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[Email to CRCA Secretary]
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Two radio DJs were temporarily suspended after some in the public paniced when Val St. John and Scott Fish told listeners that Dihydrogen monoxide (water...ha,ha!) was coming from taps. Ignorance...or confusion with Carbon monoxide; you decide. [Felony Charges?] [News Press]
The new president & vice president of CRCA are Wayne Daltry & Marti Daltry. Marti previously served two terms as president but this is the first CRCA officer role for Wayne. Standing committee chairs were also appointed at the Apr 3 board meeting. [Nominating Committee Report] [Election & Appointments]
The March 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [March Newsletter][HTML Version][Newsletter Archive]
The Conservancy of SW FL & the Center of Biological Diversity plan to sue the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service over its intent to turn over enforcement of endangered species protection to the State of Florida. Letting the fox gaurd the henhouse is wrong. [CBD Press Release] [Sierra Club Press Release]
The Babcock Ranch city project is back after going dormant due to the 2005 housing crash. Ground-breaking is in 2014. Kitson sold 73,000ac of ag tracts, undevelopable wetlands & forest to the state for $5000/ac, leaving 19,000 ac for development. [News-Press] [Syd Kitson] [History][Video][Kitson & Partners]
A proposed state law (HB 33 and SB 466)would make it easier for Florida cattle ranchers and other owners of property next to state-owned land to acquire or lease that public land, in exchange for a conservation easement on their property. [Florida Today][Video]
For the first time in six months, biologists detected no presence of red tide along the Southwest Florida coast. Red tide can cause fish kills and respiratory illnesses in mammals, including humans, once levels reach 10,000 cells per liter or higher. [New-Press]
More than $882.4 million in excise tax revenues generated in 2012 by sportsmen and sportswomen will be distributed to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies to fund fish and wildlife conservation and recreation projects across the nation. [Outdoor Hub]
The USFWS, under legal pressure from environmental groups, proposed designating 740 miles of beaches from North Carolina to Florida to Mississippi as critical habitat for loggerhead sea turtles. Public comment on the proposal accepted until May 24. [Naples News]
Logging and recording your trip and catch information at Angler Action not only builds valuable data for recreational fisheries, but also functions as a record of your own fishing activity. Be a part of improved fisheries management. [Angler Action Info Center]
Just in time for Spring Break vacationers, Dept of Health reminded people to use caution when on the beach or in waters with red tide. Adverse health effects on humans and pets can be prevented by staying away from affected areas (the beach). [Press Release]
Thanks to extensive research and noticeable changes in weather and storm prevalence, it’s getting harder to turn a blind eye to the reality of climate change. The extreme weather of the last decade is at least partially caused by global warming. [Learn Stuff] [Climate Change Infographic]
The trial against BP stemming from the 2010 explosion of a drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico began on Feb 25, 2013 in New Orleans. The plan, worth a total of $16 billion, would limit the fines paid by BP under the Clean Water Act to $6 billion. [New York Times]
DEP has created an online project submittal form for the public to suggest potential projects for the state to consider submitting for RESTORE Act Funding. Project submittals will be evaluated carefully by DEP in consultation with FL FWC Commission. [Details] [Potential Projects][Submit a Project][Website]
On Mar 19, state officials, local dignitaries and conservationalists gathered to celebrate the completion of the first phase of the Tamiami Trail bridge project. The Tamiami Trail bridging seeks to restore historic water flows to the Everglades. [WLRN] [Audubon of Florida] [Photo]
Environmentalists are asking a federal judge to set deadlines and order the state of Florida to bring the Everglades back to health. Chief U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno delayed any order until after the state's legislative session ends in May. [Sun-Sentinel]
There are two features of climate change that make it importantly different from other environmental problems, not just in degree but in kind: 1) carbon dioxide is not like other pollutants; 2) climate change is irreversible. [Grist] [Carbon Bath]
Southwest Florida is in dire need of more native slash pines in our yards, business landscapes and public spaces. Planting more pines creates shade, habitat, noise buffering, storm protection, visual screening and a sense of place. [Details] [Flyer] [Press Release]
Three of the most powerful unelected, unpaid government seats in South Florida are vacant as of this month, and Governor Rick Scott is expected to soon announce which of the 11 candidates will fill those voids. [News-Press]
On Mar 26, the Lee County Commissioners reviewed the draft Ceitus Mediation Agreement with Cape Coral. Commissioner Manning motioned to add the tolling provision and approve the Mediation Agreement, which was accepted by a 4 to 0 vote. [Details] [Buchanan Remarks to BOCC]
The mysterious deaths of dozens of manatees and hundreds of pelicans may be an indication that the ailing Indian River Lagoon, among the state's most magnificent waterways, is headed for one of the more epic collapses of a Florida ecosystem in years. [Orlando Sentinel][Video interview with Kevin Spear]
A House water-quality bill was modified Mar 20 after Lehigh Acres Rep. Matt Caldwell, and groups such as Audubon of Florida made agreements and concessions in Tallahassee. Amended bill will actually increase the amount farming companies will pay. [News-Press][Palm Beach Post Editorial]
Mussels make use of what are called byssal threads-strong, silky fibers-to attach to rocks, pilings and other hard substrates. Now, scientists have discovered, the effects of ocean acidification are causing mussels get tossed about by wind and waves. [National Science Foundation ]
The Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative has wrapped up its 2012-2013 harvest, producing the 7th largest crop in its 51-year history - 5.3 tons of sugar per acre from this year's harvest, demonstrating no stress from lack of irrigation water from Lake O. [Palm Beach Post]
Phil Buchanan urges Lee County Commissioners to reject the Ceitus mediation agreement and resume enforcement of the Clean Water Act for the sake of our environment, our quality of life, our tourist-based economy, and our taxpayer coffers. [Details]
Photos in a report by David Bogert show that Cowbone Marsh was dredged through solid peat soil, not floating tussock vegetation. Cutting into soil was not an authorized action. The damage to the Marsh and Fisheating Creek needs to be repaired. [David Bogert Report] [USACE Article]
The Pine Island Land Plan, a major feature of Pine Island for the last 25 years, is again under attack. This is the third time the Plan has come under attack-all three times by the Lee Co. Attorney's Office and all three times at interval of 7 years. [Details]
Since Oct 2012, the construction of many seawalls, docks and boatlifts has been on hold in Cape Coral because of a pending study on the smalltooth sawfish. In Jan 2013 USACE announced projects will begin flowing again, albeit with some restrictions. [Cape Coral] [SWFL Real Estate News] [Cartoon]
For information on the recommendations for your plant community, bring your ideas to the Coccoloba Native Plant Sale at Rotary Park on Saturday, Apr 20th, from 9am to 2pm. Experts will be on hand to provide advice and answer your questions. [Majesty of the Oak] [Flyer]
Dr. Richard Weisskoff in his review of James Beever's recent report on Estimating and Forecasting Ecosystem Services, commented Beever's report as a stunning, ambitious, and potentially highly-effective report, not available in the literature yet. [Weisskoff Review] [Beever Report] [James Beever]
Phil Buchanan points out that USACOE is doing FPIR/FEIS for the Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands project on the east coast to "spread" storm water into the wetlands, while FDEP agrees to
dismantle the very same type system on the west coast. [Details] [Cartoon]
The salinity readings continue to indicate that the only salt water entering the Spreader is in the dry season through the opening created by the removal of the Ceitus Barrier. With the Ceitus Barrier, the Spreader would be fresh water year-round. [Details] [Salinity Readings] [Buchanan recording salinity readings]
Leo Amos of Matlacha believes FDEP has done nothing for our environment in Lee County, except to make a consent order that created five years of animosity between Lee County and the city of Cape Coral over the replacement of the Ceitus barrier. [News-Press] [Ceitus Cartoon]
Join world-renowned Nobel Peace Prize climate scientists Dr. Pier Vellinga and Dr. Henry Pollack for three special engagements in Sarasota and St. Petersburg to learn the latest science and projections for sea level rise in Florida. [Details][Rising Seas website]
The Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) wants to fill in part of the Fisheating Creek channel. A hearing on this issue was held in Tallahassee from Mar 4-11, 2013. Looks like we are still in the same old battles that Ellen Peterson waged for years.
[Details]
8 candidates-7 Republicans & 1 Democrat-are vying for 3 vacant seats on the SFWMD board. Terms will expire in Mar for board chairman Joe Collins, vice chair Kevin Powers & board member Dan DeLisi who resigned to become the district's chief of staff. [Palm Beach Post]
Southwest Florida representative Dan DeLisi resigned from South Florida Water Management board and accepted the district's executive staff position of Chief of Staff. DeLisi was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott in May of 2011 and was to serve until 2015. [News-Press 1] [News-Press 2] [Dan DeLisi Letter of Resignation][Video]
Lee Co & Cape Coral signed a mediation agreement, agreeing to a scientific study of the North Spreader Canal. Buchanan says both are effectively opposing restoration of the Ceitus Barrier. So don't expect the "scientific study" to be "scientific." [Details] [Mediation Agreement] [Captiva Sanibel]
The DEP's mini comment period for the triennial review has been extended up to March 4. Public effort also helped to get victory for Blackwater State Forest to stop the proposed legislative bill by Rep. Broxson that would allow oil & gas drilling. [Triennial Revenue]
CHNEP & USF have produced a water atlas with the purpose of presenting key geographic & scientific information in ways that are meaningful to people and to implement our data management strategy. [CHNEP Water Atlas][Florida Water Atlas]
On Feb 23 Phil was at Phillips Park at Pine Island Center for a book signing of "The Nature Lover's Guide to Pine Island." A retired attorney, Phil completed the UF-IFAS FL Master Naturalist training program. Calusa Land Trust benefits from sales. [Nature Lovers]
On Feb 20, the DEP took a major step forward in drawing up a detailed restoration plan for Lake O & met with key area stakeholders. The DEP also committed $4 million toward restoring the lake through an Istokpoga Marsh water quality advance project. [Details] [Audubon Input] [BMAP map]
BP approved $1.3 million to be shared among the cities of Marco Island & Naples & Collier County to build a new system of artificial fishing reefs offshore. If the county decides to account for future lost revenues, the damage claim can go up. [Naples News]
The 2013 Canoe Contest winners are: 1st Place (MadRiver Canoe): Rhonda Roff & children, 2nd Place (Estero River Outfitters Guided Kayak Trip for 4): Diane Penn, & 3rd Place (Family Membership in Caloosa Nature Center): John Venham. Congratulations! [Valholly Frank & Justin Roff]
A Swedish study found traces of the anti-anxiety drug oxazepam downstream of a waste water treatment plant and also in fish tissues at high concentrations, reflecting bio-accumulation. The drug changed the behavior of the fish as well. [Medicated Fish] [Fish Hooked]
Views or opinions expressed in the CRCA web site & newsletter are solely those of the author(s) & do not necessarily represent those of “Riverwatch.” Comments & questions about editorial content & facts can be directed to John Capece, CRCA Secretary. [Disclaimer Image][Cartoons Cartoon]
The February 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [February Newsletter][HTML version][Newsletter Archive]
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium has provided the third prize for the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival canoe contest - a family annual pass to the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Thank you to CNCP! [CNCP]
This is the 6th year Estero River Outfitters has provided the second prize for the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival canoe contest - a guided tour for 4 on Estero River. So, whenever you are looking for a fun day paddling SW Florida, remember Estero. [Estero River Outfitters]
CRCA thanks the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. & Joe Frank for their annual donation of a Mad River 14-ft canoe for the Riverwatch contest at Swamp Cabbage Festival. This is the 6th year the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. has sponsored the contest.
The Feb 16 cold front dropped 2-3 inches of rain. This runoff combined with a 10-day pulse release from Lake O to reduce salinities at Fort Myers. The 30-day moving average dropped below 10 psu to put it back into MFL compliance. [SCCF Caloosahatchee Report]
Riverwatch VP Margaret England and Treasurer Ron Zimmerly were featured on Fox 4 Morning Blend telling the viewing public about the upcoming Big
O Birding Festival in Hendry & Glades Counties from March 12-16. [Link to FOX 4 Morning Blend Big]
On Jan 19 delegates from more than 130 nations adopted the first legally-binding international treaty aimed to reduce mercury emissions. Mercury contamination is a major problem which has serious implications for pregnant women and young children. [The Hindu] [Treaty Negotiation Document][Mercury Treaty Information]
All are invited to a public meeting on Fisheating Creek on March 27 from 2:00-4:00 pm at Glades County Courthouse in Moore Haven. General subject matter to be considered: Fisheating Creek. Plans for hiking, biking and canoe trails and canoe access. [Details][Map]
Starting February 18th Fish Rules App 2012 will no longer be supported (it won't have any regulations). If you enjoyed Fish Rules 2012, please go to the App Store and download Fish Rules 2013 for just 99 cents a year. [Details][Download Fish Rules 2013]
SFWMD has moved away from deep (high-bermed) reservoirs and is focusing on shallow (4ft) Flow Equalization Basins or FEBs to feed water to the STAs. But FEBs won't move significantly more water south from Lake O towards the Everglades in the rainy season.
[Details]
Florida Natural Areas Inventory has recently published a Summary of Florida Conservation lands including Less-than-fee Conservation Lands with funding provided by Florida Department of
Environmental Protection.
[Conservation Land Summery]
Everglades bill filed on Feb 11, 2013 has been described as merely a starting point for the upcoming debate in the Legislature. SB 758 by Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, incorporates Gov. Rick Scott's 2012 Everglades restoration plan into Florida law. [The Florida Current]
In her letter to President Obama, Sarah Heard, chair of the Martin County Commission highlighted the importance of the Everglades restoration project and how vital his continues support is in saving this national treasure. [TCPALM]
Neither Cape Coral’s ASR wells, nor the SFWMD projects to divert Gator Slough water to the east, will do anything to help return historical fresh water flows to the fish nursery in the mangrove fringe, only the Ceitus Barrier restoration can do that. [Details]
Feb 11 was the 5th day of a 10-day pulse release. Higher flows from the current release are having the desired result providing a downward salinity trend at Ft Myers. A Red Tide Advisory & shell fishing ban remain in effect in Lee County. [Details]
A federal judge approved Transocean Ltd.'s agreement with the Justice Department to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge & pay $400 million (2nd highest in environment criminal fines in U.S. history) for its role in the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill. [Hoffingtonpost] [Finger Pointing][Tansocean Cartoon]
SCCF is offering 2.5-hour Caloosahatchee River cruises on Sundays (March 10, April 21 and Mothers Day, May 12). Reservations required. $40 per person. Space is limited. For reservations, call 472-2329. [Details]
SFWMD is applying for RESTORE funds (from BP oil spill fine) for Caloosahatchee Estuary projects citing needs based on the settings that result from the lack of the Ceitus Boat Lift. Still, DEP rejects to require Cape Coral to replace the structure. [Project Proposal]
Diverting rainy season storm waters away from Gator Slough will improve Matlacha Pass but will make things worse for the Caloosahatchee, & won't do anything to help the fish nursery in the Cape mangrove fringe (where the storm water actually belong).
[Ecosystem Restoration Project Proposals ]
CEPP aims to send more water to the south, to the Everglades by reducing flow from Lake O to the river St. Lucie & Caloosahatchee to lower the salinity level in estuary. It is possible only through joint effort of all stakeholders to eliminate flow. [TCPALM]
On May 1 & 2, 2012 a group of agricultural land owners who collectively manage more than 5 million acres of ranch & crop land across the U.S., agreed that agricultural leaders must join with other water stewards to address water supply & mgt. issues. [Agricultural Water ] [Water Stewarrdship ]
The Florida Clean Water Network says that DEP came up with a very difficult statistical method that no one can understand & can be easily manipulated to achieve whatever the politically powerful polluters want. [Triennial Meeting Update][Previous Meeting Details]
Since 1945, 50% of salt marshes were lost due to physical infrastructures development. Now they are threatened by sea level rise. Jim Beever of SWFRPC offers 10 solutions to help prevent salt marsh losses as sea level rise. [News Press][Video]
The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) report on “2013 sportsmen’s economic impact on U.S. economy” states that hunting & fishing are huge & important parts of U.S. economy. In 2011, these sports contributed $90 billion to the U.S. economy. [Outdoorhub] [Economic Impact Report]
Florida DEP proposes to regulate carcinogenic chemicals at a MUCH less protective level than the EPA recommends. For all but four carcinogens are proposed to be regulated 3-5 times that required even in Alabama. [Details] [Carcinogens in Water]
According to Audubon, large amounts of phosphorus are still streaming into the big lake and, because of that, its condition is actually declining while it is supposed to be improving. The state has been working to improve Lake O since the 1980's. [Florida Newszap]
The collaborative approach used to reduce nitrogen pollution in Tampa Bay has been formally designated by EPA as meeting new federal standards for water quality. Tampa Bay now has more seagrass than at any time since 1950 thanks to reduced N2 loads. [Details][EPA New Water Rules]
Earthjustice filed a legal challenge on behalf of the FL Wildlife Federation to block Gov. Rick Scott & FL cabinet from allowing Big Sugar & corporate vegetable plantations to continue farming state-owned land in the Everglades for extra 30 years. [Earthjustice] [Final Petition]
Riverwatch thanks Gus & Anita Mastracci of The Villages and Bonita Beach for their generous contribution to Riverwatch, helping make possible the Southwest Florida Water Resources Conference co-sponsored by CRCA, Watershed Council, Audubon, & others.
Estuary salinity at Ft Myers rose up to 12–13.5 psu in response to 4 days of little or no flow at the beginning of the pulse. The 30-day moving average at Ft Myers also exceeded 10 psu, establishing the 6th consecutive year of MFL exceedence. [29 Jan to 4 Feb]
Storm water release from Lake “O” degrades the estuary ecosystem by algal blooming that kill off oysters & seagrasses. It also creates human health problem raising coliform levels in the water. Storm water flow to south to the Everglades is vital. [TCPALM] [Polluted Water Image]
The SFWMD’s 2013 Water Conservation Exposition & Vendor Fair will be held on Apr 12 from 8:30am-5:30pm in West Palm Beach. This event is a great opportunity for commercial & institutional facility managers to learn about water efficiency initiatives. [Details] [Flyer][Map]
The 1st international treaty on mercury emissions reduction which aims to protect human health from serious neurotoxin will be signed in Oct 2013. In the study of mercury contamination impact on fish & wildlife, scientists found unexpected results. [Details] [Bioaccumulation Process][International Treaty]
Abandoning fishing hooks & monofilament in the wild is the biggest danger to Pine Island birds. Other dangers include well-meaning but ill-advised feeding practice & improper use of rat poison. All of these risks are created by humans, so be careful! [Letter to the Editor]
On February 5, Lee BOCC meeting, Commissioner Hall motioned for the commissioners to review Ceitus issues before the 6 March mediation proceeding. The next BOCC review will be conducted on February 19 after the regular weekly meeting. [Details]
A new report analyzes the effects of global change on the natural environment, agriculture, energy production & use, land & water resources for the next 25 to 100 years. It shows an area the size of Lee County could be submerged in FL by 2100. [Technical Input Report 2013]
UF researchers rank Miami as the city with the second most vulnerable water supply out of a list of 225 US cities. Miami's low relative water availability is due to its low storage capacity and environmental limits on withdrawals. [Science News] [Water Availability Ranking Cities]
In 2012, the St. Lucie River Issues Team proposed funding for 5 different projects (Oyster Restoration, Drainage Projects to Benefit St. Lucie River) to SFWMD. Those proposed projects were approved in Jan meeting by the District’s Governing Board. [SFWMD News Release]
NWF’s report on "Wildlife in a Warming World” covers 8 regions of the U.S., from the Arctic to the Atlantic coast, & details concrete examples of wildlife struggling to adapt to the climate crisis. It explains 4 best ways to oppose the climate crisis. [Thinkprogress] [NWF's New Report ]
The final Everglades Restoration Transition Plan (ERTP) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is available online. The Record of Decision for the plan was signed on Oct 19, 2012. This project is non-CERP (Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. [Final ERTP EIS] [Record of Decision] [Comments & Response]
On Jan 31, 2013, Gov. Rick Scott announced that $75 million budget is reserved for the FL Forever land buying program & another $60 million for the Everglades. Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg said governor’s commitment is appreciated. [News-Press]
The possibility of fracking in FL is low due to it’s geology. FL lies in limestone bed, so natural gas extraction is possible without fracking. The audio file of a fracking interview at the 22nd annual water & energy conference is available online. [WGCU News][Fracking Talk][FL Fracking Interest][Audio File]
Marine debris is something in the marine environment that doesn't naturally occur there & most of them need long time to biodegrade. These can introduce toxic chemicals into marine living tissue such as in dolphins & can lead to serious injuries. [News_Press]
Florida springs are in trouble. What will it take to fix them? According to state water officials, $122.4 million, just to start. That's 10 times what the state spent on springs last year, & 4 times what the state budgeted for Everglades restoration. [Tampa Bay Times]
Land acquisition in critical sites is key to achieving Everglades restoration. This approach not only provides space to treat the water & restore the natural resources but also gives opportunity to some South FL land owners as restoration partners. [News-Press]
Carie Call, chairman of Lee County’s Conservation 20/20’s advisory board was replaced by the Former Clerk of court, Charlie Green. Green is not against buying land for conservation purposes but criticizes the county’s land buying process. [News-Press]
The January 2013 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [January Newsletter][HTML version][Newsletter Archive]
Salinity in the upper estuary is increasing and are hovering at the 10 psu MFL harm threshold at Ft Myers & extending above 5 psu in the upper range at beautiful Island. The flows through S79 reduced compared to last week averaging 367 cfs. [Report Jan 15-21][Past Reports]
The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council released The Path Forward to Restoring the Gulf Coast: A Proposed Comprehensive Plan focuses on how to ensure the long-term health, prosperity, & resilience of the Gulf Coast.
[The Sacramento Bee] [Final Restoration Path]
Fracking experts from Florida and Pennsylvania describe hydraulic fracturing as it applies to both oil & gas wells and Aquifer Storage & Recovery in Florida. They say the biggest problem is the dirty water that comes back up a fracked well. [Christopher Brown] [David Yoxtheimer] [Radisav Vidic][Presentations][Profiles]
The CWN update explains how DEP has refused to set criteria for some toxics such as mercury. DEP uses an over-weight, white male who doesn’t eat much fish as their target for the greatest protection, not reflecting minority fish consumption rates. [Flyers][Hg in Fish Cartoon]
Riverwatch & Watershed Council members talked water issues with students at the 22nd Annual Southwest FL Water Resources Conference on Jan 25. Joining 70 professionals were 80 students from 6 FL campuses at the gathering co-hosted by CRCA. [Details][Dr. Ed Hanlon & Marisa Polgar][Hanlon & Ouellette]
Oil companies, especially Penn Virginia Oil & Gas, have plans to take land in lease for exploring & developing oil. One focus area for fracking in Florida is on the lower, unexplored part of the Sunniland Trend, at depths reaching 17,000 feet. [News-Press][Fracking Cartoon by Snowden & Cochrane][DoInMyToons.com]
Several states are experiencing greater drought conditions compared to past years. Parts of Southwest FL over to Miami are rated as being abnormally dry, very suitable condition for fire. So, wildfire officials hope for more cold fronts & rain. [News-Press][US Drought Map]
FL water pumping permits are based on faulty science, leading to pollution. State officials made decision based on computer models that use a false assumption. The models assume that the aquifer flows at a steady rate through layers of sand & gravel. [Tampa Bay Times][Modeling Cartoon]
New House committee chairman Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) said the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee will give top priority for water infrastructure improvement. The bipartisan supports plays key role to pass the water bills for this term. [NWRA][Bipartisan Effort]
"We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children & future generations. Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires." [Speech] [Thinkprogress][Speech Video]
Audubon’s Charles Lee says that parts of an agreement with Florida Crystals "that stink to high heaven," the environmental community is "holding our noses" because of the importance of STA 1 West water quality plan. [Tampa Bay Times]
The Everglades restoration projects provide clean drinking water for more than 7 million Floridians & also create many jobs & economic benefits to the nation. So, Congress should approve the water bills 2013 to strengthen the FL's & nation's economy. [Tampa Bay Times][Bi-partisan Proposals]
SFWMD is working with its federal, state & local partners on various strategies designed to increase water storage & move more clean water south to the Everglades. These strategies will minimize freshwater releases from Lake O to the Caloosahatchee. [Strategies Summary ] [Kissimmee] [DWMP][HHD Brochure][C_43 Storage][CEPP]
Cape Coral City Council appointed Mayor Sullivan as a representative of the Ceitus meditation proceeding. He said the mediation is over & it's on to the legal proceedings. 7 voted for him to represent the Cape and only 1 vote was against (McGrail). [Details]
DEP says that current oil & gas regulations in FL do not prohibit hydraulic fracturing. However, if such techniques proposed further research study is essential to evaluate the potential oil & gas conservation benefits and the environmental risks. [Fracking Issues ][Fracturing Information]
Rae Ann Wessel, former Riverwatch president, will be honored on Feb 25 for her environmental achievements in the awards ceremony for Women Who Make Southwest Florida. 21 women from various fields will get award. RSVP by Feb 15 due to limited seating. [Details]
The SCCF report delivers scientific information on the current conditions in the Caloosahatchee River & Estuary & how these conditions affect the health, productivity & function of the system. This week river flow has decreased compared to last week. [Current Condition][Past Condition]
Astronomy Programs at Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park in Alva will be held on Feb 8 at 6:45pm & Mar 15 at 8:15pm Registration for Feb is open now & for March, opens on Feb 13. Anyone Interested can register online or call for participation. [Flyers]
The negotiation for global mercury treaty began in Geneva from Jan 11. The Global Mercury report shows that the mercury level exceeded the U.S. EPA human health advisory guidelines. The Pacific Bluefin is already in danger of disappearing due to its exposure. [Mercury Treaty] [Vulnerable Blufin] [Global Report][Mercury Details]
On Jan 15 US Army Corps of Engineers Col Alan Dodd joined state leaders from the SFWMD, & Everglades National Park as well as state & local partners to celebrate the completion of the C-111 Spreader Canal Western Project in south Miami-Dade. [DEP News]
Watery Foundation has recommended 7 different measures to make the overall water management governance system better. He suggested forming the Regional water supply authorities statewide, offloading water supply development, nominating council, etc. [New Governance] [Official Board] [Management Reform]
River Rally 2013 registration, starting from May 17-20 at St. Louis is open. The rally includes more than 80 educational workshops, field trips, the river heroes banquet, etc. Eligible member can request financial assistance during the registration. [Brochure][Registration]
Lionfish can permanently harm the underwater ecosystem. They eat anything that fits into their mouths. The director of the Collier County Sea Grant program, Bryan Fluech says the marine life on a reef decline by 80% within few weeks of their arrival. [Naples Daily News]
The new rules for Consumptive Use Permitting allow withdrawing surface & ground water for reasonable & beneficial uses. The DEP conducted a series of public workshops to understand the interests of concerned stakeholders including environmentalists. [New Rules] [Proposed Changes] [Draft Rules][Declaration]
Margaret England, leader within Riverwatch, Audubon and several other organizations, received this year's Kabler Award from the Everglades Coalition in recognition of her volunteer and public education work for Everglades’s restoration. [Details] [Photo][About Margaret]
On Dec 12, 2012, DEP officials decided to implement Basin Management Action Plans for reducing nutrients of concern flowing into the estuary, Hendry Creek & the Imperial River & to increase storage options & restore more natural water flows. [Naples Daily News] [Caloosahatchee Pollution]
Kevin Spear of the Orlando Sentinel has written series of 3 articles on the current state of FL Rivers. He wrote these reports visiting 22 rivers across FL & talking to dozens of people. Although report seems very short, it provides full information. [Articles] [Water Quality Standards]
The Palm Beach Pack & Paddle West Palm Beach, & the Paddlers of Stuart are sponsoring 2013 FL Paddlers' Rendezvous. Paddling will start from Oct 24 to 27 in Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, FL. There are many paddle trips & events. [Handout][Website]
FL loggerheads are threatened species. They have increasing threats from entanglements in fishing gear at sea &, along the coasts, from rising sea levels & encroaching coastal development, but, Obama administration still lacking their protection. [naplesnews][Loggerheads]
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar joined Everglades’s activists, elected officials & business leaders to discuss state & federal restoration projects. The 3 day Everglades Coalition Conference was held Jan 10-13 in Coral Gables. [Details][Conference]
SFWMD gets 2900 acres and gives 8700 acres in a special deal with Florida Crystals & extended their lease of state land for sugarcane farming for 30yrs - the effective life of the muck soils in many parts of the EAA. That's a sweet deal for Crystals. [SunSentinel] [Palm Beach Post][Everglades Restoration]
Activists held a rally in Tampa on Jan 17 at an EPA hearing on water quality regulations for Florida. They demanded that EPA strength its oversight in Florida, and not let DEP pretend to protect waterways. They displayed photos of FL degraded waters. [Flyers] [Tampa Tribune] [Sign][EPA Details][Photos][Video]
FL Congressmen claim to be partnering on bi-partisan proposals to restore the Everglades. Freshman Congressman Patrick Murphy is looking to partner with Tom Rooney, a Congressman who helped block funding for the important C-43 reservoir project. [wfsu]
Claws should be at least 2 & 3/4 inches long to be legally harvested. In FL, crab claws are the source of income for commercial fisherman. The annual income from claws in FL is about $17 million. The Gulf coast provides 2.6 million pounds of claws. [Huffington Post]
Fresh water from Lake O is making life good for the Caloosahatchee River’s tape grass, oysters & recreational fishermen. Corps of Engineers releases of water from the lake to the Caloosahatchee will protect the lake’s environment too. [News Press]
The number of Manatees deaths statewide is dependent on natural conditions such as weather, infant mortality, etc. In 2012, 392 Manatees died, which is lower than during the 3 previous years. The warmer weather favors Manatees survival. [Florida Today] [News Journal][Youtube]
The U.S. Census Bureau declared that more people move to FL/year than to any other state. According to the Sunshine State campaign director for the Center for Biological Diversity, FL is not too late to save FL biodiversity but needs to act now. [The Miami Herald]
According to the Seattle PI, President Obama is about to nominate outgoing Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire as the new head of the EPA. Gregoire was Director of Washington’s Dept of Ecology before being elected Attorney General in 1992. [EcoWatch]
Gov. Rick Scott wants DEP to look at Florida's springs & wants to ensure the flow of natural gas to the state is not interrupted. On Friday, Scott met with The Florida Current staff & was asked to lay out his legislative agenda on a variety of issues. [Details]
The Python Challenge started on Jan 12 with a kick-off event of training & talks on identifying & handling pythons at the UF Research and Education Center in Davie. The hunt ends at Feb 10 and an awards ceremony will be held on Feb 16. [Sun Sentinel][Python Cartoon by Snowden & Cochrane]
The criminal penalties levied against BP and the recent penalties announced against Transocean will be available to Gulf States, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the National Academy of Sciences to fund Gulf ecosystem restoration.
[Details] [Manatee County Plans] [Request Letter]
Adam Putnam thinks that EPA approved Florida's Numeric Nutrient Criteria Rule because Florida's approach is based on sound science. The truth is probably more that EPA is just too weak to put up a proper fight for improved, rapid standards. [Sunshine State News]
Managers debate the pro's & con's of "Stacking" payments for ecosystems services provided by projects designed to reduce nutrient runoff, mitigate green house gas emissions & address other environmental needs. There is lack policy guidannce/research. [Risk & Solutions][Stacking & Bundling]
The USDOJ stated that the Transocean Deepwater Inc. agreed to plead guilty to violating the Clean Water Act (CWA) & to pay a total of $1.4 billion in civil & criminal fines & penalties, for its conduct in relation to the BP oil spill disaster. [LA Times]
Recently, the Crystal River has turned dark due to excess fertilizer, leaky sewers, septic tanks, & domestic animal waste. The nitrates from those sources are stimulating a blooming of Lyngbya that has become a human health problem in the springs. [Tampa Bay Times] [Lyngbya Summary ]
A new report, Florida Wildlife 2060, draws the connection between the health of Florida's waters and the health of its wildlife. It points out that Florida's population growth will put increasing pressure on natural habitat. [Wild Turky History] [Wildlife 2060]
Bonita Springs Native Plant Society, University of Florida & other groups are holding a Native Plant sale in Riverside Park on Old U.S. 41 on Feb 9. Also offered is a rainbarrel workshop for capturing & storing roof runoff. [Flyer] [Announcement]
There are top 10 best Kayaking in Southeast Florida but it's always hard to find good places to kayak or canoe. Out of 10 places, four of them are located in Palm Beach County, seven are in Broward County & three are in Miami Dade County. [Description]
The Global Water Footprint Standard was developed through a joint effort of the Water Footprint Network, its partners, & scientists of the University of Twente in the Netherlands. The standard can be found in the Water Footprint Assessment Manual. [Press Release] [Standard Information] [Manual]
On Jan 2, Dr. Paul Gray presented at the CRCA meeting. He talked about the stakeholder connectivity due to bird migration, about Lake O and about Fisheating Creek. He also discussed nutrient pollutions in Lake Okeechobee & Caloosahatchee River. [Presentation]
The best reality TV is right here in N Ft Myers. Dick Pritchett Real Estate installed and maintains the SW FL Eagle Cam in a tree on their property. A chick is being nurtured by Ozzie & Harriet who have called this tree their home since 2007. [Winter Cam] [Eagle Details][Youtube][Eagle Cam][Cartoon]
Dianne was chosen to attend the Climate Reality Leadership training in San Francisco, put on by Vice President Gore & his scientists. Dianne became an official Climate Reality Presenter & can give climate PowerPoint lecture to interested audiences. [Presenter Details] [News]
The concepts & programs of the recent Ecosystems Services conference in Ft. Lauderdale are forwarded to the Central Everglades Project Plan (CEPP) by John Arthur Marshall. The Corps plans to make CEPP a case study for Ecosystems Services valuation. [Details] [PCAST Report]
The new River Network report “Burning Our Rivers" found that for every gallon of water used in an average household, 5 times more water is used monthly to provide that home with electricity via hydropower turbines & fossil fuel power plants. [River Report] [Summary][SW FL Water & Energy Conference]
If you have some ideas on how to protect & restore water & rivers, please share them through the River Network's web site & its Facebook page. Check out the 13 river resolutions for 2013 linked to this news box. We can each adopt a few or all. [Resolutions Details][Website]
According to Climate Vulnerable Forum, failure to implement Climate Change mitigation programs will result 100 million deaths worldwide by 2030 from catastrophic effects. Since FL is the topmost state threatened by CC, FL leadership is essential. [SunSentinel] [Public Perception ] [Kresge Foundation Grant]
By debating for 14 years the question of how much cleaner Florida waters need to be, Florida has probably lost 30 years since it will take 15+ years to get back to the water quality levels of 14 years ago. But at least now we have standards. [Tampa Bay Times]
Learn about Monatee food, habitat & challenges they are facing to survive involving in Monatee program (MP) from 2nd Jan - March 30, 2013. MP opens at 8am & the program continue from 11am & 2pm daily. Parking fee $ 2 to 5/hr & registration free. [Details] [News Press][Events Schedule][Registration]
The December 2012 CRCA newsletter is available online. The archive provides an index to many of the newsletters dating back to 1995. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [December Newsletter][HTML version][Newsletter Archive]
90% of the BMAP water quality projects have already been completed for the first 5-year cycle and 44% of the required nitrogen reduction has supposedly already been met for local urban areas. But pollution has actually increased, 50% in some areas. [Cassani Editorial][Despite Good Intentions Cartoon]
Paula Dockery, a Republican and former state senator from Lakeland apparently regrets that she voted to confirm DEP head Herschel Vineyard given what he and Governor Scott have been doing to DEP, DCA, and Florida’s environment in general. [Florida Voices]
Lisa P. Jackson is stepping down as administrator of the EPA after a four year tenure. She began her journey with high hopes of sweeping action to address climate change & other environmental problems but ended with a series of rear-guard actions. [New York Times] [Climate Change Challenges][Science News][News Press]
A former DEP employee asserts that 58 employees were laid off by DEP in a concerted effort to loosen regulation of polluting industries. DEP was never great, but now it's all a political sham. It will take Florida decades to recover from this. [Tampabay News]
The meaning of Lake Okeechobee (Lake O) is "big water in the Seminole language. It has also been called Mayaimi, Serrope, & Mayacco. Lake “O” is the largest lake in the SE US with a surface area of 730 square miles & average depth of 9ft.
The Seasonal guided walks at Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve in North Fort Myers will start from 2013, 2nd Saturday of each three consecutive months (Jan to March). The walking time ranges from 9 to 10:30 a.m. There is no program & parking fee. [News Press] [C2020 Flyer]
Sarah Sumoski published a study of seed dispersal in the eelgrass beds of Chesapeake Bay. It shows that marine animals can disperse eelgrass seeds. Eelgrasses are declining in the Caloosahatchee as well so this research may also help our region. [Sportsman News] [Caloosahatchee eel grass]
Stop pumping! That's the most effective way to restore aquifer levels in North Florida so says a new report by Dr. Robert White to Suwannee River WMD. The report looks at other solutions like direction injection and recharge basins. [Lake News] [Aquifer Recharge]
A new study finds that the western part of the massive West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) is experiencing nearly twice as much warming as previously thought and could upset the surface mass balance of the ice sheet, accelerating sea-level rise. [National Science Foundation] [Claims Journal]
Despite below-average temperatures in Nov, 2012 was a hot one for Southwest Florida, with the mean temp of 76.5F, the 4th warmest on record. SW FL has had temperatures of at least 80 degrees 290 times this year & 15 times in December. [News Press] [Monthly] [Yearly][Climate Change Denier Cartoon]
This year's wading bird nest total is 39% below average. Back to back droughts followed by a rainy 2012 resulted in yo-yoing water levels
that disrupts nesting. Also, the small prey fish prey base has yet to recover from previous droughts.
[Huffington Post]
The second Obama's term will include increased ESA listing decisions, continued disputes between environmental groups, agencies, & developers over energy development on public lands; & disputes over the designated areas for wildlife. [Article] [2009 Controversy] [First Term ]
Glades & Hendry counties are the mecca for bird watching from Mar 12 to 16 during the Big "O" Birding Extravaganza The event is a Glades/ Hendry County cooperative event on the Southwest shores of Lake Okeechobee. [Daily Schedule][Flyers]
The EPA released a progress report on its national study to understand the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources. Next, EPA is hosting a public webinar in Jan 3rd & 4th 2013 to talk about project specific updates. [Details] [Article][Fracking Water Cycle Graphic]
The DEP announced adoption of 2 Basin Management Action Plans in Southwest Fl, one for Hendry Creek & Imperial River & the other for the Caloosahatchee River (CR). Stakeholders are expected to reduce 148,000 pounds/yr of total N2 in 1st 5 year. [News Press] [CR BMP ] [CR Final Order]
Americans are eating fish from waters where mercury accumulates from atmospheric emissions derived from the burning of fossil fuels. Scientists have created the first complete picture of the way mercury moves from these sources & up to food chain. [Article] [Sources to Seafood][Youtube]
According to a new report, declining quality & availability of fresh water in Florida is putting wildlife at risk. There are 10 species that are endangered as a result of water mismanagement. The FL Snail Kite is one of the top ten in list. [New Report] [Public News Service]
The 2012 Concurrency Report was accepted by Lee County Commissioners on Nov. 13. The report inventories infrastructure for solid waste disposal, surface water management, potable water, sanitary sewer, parks and recreation. [Concurrency Report]
The Sierra Club & their coalition partners sent more than 40,000 letters to President Obama demanding action to clean up the slime in Fl waterways. The EPA gave attention to demands & they are considering strong nutrient criteria to protect water. [Take Action][Public Influence]
The Conservancy of SW FL’s Dalton Discovery Center recently opened in Naples. It features state-of-the-art experiences with SW FL ecosystems: Uplands, Everglades, Mangroves, Sandy Beaches, & Ocean. [Press Release] [Naples News]
When people think about global warming sea level rise, they envision a far distant future, problem that their great-grandchildren will have to deal with. That may not be the case. Ocean levels have already risen 7-8 inches over the past 50 years. [Article]
Riverwatch Secretary Dr. John Capece and his research team presented talks & posters addressing issues of the Caloosahatchee, EAA, and water storage at the ecosystems services valuation conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Dec 10-13.
[County Level Program] [LCA Poster] [Ecosystem Services]
As of Nov 27, 2012, total number of documented Florida panther deaths is 24. Two thirds died due to vehicle strikes. While building road underpasses could help, a loss of habitat to development is putting a constant squeeze on this endangered specie. [Naples News] [Opinion]
State & private agencies say EPA should have let FL implement & regulate its own water rules rather than those set by the EPA that they say will cost the state millions of dollars to comply. After all, FL has such a great record on protecting water. [Article] [EPA Action in FL Waterways][EPA Approval][Causes of Federal Rules]
FDACS is requesting additional fund from lawmakers to develop best management practices (BMPs) for ranches & farms around Lake O, & in the St. Lucie & Caloosahatchee River watersheds. BMP is critical to reduce the historical phosphorus loads. [History of FDACs][Everglades Review][Ripple Effect]
The Florida House is proposing that private landowners can gain ownership to adjacent public lands by placing the state lands under conservation easement. The question is whether the easement will really hold or if the public loses future control. [Legislation][Summary]
Senate's Environment & Public Works Chair B. Boxer (D-CA) & ranking D. Vitter (R-LA) hope to move Water Resources Development Act 2012 (WRDA) out of committee within the first month of the new Congress. But House chair J. Mica (R-FL) is hedging. [ENS WRDA Update] [Houma Today] [Politico]
The CREW Land & Water Trust has been awarded a Public Outreach Grant from the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program to partially fund second year of its scholarly nature walks led by professionals, known as CREW Strolling Science Seminars. [Press Release][Strolling Science Seminars]
SFWMD announced a "new vision" process for Caloosahatchee estuary restoration. With progress at a stand-still on previously identified problems & solutions, the stakeholders need to revisit the issues and update their plans, priorities & schedules. [News Release] [Opinion] [Visioning][Strategies][LWC Water Supply Plan]
SFWMD approved its Lower West Coast Water Supply Plan for the Caloosahatchee region. Responding to criticism that the Plan lacks its required restoration component and vision, SFWMD is creating a working group to update goals and assess status. [Approved Water Supply Plan][LWC Planning Document]
South Florida had its driest November on record (only 0.29 inches, which is 1.50 inches below normal). Regardless, the Corps continued to drain water out of Lake O, although releases have been reduced in recent weeks as the Lake continues to drop. [Sun Sentinel] [Lake O Stage][Warm Weather]
A proposal to funnel water from Martin County's largest rock mine to West Palm Beach could result in larger discharges of polluted water from Lake Okeechobee to the St. Lucie River. This project is also associated with a trail of political donations. [TC Palm][Web Site]
Florida's new water protection rules haven't entirely prevailed over the USEPA. The Feds are issuing their own rules on 82,000 of 100,000 miles of waterways. Meanwhile, the state DEP anti-pollution criteria will cover just the remaining 18,000. [Industry Reaction] [Associated Press]
CHNEP created a poster of the animals that live in estuaries. Posters show the geographic & biological diversity of estuaries which are home to 80% of world’s fish species & 45% of US endangered species. Interested groups can distribute the posters. [Charlotte Harbor Newsletter][Poster Image]
Tufts University's Stockholm Environment Institute released a white paper entitled Valuing Florida's Clean Waters. The paper finds that algae & red tide outbreaks caused by water pollution cost Floridians from $1.3 to 10.5 billion/year. [Water Pollution Cost Article] [White Paper]
FDEP is initiating a study on aquatic life in South Florida canals. The objective is to provide resource managers with recommendations by assessing the aquatic life & determining their interrelationships with other affecting variables.
[South Florida Canals] [Legacy Canal & Aquatic Life]
On Dec 4 the Obama Administration released the 2012 America's Great Outdoors Progress Report, detailing key successes of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative, including advancing local conservation priorities. [Progress Report (photos omitted)][Web Site]
A water quality project in which Lee County invested $10 million has started to move forward. The intent is to use an old grove in
Glades County on the south shore of the Caloosahatchee as a treatment area to remove nitrogen from Lake O discharges. [Project Management Plan] [Wetland Performance Evaluation] [Conceptual Plan]
FRESP was initiated in 2005 and currently includes 8 water storage projects. Another 8 contracts spanning Okeechobee, Polk & Highland counties are being planned. New projects will add 4,800 acre-ft. of regional water storage. [Water Program Expanded][FRESP Details]
Hydraulic fracturing is expected to create more jobs & even make the nation independent on the foreign fossil fuel. However, many harmful environmental impacts come along with the drilling & extraction process. Floridians should learn & take action. [Fracking News] [The Washington Post ]
In discussing south Florida water management problems, Leon Abood from the River Coalition proposes that politicians be required to
wear "NASCAR jackets" so the public knows which donors are sponsoring which politicians and by how much. [NASCAR Jacket][YouTube Video]
Lee County Clerk, Charlie Green released a series of critical audits of county land purchases over recent years. A committee, including Watershed Council founding member Noel Andress, has recommended improvements to the Lee County Commission. [Committee Roster] [County Clerk Audit] [Committee Recommendations][News Press]
Documenting the demise of Florida’s springs and its inland aquifers reveals the true story behind the firing of one of Florida’s longest-serving and most respected WMD directors, David Still. He sought to protect the springs and was pushed out. [Tampa Bay Times][Special Report]
Water releases from Lake O turned kayak fishing in St. Lucie Estuary from sight-fishing fun to blind-casting frustration. The Corps stopped lake releases on Nov 7. But estuary waters are still murky, making sight-fishing impossible. [The Miami Herald]
The News-Press now has a special web site called "Playing In Paradise" featuring videos by journalist Kevin Lollar & amazing photographs by Andrew West. Lucky for Kevin, this whale shark only eats algae, something we have lots of in SW Florida. [Kevin Cam]
Various components of Florida Everglades are degrading day by day. This degradation can be stopped only through the collaborative work of scientists, policy makers and reasonable cost effective management practice. [Details]
With the rainy season over, Lake Okeechobee has started to drop. Storing more water north of the lake is a primary tool for reducing damage from high water discharges to the Caloosahatchee. But filling all available storage reduces flood protection. [Lake News] [Lake Stage Graphic]
It was another picture-perfect Florida day for the 16th annual Caloosahatchee River Ride on Nov 11. Over 100 riders joined in the event. Thank you to all riders! We look forward to seeing you again next year. Congrats to event organizer Keith Kibbey! [Photos]
During many years the Caloosahatchee Estuary lacks fresh water to maintain dry season salinity balance. Computer simulations show a WSA strategy can provide some of the needed fresh water for the Estuary. CRCA seeks a water reservation from any WSA. [Details][CRCA position on Backpumping (2007)]
Judah was the environmental crusader, fighting to keep land and water preserved & pristine, willing to battle any powerful adversary. Bigelow was a risk taker, willing to take stands on issues, asking the tough questions. Both supported Riverwatch. [News-Press]
Given that Hurricane Sandy is widely credited with reversing Romney's presidential race momentum, climate change is suddenly a hot topic again. The issue is resurfacing in talks about a once radical idea: a possible carbon tax. [The Washington Post] [Karl Rove]
All five Lee County commissioners have agreed to proceed to the next stage of the litigation, which is to arrange for the appointment of a mediator as required by Chapter 164 of the Florida Statutes. [Details][cartoon]
How long will water be available to nourish life on Earth? Researchers will address water resources management & policy in a changing world at American Geophysical Union conference in December. In the U.S., more than 36 states face water shortages. [NSF.gov]
In his salinity data collection for the North Spreader Canal System for the 2012 rainy season, Phil Buchanan focused on Back Bay, the Matlacha area most directly affected by the removal of the Ceitus Barrier. [Details] [Salinity Readings]
Former CRCA director Karen Bickford, who since 2006 has handled water quality planning for Lee County, was been awarded the Together We Mean Community award for Q4,2012 which recognizes employees who go above and beyond their assigned duties. [Details]
DEP employees who survive the ongoing staffing purges are being directed to drum up instances of how they have achieved "job creation" and cost savings for regulated industries, suggesting a fundamentally new, bizarre
mission for DEP.
[PEER]
China's massive population is gradually crawling out of poverty and seeking the food consumption levels people in the West have enjoyed for decades. This has huge implications on China's and the world's water and land resources. [PBS]
After Hurricane Sandy, NY City is faced with possibly constructing flood gates at a cost of $20 BILLION. Coastal areas everywhere will face similar costs since climate change deniers & the politicians they supported blocked progress on the issue. [Storm Water]
UF/IFAS, Lee County Extension Sustainability Program in collaboration with Skyheat Assoc.
present Solar Workshop - Solar Cell phone chargers with Professor Richard Komp on Dec 5 from 9am-4pm in Ft. Myers. Reserve now, space is limited to 30 people. [Details] [Flyer][Web site]
With 1.63 million cows, Florida ranks 11th in beef cows and 19th in total cattle nationally. With so many acres in pasture, it's important that ranching areas not invade, but provide wildlife-friendly connectivity between Florida's natural lands. [On Earth]
Every year, the state of Florida produces more than 8 billion pounds of coal ash-a toxic byproduct. A Clean Water Fund report says coal ash poses significant threats to public water resouces and public health (cancer & nervous system damage). [Creative Loafing Tampa]
In the Fisheating Creek legal action, one side seems to be claiming that no dredging occurred whereas maybe they should be asserting that legitimate attempts to restore navigation for canoes & kayaks went awry due to improper dredging by an agency. [The Miami Herald]
Join the December 2012 public programs at the Caloosahatchee Regional Park located at 18500 North River Road in Alva. For more information, call Kelly at (239)822-5212. Register online at the Lee Parks web site or by calling (239)533-7440. [Programs]
After 50 days, the Army Corps of Engineers on Nov 7, halted releases of polluted, silt-laden fresh water from Lake Okeechobee into the brackish St. Lucie River estuary. As of Nov 1, the flow has been about 850 cubic feet per second since Sep 19. [TCPalm]
For the first time in almost 30 years, climate change was not talked about in the presidential or vice presidential debates. But the candidates cannot ignore the reality of climate change, especially in Fla. Climate change must be faced by everyone. [News-Press] [Huffington Post]
Cape Coral said "No one is happy about paying this money because of federal regulations." in grudgingly buying Alva land for under $1 million to mitigate Scrub Jay habitat impacts from building the 215-acre Festival Park that cost them $27 million. [News-Press] [CapeCoral.com] [Daily Breeze][Cape Fact Sheet]
The 11th Circuit Court refused to review an EPA rule that exempts the transfer of polluted EAA canal water into Lake Okeechobee. These transfers are therefore not subject to the permitting requirements of the Clean Water Act. [Opposing Views] [Court Ruling] [Save the Twinkie cartoon]
Australia development triggered a massive coral collapse at the Great Barrier Reef more than 50 years ago. Polluted runoff clouded the pristine Pacific water & poisoned the native species. It also promoted algal blooms which prevented coral regrowth. [Fox News]
Cape Coral’s City Council voted 7-0-1 not to extend Ceitus negotiations with Lee County. The only astention was incoming councilman Marty McClain. Abstention is the nearest thing to a progressive stance that can be found in the Cape these days. [News-Press] [Daily Breeze]
With the elections over Rae Ann Wessel of SCCF submitted a letter to local papers thanking Com. Ray Judah for his great service over the past 24 years. He has been a powerful force for the environment and our community on the Lee County Commission. [Island Reporter]
Join Fish & Wildlife Service on its new E-tram for a journey through Pelican Island NWR to experience wildlife up close while making a strong connection to the natural world. Space is limited. MUST call for reservations. See poster for details. [Poster][Facebook]
SFWMD report chapter 3B updates the status of mercury and sulfur monitoring in South FL and highlights the progress on research findings. Along with Volume III, Appendices 3-1 and 3-2, this chapter fulfills the Everglades Forever Act requirement. [Report]
Leo Amos points out how the state contract "mediator" has been consistently attempting to "Manufacture Consent" by creating the illusion that the majority of Ceitus issue stakeholders agreed to what was really just a minority report created by DEP. [Email]
As budgets and political will shrink, the burden of violations detections shift to advocacy groups, such as Riverkeeper. One wonders if this is the most effective and efficient way for the public to achieve accountability and legal adherence. [The Augusta Chronicle]
On Oct 26 researchers with Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota collected water samples containing Karenia brevis off Sanibel to better learn about the mysterious formation & life cycle of the microscopic marine algae that causes red tide in SW FL. [News-Press]
Warmer waters could significantly change ocean distribution of populations of phytoplankton, tiny organisms that could have They will thrive near the poles and shrink in equatorial waters, with a major feedback pushing climate change. [NSF.gov][Photos]
Margaret England was awarded Audubon Volunteer Award for Everglades Conservation, presented at the Audubon Assembly in Sarasota Oct 27 by Audubon FL CEO Eric Draper. Margaret is President of Hendry-Glades Audubon and Vice President of Riverwatch.
As of Oct 22, flows to the Caloosahatchee Estuary continue to run at 3400 cfs, well above the maximum advisable limit of 2800 cfs. Shore waters are also experiencing red tide and other phytoplanton blooms resulting in fish kills. [SCCF Conditions Report]
After testing for Mercury, Florida advises eating no more than 1 meal per month of bass taken from the Caloosahatchee or Lake Okeechobee. But bass from Fisheating Creek area should not be eaten at all. Some other types of fish can eaten weekly. [Eating Limits]
The Libertarian Party position on environmental issues puts the burden of action and responsibility on landowners and individuals. They believe environmental advocates and social pressure are the most effective means of changing public behavior. [Libertarian Environmental Platform 2012] [Full Libertarian Platform][Cartoon]
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the federal agency overseeing plans by the British genetic engineering firm Oxitec to release altered mosquitoes in the Keys, part of a plan to head off outbreaks of dengue fever. [Details]
Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam urged the state to review which agencies are managing particular tracts of state land and he expressed concerns about spending more money on buying conservation land. [The Florida Current]
Florida lawmakers have cut conservation spending more deeply than any other part of government. Conservation is a value all Floridians deeply cherish across party lines. The Water & Land Legacy amendment simply seeks to hold the environment harmless. [Details][Take Action Today!]
Several of the counties belonging to a consortium that is preparing a plan to spend some BP oil spill money objected to a request by Gov. Rick Scott to appoint one-fourth of the consortium and its chairman. [The Florida Current]
The SW FL Watershed Council met on Oct 25 at the Royal Palm Yacht Club. Dr. Darren Rumbold of FGCU spoke about the levels and impacts of mercury contamination in fish plus its linkages to the sulfur in water and soil. [Dr. Darren Rumbold Bio] [Details] [Presentation Summary]
State Sen. Joe Negron wants to strip the Corps of Engineers of its power to manage water levels in Lake O. But the Corps is the one agency trying to ensure the Caloosahatchee gets some water during the dry season. Turn it over to SFWMD...really? [TCPalm] [Graham: SFWMD Did Not Show Up][Cartoon]
Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades announced 2012 Recipients of Annual Champion of the Everglades Awards: U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Ron Bergeron and Florida Wildlife Federation. Awards will be presented on Dec 8, 2012. [Details][Web site]
A red tide has worsened along Collier County beaches bringing dead fish onto Naples-area beaches. The bloom of microscopic algae can release a toxin that kills marine life and causes watery eyes, coughing and a throat tickle. [Naples News]
The onslaught of extreme weather and record temperatures this year have had an impact on people globally, directly through drought and temperature, and more indirectly impacting food prices and public transportation. [Think Progress]
Restoration funding is at risk. Great Waters Coalition is asking for organizations and businesses to sign-on to Stop Funding Cuts to Great Waters Restoration Programs. Sign-on deadline: COB, Friday November 9th, 2012.
[Details][Sign-on][Web site]
The Council for Agricultural Science & Technology has developed recommendations in response to public & scientific concerns about the relationships between animal health, food safety, & sustainability in our food supply. [CAST Commentary Paper][Video][CAST Web site]
The State endorsed a plan claiming it will clean up the Everglades by building 6500 more acres of filter marshes on top of the existing 45,000 acres. 15% more of the same will probably not be enough but it placates the judge at a cost of $888 million [The Miami Herald]
What are the sources of nutrients causing eutrophication of lakes & reservoirs? There are many sources. All activities in the entire drainage area of a lake or reservoir are reflected directly or indirectly in the water quality of these water bodies. [Details][Web site]
There are P-removal techniques. However we do NOT have cost-effective techniques to control and remove P from the environment to sufficiently lower concentrations on a huge scale as particularly desirable for the Everglades and our coastal estuaries. [P-removal techniques][Web site]
Mark Perry, executive director of the FL Oceanographic Society, encourages everyone to get involved in efforts to ensure water flows naturally South from Lake O to feed Everglades; more algae blooms & toxic water is not needed in St. Lucie River. [TCPalm]
Experts say they want the lake between 12.5 & 15.5-feet above sea level. Right now, it's at 15.6. The Corps started water releases after Tropical Storm Isaac. And just under a billion gallons of water has been released every day since Sep 19. [abc7]
Lee County Parks & Recreation wants to hear from you! Please take the time to give us your comments and feedback concerning Lee County Parks & Recreation facilities, the activities you participate in and the programs, facilities. Thanks! [Assessment Survey][Web site]
At a budget hearing held on Sep 25, the SFWMD Board finalized & adopted the $567.3 million budget that will fund the agency's mission for the next 12 months. A full 75% of the FY2013 budget is dedicated to benefiting water resources protection, etc. [October Newsletter][Web site]
Chemist Paul Edmiston's search for a new way to detect explosives at airports instead led to the creation of what's now called "Osorb," swellable, organically-modified silica, or glass, capable of absorbing oil and other contaminants from water. [NSF.gov][Video]
To help stabilize salinity of Caloosahatchee, State engineers installed 2 pumps on an old citrus farm in W Hendry County. Both pumps are operational now, drawing diverting 5% of the fresh water headed towards the Caloosahatchee estuary. [News-Press] [Fox4] [abc7]
No doubt the decision of the ad hoc committee of two county commissioners and two Cape Coral officials on the Ceitus boatlift to not set an ending point for the talks and to allow more findings left everyone attending the last meeting unhappy. [News-Press][Cartoon]
Alan Farago, president of Friends of the Everglades, on the 40th Anniversary of the Clean Water Act talks about the past history and the future of water. [Details]
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has selected AQUARIUS as its new platform for water time series data management nationally. Over 3000 USGS professionals will rely on AQUARIUS for time series data storage, processing, review, and reporting. [Aquatic Informatics]
To better understand how planet Earth's water cycle works, the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Food & Agriculture (NIFA) awarded grants totaling almost $27 million through the Water Sustainability and Climate program. [NSF.gov]
When using scientific evidence and education to deal with a range of critical global issues like water quality and climate change, it's important to understand how hard it is to reach a large segment of the population. "The Science Guy" explains. [NPR.org][Nothing in Biology]
To lessen Lake Okeechobee flooding threats, the Army Corps of Engineers is moving more than double the amount of lake water being dumped out to sea, despite concerns about environmental damage to coastal estuaries. [Sun-Sentinel]
The proposed SFWMD Water Supply Plan claims, "water demands of the LWC Planning Area can continue to be met.." This is only true if SFWMD ignores the half of the WSP mandate that reads to "ensure adequate supply of water to protect natural systems.." [SCCF Assessment][Cassani Comments]
David Guest who filed a petition for an administrative hearing last week with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is questioning the agency’s relationship with Florida agriculture giant Lykes Bros. But the Audubon Society disagrees. [News-Press]
A recent study release by Munich Re, the world's largest re-insurance firm (insuring the insurance companies), sees climate change driving increased disasters & predicts the trend will continue, though a number of experts question that conclusion. [USA Today]
Salt marshes have been disintegrating and dying over the past two decades along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard and other highly developed coastlines without anyone fully understanding why. Scientists say excess nutrients may be to blame for their decline. [NSF.gov] [Images]
Oil and gas drilling have huge environmental consequences.' In South Florida, the most likely target for fracking is the Lower Sunniland Trend, two miles below an area stretching from Fort Myers to Miami. [News Press][Gift Subscription][Global Frack-down]
EarthJustice is suing FDEP over Fisheating Creek issues. After dredging resulted in over-drainage of Cowbone Marsh and scoured out a deeper channel, DEP and others have taken actions many consider excessive and harmful. [Press Release][Cowbone Video][FEC Documents]
Vice President Joe Biden spoke in Ft. Myers but did not take up the News Press challenge to speak to environmental issues. He made only a small reference to renewable energy during a mostly Medicare & economy speech. [Letter to VP] [30% Environmental] [Swing Myth][Analysis]
The News Press challenged VP Biden to use part of his Ft. Myers campaign to discuss ways the federal government can help this state protect wetlands and other environmental areas. They asked him to discuss his plans for clean energy & air. [News Press Editorial]
Views or opinions expressed in the web site & newsletter are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of “Riverwatch.” Comments & questions about editorial content & facts can be directed to John Capece, CRCA Secretary. [email to CRCA Secretary]
Florida's Water and Land Legacy Campaign is in the thick of volunteer recruitment. Please consider helping the campaign by sending an email alert to your members, recruiting volunteers at meetings or by posting a campaign write-up in your outreach. [Kickoff Meeting Announcement][Details][Publicity Toolkit][Full Text]
Ray Judah's seat is not even vacant yet, but winds of change are in the air. Commissioner Tammy Hall again sought to end Lee County's legal efforts to restore Ceitus Boat Lift. Her attempt failed, but may return once Ray is gone. [Why Ceitus Matters] [Actions] [Salinity Consequences][Cartoon]
According to John Cassani no other resource more importantly controls the economy and way of life in a state where water wars are far from fictional. Special interest consumers control our water. [Cassani Opinion] [Earthjustice Filing] [NewsPress]
Despite all the right-wing carping, the big 2009 stimulus bill was successful, well-administered, and virtually scandal-free, writes Michael Grunwald in his new book. And it gave a huge boost to renewables and cleantech. [Grist.org]
The Republican platform advocates state implementation of ag BMPs & dismatling EPA (federal backstop enforcement of water quality) reflecting the Florida debate where CRCA has often advocated EPA actions to motivate greater progress in & by Florida. [Platform Water Highlights]
For many years, environmental agencies have sought to improve the water
quality of lakes and estuaries by reducing inputs of phosphorus. New research indicates that we must reduce both phosphorus and nitrogen to reverse eutrophication symptoms. [Details][Website]
We are up to 92 likes. Please visit our Facebook page and like us today! Facebook with its easily-accessible style, compliments the CRCA web site which is designed to provide a more permanent record of issues and positions. [CRCA Facebook]
Before TS Isaac, Sanibel had 104 sea turtle nests and Captiva had 21 nests on the beach. Storm surge on Monday washed out or washed over 75% of remaining nests on Sanibel and Captiva Island beaches. TS Debby earlier in the summer was worse. [Fox-4] [Photo][YouTube][Facebook]
TS Isaac's tidal surge & basin runoff contributed to a wide swing in Estuary salinity from 5 to 34 psu in a day as salt water moved up the estuary. High freshwater flows (5000 cfs average) well above the 2800 limit pushed salinity low again rapidly. [Caloosahatchee Condition] [Salinity Shifts] [Shell Point][Play Seesaw Mania!]
Speaking at a water-policy forum on September 6 in Orlando, Herschel Vinyard, secretary of the Florida DEP, said the state's five water districts are now spending about $1 billion a year to regulate and protect surface and aquifer waters. [Orlando Sentinel]
2012 forecasted an average year with 9-15 named storms, including 4-8 hurricanes. As of Sep 1 the total was 12 storms, 7 hurricanes. But the 6-month season was only half over. Upper level wind shear kept the storms under Cat 3. [Miami Herald] [2012 Hurricane Season] [Science of Hurricanes]
While scientists stare in shock and awe at this year's data on the Arctic's unprecendented ice melt, the BBC explains how the loss of the ice's reflectance is the equivalent of adding 20 more years of CO2 emissions to our atmosphere. [BBC Article] [Straight Dope][Watch Weather-girl Goes Rouge]
SFWMD board members took positions on Lake O when discussing Lower West Coast Water Supply Plan. DeLisi said this was not the place to deal with Lake O, while Collins stated that the lake should be held at a higher level once the dike is repaired. [Case for Low Lake] [Case for Higher Lake]
Lisa Interlandi of the Everglades Law Center insisted on restoration of discussion of an initial "reservation" and other essential elements of a Caloosahatchee restoration plan in the Lower West Coast Water Supply Plan. [Pete Quasius Speaking][Link to Video (4:59:15 hrs)]
The 2012 Democratic Party Platform states they will work to ensure the integrity of the waters Americans rely on by supporting initiatives that restore our rivers, oceans, coasts, and watersheds, including the Florida Everglades. [Democrats on Environment] [2012 Democratic Platform]
Perhaps the first in an endless series of Climate Change bills is coming due in Miami. Increased flooding due to Sea Level Rise is dictating that Miami Beach revamp its stormwater system. Florida bills will steadily grow from millions to billions. [Miami Herald] [SE FL Sea Level Rise]
On Sep 2, Lake Okeechobee stage surged past 14 feet. That's a 0.20-foot per day increase. The lake will continue to rise for another week or more. If another tropical storm approaches, water managers will have to consider dumping water down C-43. [Lake O Stage Chart (Aug 28)]
The Master's degree thesis of Chloe Delhomme has been published by USF. Chloe completed her Caloosahatchee oxbows measurements during the summer of 2011 with help from Intelligentsia International interns of Dr. John Capece in LaBelle. [Title & Abstract][Delhomme Thesis (90MB)]
Isaac was an ideal tropical storm - little in the way of damaging winds, but a good soaking. 2 to 12" fell in the Kissimmee Basin; 8" directly on the lake. Lake O could rise to perhaps 14' - a good level, as long as another storm doesn't follow. [Lake O Stage History][Regional Rain]
Cape Coral Councilman John Carioscia, said that by passing a resolution to no longer discuss Ceitus and not giving the Lee BOCC the full 180 days agreed to, the council would "go against its word." [Daily Breeze] [Resolution]
Florida normally ships calves to the corn. But the drought has the Midwest and West sending cows to FL for food and water. Is this the first stage of a long-term trend as climate change induces economic and ecological adaptations? [2012 Spring] [Cattle Shift 2011] [Recent Price Hikes]
Riverwatch newsletter "The Flow" returns after 4 missed months following 57 consecutive monthly editions. It returns thanks to a generous donor...details next month. CRCA invites others to donate in support of river publications & events. [August Newsletter]
Images of America released a new book entitled "Along the Caloosahatchee River" by Amy Bennett Williams, a journalist and editor of Tropicalia magazine. The book tells the Caloosahatchee's story in a photographic-focused historical chronicle. [Cape Coral Daily Breeze][Order one for $21.99]
SFWMD Governing Member Dan DeLisi spoke to a crowd of over 40 people at the Aug 1 CRCA meeting in LaBelle. He explained that backpumping (WSA) would consistently deliver more dry season water to the estuary. The group debated merits of this option. [SFMWD Info][Audio Recording]
Rae Ann Wessel of SCCF said backpumping is not an option we can afford. Transferring the obligation for clean up from the polluter to the public increases the cost of cleanup and transfers the financial obligation and expense to the public taxpayer. [Opinion] [SCCF comments]
Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation wrote a letter to SFWMD to provide comments on revisions to the Adaptive Protocols for Lake O Operations (AP) and the SFWMD proposal regarding backpumping for water supply augmentation. Lee County supports. [SCCF letter] [IFAS fact sheet] [Lee County letter]
On July 23, 2012 Earthjustice filed lawsuit in federal against the US Army Corps of Engineers (who control the locks & water flow) because the agency acting on the advice of SFWMD is repeatedly violating water protection laws for the Caloosahatchee. [Details] [Lawsuit]
Phil Buchanan gave a presentation about the Ceitus (Cape Coral Spreader Canal) issue to a crowd of more than 50 attending the Watershed Council event on Aug 16. Attendees included Lee Co Commission candidates Larry Kiker & Cecil Pendergrass. [Phil Buchanan]
On July 7 FGCU students joined with Intelligentsia International college student interns for a trails clearing project sponsored by Rotary & CRCA. Thank you Margaret for hosting the luncheon at her home next to the Nature Park. [Article]
View the Florida election results (2012 primary election) as reported by Supervisors of Elections to the Florida Department of State’s Division of Elections. You can also download and view an Excel spreadsheet with results. [Election Watch]
Andy Powell, Vice President of Wright Construction Group won a 30x40 giclee print of “The Everglades” by Caroline Krieger Comings. Caroline provided “The Everglades” as a fundraising donation to CRCA. Many thanks Caroline and congratulations Andy! [Krieger Artwork][Wright Construction Group]
Riverwatch President Pete Quasius participated in a So FL Ecosystem Restoration Working Group meeting on June 26 in Jensen Beach to discuss ways to save Everglades. There were about 40 people from government agencies and conservation.
[TCPalm]
Scientists at Michigan State Univ are working on a way to develop new carbon accounting method to reduce farmers' use of nitrogen fertilizer. Large amounts of nitrogen fertilizer lead to nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. [NSF.gov]
After providing years of progressive leadership on Caloosahatchee issues, Col. Pantano Jr. took command of the US Army Corps of Engineers in northern Afghanistan at the unit’s headquarters at the Qalaa House compound in Kabul in July. [Details]
Without judges who are willing to yank a federal agency chief or even a governor into court, what remains of the Everglades has no chance of rebounding. To leave its fate in the hands of Tallahassee and Washington would be a death sentence.
[Miami Herald]
Florida's environment has suffered the death of a thousand pricks over the decades, but we've remained quiet. We've lost our ability to hear the warning voice or perhaps for political reasons we've simply chosen to ignore it. [Details]
On August 1, SFWMD submitted to the Legislature its tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2013. Total budget: $568.2 million, reduction of $11 million from 2012 amended budget. The proposed budget receives acceptance or rejection in September. [Notes] [FY2012 Budget Submission]
Less than 30% of Lee Co Democrats voted in the primary on Aug 14. On the Republican side, long-time river advocate Ray Judah lost his primary race for re-election to the Lee County Commission. His leadership on eco-issues will be missed! [Letter to Editor]
It's officially open season on Lionfish. The Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking the public for help in taming the undersea predators. The Lionfish is nice to look at, but it is extremely dangerous to Florida's underwater eco-system. [Details]
Increased ocean acidification is leading to larval oyster failure in hatcheries. As atmospheric CO2 levels continue to rise, this may be the proverbial canary in the coal mine (pardon the irony) for other ocean acidification impacts on shellfish. [NSF] [Images]
The Aug 6, 2012 Cape Co. Council meeting finally showed a glimmer of sanity regarding the Ceitus Boatlift issue. Former Cape Co. Councilmember Pete Brandt writes that Ceitus barrier advocates are Pine Island Ecofreaks, no longer Marsh Grass citizens. [Cape Coral Daily Breeze]
Much of the SFWMD's 16-county region experienced below-average rainfall in July. Lake Okeechobee is 1.87 feet below average and has risen only half a foot since the wet season began in early May. Sep-Oct rains are needed in the Kissimmee Basin. [News Release] [Jul 2012 Rainfall] [Aug 17 Briefing][Article]
About 5,600 tons of P is imported and applied in Lake O watershed every year - this is enough to meet Lake O's TMDL (P goal) of 105 t/y, for more than 53 years! The Lake just cannot cope with the P overload that keeps pouring in! [Details]
Dr. James Hansen and his colleagues in the recent report "Increasing Climate Extremes and the New Climate Dice" reconfirm their conclusion that the increasing extremity of heat waves and the area covered by extreme events is caused by global warming. [Report] [Ice Volume][Dr. James Hansen][Ice Death Spiral]
John Cassani assembled a chronology of events related to the Caloosahatchee since 1970s as part of an effort to answer the question, "How in the heck is it that the Calooshatchee Estuary has suffered 6 consecutive years of MFL violations?" [Chronology]
EPA is still deciding what to do about DEP chief Hers Vinyard who claimed his expertise in handling pollution permits as a qualification to serve as an environmental official, which makes his appointment illegal due to conflict of interest rules. [Press Release] [Florida Current]
John Cassani of Alva commented on the recent Guest Opinion by Drew Bartlett of DEP explaining what a priority it is for DEP to get “Florida’s water right”. Cassani says if that was true Florida’s waters wouldn’t be in the condition they are now. [Cassani Opinion][Bartlett Editorial]
Annette Long of Chiefland expressed her opinion on Drew Bartlett's statement that DEP is working to "get the water right" here in Fla. Long says, nothing has actually been done. Lots of meetings. No new rules. No numeric criteria. No plans for any. [Gainesville Sun]
Lee County responded regarding Cape Coral purchase of properties within Matlacha informing about the possibility of annexation. However, since there are no residents on these properties to vote against annexation the Council won't annex. [Lee County Response]
The Hendry and Glades County Health Departments have issued an advisory on April 13, 2012 to warn people against exposing themselves, their pets or their livestock to the waters in the Caloosahatchee River. [Advisory]
Farmers pay $10/lb to apply phosphorus to their fields. Government spends $350/lb to remove P using STAs. But it costs farmers only $47/lb to reduce their discharge of P. Something in our approach doesn't add up! [Details]
CRCA along with other West Coast Stakeholders signed in a letter strongly urging the District to recommend to the Army Corps to initiate the flushing releases to the Caloosahatchee Estuary to reverse the public health threat of harmful algae blooms. [Letter]
FL agencies continue to play semantic disinformation games, referring to phosphorus added to the watershed & lake each year as "LEGACY P". Legacy P was a term coined in the 1980's to describe P deposited in the system before the P reduction projects. [Legacy P Graph] [Nutrient Budget Analysis] [Legacy P Task 2 Report]
The Everglades Foundation named Eric Eikenberg the Foundation's new Chief Executive Officer. As CEO, Eikenberg will lead the Foundation's science, advocacy, communications and legal team that is recognized for its expertise in Everglades restoration. [Announcement] [About Eikenberg]
The Whitest Kids U' Know (WKUK), an American sketch comedy troupe made an extremely funny show called "Ocean 2.0", about the oil spill in the South Pacific, and how Unified Petroleum are making sure to set our oceans on fire. [Watch the Show]
The Palm Beach County Commission on August 14 endorsed a $55 million deal that would allow the SFWMD to acquire the 1,919 acres west of Palm Beach Gardens, once intended to become home to The Scripps Research Institute. [Sun-Sentinel]
Professor Avigdor Abelson of Tel Aviv University and his colleagues are developing methods for growing and harvesting seaweed as a source of renewable energy. It's a promising source of bioethanol that has remained virtually unexplored until now.
[Details]
The White House released a report on Everglades, progress and next steps for restoring a treasured landscape and sustaining a way of life. For the restoration an additional $246 million is invested in the President’s Fiscal Year 2013 Budget. [Report]
Some may think taking water from the Everglades Ag. Area and storing it in Lake O for later use in the river would improve the health of the Caloosahatchee. In reality, this short-term solution would offer little to help the river in the long term. [Palm Beach Post]
Last year’s massive funding cuts to water-management districts severely compromised agencies’ ability to carry out core missions of water supply, flood control, & in South FL’s case, Everglades restoration. Reducing tax rate for water district unwise [Miami Herald]
An old source of Lake O pollution could return after South Florida water managers on Aug 10 opened the door to renewed "back-pumping." Supporters say back-pumping during the rainy season would make more water available during drought. [Sun-Sentinel]
The idea of allowing water from agricultural fields south of Lake Okeechobee to flow back into the lake to be used for environmental releases down the Caloosahatchee River is causing a stir among environmentalists. [News-Press]
The SFWMD is working on a new plan to restore more than half of the 26,800 acres that in 2010 cost taxpayers $197 million in a deal with U.S. Sugar Corp. Rock miners would pay for the restoration in compensation for the environmental damage they do. [Sun-Sentinel] [Science Article][Mining Issues]
The Hendry & Glades County Health Departments have lifted the advisory for the Caloosahatchee River waters but they're still advising people to use caution. While the advisory is no longer in place, the conditions are still possible for algae growth. [Details]
FGCU faculty and students were out on May 31 moving aquatic vegetation around Lake Trafford. Researchers hope tape grass beds will expand throughout the 1,600-acre lake in Collier County and help it recover from decades of degradation and fish kills. [News Press] [Photo]
The world's air has reached what scientists call a troubling new milestone for carbon dioxide, the main global warming pollutant. Years ago, it passed the 350 ppm mark that many scientists say is the highest safe level for carbon dioxide. It now stands globally at 395. [Naples News] [CO2 Concentration Graph][NASA]
As the nation focuses on controlling federal spending and reducing our debt over the long term, the WAVE4 Act (HR 4342) would shift the burden for funding costly inland waterway infrastructure expenses onto taxpayers. [The Izaak Walton League][Web site]
The Jacksonville District Department of the Army has received an application from CF Industries, Inc. requesting a 20 year permit to mine phosphate ore located on 18,287 acres of property in Hardee County, Florida. [Public Notice]
CHNEP awarded the $12,000 allocated for micro-grants (usually up to $250/project) for this fiscal year. The guidance encourages people to apply for projects that can begin in the next fiscal year, after Oct 1, 2012 and be completed by Aug 31, 2013. [Apply for a micro-grant]
A 12-year, $880 million plan to clean up the Everglades was released on June 4, the latest development in a nearly 25-year legal fight over water quality in the fragile ecosystem. [News Press] [Audubon Florida] [Eco-Voice][AD Plan]
Edward O. Wilson dropped by the Grist office recently and asked why young people aren't out protesting the mess that's being made of the planet. Help us come up with a good answer. [Grist][The Social Conquest of Earth by Wilson]
Florida Gulf Coast University is hoping to revolutionize solar energy, starting with a single battery. That battery, purchased for $30,000 from an Australian company, captures energy created by solar panels and saves it for a cloudy day. [News Press]
Reuse has become an integral part of wastewater management, water resource management, and ecosystem management in Florida. During the past 20 years, Florida has risen to be recognized as a national leader (along with California) in water reuse. [Details][Reuse Inventory Database and Annual Report]
An estimated $60 million in early restoration projects soon will begin along the Gulf Coast following the nation's largest oil spill, the Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) Trustee Council announced. [DEP News]
The Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition crossed the finish line nearly 100 days after setting off in the Everglades on a 1,000-mile journey to the Georgia state line. Their goal - inspiring the creation of a permanent unbroken wildlife corridor. [Details][Listen to expedition reports]
Florida Crystals Corp. and IDI, an Atlanta-based, privately held logistics real estate company, have entered into an alliance for the planning and marketing of a South Florida inland port in western Palm Beach County, company officials said on May 24 [Palm Beach Post] [CP Executive]
Environmentalists battle DEP along with industry groups over water quality. Isn't it a crying shame that the DEP, who used to be on our side (we thought), now has to be sued over and over
again to do the right thing? [Florida Current]
Florida's top state wetlands expert Connie Bersok has been suspended after she refused to issue a permit on a controversial project — one that she said her boss was willing to bend the rules to approve. [Tampa Bay]
Managers from the state DEP proposed selling Florida lands to European governments, moving state offices inside parks to save rent and grinding state forests into fuel pellets. Shame on Florida's top environmental officials for their wacky plans. [Details]
Conservative groups have made it official — they hate the Senate farm bill and will push Tea Party fiscal hawks in Congress to defeat it. They are opposed to food stamps provisions of the Farm Bill.
The Caloosahatchee has found a sister-river in Florida now that the traditionally clean Sante Fe River is now suffering an algae bloom. The Sante Fe is tied to the groundwater springs, completely disappearing underground for part of its run. [Ocala.com] [Santa Fe River kiosk sign]
The future of Florida's environment and economy depend on the health of our waterways. That's why one of the top priorities of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is getting Florida's water right, in terms of quality and quantity. [Details]
To keep the Calooshatchee estuary healthy each year requires only half a foot of water from Lake O or around 15% of this year's available water. But it's not provided. Until SW FL asserts itself, water managers won't adjust their allocation decisions [Details]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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 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]
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]
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 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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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.
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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 ]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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]