At the Mar 5 EMA meeting, Riverwatch voted against the NEB projects alternative to replacement of the Ceitus Boat Lift structure. Other stakeholders were also unable to support the EMA package in its current state. More meetings are planned.
Reversing two prior board decisions, Riverwatch directors voted on Mar 3 to empower Rae Ann Wessel to vote in favor of the NEB projects plan, if assurances of implimentation are provided at the March 5 EMA meeting. [Mar 2020 - YES (conditional)] [Jan 2010 - NO][Oct 2009 - NO]
Fort Myers Princess, a 75th tour boat will be relocating there operation from Downtown Fort Myers to docks at Marina Village adjacent to Snug Harbor Restaurant located at 645 Old San Carlos Blvd in the heart of Fort Myers Beach. [Details][Website]
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began began a 21-day pulse release of water from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary on Mar 2. Water passes from Lake O through Moore Haven Lock, Ortona Lock and Franklin Lock to reach the estuary. [Details]
Thousands of the nation’s largest water polluters are outside the Clean Water Act’s reach because the Supreme Court has left uncertain which waterways are protected by that law, according to interviews with regulators. [New York Times]
Canoe ($800 value): Gino Kennedy
Estero River Kayak Trip ($140 Value) : Ron and Vivian Barrett
Bass Pro $50 Gift Card: Linda McVey
Congratulation to Gino, Ron, Vivian and Linda.
We hope to see you again next year!
Riverwatch voted to help the Everglades Foundation coordinate the first America Everglades Summit in Washington DC, May 19-20 2010. The goal is to pull together decision makers and Everglades advocates for the restoration process and federal support. [Details][Website]
The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary helped Riverwatch organize the 2010 cruise event. Their Program is a partnership that protects the estuaries from Venice to Estero Bay. Special thanks to Maran Brainard Hilgendorf of CHNEP for this sponsorship. [Details]
DEP says “this system, on the very edge of sea level change vulnerability is going through rapid and dynamic change. It is questionable that a solution…will provide the sheetflow benefits originally intended."
[DEP]
The NSEMA Stakeholder Group will be March 5th to vote on the proposed set of net ecosystem benefit (NEB) projects. The question is whether to endorse the NEB projects or reinstall the boat lift on the Cape Coral Spreader Canal. [Tom and Rafael Thanks] [NS-EMA Draft Report]
Drew Martin, of the Sierra Club, called for the EPA to stick with the new pollution limits, prompted by a legal challenge from the Sierra Club and other environmental groups.
[Sun Sentinel]
The February 2010 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.
[Newsletter Archive][February Newsletter]
Boca's In-City Reclamation Irrigation System will be expanded over the next five years, enabling the city to reclaim 100 percent of wastewater (instead of 50% until recently), which will be used in place of valuable drinking water. [Sun-Sentinel]
Once the pollution interests and DEP succeed in thwarting the EPA proposed nutrient limits, roles will switch and DEP will be on the receiving end from the anti-cleanup lobbies. Final outcome...nothing gets cleaned and things get worse. [DEP objections to EPA][Cartoon]
Tiver Network is expanding to add new positions and exciting new national programs. It is looking for a Water & Energy Program Director and a new Vice President for National Operations. [Water & Energy][Vice President][Other Positions]
In 2008 the SFWMD Storm Water Treatment Areas (STAs) did better at removing phosphorus from drainage waters than in 2007. The 2009 report will be released in March. On average, 80% of phosphorus is removed. [Salinity][Results][Report][2008 Graph]
The SCCF Annual Conservation Forum is at Big Arts on Sanibel Island on Feb 24 at 7:30 pm. Speakers include Army Corps of Engineer's Col. Pantano, Everglades Foundation's Kirk Fordham & Dr. Tom Van Lent, and SCCF's Rae Ann Wessel. [Announcement]
People gathered against Florida offshore oil drilling. Cheryl Anderson lived along the Texas coastline; there was tar all over the beach. Anderson said there will be oil on Florida beaches. [News Press] [For & Against] [Photo]
In 1998 EPA required Florida to set nutrient limits in water. Over a decade later, DEP had still not set numerical limits, so environmental groups sued and a judge ordered EPA to bypass DEP and set rational nutrient limits. [Issue History]
Join Riverwatch in LaBelle for the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Sat, Feb 27 for the river cruise and Sun, Feb 28 for the canoe contest drawing. There's so much to do at the Festival that you're sure to have fun. [Festival Page][River Cruise][Canoe Contest]
On Feb 27, from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, Congressman Tom Rooney will be Riverwatch special guest for its leadership cruise at the Swamp Cabbage Festival. He will chat and answer questions one-on-one. Riverwatch thanks him for his participation.
Proposed EPA numeric standards for water quality are not likely to have a great effect on agriculture. Florida Watershed Restoration
Act (FWRA) of 1999 states that BMPs administered by FDACS determine agricultural water quality actions/compliance. [UF-IFAS]
Want to win a canoe? Come to the Riverwatch exhibit at the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Saturday or Sunday (Feb 27-28) and sign up to win a Mad River Adventure 14 Canoe. $2 for one chance ticket. 3 for $5. [Poster][email for tickets]
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began a water pulse release from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary on Sat, Feb 13. This pulse release is needed because the last release did not fully achieve the desired benefits to the estuary. [Corps Announcement] [Flow Graph] [Spreadsheet][USACOE Page][2009]
Curious about the Caloosahatchee, its history, oxbows and wildlife? Get your tickets early & come take a ride on the Swamp Cabbage Festival guided cruise on Sat, Feb 27 at 2:30pm at the new LaBelle Docks behind Barron Park Pavillion. Tickets are $20.
With the 2000’s the warmest on record and this winter’s snow deep and getting deeper, is our weather fishtailing around from climate instability? Or is it just the weather? Experts say its El Nino + Arctic Oscillation. [Feb 13 Temps] [NASA on 2000s] [El Nino][NASA Records]
CRCA thanks Steve & Susan Brookman for their contined generous support of Riverwatch. Steve provides affordable, easy to navigate web sites along with complete hosting and graphic art design services through Otter Water Webs. [Website]
The Florida Supreme Court has agreed to hear on April 7 the case on the state land purchase deal for Everglades restoration projects. The land purchase is for construction of reservoirs and STAs intended to clean water and restore the Everglades. [News Press]
Researchers & volunteers filled buckets with white fossilized shell at Sanibel's Bowman's Beach. Next, shells are packed into mesh bags to build oyster reefs, which will provide habitat for fish and invertebrates and help clean the bayou's water. [News Press]
This year's manatee count was 33 percent higher than last year. Cold weather is forcing more manatee inshore, bunched up at warm-water refuges where they can be counted. The manatee population has been growing the last 15 or 20 years. [News Press][Manatee WebCam]
Vultures circled over Everglades National Park's Anhinga Trail, where thousands of dead non-native fish floated in the marshes. About half the Burmese pythons found in the park in the past few weeks were dead. [TC Palm]
The Rivers Coalition Defense Fund board of directors is appealing a federal court judge’s ruling rejecting the organization’s attempt to make the Army Corps of Engineers stop dumping polluted Lake Okeechobee water in the St. Lucie River estuary. [TC Palm]
Once again the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. has made a generous donation to Riverwatch covering costs to buy a Mad River Adventure 14 Canoe from Estero River Outfitters. Special thanks to Tribe member Joe Frank for arranging the donation.
CRCA would like to thank Ajit Patel of Patel, Rothschild and Associates, Investment Bankers for the co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Ajit is also an active cooperator on Caloosahatchee oxbows restoration projects. [President Association Profile]
Once again the Watershed Council of Southwest Florida has donated to the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruise. Special thanks to James Evans, chair of the council. Watershed Council takes a lead role on many of the important issues of the region [Website]
CRCA would like to thank Rock Aboujaoude, David Rolls, & Alberto Betancur of Rock Enterprises, Inc. for co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Rock's team delivers engineering services in the Hendry County region.
Featured speakers on the Riverwatch Leadership Cruise at 1pm on Feb 27 will include SFWMD Executive Director Carol Wehle. Others, including SFWMD Governing Members Charles Daurey and Kevin Powers will also attend.
CRCA would like to thank Audubon Society of Southwest Florida for their co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The association is heavily involved in the conservation of the rural lands and habitat. [Website]
Cape Coral's removal of the Ceitus Boat Lift has caused a sand bar to form, blocking boat traffic. Riverwatch opposed removal of the lift. Putting it back would alleviate the sedimentation and solve this and other problems. [News Press][Video]
The mission of SCCF is to preserve wildlife and habitats around Sanibel. SCCR has once again helped Riverwatch organize the 2010 cruise event. Special thanks to Rae Ann Wessel, expert interpretive guide on the educational cruise. [Website]
RMA GeoLogic Consultants, Inc. led by Dan Aquaviva is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruises. This group specializes in geological studies and services, contact info@rma-geologic.com for more information. [Company Profile]
The die-off of sponges and tunicates in Matlacha Pass at the mouth of the North Spreader Canal may or may not be result of changes in salinity brought about by removal of the Ceitus Boat Lift. [Dr. Tom Fraser ]
Riverwatch thanks Ron Edenfield of Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc., co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Cruise. ECT specializes in the resolution of complex environmental issues, designing such projects as Billy Creek mitigation park. [Website]
If you've decided its time to get rid of a boat, car or other large item then consider a donation to Riverwatch. CRCA now has a program that makes it easy. We handle pickup and you get a maximum value tax deduction. [Contact Us To Donate]
The 2010 Swamp Cabbage Cruise would not have been possible without co-sponsorship of Edison State College. CRCA would like to thank Dean of the Hendry-Glades Campus, Dr. Robert Jones for his support. [Website]
Collins Center, dedicated to advancing the important social and economic public policy issues facing Florida, is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Special thanks to Michael Maidenberg and Phillip Bacon. [Website]
Happehatchee Center and Ellen Peterson are co-sponsors of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The center hosts activities and events that provide didactic and experiential opportunities to discover the "old" Florida landscape. [Website]
CRCA would like to thank Alan Keller of Collier County Audubon Society for the co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The association is dedicated to the protection of birds and their environment. [Website]
Tetra Tech has contributed to the CRCA cruises for the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival. CRCA would like to thank V.P. Danny Nelson. The company provides consulting, engineering, and technical services worldwide. [Website]
The Swamp Cabbage Cruise would not have been possible without co-sponsorship of Sierra Club Calusa Group. CRCA would like to thank Drew Martin for arranging the donation this year. Sierra Club is an important partner to CRCA on many issues. [Website]
Gulf Citrus Growers Association is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruises. CRCA would like to thank Ron Hamel, representing the citrus growers of SW Florida, for helping us again and joining in the leadership cruise discussion. [Website]
Second place in the canoe contest is a guided kayak tour for 4 people on Estero Bay valued at $140, courtesy of Estero River Outfitters. The Outfitters also provided a $230 discount on the price of the first place prize canoe from $780 to $550. [Web Site]
Judge Lynn J. Bush of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington ruled pollution in the St. Lucie Estuary caused by the discharges do not amount to a “taking” of riparian rights from the 22 landowners on whose behalf the coalition filed the lawsuit. [TC Palm] [Editorial]
Are you supporting the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival activities? If so, your donations can now be accepted online using PayPal secure transaction with credit card or PayPal account. Thank you...and see you at Swamp Cabbage! [Make your donation online]
Gov. Charlie Crist used the opening of new visitor facilities at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Preserve on Jan 23 to announce his push for new environmental funding in next year's state budget. [News Press]
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started freshwater pulse releases on Jan 27 from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary. During the dry season, water managers release fresh water to maintain the balance between salt and fresh water. [News Press]
The Environmental Protection Agency in mid-Januray proposed new standards for "nutrient" pollution in Florida's waterways. The EPA is now asking "those who are knowledgeable of Florida waters" to review the proposal. Some are for, some are against. [The Suwannee Democrat]
The 1st SustainabLEE Community Partnership Meeting will be held Feb. 16 in Ft. Myers. The intent is to serve as a catalyst to transition to sustainable policies on the belief that the health of our environment, economy, and community go hand in hand. [Details] [Agenda]
Lee County Natural Resources will present the latest draft report to the Board of County Commissioners on Feb 1 at the Commission Chambers in Ft Myers. Natural Resources Director Mr. Ottolini will give a PPT recommending acceptance of the NEBs. [PPT] [Ottolini] [Buchanan]
The January 2010 CRCA newsletter is available online. It gives information on the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Feb. 27, CRCA raffle and public cruise. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [Newsletter]
EPA holds two public hearings on Feb 18 in West Palm at 1pm and 7pm at the Holiday Inn Palm Beach Airport (1301 Belvedere Road) to discuss its proposed numerical nutrient limits. It promises to be crowded so register in advance if you can. [Announcement][web site]
The depate rages (or should we say the rage debates) over the proposed EPA numeric nutrient limits. Opponents of EPA will probably: (1) fight rules with political money, (2) claim a constitutional right to pollute, (3) challenge the science. [Daytona Editorial] [Readers Debate]
Alan Fargo waxes eloquent on land use abuses and how both the Miami and Naples sides of the state look like every other place in Florida nurtured by the crack cocaine of the building boom.
[Counterpunch]
EPA Construction Stormwater Rule takes effect on Feb 1. The rule for the first time imposes, among others, an enforceable numeric limit on stormwater discharges from large construction sites. [Marten Law Group]
Dr. Joe Thomas, adjunct professor of history at Edison State College, will provide his perspectives on the Hendry County region for guests on the Riverwatch Cruise at the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Feb 27 from 2:30 to 4 pm. Cruise tickets are $20.
In response to public comments on the proposed revisions to the surface water classification system, the Department of Environmental Protection has decided to extend the public comment period on the proposed revisions to Feb 4. [DEP]
The 7th annual RRR goes into the record books with the largest number of registered runners despite the cold! 308 took part at the relay and and another 120 for the Fun Run. Runners came from 22 states, Canada and Bavaria. [Details][Photos]
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park published is February Programm. Guided nature walks and a kayak trip are still open to registration. Contact Kelly Williamson for subscritions and more information. [Details]
The Rivers Coalition representing concerned citizens in the St. Lucie River region published their January newsletter. The Coalition is calling for strong new laws against damaging nutrient pollution.
[Newsletter]
Under a $5 million demonstration project led by the World Wildlife Fund, eight landowners are using their land to store and clean water that flows into Lake Okeechobee from the north. The idea is to trap water before it gets down to lake O. [Palm Beach Post]
Starving manatess head south. A mass migration is underway on the Orange and Caloosahatchee Rivers in Lee County, prompting boaters and kayakers to take to the waters to see the hundreds of manatees heading downriver to feeding grounds. [Naples News]
The Rural Lands Committee completed their Rural & Agricultural Land Study on Jan 1. They established a policy framework as a recommendation for the committee. One of the main goal is to uphold the County’s unique rural character and quality of life. [Report]
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has released a Q&A Fact Sheet discussing the recently-released EPA proposal for numeric nutrient standards. Nutrients are one of the top causes of degradation in U.S. waters. [Fact Sheet]
Featured speakers on the CRCA educational river cruise at 2:30pm on Saturday, Feb 27 will be historian Joe Thomas, master naturalist Margaret England, and SCCF public policy director Rae Ann Wessell. Cruise tickets are $20. Call 863-674-0695.
To protect three of Florida’s valuable fisheries, FWC has acted quickly with a direct, to-the-point executive order prohibiting the taking and/or harvesting of snook, bonefish, and tarpon. Under the order, these species are protected as of Jan 16. [Snook Foundation]
Cold fronts have brought a high number of manatees to the Orange River and other portions of Lee and Collier counties. Patrols'll be using radar guns to make sure everyone is obeying the law. Violators will get at least a $50 ticket. [ABC7]
Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is looking for boaters & kayakers in Charlotte & Lee Counties to help map the plants & structures along the estuary shores in order to
restore & protect the natural beauty, habitats & organisms. [Details]
EPA released proposed numeric nutrient water quality criteria for lakes & flowing waters, including canals. For the Caloosahatchee, EPA's limits of 1.205 mg/L total nitrogen and 0.107 mg/L total phosphorus are 30% and 8% less than DEP limits. [EPA Report] [Numerical Limits] [Lakes][Canals][Comnpare Limits][EPA Web Site]
Since Jan 11, complaints have flooded SWFWMD offices about wells gone dry after nights of heavy pumping around strawberry fields caused water levels to plunge. Farmers have 72 hours to get water to the affected residents. [Tampa Bay Online]
A session at the Everglades Coalition Conference on Jan 9, 2010 explored ideas for new farming systems that incorporate Ecosystem Services income to farms as part of an overall sustainable Everglades region. [Intro] [Concept] [Energy][Sugarcane][Soils][EcoServices]
The Army Corps of Engineers on Jan 12 began an 11-day round of lake releases, scheduled to drain an average of 650 cfs to the Caloosahatchee River. This decision doesn't meet South Florida farms interests but helps the estuary. [Sun Sentinel]
According to Rick Roberts, executive director of the Snook Foundation, the freeze of January is going to go down in history; reports are coming in from all areas of the state of thousands of fish of all varieties dead or dying. [CNN iReport] [News Press]
The importance of South Florida's estuaries was highlighted at the 25th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference on Jan 9. Estuaries are very important for the ecosystem and need to be figured into every phase of Everglades restoration. [News Press]
Panthers now number only about 100 in Florida, Darrell Land said at the 45th annual gathering of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association in Punta Gorda last fall. But fundraising efforts are under way to build panther numbers to at least 200. [Chattanooga Times Free Press]
At it's 25th Annual Conference, the Everglades Coalition released its 2020 vision for Everglades restoration. Among the goals are continued land purchases for the restoration, sufficient fresh water for the Everglades and South Florida estuaries. [News Press] [2020 Vision] [Press Release]
Up-and-down water levels has all but wiped out the Lake Okeechobee's apple snail population - the primary source of food for the snail kite whose population dropped from about 3000 birds to 700 during the past 15 years. [Sun Sentinel]
A former ranchland is being converted into a 2000-acre wetland that will clean stormwater runoff bound for Lake Okeechobee. A new S-650 pump station in Martin County will supply the STA, largest north of the Lake. [Ripple Effect]
Randy Brown is chairman of the Southeast Florida Utility Council that is asking the FL Legislature to reverse the SFWMD year-round lawn watering rules. Utility income depends on people wasting water, so utilities oppose SFWMD conservation rules. [TC Palm][SE FL Utility Council]
Rebuilding of the Ceitus Boat Lift will not be of significant environmental benefit; however, it is better than a sham agreement so watered down as to be of even less environmental value than the Barrier. So says activist attorney Phil Buchanan. [Final Document Assessment][Dec 09 Report]
The world's largest empty pool, a massive 26 mi2 reservoir to reduce Lake Okeechobee excess estuary flows, sits high and dry in the Everglades, after taxpayers invested $280 million building it. SFWMD blames lawsuits but there are other reasons. [Orlando Sentinel]
The formation of a new Florida Trails Association (FTA)sub-chapter is in its early stages and you are invited to join them. An orientation meeting is being held Feb 6 in Moore Haven. The advantages of joining FTA will be introduced. [FTA]
The December 2009 CRCA newsletter is available online. It highlights the recognition of Keith Kibbey for creating the River Ride in 1996. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. [PDF Newsletter][Newsletter Archive]
Last week, PURRE Chairman Michael Valiquette addressed the Lee County Legislative Delegation at Edison
State College. His message was one of both gratitude to local legislators for progress that’s been made and a request for help. [PURRE Water Coalition]
East coast cities are looking to keep water in Lake O for east coast drinking water and crop irrigation. West coast interests want enough freshwater from the lake to keep sea grasses and coastal estuaries healthy. A balance has to be found. [Naples News] [News Press ]
The death of a Florida panther on Dec 17 on Interstate 75 — the 14th panther roadkill in 2009 — is prompting concern from state wildlife officials. Drivers should be on the lookout for the endangered cats, especially at sundown. [Naples News]
DEP is allowing City of Marco Island residents to convert old septic tanks into water supply cisterns. The tanks are first cleaned, sterilized then sealed. Other design modifications allow the tanks to augment home water supplies. [Cistern Design] [Policy] [Lamplight Letter][Info][Valve][Max Valve]
The NSEMA Stakeholder Group outome report (Finding and Conclusions) is now available for review. It's the result of a year-long process of meetings and discussion over the Ceitus Boat Lift issue. A final decision may still be months away. [NSEMA] [Report]
2009 has been the worst year on record for FL manatees with 419 deaths. Lee Co leads the way in deaths of the endangered mammals with a total of 56 - 18 from boats & 38 from other causes. A very high number of young manatee died in 2009 - 114. [News Press]
A red tide bloom that is strong enough to cause fish kills and cause coughing among beachgoers has been detected off the coast of Sarasota County, near Nokomis beach. Boaters, beachgoers and lifeguards have yet to spot any fish kills. [Herald Tribune]
The Clean Water Network unveils the launch of the Clean Water Network's new and improved website. CWN now has a much more user-friendly and attractive site, an improved members-only section where information can be found on workgroups and much more. [Stormwater][Web Site]
The Clean Water Network of Florida and the Conservancy of SW Florida, along with other organizations, is writing to request that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection consider alternatives to the proposed designated use changes. [FDEP Letter] [SCCF Letter]
Rivers Coalition presented its case against discharge pollution in a hearing in Washington, on Dec 16. Although no decision was made, pivotal arguments were narrowed down in the Rivers Coalition Defense Fund’s riparian rights. [TCPalm]
The SFWMD seeks scientific references on the ecology, water quality and public uses of canals in South Florida. This request is part of an on-going effort to gather the best available science to aid in the development of numeric nutrient criteria. [Eco Voice]
President Obama’s Ocean Policy Task Force released its Interim Framework for Effective Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning on Dec 14 for a 60-day public review and comment period. It offers an integrated approach to managing uses and activities. [Details]
An almost day-and-night biological change met passengers on Dec 11 as the pontoon boat entered the restored section of the Kissimmee River from the C-38 canal. So far, the largest river restoration project in history is working. [News Press 12.11] [News Press 20.11]
On May 21 to 24, Snowbird, Utah will play host to the 11th National River Rally. It's a national training on water issues that will bring together federal and state resources, grassroots needs and community ingenuity.
[River Network][Website]
John Cassani is the recipient of 2010 Everglades Coalition Kabler Award to be presented on Jan 9. He receives this prestigeous award in recognition of his vision and commitment to retoration efforts in the Caloosahatchee and Big Cypress watersheds. [Kabler Award ][Details]
The Snook Foundation considers stopping fertilizer application from June 1 through September 30 to be the backbone of meaningful, effective fertilizer management. It supports a strong fertilizer ordinance for Cape Coral.
[Snook Foundation]
A new exotic species could be crawling its way across Southwest Florida. It’s the Chinese mystery snail — and the biggest mystery about them is what their spread could mean for native ecosystems. So far there have been no reports of the snail in Collier County’s estuaries. [Naples News]
On Dec 6, CRCA members and friends enjoyed a holiday season party. Keith Kibbey was awarded a certificate of appreciation for creating the River Ride in 1996 and his continued organizing of this successful annual event. [Photo Gallery]
A new website devoted to the “matters of Everglades” has been launched. It is intended as an information source, particularly focusing on technical and scientific aspects of Florida Everglades where knowledge has markedly developed since 2000. [Website]
Nov 20, the Lee County Conservation 20/20 Program acquired 428 acres in the Density Reduction/Groundwater Resource Area (DR/GR). Keeping this land as open space protects a groundwater recharge area and preserves a wetland system that purifies waters. [Eco Voice]
NOAA research found that a type of bacteria provides a necessary element for the algae that cause red tide to blast into a frenzy of reproduction. In the distant future, the discovery may point to a way to stop a bloom or diminish its effects. [The Tampa Tribune]
DEP is attempting to skirt federal law by creating new water designated uses without developing associated water quality standards. The Clean Water Act states EPA cannot approve new designated uses without these pollution limits. [Clean Water Network] [Naples News]
Speaker-designate Dean Cannon says that the state must recognize and plan for future water demand, but that's something that the state has shown no desire to do and it's something unlikely to begin now. [The Florida Times-Union]
Florida manatees are on the move, seeking warm-water sites to spend the winter. That means boaters must be cautious. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) changes seasonal speed zone signs in mid-November on many waterways. [Wink News] [WZVN-HD]
Nov 9, the Federal government announced the outlines of a new effort to help restore the seafood and wildlife in the nation's largest estuary: the Chesapeake Bay. It targets the root causes of the trouble: runoff, especially from farm. [NPR]
Research results released recently by the University of Maryland and SCCF was published in the Gulf Of Mexico Alliance (GOMA) newsletter (p.6). Lyngbya is a "hairy looking" Harmful Algae Bloom that remains toxic even after it dies.
[GOMA Newsletter]
Stakeholders met in early Nov to address the concerns of some industry representatives regarding SB 494, the landscape fertilizer bill signed by Governor Crist in June. Attendees voiced the needs for more stringent fertilizer management stantards. [Sierra Club] [Naples News]
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) conducted an alternatives public workshop for the new S.R. 29 Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study Nov 5, 2009 at the LaBelle Civic Center. The State solicits your comments until Nov 16. [Southwest Florida Online][Details]
With the help of Forest Michael, landscape architect, the Moore Haven Main Street organization is planning a new Riverfront district with restored historic buildings. The city recently rebuilt its riverfront docks in the downtown area. [Sketch][Web Site]
At their meeting, Nov. 3, CRCA board approved the motion to reinstall the boatlift on Cape Coral Spreader Canal and to maintain it. The alternative proposed by Cape Coral and DEP does not guarantee water quality. [Oct. 7 Minute]
The Cape Coral North Spreader Ecosystem Management Agreement Stakeholders Group & other participants met Oct 9 in Ft Myers. The meeting report is now available. Next meeting is Nov 16 at the SFWMD Conference Room from 8:30 to 5:00. [Report]
The Port of Palm Beach board decided Wednesday to wait until Dec. 17 to make a decision, calling for the competing sites to submit business plans to show why they should be chosen. Those plans are due by Dec. 10. An opportunity for Hendry County. [TCPalm] [PalmBeachPost]
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida submitted a detailed comment letter on the Rural and Agricultural Land Study to the Hendry County Committee, Oct 16. Recommendations focus on the TDR (Transfer of Development Rights) program components. [RALS Meeting Minute][Letter]
Sea levels rose as much as 2 feet higher than predicted this summer along the U.S. East Coast, surprising scientists who forecast such periodic fluctuations. The immediate cause of the rise has been solved, but the underlying reason remains a mystery [National Geographic] [Gulf stream effect]
Florida needs to go back to school when it comes to living up to the federal Clean Water Act. The state was given a D+ on the network’s “Clean Up Your Act!” report card grading the five Gulf of Mexico states. [Detailed Info...]
The Sawfish Rule becomes effective Oct 2. It requires federal agencies consult NOAA Fisheries Service before approving activities such as dredging or dock building, that may adversely affect sawfish critical habitat. [News Press]
Member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Joe Frank, received a recognition award from Riverwatch at the CRCA annual meeting in appreciation of his service to the organization. CRCA thanks Joe & the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. [Award][Photo Gallery]
After the conclusion of business and food at the annual meeting of the Caloosahatchee River Citizens Association, Cowboy Poet Hank Mattson entertained the group with his stories and artifacts of Florida history [Photo Gallery]
Caloosahatchee Cookbook invites you to share your favorite recipes, including picnic & boating favorites. Include your culinary secrets in the fundraiser cookbook. The sooner you submit, the better your chances of being included. [Form][Online Form]
Caloosahatchee artist Caroline Krieger Comings uses her art to promote Riverwatch efforts to protect the River. Visit the Showdown link, view her latest works, & support her efforts to enhance public awareness through art. Art makes for great gifts. [Art Showdown]
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][Endangered Video]
Fort Myers Princess, a 75th tour boat will be relocating there operation from Downtown Fort Myers to docks at Marina Village adjacent to Snug Harbor Restaurant located at 645 Old San Carlos Blvd in the heart of Fort Myers Beach. 
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began began a 21-day pulse release of water from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary on Mar 2. Water passes from Lake O through Moore Haven Lock, Ortona Lock and Franklin Lock to reach the estuary. 
Thousands of the nation’s largest water polluters are outside the Clean Water Act’s reach because the Supreme Court has left uncertain which waterways are protected by that law, according to interviews with regulators. 
Canoe ($800 value): Gino Kennedy
Estero River Kayak Trip ($140 Value) : Ron and Vivian Barrett
Bass Pro $50 Gift Card: Linda McVey
Congratulation to Gino, Ron, Vivian and Linda.
We hope to see you again next year! 
Riverwatch voted to help the Everglades Foundation coordinate the first America Everglades Summit in Washington DC, May 19-20 2010. The goal is to pull together decision makers and Everglades advocates for the restoration process and federal support. 
The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary helped Riverwatch organize the 2010 cruise event. Their Program is a partnership that protects the estuaries from Venice to Estero Bay. Special thanks to Maran Brainard Hilgendorf of CHNEP for this sponsorship. 
DEP says “this system, on the very edge of sea level change vulnerability is going through rapid and dynamic change. It is questionable that a solution…will provide the sheetflow benefits originally intended."
The NSEMA Stakeholder Group will be March 5th to vote on the proposed set of net ecosystem benefit (NEB) projects. The question is whether to endorse the NEB projects or reinstall the boat lift on the Cape Coral Spreader Canal. 
Drew Martin, of the Sierra Club, called for the EPA to stick with the new pollution limits, prompted by a legal challenge from the Sierra Club and other environmental groups.
The February 2010 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.
Boca's In-City Reclamation Irrigation System will be expanded over the next five years, enabling the city to reclaim 100 percent of wastewater (instead of 50% until recently), which will be used in place of valuable drinking water. 
Tiver Network is expanding to add new positions and exciting new national programs. It is looking for a Water & Energy Program Director and a new Vice President for National Operations. 
Join Riverwatch in LaBelle for the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Sat, Feb 27 for the river cruise and Sun, Feb 28 for the canoe contest drawing. There's so much to do at the Festival that you're sure to have fun. 
On Feb 27, from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, Congressman Tom Rooney will be Riverwatch special guest for its leadership cruise at the Swamp Cabbage Festival. He will chat and answer questions one-on-one. Riverwatch thanks him for his participation. 
Proposed EPA numeric standards for water quality are not likely to have a great effect on agriculture. Florida Watershed Restoration
Act (FWRA) of 1999 states that BMPs administered by FDACS determine agricultural water quality actions/compliance. 
Want to win a canoe? Come to the Riverwatch exhibit at the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Saturday or Sunday (Feb 27-28) and sign up to win a Mad River Adventure 14 Canoe. $2 for one chance ticket. 3 for $5. 
Curious about the Caloosahatchee, its history, oxbows and wildlife? Get your tickets early & come take a ride on the Swamp Cabbage Festival guided cruise on Sat, Feb 27 at 2:30pm at the new LaBelle Docks behind Barron Park Pavillion. Tickets are $20. 
With the 2000’s the warmest on record and this winter’s snow deep and getting deeper, is our weather fishtailing around from climate instability? Or is it just the weather? Experts say its El Nino + Arctic Oscillation. 
CRCA thanks Steve & Susan Brookman for their contined generous support of Riverwatch. Steve provides affordable, easy to navigate web sites along with complete hosting and graphic art design services through Otter Water Webs. 
The Florida Supreme Court has agreed to hear on April 7 the case on the state land purchase deal for Everglades restoration projects. The land purchase is for construction of reservoirs and STAs intended to clean water and restore the Everglades. 
Researchers & volunteers filled buckets with white fossilized shell at Sanibel's Bowman's Beach. Next, shells are packed into mesh bags to build oyster reefs, which will provide habitat for fish and invertebrates and help clean the bayou's water. 
Vultures circled over Everglades National Park's Anhinga Trail, where thousands of dead non-native fish floated in the marshes. About half the Burmese pythons found in the park in the past few weeks were dead. 
The Rivers Coalition Defense Fund board of directors is appealing a federal court judge’s ruling rejecting the organization’s attempt to make the Army Corps of Engineers stop dumping polluted Lake Okeechobee water in the St. Lucie River estuary. 
Once again the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. has made a generous donation to Riverwatch covering costs to buy a Mad River Adventure 14 Canoe from Estero River Outfitters. Special thanks to Tribe member Joe Frank for arranging the donation. 
CRCA would like to thank Ajit Patel of Patel, Rothschild and Associates, Investment Bankers for the co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Ajit is also an active cooperator on Caloosahatchee oxbows restoration projects. 
Once again the Watershed Council of Southwest Florida has donated to the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruise. Special thanks to James Evans, chair of the council. Watershed Council takes a lead role on many of the important issues of the region 
CRCA would like to thank Rock Aboujaoude, David Rolls, & Alberto Betancur of Rock Enterprises, Inc. for co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Rock's team delivers engineering services in the Hendry County region. 
Featured speakers on the Riverwatch Leadership Cruise at 1pm on Feb 27 will include SFWMD Executive Director Carol Wehle. Others, including SFWMD Governing Members Charles Daurey and Kevin Powers will also attend. 
CRCA would like to thank Audubon Society of Southwest Florida for their co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The association is heavily involved in the conservation of the rural lands and habitat. 
The mission of SCCF is to preserve wildlife and habitats around Sanibel. SCCR has once again helped Riverwatch organize the 2010 cruise event. Special thanks to Rae Ann Wessel, expert interpretive guide on the educational cruise. 
RMA GeoLogic Consultants, Inc. led by Dan Aquaviva is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruises. This group specializes in geological studies and services, contact info@rma-geologic.com for more information. 
The die-off of sponges and tunicates in Matlacha Pass at the mouth of the North Spreader Canal may or may not be result of changes in salinity brought about by removal of the Ceitus Boat Lift. 
Riverwatch thanks Ron Edenfield of Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc., co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Cruise. ECT specializes in the resolution of complex environmental issues, designing such projects as Billy Creek mitigation park. 
If you've decided its time to get rid of a boat, car or other large item then consider a donation to Riverwatch. CRCA now has a program that makes it easy. We handle pickup and you get a maximum value tax deduction. 
The 2010 Swamp Cabbage Cruise would not have been possible without co-sponsorship of Edison State College. CRCA would like to thank Dean of the Hendry-Glades Campus, Dr. Robert Jones for his support. 
Collins Center, dedicated to advancing the important social and economic public policy issues facing Florida, is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. Special thanks to Michael Maidenberg and Phillip Bacon. 
Happehatchee Center and Ellen Peterson are co-sponsors of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The center hosts activities and events that provide didactic and experiential opportunities to discover the "old" Florida landscape. 
CRCA would like to thank Alan Keller of Collier County Audubon Society for the co-sponsorship of the 2010 Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Cruise. The association is dedicated to the protection of birds and their environment. 
Tetra Tech has contributed to the CRCA cruises for the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival. CRCA would like to thank V.P. Danny Nelson. The company provides consulting, engineering, and technical services worldwide. 
The Swamp Cabbage Cruise would not have been possible without co-sponsorship of Sierra Club Calusa Group. CRCA would like to thank Drew Martin for arranging the donation this year. Sierra Club is an important partner to CRCA on many issues. 
Gulf Citrus Growers Association is a co-sponsor of the 2010 Swamp Cabbage Festival Cruises. CRCA would like to thank Ron Hamel, representing the citrus growers of SW Florida, for helping us again and joining in the leadership cruise discussion. 
Second place in the canoe contest is a guided kayak tour for 4 people on Estero Bay valued at $140, courtesy of Estero River Outfitters. The Outfitters also provided a $230 discount on the price of the first place prize canoe from $780 to $550. 
Judge Lynn J. Bush of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington ruled pollution in the St. Lucie Estuary caused by the discharges do not amount to a “taking” of riparian rights from the 22 landowners on whose behalf the coalition filed the lawsuit. 
Are you supporting the Riverwatch Swamp Cabbage Festival activities? If so, your donations can now be accepted online using PayPal secure transaction with credit card or PayPal account. Thank you...and see you at Swamp Cabbage! 
Gov. Charlie Crist used the opening of new visitor facilities at Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Preserve on Jan 23 to announce his push for new environmental funding in next year's state budget. 
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started freshwater pulse releases on Jan 27 from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary. During the dry season, water managers release fresh water to maintain the balance between salt and fresh water. 
The Environmental Protection Agency in mid-Januray proposed new standards for "nutrient" pollution in Florida's waterways. The EPA is now asking "those who are knowledgeable of Florida waters" to review the proposal. Some are for, some are against. 
The 1st SustainabLEE Community Partnership Meeting will be held Feb. 16 in Ft. Myers. The intent is to serve as a catalyst to transition to sustainable policies on the belief that the health of our environment, economy, and community go hand in hand. 
Lee County Natural Resources will present the latest draft report to the Board of County Commissioners on Feb 1 at the Commission Chambers in Ft Myers. Natural Resources Director Mr. Ottolini will give a PPT recommending acceptance of the NEBs. 
The January 2010 CRCA newsletter is available online. It gives information on the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Feb. 27, CRCA raffle and public cruise. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. 
The depate rages (or should we say the rage debates) over the proposed EPA numeric nutrient limits. Opponents of EPA will probably: (1) fight rules with political money, (2) claim a constitutional right to pollute, (3) challenge the science. 
EPA Construction Stormwater Rule takes effect on Feb 1. The rule for the first time imposes, among others, an enforceable numeric limit on stormwater discharges from large construction sites. 
Dr. Joe Thomas, adjunct professor of history at Edison State College, will provide his perspectives on the Hendry County region for guests on the Riverwatch Cruise at the Swamp Cabbage Festival on Feb 27 from 2:30 to 4 pm. Cruise tickets are $20. 
In response to public comments on the proposed revisions to the surface water classification system, the Department of Environmental Protection has decided to extend the public comment period on the proposed revisions to Feb 4. 
The 7th annual RRR goes into the record books with the largest number of registered runners despite the cold! 308 took part at the relay and and another 120 for the Fun Run. Runners came from 22 states, Canada and Bavaria. 
Hickey's Creek Mitigation Park published is February Programm. Guided nature walks and a kayak trip are still open to registration. Contact Kelly Williamson for subscritions and more information. 
The Rivers Coalition representing concerned citizens in the St. Lucie River region published their January newsletter. The Coalition is calling for strong new laws against damaging nutrient pollution.
Starving manatess head south. A mass migration is underway on the Orange and Caloosahatchee Rivers in Lee County, prompting boaters and kayakers to take to the waters to see the hundreds of manatees heading downriver to feeding grounds. 
The Rural Lands Committee completed their Rural & Agricultural Land Study on Jan 1. They established a policy framework as a recommendation for the committee. One of the main goal is to uphold the County’s unique rural character and quality of life. 
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has released a Q&A Fact Sheet discussing the recently-released EPA proposal for numeric nutrient standards. Nutrients are one of the top causes of degradation in U.S. waters. 
Featured speakers on the CRCA educational river cruise at 2:30pm on Saturday, Feb 27 will be historian Joe Thomas, master naturalist Margaret England, and SCCF public policy director Rae Ann Wessell. Cruise tickets are $20. Call 863-674-0695. 
To protect three of Florida’s valuable fisheries, FWC has acted quickly with a direct, to-the-point executive order prohibiting the taking and/or harvesting of snook, bonefish, and tarpon. Under the order, these species are protected as of Jan 16. 
Cold fronts have brought a high number of manatees to the Orange River and other portions of Lee and Collier counties. Patrols'll be using radar guns to make sure everyone is obeying the law. Violators will get at least a $50 ticket. 
Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is looking for boaters & kayakers in Charlotte & Lee Counties to help map the plants & structures along the estuary shores in order to
restore & protect the natural beauty, habitats & organisms. 
EPA released proposed numeric nutrient water quality criteria for lakes & flowing waters, including canals. For the Caloosahatchee, EPA's limits of 1.205 mg/L total nitrogen and 0.107 mg/L total phosphorus are 30% and 8% less than DEP limits. 
Since Jan 11, complaints have flooded SWFWMD offices about wells gone dry after nights of heavy pumping around strawberry fields caused water levels to plunge. Farmers have 72 hours to get water to the affected residents. 
A session at the Everglades Coalition Conference on Jan 9, 2010 explored ideas for new farming systems that incorporate Ecosystem Services income to farms as part of an overall sustainable Everglades region. 
The Army Corps of Engineers on Jan 12 began an 11-day round of lake releases, scheduled to drain an average of 650 cfs to the Caloosahatchee River. This decision doesn't meet South Florida farms interests but helps the estuary. 
According to Rick Roberts, executive director of the Snook Foundation, the freeze of January is going to go down in history; reports are coming in from all areas of the state of thousands of fish of all varieties dead or dying. 
The importance of South Florida's estuaries was highlighted at the 25th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference on Jan 9. Estuaries are very important for the ecosystem and need to be figured into every phase of Everglades restoration. 
Panthers now number only about 100 in Florida, Darrell Land said at the 45th annual gathering of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association in Punta Gorda last fall. But fundraising efforts are under way to build panther numbers to at least 200. 
At it's 25th Annual Conference, the Everglades Coalition released its 2020 vision for Everglades restoration. Among the goals are continued land purchases for the restoration, sufficient fresh water for the Everglades and South Florida estuaries. 
Up-and-down water levels has all but wiped out the Lake Okeechobee's apple snail population - the primary source of food for the snail kite whose population dropped from about 3000 birds to 700 during the past 15 years. 
A former ranchland is being converted into a 2000-acre wetland that will clean stormwater runoff bound for Lake Okeechobee. A new S-650 pump station in Martin County will supply the STA, largest north of the Lake. 
Randy Brown is chairman of the Southeast Florida Utility Council that is asking the FL Legislature to reverse the SFWMD year-round lawn watering rules. Utility income depends on people wasting water, so utilities oppose SFWMD conservation rules. 
Rebuilding of the Ceitus Boat Lift will not be of significant environmental benefit; however, it is better than a sham agreement so watered down as to be of even less environmental value than the Barrier. So says activist attorney Phil Buchanan. 
The formation of a new Florida Trails Association (FTA)sub-chapter is in its early stages and you are invited to join them. An orientation meeting is being held Feb 6 in Moore Haven. The advantages of joining FTA will be introduced. 
The December 2009 CRCA newsletter is available online. It highlights the recognition of Keith Kibbey for creating the River Ride in 1996. Sign up to receive the newsletter by email. 
Last week, PURRE Chairman Michael Valiquette addressed the Lee County Legislative Delegation at Edison
State College. His message was one of both gratitude to local legislators for progress that’s been made and a request for help. 
East coast cities are looking to keep water in Lake O for east coast drinking water and crop irrigation. West coast interests want enough freshwater from the lake to keep sea grasses and coastal estuaries healthy. A balance has to be found. 
The death of a Florida panther on Dec 17 on Interstate 75 — the 14th panther roadkill in 2009 — is prompting concern from state wildlife officials. Drivers should be on the lookout for the endangered cats, especially at sundown. 
DEP is allowing City of Marco Island residents to convert old septic tanks into water supply cisterns. The tanks are first cleaned, sterilized then sealed. Other design modifications allow the tanks to augment home water supplies. 
The NSEMA Stakeholder Group outome report (Finding and Conclusions) is now available for review. It's the result of a year-long process of meetings and discussion over the Ceitus Boat Lift issue. A final decision may still be months away. 
2009 has been the worst year on record for FL manatees with 419 deaths. Lee Co leads the way in deaths of the endangered mammals with a total of 56 - 18 from boats & 38 from other causes. A very high number of young manatee died in 2009 - 114. 
A red tide bloom that is strong enough to cause fish kills and cause coughing among beachgoers has been detected off the coast of Sarasota County, near Nokomis beach. Boaters, beachgoers and lifeguards have yet to spot any fish kills. 
The Clean Water Network unveils the launch of the Clean Water Network's new and improved website. CWN now has a much more user-friendly and attractive site, an improved members-only section where information can be found on workgroups and much more. 
The Clean Water Network of Florida and the Conservancy of SW Florida, along with other organizations, is writing to request that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection consider alternatives to the proposed designated use changes. 
Rivers Coalition presented its case against discharge pollution in a hearing in Washington, on Dec 16. Although no decision was made, pivotal arguments were narrowed down in the Rivers Coalition Defense Fund’s riparian rights. 
President Obama’s Ocean Policy Task Force released its Interim Framework for Effective Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning on Dec 14 for a 60-day public review and comment period. It offers an integrated approach to managing uses and activities. 
An almost day-and-night biological change met passengers on Dec 11 as the pontoon boat entered the restored section of the Kissimmee River from the C-38 canal. So far, the largest river restoration project in history is working. 
On May 21 to 24, Snowbird, Utah will play host to the 11th National River Rally. It's a national training on water issues that will bring together federal and state resources, grassroots needs and community ingenuity.
John Cassani is the recipient of 2010 Everglades Coalition Kabler Award to be presented on Jan 9. He receives this prestigeous award in recognition of his vision and commitment to retoration efforts in the Caloosahatchee and Big Cypress watersheds. 
A new exotic species could be crawling its way across Southwest Florida. It’s the Chinese mystery snail — and the biggest mystery about them is what their spread could mean for native ecosystems. So far there have been no reports of the snail in Collier County’s estuaries. 
On Dec 6, CRCA members and friends enjoyed a holiday season party. Keith Kibbey was awarded a certificate of appreciation for creating the River Ride in 1996 and his continued organizing of this successful annual event. 
A new website devoted to the “matters of Everglades” has been launched. It is intended as an information source, particularly focusing on technical and scientific aspects of Florida Everglades where knowledge has markedly developed since 2000. 
NOAA research found that a type of bacteria provides a necessary element for the algae that cause red tide to blast into a frenzy of reproduction. In the distant future, the discovery may point to a way to stop a bloom or diminish its effects. 
DEP is attempting to skirt federal law by creating new water designated uses without developing associated water quality standards. The Clean Water Act states EPA cannot approve new designated uses without these pollution limits. 
Speaker-designate Dean Cannon says that the state must recognize and plan for future water demand, but that's something that the state has shown no desire to do and it's something unlikely to begin now. 
Florida manatees are on the move, seeking warm-water sites to spend the winter. That means boaters must be cautious. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) changes seasonal speed zone signs in mid-November on many waterways. 
Nov 9, the Federal government announced the outlines of a new effort to help restore the seafood and wildlife in the nation's largest estuary: the Chesapeake Bay. It targets the root causes of the trouble: runoff, especially from farm. 
Research results released recently by the University of Maryland and SCCF was published in the Gulf Of Mexico Alliance (GOMA) newsletter (p.6). Lyngbya is a "hairy looking" Harmful Algae Bloom that remains toxic even after it dies.
Stakeholders met in early Nov to address the concerns of some industry representatives regarding SB 494, the landscape fertilizer bill signed by Governor Crist in June. Attendees voiced the needs for more stringent fertilizer management stantards. 
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) conducted an alternatives public workshop for the new S.R. 29 Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study Nov 5, 2009 at the LaBelle Civic Center. The State solicits your comments until Nov 16. 
With the help of Forest Michael, landscape architect, the Moore Haven Main Street organization is planning a new Riverfront district with restored historic buildings. The city recently rebuilt its riverfront docks in the downtown area. 
At their meeting, Nov. 3, CRCA board approved the motion to reinstall the boatlift on Cape Coral Spreader Canal and to maintain it. The alternative proposed by Cape Coral and DEP does not guarantee water quality. 
The Cape Coral North Spreader Ecosystem Management Agreement Stakeholders Group & other participants met Oct 9 in Ft Myers. The meeting report is now available. Next meeting is Nov 16 at the SFWMD Conference Room from 8:30 to 5:00. 
The Port of Palm Beach board decided Wednesday to wait until Dec. 17 to make a decision, calling for the competing sites to submit business plans to show why they should be chosen. Those plans are due by Dec. 10. An opportunity for Hendry County. 
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida submitted a detailed comment letter on the Rural and Agricultural Land Study to the Hendry County Committee, Oct 16. Recommendations focus on the TDR (Transfer of Development Rights) program components. 
Sea levels rose as much as 2 feet higher than predicted this summer along the U.S. East Coast, surprising scientists who forecast such periodic fluctuations. The immediate cause of the rise has been solved, but the underlying reason remains a mystery 
Florida needs to go back to school when it comes to living up to the federal Clean Water Act. The state was given a D+ on the network’s “Clean Up Your Act!” report card grading the five Gulf of Mexico states. 
Caloosahatchee Cookbook invites you to share your favorite recipes, including picnic & boating favorites. Include your culinary secrets in the fundraiser cookbook. The sooner you submit, the better your chances of being included. 
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. 