September 7, 2024 Weekly Newsletter
Attack on our Parks: As The Dust Settles
In the wake of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) alarming proposal to allow large-scale development in our state parks, two silver linings have emerged.
Unprecedented Bipartisan Support for Conservation
First, we witnessed an unprecedented wave of bipartisan support for protecting Florida’s state parks. Floridians from all walks of life—regular citizens, environmentalists, U.S. Senators, and State Senate Presidents—have come together with a united voice. It's hard to remember a time when this many people, regardless of political party, have stood so firmly in defense of our environment or parks. It's inspiring to see this level of commitment to preserving our natural heritage.
Exposure of DEP’s Leadership
Second, the true priorities of the leadership at the DEP are being exposed for all to see. For years, those of us working in environmental policy have feared that the leadership of DEP has been largely captured by developers, corporate and ag polluters, utilities, and phosphate miners. They have consistently shown hostility toward conservation efforts, misrepresented their intentions, and disregarded environmental regulations. Not to mention the lack of enforcement of environmental law and regulations.
The recent firing of whistleblower James Gaddis—who stood up to protect our state parks by releasing the state's disgusting plans to the public—highlights where DEP’s loyalties truly lie: not with Florida’s environment, but with their pro-development agenda.
Gaddis, who had worked in the DEP for over two years, detailed the disturbing nature of the plans, which involved mapping out golf courses and hotels in our parks, including Jonathan Dickinson and Anastasia State Park. “What I am mapping out here is too bad and too egregious, and I can’t take this anymore,” he told The Palm Beach Post in an interview. Despite his brave stance, Gaddis was fired for leaking these plans, leaving him and his 11-year-old daughter facing uncertainty. His courage has been recognized, with supporters contributing over $200,000 to his GoFundMe campaign.
Reach out to the DEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton
It is again time to make our voices heard. DEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton, appointed by Governor DeSantis, is ultimately accountable to us—the people of Florida. While we should be respectful, we urge you to send Secretary Hamilton a message expressing your disappointment with his leadership on this issue.
To reach the secretary, please email him at shawn.hamilton@floridadep.gov. Speak from the heart, but please refrain from using vulgar or threatening language. While Secretary Hamilton is not a bad person, his performance as DEP Secretary has not been what Florida’s environment needs.
What Our Local Leaders Are Saying
Our own local representatives have weighed in on this issue, making clear their opposition to this misguided plan:
Rep. Robbie Brackett posted on social media: “I was not a part of the plan. I heard about the plan just like everyone else did. I made my concerns known and spoke to many residents, agreeing with them on their concerns and the problems it would create.”
Sen. Erin Grall also voiced strong opposition, stating: “I am committed to preserving the unique and natural landscapes that make Florida so special. I stand in strong opposition to the proposed expansion of state parks to include golf courses, hotels, and associated facilities. Our state parks are a treasure and should remain focused on their primary mission: accessibility to Florida’s natural beauty in its purest form. Significant changes should be considered and vetted by the legislature with public input. That has not happened here.”
The Impact of Public Outcry
The overwhelming public backlash against these proposals forced both Gov. Ron DeSantis and the DEP to withdraw the planned changes last week. Additionally, groups pushing for the developments, such as Tuskegee Dunes Foundation and Folds of Honor, have pulled out of the project. Gov. DeSantis even referred to the plans as “half-baked” and “nowhere near ready for prime time,” although it remains unclear how much input his office had.
The stakes remain high, as the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC), responsible for voting on state park changes, will meet on September 12. Gaddis described the development process as secretive, with DEP employees under immense pressure and discouraged from discussing the plans with others.
All of this highlights the importance of staying informed and speaking up. How different our state might be if not for the hard work of people like you!
Are you new? Was this forwarded to you? Do you want to receive it weekly? If so click here to sign up! We're happy to have you!
LOSOM Record of Decision Signed
A New Era for Lake Okeechobee Management
August 12, 2024 was an important day in Florida’s water management history when Brig. Gen. Daniel Hibner, Commander of the South Atlantic Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), signed the Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM) Record of Decision (ROD). This decision marks the culmination of a five-year process aimed at replacing the outdated Lake Okeechobee Regulation Schedule 2008 (LORS08) with a more adaptive and comprehensive plan to manage Lake Okeechobee’s water resources. (See how long it took to get to this point, here.)
What is LOSOM?
The Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM) is a new operational blueprint that governs how water levels in Lake Okeechobee are managed. Unlike its predecessor, LOSOM is designed to be more dynamic, with the flexibility to respond to real-time conditions. This shift is critical in addressing the complex challenges that Florida’s water system faces, including the risks of toxic algal blooms, the need for consistent water supply, and the protection of critical habitats for fish and wildlife.
One of the most significant changes introduced by LOSOM is its system-wide benefits approach. This approach ensures that water releases are not only aimed at flood control but also at improving water quality, supporting agricultural needs, and preserving natural ecosystems. The plan takes into account the entire watershed, from the Kissimmee River down to the Everglades, allowing for a more holistic and integrated management of the region’s water resources.
Key Benefits of LOSOM
Reduction of Harmful Discharges: LOSOM is expected to significantly reduce harmful discharges from Lake Okeechobee into the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers—by as much as 37%. This reduction is crucial for protecting these estuaries from the devastating impacts of toxic algal blooms, which have plagued the region for years.
Enhanced Water Supply Management: The plan improves the management of water supply across South Florida, ensuring that communities, agriculture, and natural systems have reliable access to water. By carefully balancing releases during the dry season, LOSOM helps maintain critical water levels in the Everglades and other water-dependent ecosystems.
Protection of Fish and Wildlife: LOSOM is designed with ecological health in mind. It incorporates strategies to maintain optimal water levels in Lake Okeechobee that support fish spawning, wading bird nesting, and the preservation of habitats like seagrass beds and oyster reefs in the estuaries. This focus on ecological sustainability is a marked improvement over previous management plans.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: The development of LOSOM involved extensive collaboration with over 50 stakeholder groups, including environmental organizations, local governments, and the public. This collaborative approach has built trust and ensured that the diverse needs of the region are addressed in the final plan.
Why LOSOM Matters for Florida’s Future
Florida’s water management challenges are complex and multifaceted, involving competing needs for flood control, water supply, and environmental preservation. LOSOM represents an important step forward in addressing these challenges through a more flexible and responsive approach. By reducing harmful discharges, improving water quality, and enhancing ecological health, LOSOM sets a new standard for how we manage our water resources in a way that benefits both people and the environment.
As we look ahead, the implementation of LOSOM will require continued collaboration and vigilance. The USACE and its partners seem to remain committed to transparent communication and adaptive management to ensure that LOSOM meets its goals and continues to serve the best interests of all Floridians.
Habitat for Humanity received donation from Sebastian to build homes (TCPalm) - The city of Sebastian has partnered with Indian River Habitat for Humanity to build affordable homes for city employees and local residents, with a focus on helping them achieve homeownership through reduced mortgage payments and sweat equity contributions.
Deep Sea Coast: Indian River, Brevard counties lead the way in human exploration of the deep ocean (Vero News) - Indian River and Brevard counties play a leading role in global deep-sea exploration through the contributions of marine biologist Edie Widder, Triton Submarines, and innovative local technology companies, advancing human understanding of the oceans with cutting-edge submersibles and equipment.
Three local Indian River Lagoon restoration projects will benefit from proposed $94 million in funding from NOAA (Vero News) - Three local projects focused on restoring seagrasses, oysters, and living shorelines in the Indian River Lagoon have been selected for $94 million in federal funding, which aims to improve habitat and ecosystem health through partnerships with various restoration organizations.
Sebastian Raises Stormwater Fees to Address Flooding (Sebastian Daily) - A recent stormwater report revealed that fully addressing Sebastian's stormwater issues would cost approximately $193 million, far exceeding the city's budget, prompting the City Council to raise stormwater fees from $10 to $14 per month to fund additional personnel and necessary infrastructure improvements.
Commission names new county attorney (Vero News) - The Indian River County Commission has appointed Jennifer Wintrode Shuler as the county's first female attorney, bringing her extensive local government experience from Liberty County, with plans to focus on growth management and improving communication through regular updates to the commissioners.
After ballot loss, ‘Moms’ try in vain to shift blame (Vero News) - Rather than accepting their defeat in the School Board election and planning how to gain more support in the future, Moms for Liberty leaders are misplacing blame on moderate Republicans and mail-in ballots, while failing to acknowledge the actual preferences of the community’s voters.
Indian River Shores’ septic-to-sewer meeting set for Sept. 12 (Vero News) - Indian River Shores will hold a meeting on Sept. 12 to discuss plans for transitioning 145 homes from septic systems to Vero Beach Utilities’ sewer service, using a conventional gravity sewer system as part of a road reconstruction project.
U.S. Approves First Generation IV Nuclear Reactor:
A Clean Energy Milestone
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has approved the construction of the first Generation IV nuclear reactor, set to be built in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This advanced reactor represents a significant leap in both safety and efficiency, making nuclear energy a stronger contender in the clean energy landscape.
Why Generation IV is Better:
Enhanced Safety: The Hermes reactor uses TRISO fuel and fluoride salt cooling, reducing the risk of radiation leaks and improving temperature control.
Greater Efficiency: Generation IV reactors extract more energy from fuel and produce less waste, making them more cost-effective and sustainable.
Non-proliferation: Designed to prevent the separation of uranium and plutonium, these reactors help limit nuclear weapons risks.
Nuclear: A Clean Energy Solution
Nuclear energy produces no carbon emissions and provides reliable, continuous power, unlike intermittent sources like wind or solar, which depend on weather conditions. With innovations like Generation IV reactors, nuclear power offers a safe, sustainable, and efficient path toward reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and tackling climate change. For years, nuclear was viewed as a "dirty" energy source due to concerns over waste, but modern advancements significantly reduce waste and enhance safety. Compared to fossil fuels, nuclear is far cleaner and presents an essential bridge to a more sustainable and climate-friendly energy future.
'Parksgate' fiasco demands an investigation (VoteWater.org) - Florida's "Parksgate" scandal, involving plans to develop state parks with hotels and golf courses, demands an investigation into how such a flawed proposal originated, with concerns that new legislation allowing unsolicited public-private partnership bids could enable similar projects in the future without proper public oversight.
Stuart city commissioners want more discussion on Brightline lease (TCPalm) - Some Stuart city commissioners and residents believe the Brightline station deal, leasing land for $1 per year, offers little economic benefit to the city while potentially increasing traffic and development, prompting calls to reconsider the agreement.
Winners of the 2024 Photo Contest (Vero Beach Magazine) - The winners of the 2024 Vero Beach Magazine Photo Contest captured stunning images showcasing the natural beauty of Vero Beach, with standout entries featuring wildlife at St. Sebastian River Preserve, a rainbow off Vero Beach after a storm, and a tour of McKee Botanical Garden.
Florida among states grappling with lead in school drinking water, EPA allocates $26 million to issue (Yahoo News) - Florida, like many states, is addressing lead contamination in school drinking water, with the EPA allocating $26 million to help reduce exposure, as outdated water systems in schools are replaced to ensure safer environments for children.
The forgotten fight to ban gas-powered cars in the 1960s (Grist) - In the 1960s, environmental activists and legislators, like California State Senator Nicholas Petris, attempted to ban gas-powered cars, driven by concerns over smog and pollution, but their efforts were ultimately stymied by aggressive auto industry lobbying and resistance, despite widespread public support for cleaner alternatives.
How much microplastic are you drinking? New tool can tell you in minutes (ScienceDaily) - Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a portable, low-cost tool that quickly detects and measures micro- and nanoplastics in everyday items like disposable cups, using fluorescent labeling to provide results in minutes, potentially helping reduce plastic exposure and protect human health.
A new study published in Science highlights that global fisheries may be in worse shape than previously thought. Researchers found that population estimates for fish stocks, used to set sustainable fishing limits, are often overly optimistic. These inflated estimates, seen in two-thirds of fisheries analyzed, can lead to overfishing and "phantom recoveries" of species that appear healthier than they actually are. The study suggests fisheries managers should adopt more conservative models and lower their estimates to avoid long-term damage and ensure the sustainability of marine life.
Manatee rescued from sandbar in Fort Pierce (Fox) - A female manatee stranded on a sandbar in Fort Pierce was successfully rescued and returned to the water by the U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission after officials determined the animal was healthy enough to avoid rehabilitation.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year: Manatee mother and calf (BBC) - A heartwarming photograph of a manatee mother and calf in Florida highlights conservation efforts to restore habitats, earning a highly commended spot in this year's Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.
Engineers develop all-in-one solution to catch and destroy 'forever chemicals' (ScienceDaily) - Engineers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new system that efficiently traps and breaks down harmful "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in water using a catalyst and activated carbon filter, offering a faster, more economical, and sustainable solution for municipal and industrial water cleanup.
New model to enhance extreme rainfall prediction (ScienceDaily) - Scientists have developed a new atmospheric model that significantly improves the prediction of extreme rainfall and flash flooding by identifying a unique three-layered structure in the atmosphere, offering a more accurate early warning system for communities facing life-threatening weather events.
Miami-Dade adopts new rules to reduce neighborhood flooding (Miami Herald) - Miami-Dade County is implementing new construction rules requiring driveways, patios, and pool decks to be built with permeable materials that allow rainwater to drain into the ground, aiming to reduce neighborhood flooding, prevent runoff, and improve water quality as the region faces more intense downpours due to climate change.
Coastal flooding is getting more common, even on sunny days (KALW) - Coastal flooding from high tides, known as "sunny day flooding," is becoming more frequent across the U.S. due to rising sea levels from climate change, with some areas like the Gulf of Mexico and Mid-Atlantic seeing a 250% increase in flood days over the past 25 years, leading to significant disruption and infrastructure damage.
Mormon church seeks to annex 52,450 acres of ranchland to Orlando (Orlando Sentinel) - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has filed to annex 52,450 acres of its Deseret Ranches into Orlando, aiming to partner with the city for urban development, potentially bypassing Orange County’s stricter environmental regulations ahead of a referendum that could give the county veto power over annexations in rural areas.
Want your voice to be heard? Use this link to easily contact elected officials—from your city council to the President. Your voice can make a real impact. While the IRNA may occasionally prompt you to contact specific officials about urgent issues, we keep this list handy for your convenience. Can't find who you're looking for? Just let us know; we're here to help connect you with the right people.
Comments