Sarasota Aproves $51 Million Land Boondoggle

Sarasota County Commission approved one of the largest land acquisitions in their history, adding 12,376 acres of land to the already extensive Myakka River State Park corridor. But yet again our state has seen a County Commission buy land rights while allowing the land owners to preserve ranching rights. Large land owners have been continually feeding off county coffers across the state by unduly using their influence over commissions to arrange land buy outs while either preserving ownership through easements or continued agricultural rights.

The deal will allow the owners, the Carlton family, to retain cattle and horse operations, grass, sod, energy crops, maintenance of a hunting camp and five areas totaling 325 acres that may be converted to improved pasture. The family also will have the right to construct seven single-family residences, each on five acres of land. The Carltons also retain their right to sell their property off in seven increments of a minimum of 1,000 acres each. The county has first refusal of the buyouts. Will the residents trust them with this kind of funds in the future. How many times will the public be willing to pay for the same thing?

This deal is reminiscent of property easement buyouts in Indian River County where Commissioners spent millions to purchase land which the public has no access to. Running cattle and growing sod which is an exotic invasive species is not preserving sensitive lands. How much has the Carlton family donated to County Commissioner elections? You can be sure they will donate some of their newly acquired income.

Everglades Restoration's New Enemy, The Mainstream Press?

Speculation and doubts continue to rise concerning the future of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). Despite that Congress has approved $1.8 billion for the plan the funds still must be allocated. Finding the money for restoration projects from a cash strapped federal government in a time of war may be more difficult than overriding a veto from a lame duck President. The press has abounded these last few days with disheartening articles on the future of CERP. One is left to wonder if this is a desperate attempt to derail the plan by unduly influencing the press. The funds for this project have been approved and those who support the restoration of the Everglades will not be silenced or dissuaded. We must continue to move forward with each step of the Plan. The health and future of the entire state of Florida depends on the health and future of the Everglades. Not only are the Everglades an international treasure but, the source of life for many who live in this state. Stay informed and active on this issue and inform your local, state, and federal officials on your support for CERP.

I will not link to any sites on these articles, search and inform yourself. I would not support those who would act as a mouthpiece, for those who wish to subvert the will of the people.

SFWMD Launches New Site to Save Water in Florida

A new tool is available to South Floridians to help them save water. The South Florida Water Management District has created a new website available at www.savewaterfl.com. The site provides ideas and knowledge for individuals, businesses, agriculture, and government about ways to conserve water. This year's drought has affected our state greatly and the SFWMD is anticipating increase water shortages this coming year. They are set to begin a new round of increased water restrictions which will effect everyone who lives in South Florida. Check out this site to see how you can educate yourself of these restrictions and how you may cut your consumption.

Florida Forever Funds Squandered

Money set aside for preserving Florida's natural environment is being used to increase recreation areas in some local communities. $76 million in Florida Forever Funds have been granted to the Florida Communities Trust (FCT) to provide additional open space and create more recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. These resources combined with local matching funds will result in more than $133.2 million for new local conservation efforts.
Governor Crist stated, "Florida Communities Trust continues to make a positive impact on Florida's communities, helping to make our state a more beautiful place to enjoy for today's residents and visitors and for future generations."

Projects included in the new funding range from $340,200 for a 9-acre parcel in Pembroke Pines (Broward County) to $6.6 million each for parks in Horseshoe Beach (Dixie County), St. Lucie County, Pine Island Preserve (Lee County) and Palm Beach County. The largest acquisition will be the Levy Prairie project in Alachua County, a 3,317-acre parcel that was approved for $3.06 million in FCT funding to be matched by $2.04 million in local funds.

While many of these projects benefit the beatification of local communities, it is questionable as to what kind of significant environmental preservation will take place in those which will be used as recreational parks by the public.

Senate and House Override Bush's Veto of WRDA

The US Senate and the House have overriden President Bush's veto of the Water Resources Development Act. The bill which is ordinarilly voted on every two years hasn't passed since 2000. The WRDA provides over $23 billion in funding for almost 900 projects and studies across the United States, including flood control, improving navigation on waterways and restoring the environment.

The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program (CERP) will receive much needed funding from its passage. In all Florida projects will receive approximately $2 billion from the passage of the WRDA including funding for the Indian River Lagoon Project, the Picayune Strand restoration and improvements in water quality in Lake Okeechobee, the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries and Florida Bay.

This is the biggest and most important event in Everglades restoration history. It is clear to everyone but the President that environmental concerns are not just passing interest to the public. These restoration efforts in many areas are vital to the health and well being of not only the environment but to surrounding communities as well. Water resources are vital to life on this planet must be protected!