president is Mary Rawl, who was a highly effective president of Riverwatch from 2005 to 2006. [New SOC Board of Directors]

River Ride A Success (2011-11-27)

CRCA Director and River Ride organizer Keith Kibbey reports that in its 14th year, the River Ride attracted 121 riders. The weather cooperated and a fun, safe time was enjoyed by all. Hendry County Sheriff Steve Whidden provided safety escorts. [Pic 1] [Pic 2] [Pic 3] [Pic 4] [Pic 5] [Pic 6]

John Sorey (2011-11-28)

John Sorey of Audubon to be next mayor of Naples. As Mayor, Sorey's said his priorities will be to protect the Naples brand, stimulate economic development, safe guard the environment and enact efficiencies and effectiveness to city operations. [Naples News]

Exotic Plants (2011-11-28)

Exotic plant species are invading Fla, overtaking native plant communities. They disrupt natural water flow, enable fires to spread & accelerate the decline of endangered plant & animal species. Do best to keep nonnative species out of your garden. [Herald-Tribune] [Useful Tips]

Cuba Oil Plans (2011-11-28)

Cuba may hire Chinese to drill for oil off the coast of Cuba–perilously close to Florida, only 60 miles from Key West. However, drilling along the Florida coast in U.S. waters is currently banned. But Cuba drilling may cause Florida to also drill. [Florida Weekly] [Map 1] [Map 2]

Lawyers, Swamps, and Money (2011-11-28)

Lawyers, Swamps, and Money is an accessible, engaging guide to the complex set of laws governing America's wetlands. After explaining the importance of these critical natural areas, the book examines the evolution of federal law, principally the CWA. [Book description] [Order one now]

Lake Okeechobee Water Peaks (2011-11-27)

Lake Okeechobee water levels peaked on Nov 23 at 13.87 feet, a level 9" higher than 2010 & 3" above 2009. Flow to the estuary is 250cfs, already below the MFL. But Oct & Nov flows were high, so the 2011-2012 dry season effectively begins in December. [Lake] [Conditions] [Estuary]

Crossing the Rubicon (2011-11-27)

"The Rubicon’s dead end often collects vegetation, litter and other debris." So, Cape Coral proposes to solve the problem by flushing it to the Caloosahatchee via a new canal connection, really designed to improve boat access & property values. [News Press] [Location]

Tribute at Memorial Cypress (2011-11-27)

Almost 200 gathered at Fisheating Creek Campground on Nov 13 for a tribute to the memory and accomplishments of Ellen Peterson. This was followed by a procession of 50 vessels to Memorial Cypress for a final ashes ceremony. [Service Videos]

About Our Water & Environment (2011-11-27)

As in previous years, the 2011 leadership course for Hendry & Glades included presentations & tours about the Caloosahatchee, Lake O and other water & environment issues. Among those presenting were CRCA officers Margaret England & Dr. John Capece. [2011 Agenda] [Participants] [EDC Web Site] [EDC Facebook]

Committee Fails to Serve (2011-11-26)

In addition to failing to agree on budget cuts, the Super Committee was unable to produce a Farm Bill, which it had oddly been assigned. Some thought the secret process was intended to preserve certain subsidies, like sugar, while cutting others. [Sentinel] [Industry] [Miami] [Secret?]

Water District Plans to Sell (2011-11-25)

SWFWMD plans to sell off tens of thousands of acres of public parks and conservation land - some of it bought at the peak of the real estate boom - to the highest bidder in perhaps the worst real estate market since the Great Depression. [Herald Tribune]

Extreme Weather Coming (2011-11-25)

A new report by some the world’s top researchers confirms that climate change will make the extreme weather we’ve seen recently even worse in the future. The report synthesizes two years work from 100 experts who analyze data from all over the world. [Details] [Huffington Post] [Report]

Red Tide Off Collier Beaches (2011-11-25)

A widespread red tide at Collier County beaches has diminished slightly in intensity but still could have effects on people and wildlife, county pollution monitors reported Tuesday, Nov 22. More samples will be taken again soon. [Naples News]

C-44 and RSTA Construction (2011-11-25)

The USACE Jacksonville District awarded a contract to build the C-44 Reservoir and RSTA component of the IRL-S Everglades restoration project. The project will help address problems of the St. Lucie River, while the Caloosahatchee waits. [News Release] [Web site]

Urban Waters Small Grants (2011-11-25)

EPA expects to award between $1.8 to $3.8 million in grants for projects across the country that will contribute to improved water quality and community revitalization. Proposals are due January 23, 2012. Deadline for submitting questions January 16. [Details] [Web site]

Repairing Lake O (2011-11-25)

In order to protect South Florida from flooding, the Corp of Engineers is shoring up the nearly 80-year-old Herbert Hoover Dike that surrounds Lake O, the nation's second largest freshwater lake. The old dam is on the country's critical repair list. [WPTV]

CO2 Restudy (2011-11-25)

Global temperatures could be less sensitive to changing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels than previously thought, a study suggests. People should still expect to see drastic changes in climate worldwide, but the risk is a little less imminent. [BBC News]

Everglades Headwaters Proposal (2011-11-25)

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) responded to Rivers Coalition concerns expressed regarding the Proposed Everglades Headwaters, specifically related to the use of Land and Water Conservation Funds (LWCF). CRCA-Riverwatch supports the project. [USFWS analysis] [About] [Map]

Six-Hour Kayak Tours (2011-11-25)

Join the six-hour kayak trip, from Caloosahatchee to Hickey’s Creek on December 20, 2011 and January 26, 2012. All kayaking equipment is provided. Bring your own drink, lunch, sunscreen, binoculars and clothing/shoes that can get wet. $40 per person. [Dec programs at HMP] [Dec programs at CRP]

Global Food Demand (2011-11-23)

According to a newly released projections, global food demand could double by 2050. We must obviously change/improve the way we grow food or else (1) more people will starve and (2)environmental destruction to expand farmlands will become the norm. [NSF.gov] [Images]

Lake O Video Clips (2011-11-23)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has released an excellent set of video news clips on CORPS projects on the Herbert Hoover Dike and Lake Okeechobee (history and projects). Well worth your time. It helps explain many issues of the Caloosahatchee. [Video Clips]

Scott Everglades Restoration (2011-11-22)

Scott must have been advised he needs to act like he cares about the environment on at least one issue somewhere, & since Everglades restoration is really just enhanced flood control & water supply in disguise, what's the harm in giving lip service. [Palm Beach Post] [Scott] [Bob Graham]

Maybe They Are Serious (2011-11-22)

EPA told DEP that the numerical nutrient limits deal is off if the state exempts canals from pollution rules, a move being pushed by some of the state's most powerful industries. In such case EPA will impose its own stricter rules. [Palm Beach Post]

Water Equals Florida Jobs (2011-11-22)

The Watery Foundation estimates that agriculture creates 17 jobs per million gallons water used, whereas the non-ag economy of Florida creates 2400 jobs per million gallons of water. This underscores the water-intensive nature of Florida agriculture. [Details]

Air Pollution Affects Water (2011-11-22)

Increases in air pollution and other particulate matter in the atmosphere can strongly affect cloud development in ways that reduce precipitation in dry regions or seasons. Air pollution is a culprit in worsening drought & flooding, a new study says. [NSF.gov] [Images]

Lake Hicpochee...Finally! (2011-11-22)

Larry Hilton informed Glades County BOCC of a SFWMD project that will spend up to $19 million to provide better surface water quality and quantity by partially rehydrating Lake Hicpochee, a lake drained by the channelization of the Caloosahatchee. [Donna Storter Long BOCC Notes] [Location] [SFWMD Plans]

Florida Water Democracy Deficit (2011-11-22)

A new paper from Jeffrey Lax & Justin Phillips at Columbia University helps to explain why water management policies in Florida have gone bad. The researchers identify, across the country, what they call a “striking democracy deficit” in the state. [Watery Foundation] [Paper]

Anyone But The Public (2011-11-20)

At the Ceitus Boat Lift mediation hearing, Cape Coral representation included two nameless persons. DEP was absent. The Cape representatives objected to public attendance at the hearing...and then blamed manatees for any water problems. How typical. [Hearing Notes] [Dec 6 Hearing Announcement]

Ballast Water Regulations Letter (2011-11-18)

CRCA signed a letter opposing HR 2840, the Commercial Vessels Discharge Control Act of 2011 that would remove ballast water rules that help protect US waterways from exotic, invasive species. Zebra mussels have already invaded much of US waters. [Letter] [Zebra Mussels Map]

It Happens Regularly Now (2011-11-18)

Sea Level Rise is an almost daily reality in Miami. High tides started flooding downtown Miami almost a decade ago and these floods are a regular occurrence now. All low coastal cities will eventually become uninhabitable if we do nothing. [Grist.org]

Arabian Sea Cyclones (2011-11-18)

Pollution is making Arabian Sea cyclones more intense. Researches say that pollution from human activities as simple as burning wood or driving a vehicle with a diesel engine can change massive atmospheric phenomena in a significant way. [NSF.gov] [Images]

Clean Water Sold Out (2011-11-17)

On Nov 2, EPA said it will give preliminary approval to FDEP's proposed numeric nutrient rule, without reviewing the comments submitted by so many of us on this very ineffective draft rule set. It appears EPA is posturing for the 2012 election. [Details] [EPA Letter]

Lake O Through Gray Eyes (2011-11-12)

Audubon writer Ted Williams and photoprapher Katherine Wolkoff toured Lake Okeechobee with Audubon scientist Dr. Paul Gray and FWC biologist Don Fox to learn about the lake's history, degradation, and prospects for improvement. [Audubon] [Don Fox] [Photo Gallery] [Life Support]

IFAS Sustainability Conference (2011-11-11)

UF-IFAS Extension faculty Roy Beckford and Martha Avila, with the support of Lee County Commissioner Ray Judah and North Port Commissioner Linda Yates, convened a very successful sustainability conference in Ft. Myers on Nov 10. [WINK News] [Agenda] [Roy Beckford] [Linda Yates]

Too Strict, But Pointless (2011-11-11)

CWN says Rich Budell of the Florida Dept of Agriculture claims that the new DEP/EPA water quality regulations are too stringent for agriculture, but nevertheless won't affect agriculture. So maybe the proposed rules are contradictory..and pointless? [CWN Report] [Socialized Pollution]

We Got Lucky! (2011-11-05)

Farmers told Riverwatch that if we were going to be saved from a 2011 dry season drought, it would happen in October. They were right! This Oct was the 4th wettest ever whereas Oct 2010 was the driest ever. [Briefing] [2010 vs 2011] [Current Restrictions]

Super (Food) Committee? (2011-11-03)

The Super Committee was given 1 job - reduce the federal deficit. But somehow their duties expanded to include passing the Farm Bill – just the Farm Bill. It may be a secretive effort to cut the few ag programs & policies protecting our environment. [Rivers Network] [Florida Independent] [cartoon]

WaterSIP funding (2011-11-02)

SFWMD approved grants for its Water Savings Incentive Program (WaterSIP). Cape Coral, LaBelle and Port LaBelle are among the 9 south Florida utilities receiving these under $50,000 grants for water conservation projects in their communities. [News Release]

Riverwatch Hosts SFWMD (2011-10-31)

The October Riverwatch meeting held in LaBelle featured a presentation by SFWMD officials, Tommy Strowd (Dep. Exec. Dir.) and Dr. Susan Gray (Chief Scientist) on the design and progress of the C-43 West Reservoir at Berry Grove. [Group] [Tommy Strowd] [Dr. Susan Gray]

More Rain...Please? (2011-10-31)

October rain has raised Lake O to 13.5 ft, exactly where it was a year ago. But last year the estuary received less than half its MFL (200 rather than 450 cfs). Since water continues to flow dfrom the Kissimmee Basin, so the lake could reach 14 ft. [Lake Okeechobee Stage]

Manatee Rescue (2011-10-31)

The days are getting cooler, and Eastern Seaboard and Gulf of Mexico residents are asked to report sightings of endangered manatees to their local Marine Mammal Stranding Network. [Details] [Phone numbers] [Save the Manatee Club]

River of Grass Restoration (2011-10-31)

At the October 27 Task Force meeting the federal government and the State of Florida announced a fast-track planning effort to improve the Central and Southern Everglades by putting more fresh and clean water into the River of Grass. [Details]

Clean Water Rules Too Weak? (2011-10-31)

The state's most recent attempt at developing standards for water quality in lakes, rivers and estuaries is under attack from critics who say the draft rules are too weak and won't satisfy the Federal Clean Water Act. [News Service of Florida]

Sanibel Comment to FDEP (2011-10-21)

James Evans, biologist for the City of Sanibel offered comments to FDEP regarding the Proposed Revisions to the Estuarine Numeric Nutrient Criteria. James says the opportunity for public input was insufficient & the comment period should be extended. [City of Sanibel comments]

Ceitus Lawsuit (2011-10-22)

On Oct 25 the Lee County BOCC voted 4-0 authorizing the County Attorney to enter mediation and then, if unsuccessful, file the Ceitus lawsuit against Cape Coral. CRCA President Pete Quasius also spoke at the meeting in support of this action. [Details] [Buchanan Comments]

What You Can Do (2011-10-14)

While we can't do much to control pollution from Lake O & farm runoff, we can reduce the pollution reaching the Caloosahatchee from our own homes and lawns. CRCA has prepared a few suggestions on how you can limit contamination of stormwater runoff. [CRCA Suggestions]

Rooney Says Drill (2011-10-29)

U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney is pushing a jobs bill advocating offshore oil & natural gas exploration in Florida's waters - despite a two-decade-old state ban on the practice. It's a bad proposal for a state whose economy depend on clean air & clean water. [TCPalm]

Fast-Track Planning for Glades (2011-10-29)

Federal and state officials announced before SFERTF major revisions to the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). The new plan, to be developed over 18 months, calls for such action in order to get projects moving forward at a faster pace. [Audubon of Florida News]

Restoring the Everglades (2011-10-29)

Jacksonville District and its partners are working hard to restore the treasured Everglades ecosystem. View the "Restoring the Everglades" video produced by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District to learn more. [View the Video]

All-In-One Guide (2011-10-29)

Menasha Ridge Press is pleased to announce the publication of the much anticipated Paddling the Everglades Wilderness Waterway by Florida locals, Holly Genzen & Anne McCrary Sullivan. This book is your all-in-one guide to Florida's 99-mile treasure. [Details] [Purchase at Menasharidge.com] [Purchase at Amazon.com]

Karenia Brevis Bloom (2011-10-29)

The Karenia brevis bloom, first reported last month in SW Florida, currently extends offshore of Sanibel Island (Lee County). Widespread fish kills have been associated with this bloom & respiratory irritation is possible in & around the bloom areas. [Details] [Map of Red Tide counts] [Tables & maps]

Action Alert (2011-10-29)

The Super Committee is making decisions that will profoundly affect the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink & other environmental factors that keep us healthy or prevent illness. Tell the committee to tackle the budget the right way! [Details] [Website]

In a State of Flux (2011-10-29)

NASA published their 100th image in their State of Flux gallery showing images of change around our planet. So hopefully by now you’re in awe of our home planet & the ways in which it is constantly changing, & aware of the impact us humans can have. [Images] [More images of change]

Women Outdoor Weekend (2011-10-28)

Women's outdoor weekend is on March 16-18, 2012 at Caloosahatchee Regional Park. Come out and experience tent camping, hayride, kayaking, wood burning, archery, fishing, camp cooking, and more. Don't forget to bring your friends, sisters, and moms! [Details]

Tamiami Trail Bridge (2011-10-26)

A one-mile bridge under construction on the Tamiami Trail west of Miami will help restore water's flow to a dry area of Everglades National Park. Tamiami Trail bridge restores flow to Everglades, but it won't be enough. [Tampa Bay] [Images]

Global Warming is Real (2011-10-24)

A new climate study shows that since the mid-1950s, global average temperatures over land have risen by 0.9 degrees Celsius (1.6 F), confirming previous studies that have found a climate that has been warming in fits & starts since around 1900. [Details]

Water Watch Briefing (2011-10-24)

Two significant rainfall events in October have helped replenish ground and surface water supplies in the South Florida Water Management District's 16-county region. However, water levels in some areas are still below normal for this time of year. [Details] [Website]

Fresh Water Needs (2011-10-24)

Data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service reflect the healthy productivity and yields of sugarcane during our worst drought years when the Caloosahatchee has been completely cut off and suffered losses of tapegrass and fisheries. [Data]

Sea Level Rise (2011-10-24)

The rising sea will wash across great swaths of South Florida. Salt water will contaminate the well fields. Roads and farmland and low-lying neighborhoods will be inundated. The soil will no longer absorb the recent, kind of heavy rainfalls. [Miami Herald]

Erie Algae (2011-10-21)

Although it is said that misery enjoys company, it brings no pleasure to people along the Caloosahatchee to see our fellow Americans and Canadians along Lake Erie experiencing algae blooms comparable to what we experience all too often. [Science News Blog] [Earth Observation-NASA]

Action Alert (2011-10-21)

Send emails to FL DEP to let them know that thousands of Floridians want the toxic algal blooms, fish kills and sick waters to end. Please do all that you can to fully engage in this campaign to get protection from nutrients in Florida’s waters. [Details]

We Bought It, They Farm It (2011-10-21)

In June 2004 Gov. Charlie Chris signed a deal with the US Sugar Corporation, for the state to pay $1.75 billion buying US Sugar's property to use for Everglades restoration. Today US Sugar is still farming the land after SFWMD bought 26,791 acres. [Highlands Today]

Water Atlas Website (2011-10-21)

CHNEP has developed a new fully operational Water Atlas website. This is one of the most useful and valuable resources. Here you can find virtually any water resource data you can think of in the 8 county CHNEP area. The website is updated daily. [Details] [Website]

Rivers Saturated With Carbon (2011-10-21)

According to researchers, rivers and streams in the U.S. are releasing substantially more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than previously thought. Significant amount of carbon in land is leaking into streams and rivers, then to the atmosphere. [NSF.gov] [Images]

Algae vs Wastewater Treatment (2011-10-21)

Some point to algae systems as a way to remove N & P from lake & runoff waters. But currently, technologies like the algae Turfscrubber cost $15-$60 per lb N removed. By comparison, wastewater plants cost $23-$28, reuse $27-$190, & STA's $150-$500. [Turf Scrubber]

Water Shell Game (2011-10-20)

John Cassani in his comment titled Caloosahatchee woes begin with corrupt pro-farm policy, addressed an important process issue in regard to the quantity of consumptive use permits issued, the volume of water they represent & their periodic renewal. [News-Press]

SFWMD to Increase Water Storage (2011-10-21)

The SFWMD Governing Board approved eight cost-effective projects to increase water storage on ranches north of Lake Okeechobee while improving water quality for the Everglades as well as for the lake and coastal estuaries. [Details]

An Apt Parable (2011-10-20)

So many ecological debates simply pit one group of would-be resource consumers against a competing group of new or existing consumers. Both understand the system can take only so much, so they each want to be the one to reap the economic benefits. [Sun-Sentinel] [Palm Beach Post] [Daily Show]

The Other Shoe (2011-10-20)

As predicted, with the North Spreader Canal stormwater treatment system gone from removal of Ceitus Boat Lift, the next target of polluters will be the South Spreader-the last of the 3 original spreader systems set up to control pollution in Cape Co. [Cape Coral Daily Breeze]

Remembering Ellen Peterson (2011-10-20)

Ellen Peterson nee Salisbury 87, of Estero, Florida passed away on Oct 14, 2011. She was born in Georgia on Dec 5, 1923. Ellen Peterson was a fierce, protective voice for all living creatures on Earth: human, animal and plant. Ellen is our hero! [Ellen Peterson] [Going-away Celebrations]

Start Over, SFWMD (2011-10-20)

Nicodemus Slough was once so important to the state that it paid millions to purchase it from Lykes. Later it was turned back over to Lykes for nothing in a deal without meaningful public input. SFWMD now pay Lykes to store water there. [Highlands Today]

Thank Heaven, It Rained! (2011-10-20)

The storm system that swept across South & Central Florida on Saturday, October 8, 2011 didn’t quite measure up to Tropical Storm Fay, which single-handedly busted a two-year-long drought in 2008. But it came close, by making big dent in the drought. [Miami Herald]

Land, What Land? (2011-10-20)

Noticeably absent from Gov Scott's "restoration plan" for the Everglades is any use of the 27,000 acres SFWMD bought from US Sugar for $197 million. At thet time, in 2010, water managers assured taxpayers that the land was necessary for the clean-up [Palm Beach Post]

Drought, What Drought? (2011-10-17)

In a record drought year when the Caloosahatchee estuary received less than half its state mandated MFL, the other big user of Lake O water is setting sugarcane harvest records. The shared adversity concept of water allocation is clearly a farce. [Palm Beach Post 1] [Palm Beach Post 2]

Judge Moreno Ruling (2011-10-17)

Florida needs to do more to address polluting phosphorus flowing into the northern reaches of the Everglades, but shouldn't face punishment for not yet meeting cleanup thresholds, according to a federal court ruling released September 30. [Sun-Sentinel] [Re: Judge Moreno Ruling] [Image]

Simply Not Good Enough (2011-10-17)

Commenting on the draft Charlotte Harbor Estuarine Numeric Nutrient Criteria, the Watershed Council opposes CHNEP's proposal to create standards that would maintain pollution levels of the past 14 years & allow exceedances of these degraded levels. [Details] [Comment Letter]

Action Alert (2011-10-17)

FDEP drafted a state rule that would replace the EPA numeric nutrient criteria. Let's bombard FDEP with our comments against the draft rule & prove that Floridians do not want less protection for our water bodies but rather, we want more protection. [Details] [Policy Alert]

Good News (2011-10-17)

By taking advantage of low water levels that extended into the summer wet season, the SFWMD was able to complete several successful environmental enhancement projects, such as planting native trees and bulrush and stocking apple snail eggs. [Details]

Karenia Bloom Image (2011-10-17)

Beautiful MERIS aerial image taken on Sep 9th in the Gulf off Sarasota & Lemon Bays of what appears to be red tide blooms. The area outlined in magenta is K.brevis. The area to the north extending to Sarasota also with high FLH may also be K.brevis. [Image] [MERIS Images]

Eric Draper Comment (2011-10-17)

Eric Draper of Audubon of Florida says that continued investment in our future water infrastructure and natural systems is necessary for Florida's future. Lower credit ratings could hinder efforts to, for example, restore the Everglades. [TCPalm]

Oil Spill Dramatic Effects on Fish (2011-10-14)

Despite low concentrations of oil constituents in Gulf of Mexico waters from the Deepwater Horizon spill, fish were dramatically affected by toxic components of the oil. So found a team led by scientists Fernando Galvez and Andrew Whitehead of LSU. [NSF.org] [Photos]

Everglades Division Disbanded (2011-10-14)

The Army Corps of Engineers disbanded its Everglades Division, signaling another potential slowdown for overdue restoration of the famed River of Grass and boosting South Fla's water supply. Army Corps says this doesn't derail Everglades restoration. [Sun-Sentinel]

Unexpected Consequences (2011-09-25)

Sierra Club is suing University of Florida for violation of public records law because UF won't provide all information about its publication titled “Unintended Consequences” - a report used by some to fight against local fertilizer ordinances. [Gainesville Sun] [Sierra] [IFAS Pub]

Oceans and Global Climate (2011-09-25)

The study, based on computer simulations of global climate leads to new conclusions. New findings on a link between oceans and global climate look at ocean depths. [NSF.gov] [Images] [Details]

Most Anti-Environment House (2011-09-25)

Since the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives changed hands last Nov, the House has voted 125 times to undermine environmental laws and voted to block actions to protect the environment. This is the most anti-environment House in history. [Bay Daily]

Buck Island Ranch (2011-09-25)

A ditch stores water on Buck Island Ranch in Lake Placid. The ranch is part of a pilot program to store water on private lands, which reduces the nutrients running into Lake Okeechobee and, sequentially, into the Everglades. [News-Press] [Where the water is stored]

Conflict of Interest Debate (2011-09-25)

The News Press says SFWMD must revisit awarding $21 million to Lykes Bros, Inc. over the next 10 years for water storage. Storage is a good idea. The problem is the governing board’s chairman Joe Collins also happens to be vice president of Lykes. [News-Press] [Watery] [Audubon Disagrees]

Hickey Creek Park Programs (2011-09-25)

Lee County Parks & Recreation announces its October programs at Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park (17980 Palm Beach Boulevard). The pograms include Guided Walk, Caloosahatchee to Hickey’s Creek Kayak Trip and Astronomy for Amateurs. [Details] [Brochure] [Map]

SFWMD Surplus Land (2011-09-25)

For sale...SFWMD surplus lands! These are SFWMD properties that are not needed for mission-related projects and may be (a) sold by public bid; (b) given to another governmental entity; or (c) swapped for needed land. [Lee County] [Hendry County] [Glades County]

Destruction Is Necessary (2011-09-24)

Pine Tarr, Inc. (Publix shopping center developers on Pine Island) say destruction of mangroves is necessary. That's nonsense! Lee Co. staff statistics show Pine Island has 754 acres of commercially zoned properties, 56% of which is vacant. [Details]

No Substitute for Phosphorus (2011-09-24)

Globally, farmers use more than 17 million tons of mined P, costing nearly 30% of their budget. With current minable P deposits running out, it raises the question of why we allow so much of it to be wasted to water pollution. [Details] [Future] [Foreign Policy] [USGS Stats] [Minerals]

The Less Deadly Fish (2011-09-24)

The mercury problem has gotten so bad that Martin County has released a list of the fish that are less likely to kill you if eaten. It's part of a booklet designed to promote better health among pregnant women and the rest of the population. [TCPalm] [Get the Booklet]

Lake Bed Burning Has Benefits (2011-09-24)

Audubon chief scientist Dr. Paul Gray says that the Lake Okeechobee fires actually have some benefits. The fire can burn away ragweed, torpedo grass and other out-of-place plants. As in 2007, the Indian Prairie area is burning in 2011. [Sun-Sentinel] [Global Fires]

How Dry Is It? (2011-09-24)

It's so dry that Lake O's bottom is burning. About 400 acres in Glades Co. inside the levee is on fire due to the low water levels uncovering organic (carbon-rich) soils which can burn when dried out. Muck fires this early in the year are rare. [TBO.com]

FGCU Service Learning (2011-09-24)

On Sep 22, CRCA directors Margaret England & Marti Daltry signed up FGCU student volunteers interested in doing their "service learning" hours with Riverwatch. Helping with the table were Intelligentsia International interns Cedric, Mickael & Lutz. [Photo]

Mica & Orwellian Doublespeak! (2011-09-24)

In a letter fitting of George Orwell's 1984 Doublespeak, Rep. John Mica, claims (with a straight face) that Florida was solving its water quality problems before EPA attempted to enforce pollution limits. He blames EPA for Clean Water Act failures. [The St. Augustine Record]

Splashable Is Laughable! (2011-09-24)

EPA's recent approval of the FL DEP downgrading of state water bodies represents a massive retreat from cleaning up state waters. No longer are all Class III waters required to be swimmable & fishable. Now, "splashable" is considered good enough. [TampaBay.com] [Context]

Oxbow Survey Continues (2011-09-24)

On Sep 15 Robert Neal, civil engineer with Lee Co. Natural Resources Dept, assisted USF student Chloe Delhomme in her Caloosahatchee oxbows thesis research. The data collection trip was joined by Chloe's supervisors Kamal Alsharif & John Capece. [Photo1] [Photo2]

Jim English to Lee BOCC (2011-09-23)

Pioneering family member Jim English addressed the Lee County BOCC about water management from Babcock Ranch, saying that the farming areas should develop water retention systems to halt the sheetflow crossing his property to the Caloosahatchee. [Video]

Historical Estuary Flows (2011-09-23)

Research supports 650 to 2400 cfs as the healthy flow range to the Caloosahatchee estuary. A 1927 report by the George B. Hills Co estimates 1926 (a hurricane year) dry season average flow as 900 cfs. The question remains what were historical lows.

It Will Be Really Bad! (2011-09-23)

Corps of Engineers Col. Alfred Pantano told the Lee County BOCC that this next year will be really bad relative to Lake O water levels. He also restated the Corps' support for moving water south when there is too much, benefiting the Caloosahatchee. [Video]

Lake - Estuary Trade? (2011-09-23)

At the Sep 15 Watershed Council NGO water issues summit, a discussion with agricultural representatives led to the idea of creating a Caloosahatchee Estuary water reservation in exchange for agreeing to higher Lake O littoral water stages. [Picture]

Human Influences on Wildfires (2011-09-23)

Since the 1970s, wildfire are 4 times as frequency and consume 6 times as much land costing $1.5 billion per year. The National Science Foundation is exploring a new framework for evaluating human influences on wildfires. [NSF.gov]

Leaking Pipes Nationwide (2011-09-18)

Leaky water distribution pipes are a problem nationally, not just in Port LaBelle's 10 years old HDPE pipes. Dr. Sunil Sinha at Virginian Tech Univ has assembled a database called WATERiD to help understand when pipes might fail in future years. [Details] [WATERiD]

Help With Manatee Safety (2011-09-16)

Boaters can be active participants in manatee protection by holding aloft Save the Manatee Club’s public awareness banner whenever a manatee is sighted in areas where boats are motoring close by. Request for the free banners today! [Details]

What is the Farm Bill? (2011-09-16)

The 2012 Farm Bill will be hotly debated in Congress over the next year as members look to cut spending from the federal budget. [Web Site] [Video]

Obama EPA Caves In (2011-09-13)

Both Republicans & Democratic administrations are doing very little for water quality & the environment. In the latest capitulation, the Obama EPA approved Florida's reclassification of water bodies to avoid cleaning them up. How disheartening! [Linda Young] [Cartoon]

No Red Tide All Year (2011-09-13)

The Sep 2 status report of FWS shows that Karenia brevis, the Florida red tide organism, was not detected in waters of SW Florida nor has it been a problem throughout 2011. This may be due to the relatively low rainfall & runoff during the past year. [Red Tide Summary Report]

TMDL Tracker Release 2.0 (2011-09-13)

The DEP Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration is pleased to let you know about the availability of TMDL Tracker Release 2.0, a web application that allows users to retrieve information regarding TMDLs throughout Florida. [Details] [User Guidance]

Sea Level Rise & Our Aquifers (2011-09-13)

A rise in sea level of 1 inch results in 40 inches of lost fresh water below sea level inland. Thus, sea level rise will affect salt water intrusion far more than the damage already done by man in lowering Florida's fresh water aquifer levels. [Miami Herald]

Lean Restoration Machine (2011-09-13)

Meeker claims reducing spending at the SFWMD is not curtailing Everglades restoration efforts but streamlining operations, eliminating unnecessary expenses & getting back to its core mission of flood control, water supply & ecosystem restoration. [TCPalm]

Hammond Remains on WRAC (2011-09-13)

SFWMD Board Chairman Joe Collins has reappointed Dr. Hammond to service on the SFWMD Water Resources Advistory Committee. This group meets periodically to consider issues of the region & make recommendations on District strategies & specific actions.

Dispersed Storage Projects (2011-09-13)

While its large, centralized storage projects may be having trouble moving ahead, SFWMD is implementing a series of water storage projects on private agricultural lands. These help reduce high flows to Lake O and the Caloosahatchee. [Presentation (3.13MB)]

Economics of Droughts (2011-09-12)

Droughts and floods in Florida cost millions, perhaps billions, of dollars in damages every year. A solution to high-cost droughts and floods is to restore the Everglades ecosystem so as we are able to better manage droughts, floods and reduce costs. [Palm Beach]

Send Us Your Logo Ideas (2011-09-11)

Riverwatch is exploring the idea of adopting a new logo. Our current logo is actually a graphic from the 1994 NewsPress "River At Risk" series of articles and community forum, which led to the creation of CRCA. Send in your ideas for a new logo. [Logo Memo] [Current Logo] [Map Concept Logo]

Wanted: Status Quo Ante (2011-09-10)

To open up Fisheating Creek to canoes, dredging created too much flow. Weirs were built to halt the drainage. Now the question is, when can these weirs be removed, so the creek can once again be called south FL's last natural stream? [Details] [Editorial] [Audubon] [Pics]

The Ripple Effect E-News (2011-09-10)

Governing Board Chairman Joe Collins invites everyone to view The Ripple Effect, the South Florida Water Management District's monthly electronic newsletter that covers the latest water news — straight from the source. [August Ripple E-News]

Oxbow Restoration Revisited (2011-08-11)

As his internship with Intelligentsia International, Environmental Engineering student Sean Foorman of Stanford Univ is studing Oxbow 24, restored in 2005. Some of the equipment has been provided by John Cassani of LCHCD. [Photo 1]

Thank You Dan & Nancy (2011-08-11)

Riverwatch awarded Dan Morrissey & Nancy Smith of Alva certificates of appreciation for hosting USF graduate student Chloe Delhomme in their home during her oxbow thesis research data collection project. [Data Collection Photo]

Stearns Shuts Out Public (2011-08-10)

In the latest example of one-sided public policy, Congressman Stearns is refusing to invite any clean-water advocates or members of the public to testify at a Congressional hearing on EPA's proposed limits for sewage, fertilizer & manure in FL waters [Florida Sportsman]

Ignorance Is Bliss (2011-08-10)

FL Dept of Health plans to curtail beach safety testing and is seeking federal approval. It seems the simplest way to solve the problem of unsafe beaches caused by bacteria & other contaminants is to stop the programs that test the water for safety. [News Journal]

Oxbows Research Report (2011-08-10)

At the Aug 3 meeting of Riverwatch two Intelligentsia International students, Sean Foorman from Stanford and Jeremie Sage from the National School of Public Works Engineering (France) reported on the 2011 survey of all 38 Caloosahatchee oxbows.

Maybe If You Squint (2011-08-10)

Fla. Crystals claims it is Carbon Free, as certified by Carbonfund.org. A full system analysis shows all farming on drained organic soils is not carbon free, rather it generates huge volumes of greenhouse gases from oxidation of the high-carbon soil. [Greenwashing] [Wright & Reddy] [Florida Crystals] [Web Site]

Emily Could Bring Rain (2011-08-04)

Tropical Storm Emily could bring the extended soaking water managers say is needed to lift South Florida out of a lingering drought. Storm projections on August 2 showed Tropical Storm Emily passing over or east of South Florida by Saturday. [Sun-Sentinel]

Florida Falling Behind (2011-08-04)

Two years ago, the Sunshine State seemed poised to assume its natural role as a national leader in renewable energy. Now, instead of emerging as a leader, Florida lags behind 29 other states in developing a renewable energy policy. [Tampa Bay]

Regulating Water Pollution (2011-08-04)

Florida is restarting efforts to develop tougher water pollution regulations to avoid an impending federal takeover of that responsibility. The EPA, though, remains set to implement its own standards if it finds the new state rules unacceptable. [Naples News]

Water Law Must Change (2011-08-04)

If state law truly requires that water managers starve the Caloosahatchee River system in favor of others in a drought, that law needs to change. Water releases are crucial to the river's health and its estuary in droughts such as the one we're in. [News-Press]

Caloosahatchee at Risk (2011-08-04)

The Caloosahatchee is in trouble. From toxic algae blooms to waterborne fecal bacteria, the river's health is under near-constant assault. Scientists now know more about it but whether research will be enough to restore the river is an open question. [Web Site]

Algae Blooms Everywhere Now (2011-08-04)

Algae blooms and dead zones are an annual occurrence for many water bodies, and this year seems to be worse than many. A dead zone is developing in the Chesapeake Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico. A huge algae bloom is covering Yellow Sea in China too. [Stormwater]

Ceitus - Memo (2011-08-03)

Memo to all Ceitus environmental stakeholders: Attached is a copy of Lee County's appeal to the Florida Second District Court of Appeal. It was filed on July 2011 and the case number is 2D11-3401. [Memo] [Appeal]

Water Wars (2011-08-03)

During South Florida's ongoing drought, water managers have continued to release water from Lake O to agriculture, utilities and industry-entities that have what are known as consumptive use permits. That left the environment high and dry. [News-Press] [Commentary]

Inland Freight Station (2011-08-03)

The Florida Crystals proposed site for an inland port is located west of Belle Glade and north of South Bay. The site was negotiated with 1000 Friends of Florida as an acceptable location that would not interfere with any future flow way.

Mercury and Agriculture (2011-08-03)

The entire state of Florida is under a mercury advisory for more than 70 species of saltwater and freshwater fish, explains Melodie Naja, a water quality scientist. Eating them too frequently can cause serious neurological problems. [TCPalm]

You Must Be Kidding (2011-08-03)

A ruling this month by a federal appeals court essentially giving the OK for the Corps to continue polluting the St. Lucie River might seem ludicrous to most people, but it's deadly serious and a continuing affront to the people of this region. [TCPalm]

Public Enemy: Methylmercury (2011-08-02)

Rivers Coalition, who for years have been fighting pollution of the St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon by nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, was told that the South FL ecosystem may have a more serious public enemy #1: methylmercury. [TCPalm]

Who Is Sunshine State News? (2011-08-02)

Who are these people at Sunshine State News operating as the Fox News of FL print journalism. Editor Nancy Smith (unrelated to CRCA member Nancy of Alva) produces much of its content after, self admittedly, "30 minutes in a rubber room to recover." [Eye on Miami]

Doing Much With Little (2011-08-02)

The River Network released a staffing and budget survey of 91 watershed organizations across the USA. The median budget of the responding groups is $300,000. This compares to Riverwatch's annual budget of around $12,000. [Sallary Survey]

How Wrong Can She Be? (2011-08-02)

Nancy Smith of Sunshine State "News" assails Audubon's Eric Draper and misrepresents the causes of improper Lake O water releases. Anyone involved in the process knows the Corps often tries to do the right thing, but SFWMD sways the decisions. [Sunshine News] [Draper Response] [Audubon Letter]

Sugar Program (2011-08-02)

Mary Barley of Everglades Trust wonders if Frank Ortis who applauded the sugar program knows the truth about this program. The sugar program has made Big Sugar very rich. Big Sugar can buy the favors of politicians with ease, and it does just that. [Gainesville.com]

Facts & Fiction (2011-08-02)

Rae Ann Wessel of SCCF in her recent commentary said that the serious and persistent algae blooms that continue to affect Southwest Florida — and other areas of the state — are the direct result of too much nutrient enrichment of our region's waters. [Captiva Sanibel]

Estuary Economics Off Agenda (2011-08-02)

The National Academy of Sciences held a meeting on Jul 25-26, 2011 in Orlando to review of EPA's economic analysis of final water quality standards for nutrients for lakes and flowing waters in Florida. No estuary economics were on agenda. [Agenda]

Win in Court, Lose in Reality (2011-07-27)

In the 20 years since the state settled a lawsuit over restoring the Everglades & then violated the settlement, a cottage industry of well-paid lawyers specializing in the Everglades cleanup has been arguing: who is to blame & how to get the job done [Palm Beach Post]

Water Restriction Relief? (2011-07-26)

Because of South Florida's lack of water storage, about 10 billion gallons of stormwater was drained into the ocean from local flood-control canals during the first two weeks of July, according to the SFWMD. [Sun-Sentinel]

Nutrients Not The Cause? (2011-07-26)

A long list of companies and organizations attempt to claim that nutrients are not the cause of the 2011 algae blooms in the Caloosahatchee. They blame the lack of flow. Obviously they are wrong. Clean stagnant water will not bloom into algae.

Old Do-Nothing Proposal (2011-07-26)

Cape to repeat same old do-nothing proposal. It is the identical plan Cape Coral ordered their contractors to put in the EMA report last fall. They continue to claim this plan to be the product of the EMA Committee even though it was voted down. [Details] [Spotlight on Cape Coral]

Report Fish Kills (2011-07-26)

Many factors may contribute to a fish kill. Some fish kills are complex and involve a variety of factors that may not be easily discernable. Report fish kills, even though they're common this time of year. The FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511. [The Marine Scene] [Report Fish Kill]

Energy Investment (2011-07-26)

Global investment in renewable energy research shows China as number one, followed by U.S. and Europe. China leads the way in investing in renewable clean energy technologies (wind, solar, biomass, biofuels, etc.). [Details]

Water Watch Briefing (2011-07-26)

According to the SFWMD Jul 11, 2011 water watch briefing, frequent rain over the last few weeks of the wet season has improved drought conditions, but significant time and rainfall are necessary for this short-term relief to bring long-term recovery. [Water Watch Briefing]

Students Wrap Up Project (2011-07-25)

Chloe Delhomme, Jeremie Sage and Sean Foorman led the group of 10 students surveying all the Caloosahatchee oxbows this summer. The 2011 survey will be the most complete since the SFWMD survey in 1978. CRCA also did surveys in 1996, 2001, and 2005. [Hendry Glades]

Restricting EPA Water Rules (2011-07-25)

The U.S. House of Representatives took a wrong turn with passage of a measure that would restrict the EPA from imposing stricter water quality standards on states. This is a disservice to Florida’s fragile and polluted waterways. [Bradenton]

Predicting Abundance of Species (2011-07-25)

Animal species all follow the same rule for how common they are in an ecosystem, scientists have discovered. And the rule is simple. Research leads to new "scaling" rule for abundance and production of animals. [Size Abundance] [NSF.gov]

Caution for Collier Beachgoers (2011-07-25)

Collier County officials warned people should exercise caution when going to the beach as there are a large number of stressed and dying animals in the surf zone that could cause injury if stepped on. Algae appears to be killing and stressing fish. [News-Press]

Flood Insurance Reform (2011-07-25)

House of Representatives voted to reform the National Flood Insurance Program. H.R. 1309, the Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2011, extends the program and provides funding for it through 2016. [Stormwater]

Losing On All Fronts (2011-07-24)

Non-native lionfish have been sighted from Miami to North Carolina since 2002. They were first documented in the Keys in 2009 and have recently been found off Lee County. Intruder dines on a region's native fish. [News-Press] [Lionfish sighting reports]

Another Step Backward in Cape (2011-07-24)

To avoid a water rates increase, Cape Coral may downgrade its biosolids wastewater product from Class AA to Class B. City Council supported moving forward with outsourcing its biosolids production. The Cape always chooses cheap over clean. [Daily Breeze]

Watching, Not Doing (2011-07-24)

Rodger Schlickeisen, President of the Defenders of Wildlife in his recent commentary analysis stated that Obama's administration’s conservation record falls far short of what it promised, what was expected of it and – most importantly - what we need. [Details]

Rock Mining (2011-07-24)

Frustrated with stalled Everglades restoration, Palm Beach Co. Commission Chairwoman Karen Marcus contends that state and federal officials need to hurry up and determine what land is needed for Everglades restoration before it ends up as rock mines. [Sun-Sentinel]

August Riverwatch Meeting (2011-07-18)

At the Aug 3 Riverwatch board meeting, Jeremie Sage and Sean Foorman will describe research surveys of the 38 oxbows from Franklin Lock to LaBelle. The meeting will be 6:30pm at the Bridge Street Coffee House in LaBelle. [Location] [Boot Data]

Letter to the Editor (2011-07-22)

Michael Collins a former chairman of SFWMD in response to the op-ed commentary "Would you trade water for a pizza? Our governor did," said Florida needs to support a well-planned, scientifically sound Everglades restoration blueprint like the CERP. [Palm Beach Post]

Fertilizing the River (2011-07-21)

Lawn fertilizing practices that would be illegal in Lee County are common practice in Hendry & Glades Counties, where lawn maintenance companies & homeowners regularly improperly fertilizer, dumping nitrogen & phosphorus into the Caloosahatchee.
[Lee Rules] [Hendry/Glades Photo]

Dirty Water Bill (2011-07-21)

Thanks to those who wrote or called House members about HR 2018, the Dirty Water Bill. Unfortunately the House passed the bill by a vote of 239-184. In the weeks ahead the bill will be sent to the Senate and we will ask for your support again. [Details] [Think Progress]

Another Nail in the Ceitus Coffin (2011-07-21)

On June 1, DEP dismissed with prejudice the Chap 120 action of Lee County appealing the denial of the Ceitus Barrier reconstruction permit. The appeal was joined by The Snook Foundation, Greater Pine Island Civic Assoc and Southeast Florida Council. [Final Order of Dismissal]

Mangrove Law Under Attack (2011-07-21)

The developer-proposed repeal of mangrove protection on Pine Island was presented to the Lee County Commission in June. Commissioner Judah has since said he will vote against the proposal when it comes up for final review (September or October). [Letter]

Meeker Calls for Patience (2011-07-19)

The new executive director of the SFWMD wants "patience"? We're all out. Only results will satisfy South Florida residents jaded by years of bureaucratic failures and false promises — and noxious requests for "patience." [TCPalm]

Lake Rises to 10 Feet (2011-07-19)

Lake Okeechobee water level rose above 10ft on July 14 & reached 10.20 on July 21, another sign of South Florida’s improved water supply situation thanks to a July drenching. Lake O in June had dipped below 10 feet for the first time since 2008. [Sun-Sentinel]

John Mica Guts Clean Water (2011-07-14)

Representative John Mica of Florida was the primary sponsor of HR2018 that passed the House and amends the Clean Water Act to eliminate Federal authority over water quality. If the bill passes the Senate, President Obama says he will veto. [St. Petersburg Times] [Summary]

Algae Bloom Effects (2011-07-14)

The Everglades Foundation explains the algae blooms in the Caloosahatchee. It is important to know the varying types of algae as well as the types of toxins present in algae. These toxins impact wildlife AND human health. Plus its just plain icky. [Everglades Foundation] [Mark Renz Algae] [Renz Photos]

Alva Up in Arms (2011-07-14)

Alva residents are making a statement: We need to take control of the algae blooms. Despite the blooms having washed to sea, Alva is still concerned. The small town compares the algae bloom to the BP oil spill, traceable to corporate indifference. [Florida Independent]

Setting New Lows (2011-07-12)

Average ice extent fell below that of June 2007, the previous record low year. The Arctic ice has entered a critical period; the next few weeks' weather will determine if the Arctic sea ice cover will set new record lows for the entire year. [Graph] [National Snow & Ice Center]

Learn About Paddle Florida (2011-07-12)

The goals of the group Paddle Florida are to promote water conservation, wildlife preservation, restoration of Florida springs and waterway protection. Its web page documents many paddling trips around the state, but they have yet to visit SW FL. [Paddle Florida]

Is Nitrogen the Next Carbon? (2011-07-12)

The application of nitrogen into our ecosystems via fertilizer and other uses has potential to alter our environment's future. Our widespread use of nitrogen could have a greater impact on the environment than carbon. [Yale Environment 360]

Mine It From Our River (2011-07-12)

Phosphate mined in the USA comes from Florida, which has 10% of the known world reserves. Most Florida P has already been mined and the world will probably reach "Peak P" in 2030. Thus, wasting it in ways that contaminate our waters is very foolish.
[Yale Environment 360]

Help Needed On Pine Island (2011-07-12)

The Florida Sea Grant is planning a scallop search on Pine Island. Both snorkelers and boat captains are needed to help monitor the scallop population in the bay. See the flyer for more details. [Florida Sea Grant]

We Can Pollute; You Cannot Sue (2011-07-12)

In a classic case of Catch-22, a federal court has ruled that if you wait to sue the government until after evidence of pollution is apparent then you lose for waiting too long. If you sue early you still lose for lack of evidence of actual harm. [TCPalm]

Outreach To EPA (2011-07-12)

Floridia environmental groups reached out to the EPA for federal water quality standards. This toxic algae bloom has Floridians concerned about the future of our water. The Caloosahatchee, and the rest of SW Florida, cannot afford recurring algae. [Florida Current] [Florida Water Coalition]

Not Smarter Than a 7th Grader? (2011-07-12)

Even a climate change denier can't deny the harmful effects of algae blooms. U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe swam in waters his young granddaughter called "that green stuff" and refused to enter. Now Inhofe says the algae made him severely ill. How telling! [Tulsa World]

Water Class Warfare? (2011-07-12)

The major water users in Palm Beach have neighbors angry and are receiving warnings and citations from code enforcers. It is incredible how much water they used in Palm Beach, even during the most extreme dry season on record. [Wall Street Journal]

River Making Economic Impacts (2011-07-12)

Crabbing has been poor due to the high salinity in the Caloosahatchee. To help the blue crab, a 10-day closed season was put in place. This exemplifies the economic significance of the Caloosahatchee. Take care of it and it will take care of us. [News-Press]

The Truth of Tomatoes (2011-07-12)

Tomatoes is a water user and a source of agricultural income for our region. It is also one of the sources of fertilizer and pesticide inputs to our waters. As the NPR report explains, here in Florida we farm the weather rather than the soil. [NPR]

Whistling in the Dark? (2011-07-10)

Palm Beach Post says although Melissa Meeker has inherited a lot of problems, she has the ability to "steer the ship" in the right direction for generations to come. Even with a small budget, Meeker must stay the course and get SFWMD to work well. [TCPalm]

Manning, Mann, & Hall (2011-07-08)

Three Lee County Commissioners voted to approve a permit allowing Cape Coral to continue discharging stormwater to Matlacha Pass through the spreader canal without replacement of the Ceitus Boat Lift. Judah and Bigelow opposed the action, but lost. [Buchanan Email] [Cartoon] [Details]

Defining New Panther Range (2011-07-08)

Glades Commissioner Russell Echols says that the panther population has grown so much they may not need Glades County land. The perspective is not surprising for a rural county facing economic hardship and bearing the cost of panther protection. [Hendry Glades Sunday News]

A Preventable Crime (2011-07-08)

Rae Ann Wessel states that the recent river algae condition should be a crime. The worst part of this travesty is knowing that it can be prevented with improved water management practices. Imagine how clean the river would be if it were a crime! [Caloosa Belle]

Be Careful What You Wish For (2011-07-06)

Michael Valiquette warns that there are negative consequences to releasing the water from Lake O. The standing green algae and polluted water could prove to be detrimental to the current health of the river. Could you imagine things getting worse? [PURRE]

No Human Contact (2011-07-06)

Mark Perry discusses the interconnectedness of the world's future and the health of our oceans and calls for better management of our water resources. The people of Florida understand how important water is, it's our state government that doesn't. [TCPalm]

Just Answer The Question! (2011-07-06)

An FDEP spokesperson answered a citizen's email regarding the lack of water released to the Caloosahatchee River. The problem is that the FDEP answer lacked one important thing... an actual answer. FDEP continues to dodge important FL water problems. [FDEP] [Citizen Response]

Shoulda Sued Sooner? (2011-07-06)

The U.S. Court of Appeals dismissed the River Coalition's case against the Corps of Engineers releasing dirty Lake O water into Indian River Lagoon. The court said that the statute of limitations ended long ago since the releases began in the 1950s. [TCPalm] [Background]

River Hypoxia and Salinity (2011-07-06)

Dissolved oxygen and salinity data were recently released for three locations in the river. DO levels are relatively low overall, and salinity levels are highly stratified. The runoff water is purging the shallower water of salt but not deeper water. [Hypoxia Data]

Droughts Are Like Recessions (2011-07-06)

Even though we have been receiving large amounts of rainfall lately, it is important to recognize that our drought has not fully passed. Just like a recession, droughts do not end with a brief increase in activity. Lake O still needs loads of water. [News-Press]

Beta Testing For Water Atlas (2011-07-06)

CHNEP has released the "Beta" version for its Water Atlas. This atlas has a large online database with water information available to the public. Check out the page and leave a review on the test version! [Beta Water Atlas]

Back Ten Feet (2011-07-06)

Sue Scott, one of the original FYN instructors, started a video series on YouTube. "Back Ten Feet" teaches homeowners how to transform their yards into attractive, water & wildlife friendly habitat using native plants and good stewardship practices. [Episode 1]

Are Things Going South? (2011-07-01)

SFWMD Director Melissa Meeker asked for more time to develop the plan for the flow-way projects that involve buying US Sugar land to send water south towards the Everglades. Time is not a luxury that we have, the Florida environment needs help now. [TC Palm]

Cartoon Justice from DEP (2011-06-30)

When FDEP refused the Ceitus appeal, they made a sham of the justice system. They are trying to create as many distractions as possible to prevent a solution. This absurdity cannot be accepted and the barrier must go back in. [News-Press] [Comments]

Have You Seen This Yet? (2011-06-28)

The current Caloosahatchee River Conditions Report is available and to no one's surprise the results are very poor. This condition must change. Photos and past conditions reports are available online. [Conditions Report] [Photos] [Previous Reports]

This Does Not Feel Democratic (2011-06-28)

Tom Swihart calls the legislative session a reversal of four decades of water policy in FL. Gov Scott and his henchmen will be making water decisions behind closed doors instead of in a public forum. Swihart says: "Tallahassee does not know best." [News-Press] [Cartoon]

Co-Op Wants Shared Adversity (2011-06-28)

John Hundley asserts that growers have taken an equal loss to the environment from the drought. Unlike farmers, green is not a good color for the river. But shared adversity requires that stakeholders be willing to share, which is simply not the case [News-Press]

FDEP Keeps Pushing Back (2011-06-28)

FDEP dismissed, with prejudice, the Lee County administrative appeal on the denial of the Ceitus reconstruction permit and said Cape Coral must file the appeal. FDEP is using every resource it has to prevent putting the barrier back in the water. [FDEP]

Like It Never Happened (2011-06-28)

Carcasses of dead fish have just finished rotting on Florida's beaches due to the BP oil spill, but the Florida Legislature and Gov. Scott are reviving a request to open the Florida coastline to oil drilling. They intend to drill, no matter what. [Miami Herald] [Cartoon]

Obama EPA Surrenders? (2011-06-24)

EPA is backing off attempts to establish nutrient limits for Florida waters. This is either Washington's way to force the state's hand or a decision by the Obama administration not to alienate Florida in the run-up to the 2012 election. [St. Petersburg Times]

Water Supply Districts (2011-06-24)

In a letter to the Water Management Districts, Gov Scott effectively redefines the mission of all 6 organizations; transforming them into water supply districts and permitting rubber stamp offices, drastically short of meeting our water challenges. [Letter to FWMDs]

Scraping the Bottom at 223 cfs (2011-06-19)

In October when Riverwatch created a scale to track Caloosahatchee dry season flows, we never anticipated it getting this bad. The 223 cfs average is a third of what is needed. Thank goodness it has finally started to rain & the river may flow soon. [cartoon] [graph] [web data]

Hammond Uncertain on WRAC (2011-06-17)

SFWMD Board member Dan Delisi has appointed H.M. Ridgley of Evans Properties to the Water Resources Advisory Council (WRAC). Hopefully Bill Hammond, appointed to WRAC by Delisi's predecessor, will be reappointed by some other SFWMD Board member. [St Petersburg Times]

Riverfront Development Meeting (2011-06-17)

The Phase 1 Riverfront Development Plan will be presented June 21st at 6PM in the Harborside Event Center. The presentation will include a storm water detention basin, public walkways surrounding the basin, open space, and a "Q&A" session. [Details]

EPA to DEP: Put Up or Shut Up (2011-06-17)

EPA offered to back off its proposed numeric nutrient criteria (limits)...if Florida creates a set of nutrient limits of its own that EPA can approve. Despite their best efforts, FDEP has not yet been able to ease pollution limits for its waters.
[Inside EPA]

Yuck! What is that Green Stuff? (2011-06-16)

Folks who live along the river are seeing an algae sludge on the riverbanks. River accumulations of nutrients paired with warm water temperatures promote growth, resulting in toxic algae blooms. The river condition is horrid; the estuary needs help. [Conditions] [Notice] [Caloosa Belle]

1 Inch Prevents Green River (2011-06-15)

CRCA and SCCF state that an inch of water released from Lake O per month would prevent our yearly algae blooms. SFWMD stopped the Caloosahatchee releases in March but Southern releases continue at one inch per week from Lake O. [Advertisement] [Photo Gallery]

$128 Million Is A Lot Of Money (2011-06-14)

Gov. Scott's $128 million SFWMD budget cut is causing jobs, salaries, benefits and six service centers to be removed from SFWMD spending. The Ft. Myers center remains open. Melissa Meeker has not hesitated to swing Scott's budget axe. [Palm Beach Post]

Everglades Foundation Rebuttal (2011-06-14)

Responding to a story by Sunshine State News, Kirk Fordham points out that simply building random, disconnected regional "water projects" will not save the Everglades, the estuaries or our water supply. A coherent program is the only real solution. [Response] [Sunshine News] [News-Press]

Not-So Unprecedented Actions (2011-06-14)

The St. Petersburg Times reported that Gov. Scott's action against Florida water laws was an interference we've never seen before. Nancy Smith asserts that Ex-Gov. Crist also manipulated the WMDs in his efforts to buy sugar lands for the Everglades.
[St Pete Times] [Sunshine State News]

Message From CRCA President (2011-06-14)

CRCA President Pete Quasius is trying to get a Riverwatch member appointed to the SFWMD Water Resources Advisory Commission through discussions with SFWMD Governing Board Member Dan Delisi and WRAC Chair Kevin Powers. Stay tuned. [Message from the President]

Drought Dries Up Wells (2011-06-14)

The drought has started to impact our aquifers. The aquifer providing water to wells in north Cape Coral is approaching a record low level. Not many wells are in trouble yet, but one in Lehigh Acres is "in the red." The problem could escalate. [News-Press]

Surprise! Caloosahatchee is Poor (2011-06-14)

CHNEP held a meeting on June 15 to discuss its new watershed report. The report says that the Caloosahatchee condition is poor. Water flows are unnatural and dissolved solids are high causing seagrass and mangrove loss. The river is hurting. [flow graph] [Report]

Obscene Legislative Claims (2011-06-14)

Trudi Williams, Ft. Myers Rep. to the FL House, says it is obscene that her bill failed to clear the FL Senate. Her unprecedented bill would have forbid enforcement of federal water quality rules in Florida that attempt to limit nutrient pollution.
[Florida Independent]

Fool Me Once... (2011-06-13)

SW FL backed the installation of Lake O pumps for Forward Pumping, a practice that could provide water for the Caloosahatchee estuary. Those pumps are now being used to empty the lake to supply farms and urban use. But nothing for the Caloosahatchee. [Palm Beach News]

More Media Madness (2011-06-13)

A Daily Breeze article oozed disinformation. It's just one of Cape media's many poor articles on the Ceitus Barrier issue. With the City of Cape Coral backed by DEP and the Governor's blind pursuit of deregulation, Matlacha Pass stands little chance. [Daily Breeze] [Letter To Editor] [Cartoon]

The Enemy is Everywhere (2011-06-13)

SFWMD Board member, Dan DeLisi wrote an essay about the enemies of the environment. He describes how people often compromise their ideals to keep a job. "Green Development" is sometimes just a marketing tactic in pursuit the other green - money. [Shareable]

Duda Development Hearing (2011-06-10)

A. Duda & Sons is proposing thousands of acres of new urban development in the farming areas south of LaBelle. A hearing in Hendry County is planned for June 21 at 8:00 am at the Hendry County Courthouse. [Caloosa Belle]

Good Clean Fun & Learning (2011-06-10)

The May/June edition of the SFWMD newsletter "Freddy Flash" featured the efforts of Riverwatch and Port LaBelle Utility System to instruct kids on water conservation. The conservation project is funded by a SFWMD WaterSIP grant.
[Freddy Flash Pg 9] [Sunday News]

Missing The Core Issue (2011-06-08)

An article on the algae bloom didn't mention that the SFWMD's inability to share water adversity stopped water releases to the Caloosahatchee. The low river flow facilitated growth. Shared adversity is in the rule book, but seldom actually practiced. [News-Press]

We Want To Protect Our Water (2011-06-08)

Riverwatch will be signing on to an EvCo letter to the US EPA that would promote guidance on identifying waters that are protected by the Clean Water Act. This letter encourages protection of waterways to protect Florida's ecosystems. [EvCo Letter]

Swinging a Righteous Sword (2011-06-08)

The environment warrior who fights invasive snakes that threaten the Everglades, has so far been AWOL in the larger environmental battle, water quality. Congressman Tom Rooney has instead lead efforts to thwart water pollution control regulations.
[Palm Beach Post]

Does This Merit A Release? (2011-06-08)

The Lee County Health Department released a warning that cyanobacterial toxin was found in the water of the Caloosahatchee. This toxin is a threat to human health and causes fish kills. A release from reluctant SFWMD could help mitigate the problem. [Health Dept]

Looking for a Sediment Solution (2011-06-08)

A study on Canal Creek, a Chesapeake Bay tributary, is attempting to use activated carbon to treat contaminated sediment in the creek bed. Activated carbon, used in water filters, could be used in the Caloosahatchee if the study is successful. [Baltimore Sun]

A New Nasty Normal (2011-06-07)

Q: What do 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 & 2011 have in common? A: Large Caloosahatchee River Algae Blooms. In 2005, an algae bloom was seen as abnormal. This is no longer the case. While most places experience Spring flower blooms, ours is a river bloom. [Aerial Photos] [More Photos]

Overlooking The Bigger Problem (2011-06-07)

Phosphorous may not be the biggest problem in our waters. Sulfates can facilitate creation of methyl-mercury, which has serious impacts on humans and the ecosystems. Sulfates are receiving increasing attention, including a Jun 21-22 SFWMD workshop. [TC Palm] [Workshop]

Water the Way it Should Be (2011-06-07)

Cynthia Barnett addresses the water "status quo" in Florida as a system requiring a change of framework. Barnett reminds us that Scott dissolved boards designed to manage water and assert the need for change in our habits and attitudes toward water. [St Petersburg Times]

Attempted Water Rollback (2011-06-06)

There was a bill introduced into the House of Representatives that could dismantle the Clean Water Act. This bill was sponsored by Congressmen Mica and Rahall and has the potential to cripple CWA authority to prevent pollution.
[Editorial] [Cartoon] [HR 2018]

Hold SFWMD Accountable (2011-06-06)

Instead of operating as a regulatory body, SFWMD should be a regulated entity, subject to external oversight on its adherence to laws in the execution of its stormwater utility mandate. Simply stated: they must be held liable for their actions. [Editorial]

FDEP Standards And Loopholes (2011-06-03)

FDEP has started forming its own water criteria pollutant regulations, and loopholes around those regulations. Two workshops, one on June 14 & 16 provided details and discussion on the potential rule.
[Clean Water Network]

What Are The Bees Telling Us? (2011-06-03)

Audubon of SW FL has announced the premiere of "Queen of the Sun: What are the Bees Telling Us?" Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, "If bees disappear from the earth, then man will only have four years of life left." Are we testing his his theory? [Queen of the Sun] [Trailer] [Premiere]

New Exec Dir, New Org Chart (2011-06-03)

Melissa Meeker blazed a trail through the SFWMD as its new Executive Director. She cut salaries, reorganized top manager positions and announced additional downsizing. Meeker announced to SFWMD that the changes were to reflect Gov. Scott's tax cuts. [Palm Beach Post] [Announce] [Org Chart]

Wanted: Florida Wet Season (2011-06-02)

The drought has continued into the "wet season" and could potentially reach what is classified as a D4 or an 'exceptional' drought. If it reaches D4, this drought will surpass the extreme drought of 2007. We desparately need rain, and soon. [Palm Beach Post]

Vue Tower Turnabout (2011-06-02)

Riverwatch lead a fight against the construction of the Vue tower near Centennial Park in 2005. The property is now up for sale and could be purchased for the park. This result demonstrates the importance of CRCA efforts. See agenda item 20. [City Council Agenda]

He Said What?? (2011-06-02)

Environmental nemesis Rick Scott vetoed a rainwater harvesting and water reuse appropriation, stating a $2 bucket would work just fine. Climate change and droughts make water management difficult enough; Scott is compounding the problem. [Watery Foundation] [Watery Foundation]

Please, Just Figure It Out! (2011-06-02)

Communities across Florida have been developed to use miles of roads and pipes for stormwater drainage and landscape irrigation systems. Water management problems threaten the future of Lehigh Acres and other communities with increasing populations. [Editorial]

Do We Respect Water Enough? (2011-06-02)

Cynthia Barnett, a Floridian environmental journalist, will be releasing a book (9/20/11) that addresses the water crisis in America. She states we need to change our water use habits, which includes sending more water to environmental uses. [Review] [Interview] [Pre-Order]

Manatee Co. Tightens Screws (2011-05-31)

Manatee County passed a strict fertilizer management ordinance that is close to matching Pinellas County's state leading ordinance. This marks 36 counties in FL to have a fertilizer ordinance in place and another step in the right direction. [Sierra Club]

Apples and Oranges? (2011-05-31)

Some say economic impact comparisons are too broad and overestimate the agricultural sector's portion of the state economy because it includes grocery stores and traditional farm fields. Economic stats are often used to justify water consumption. [Florida Trend]

Some Get Room Service (2011-05-31)

Gov Scott officially cut the budget of the SFWMD and left it vulnerable to line-item veto by legislators. Environmentalists are worried because the pro-development legislators have the power to ruin our water management budgets and programs. [Palm Beach Post] [Cartoon]

He Must Protect Our Environment (2011-05-31)

Despite the minuscule budget from Gov. Scott and the problems of our region, SFWMD Governing Board member Dan DeLisi will have to step up and protect the environmental interests of Southwest Florida. [Editorial]

Lawyer-Up, FDEP (2011-05-31)

FDEP said no to the petition for replacement of the Ceitus barrier. Lee County is moving to appeal the decision. The government must recognize that, despite their best efforts, they cannot ignore the significance of the environment.
[Appeal Petition] [Blue Sheet]

SWFWMD Exec Director Resigns (2011-05-29)

The longtime executive director of the SWFWMD has resigned, leading to questions about whether Gov. Rick Scott is pushing out the directors of all five of the state water districts. Dave Moore, 54, did not give a specific reason for his departure. [Tampa Bay]

Agriculture: Growing Numbers (2011-05-29)

According to the UF-IFAS calculations, agriculture is Florida's second-largest industry, generating more than $100 billion a year. But a persistent question is the usefulness of including retail outlets (grocery stores) in the statistics. [Florida Trend]

Missing the Point (2011-05-27)

In making a case for Everglades restoration, advocates emphasize water treatment costs savings from higher Everglades water offsetting coastal salt water intrusion. The real story is that sea level rise threatens all of Florida & the Everglades. [Saltwater Intrustion] [CERP] [USGS] [FSU-DURP]

Environmental Guillotine (2011-05-27)

Gov Scott pressured the Southwest FL Water Management District to disband its basin boards. Could the long-successful Big Cypress Basin in SFWMD be next? Scott's actions are systematically executing one by one, environment protection state agencies. [Watery Foundation]

Misinterpretations in Cape Coral (2011-05-25)

It now seems that both the government AND the media are intent with misrepresentations at every step of the Ceitus Boat-Lift/Barrier process. It is this attitude that has environmentalists fuming.
[Daily Breeze] [Response] [Cartoon]

Matter of Necessity, Not Choice (2011-05-25)

Since the Ceitus Barrier was removed in 2008, marine life and water quality has suffered. Many environmental complications can be linked to the barrier removal. The life of our estuary depends on this barrier, and FDEP is ignoring this fact. [Letter to Editor]

Vatican & US Army vs Scott (2011-05-24)

Even the U.S. Army and the Vatican agree that climate change is real. But Florida Gov. Scott said recently, "I've not been convinced that there's any man-made climate change. Nothing's convinced me that there is." Florida misses Crist. [St Petersburg Times] [Retorts] [Cartoon]

Boyd Will Never Stop Fighting (2011-05-24)

Ellie Boyd showed Florida what a group of dedicated people can do to help prevent the environment from unwanted growth. Upon retirement, Ellie and Gene Boyd's work to give great examples and hope to all who protect our environment. [News Press] [Editorial]

Charlotte Looking to Improve (2011-05-24)

Charlotte County is gathering momentum to help strengthen its fertilizer ordinance. The current Charlotte ordinance is not as strong in comparison to those of oneighboring counties. Involvement is crucial! Meeting place and time: TBA. [Sierra Club] [Ordinance]

New Guy, DeLisi, a Mediator (2011-05-24)

Dan DeLisi, the new Southwest Florida Rep on the SFWMD Governing Board, approaches his position as a mediator. DeLisi says that Environmentalists must search for win-win solutions to regional problems. CRCA will present its priorities to DeLisi. [News-Press]

The Press Spinning to Dizziness (2011-05-23)

The press has become an advocate for a position of convenience, one shared by much of the public. The Cape Coral Breeze effectively says in an editorial that there is no need to deal properly with the stormwater implication of Cape Coral development. [Daily Breeze] [Letter to Editor] [Cartoon]

She Represents SW Florida? (2011-05-20)

Trudi Williams' HB239 would have lessen FL water quality standards considerably, making it much easier to pollute our waterways. The bill fortunately died in the FL Senate. But it will be back next year. Unfortunately, so will Trudi. [St. Petersburg Times]

EPA Eyes FDEP Appointment (2011-05-20)

The appointment of FDEP head Vinyard is under EPA inquiry. Florida Clean Water Network and PEER assert that the appointment by Scott violated Clean Water Act provisions due to Vinyard's recent employment by NPDES permit holders or applicants. [FDEP Response] [EPA Investigates] [Petition]

No Reconstruction, says DEP (2011-05-19)

The DEP has decided against conclusions and testimonies by the USFWS, SWF scientists, and environmental findings of the EMA stakeholders by denying reconstruction of the boat lift in Cape Coral. DEP never intended to approve a permit. [Permit Request & Denial PDF]

Septic Law: Up to DOH (2011-05-18)

The Septic Inspection Law (SB 550) remains unchanged because the FL Senate did not follow the House. It is now up to the Dept of Health to enforce this law, but they have to submit a budget for approval before any action is taken. [News_Herald] [SB_550]

Everglades Snail Kite (2011-05-02)

In a bid to save the endangered Everglades snail kite, scientists at the SFWMD are teaming with the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute to operate an apple snail hatchery beside Lake Okeechobee to try to add to the finicky bird’s food supply. [Sun-Sentinel]

Our Legislator Strikes Again (2011-04-27)

Florida Rep. Trudi Williams supported a bill blocking EPA water quality standards but added insult to injury by also amending the legislation to create a new waterbody classification system long sought by industry groups and rich in loopholes. [Naples News]

Sugar and Lugar (2011-04-26)

Sen. Richard Lugar is attempting to eliminate sugar subsidies that keep food costs artificially high in the USA. But eliminating sugar supports could change EAA farming from sugar to vegetables, which can do more damage water quality and storage. [Courier Press] [Gainesville Sun 1] [Gainesville Sun 2]

2011-12 Riverwatch Officers (2011-04-06)

Pete Quasius takes leadership as the new Riverwatch President. Also serving as CRCA officers for 2011-12 are V.P. Margaret England, Treasurer Ron Zimmerly, Recording Secretary John Capece, & Corresponding Secretary Linda Mattos.

We Want Green But Vote Brown (2011-03-28)

A solid majority of Florida voters say the state's economic progress is tied to the sustainable supply of freshwater and that Everglades restoration is critical to their own well being. So why do they elect people who act oppositely? [Details] [Cartoon]

Not the Feds or Locals (2011-03-27)

SB606 & HB457 would repeal laws counties & cities passed to protect against polluting nutrients. So, Florida does not want EPA setting strong rules, nor does it want locals via counties or cities making strong rules. They only want weak state rules. [Snook Foundation]

Trudi Earns An F (2011-02-24)

Professor Roy Lewis gives State Representative Trudi Williams an "F" for her recent Florida newspaper commentary that asserts "Crafting Florida water policy is a job for Florida, not the federal government." Lewis says this is just plain false. [Naples News] [Tampa Bay] [About Roy Lewis]

Caloosahatchee Fly-over (2011-02-22)

South Florida Water Management District posted on its web page a Google Earth Flyover Tour video of the Caloosahatchee Basin. The video shows great views of important features accompanied with an excellent narration, commissioned by Phil Flood. [Video]

Cape Coral Ceitus EMA a Fraud (2011-02-21)

Two years ago CRCA concluded the DEP EMA process was a complete fraud. DEP adopted a minority report as its findings & then pretended to process a permit application, then rejected it. No citizens should ever trust this process or agency ever again [Report Fraud]

Water Quality Decline (2011-02-21)

According to the Conservancy of SW Florida's Estuaries Report Card, released Feb 3, water quality has declined in seven of 10 area estuaries. Most of SW Florida's estuaries were in bad shape in 2005; a new report card shows they are getting worse. [News-Press]

River and Lake are Tied (2011-02-13)

News Press writer Amy Bennett Williams and photo-journalist Andrew West visited Dr. Paul Gray and Lake Okeechobee to learn about a major source of Caloosahatchee River problems. The discussion soon was mired down in muck. [News Press]

Phosphorus Art (2011-02-02)

Fertilizer is rarely an inspiration for an art show, but this week at Arizona State University (ASU), sustainability, fertilizer and phosphorus scarcity will provide fuel for creative vision in partnership with scientists. [Painting] [NSF at ASU] [NSF Article]

ROGER Discusses Ag Topics (2011-02-02)

The St. Lucie-Caloosahatchee estuaries coalition met on Aug 31 at the UF research station in Belle Glade to discuss agricultural issues and solutions to address the need for the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) to support ecosystem restoration. [Sugarcane Presentation] [Sugarcane Poster] [Ecological Model] [Water Quality]

State Courts Not an Option? (2010-12-26)

Politicians & agencies have always been uncertain in enforcing environmental & growth management laws, but the courts generally offered citizens a chance of enforcement. A new ruling may show that state courts are no longer an option. [Tampa Tribune] [Ruling] [Court]

Solutions Still a Generation Away (2010-11-29)

SFWMD says damaging discharges from Lake Okeechobee into the St. Lucie Estuary will end but it will take 20 years or more. Given that the issues were identified as a priority 15+ years ago, it likely to have taken 40+ years to deal with the issue. [TCPalm] [Unacceptable]

Who is ROGER? (2010-11-29)

ROGER is a dozen people from the Caloosahatchee & St. Lucie who gathered in Clewiston on Nov 16 to discuss River of Grass Estuaries Restoration-a group to coordinate advocacy for the two estuaries. Rae Ann Wessel serves as co-chair for west coast. [The Big Picture Plan]

Breakfast Order: 1 Riverkeeper (2010-11-29)

The 13th Annual Environmental Breakfast drew 130 people to the scenic Riverside Community Center. MC Wayne Daltry delivered a presentation calling for establishment of a new Riverkeeper program, which emphasizes legal action to achieve progress. [NewsPress] [Editorial] [Endorsement] [Waterkeeper Alliance ]

Surveys vs Reality (2010-11-29)

New surveys show overwhelming support for water quality, wetlands, & cleaner farms. But that does not translate to proper political decisions to implement clear public priorities. 80% seek stormwater treatment but the DEP still has no state rule. [Protecting Water Survey] [Drinking Water Survey] [Ground & Surface Water Survey]

Stable and Sterile (2010-11-28)

Seawalls make it much easier for people to live along the river but they make it hard for wildlife to live in the river. Seawalls, which line vast stretches of the Caloosahatchee, don't offer the food and shelter Florida fisheries need to survive.
[Amy Bennett Williams]

CRCA Officer is Citizen of the Year (2010-10-21)

Riverwatch V.P. Margaret England was presented with the 2010 Citizen of the Year award by Randy Daniels, representing the Greater LaBelle Chamber of Commerce at their annual banquet attended by 120 members and guests, including Riverwatch officers. [Caloosa Belle]

River Gets Low Marks (2010-09-12)

Regional water specialists grade the Caloosahatchee on 9 attributes: Economic Importance-A, Water Quality-D, Species Diversity-C, Exotics Control-D, Recreation-C, Citizen Stewardship-B, Regulation-D, Ag Runoff-D, and Urban Runoff-C/D. [River Report Card]

News Press River Features (2010-09-11)

Amy Bennett Williams in the Sep 12 News Press writes about Caloosahatchee issues and how a 1994 public forum about the River resulted in the creation of Riverwatch, which adopted the News Press "River At Risk" graphic as its logo. [Swimming] [Critical] [News Press]

Weir on Fisheating Creek (2010-09-07)

One of South Florida's last natural large streams is now saddled with a flow block intended to prevent or halt possible excess flow from Cowbone Marsh on Fisheating Creek. FWC's canoe path plan was limited to cutting plants & muck, no sand dredging. [Weir Photos] [DEP Files]

The Right to Clean Water (2010-08-27)

River Coalition's filing against releases of polluted water from Lake O cite a 1909 case in which James B. Whitfield, then the chief justice of the Florida Supreme Court, said riparian rights include “the right to have the water kept free from pollution.” [TCPalm]

Ceitus Boat Lift Removal Issue (2008-05-06)

Information related to the Ceitus boat lift removal in Cape Coral has been posted for public access and review. The documents include consent orders and amendments, water quality studies, reports and surveys, and others. The controversy continues. [Draft Settlement] [Web page]

Endangered Caloosahatchee (2006-09-03)

Attention has been focused on the Caloosahatchee after its naming to the 2006 Ten Most Endangered Rivers list. Learn more and watch a special student video documenting the problems. [Endangered Web Page] [All Video Options] [Play Video]