Expert: New Florida governor risks repeating past growth mistakes

A recommendation to Governor-elect Rick Scott that the state transportation, environmental and planning agencies be combined suggests a return to Florida's past growth management mistakes, a University of Florida planning expert said Tuesday.Scott's regulatory reform transition team suggested combining the Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Protection and Department of

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Judge not pleased with Florida in Everglades case

A federal judge on Friday expressed support for a new $1.5 billion federal plan to reduce Everglades pollution while raising concerns with Florida's response to the proposal, according to the Associated Press.United States District Judge Alan. S. Gold, who in April threatened the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with contempt of court over chronic water problems, on Friday told agency

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Attorneys defend court ordering Florida environmental groups to pay

Attorneys for Martin County and two development firms are defending a state appeals court decision ordering environmental groups to pay for challenging a Martin County land-use decision.The 1st District Court of Appeal on Tuesday ordered 1000 Friends of Florida and the Martin County Conservation Alliance to pay attorneys' fees for the Florida Department of Community Affairs, Martin County and two

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Federal court to hear Everglades case Friday

Leading up to a federal court hearing in Miami on Friday, Friends of the Everglades is calling on the state to require polluters rather than taxpayers to pay for cleaning up the "River of Grass."Friends of the Everglades and the Miccosukee Tribe have sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over failure to clean up water flowing into the Everglades. U.S. District Judge Alan S. Gold in April

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Florida appeals court orders enviro groups to pay attorney fees

A state appeals court ruled on Tuesday that environmental groups must pay the attorneys fees of Martin County, the Florida Department of Community Affairs and development interests for appealing a land-use case.Richard Grosso, an attorney for the groups 1000 Friends of Florida and the Martin County Conservation Alliance, says the ruling sets a chilling precedent for groups that seek to enforce

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Florida PSC approves rate freeze for Florida Power & Light

The Florida Public Service Commission on Tuesday voted 5-0 to approve a settlement with Florida Power & Light Co. to resolve a controversial rate-hike request denied by the commission earlier this year.The PSC denial in January of a $1 billion rate hike request played a role in the Senate's refusal in April to confirm two reform-minded PSC members appointed by Gov. Charlie Crist. Two other

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Cold weather pushes manatee deaths past last year's record

This manatee was rescued from Wakulla Springs during a cold weather snap in February 2008.The number of manatee deaths in 2010 is already more than 50 percent higher than the record number that died in 2009 -- with cold weather this year having taken a heavy toll on the lumbering sea cows, Florida wildlife officials said Friday.The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission documented 699

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Florida DEP credits controversial federal water standards

Environmental groups say this algae bloom in 2009 on a tributary of the St. Johns River was fueled by excessive nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous.A Florida Department of Environmental Protection official on Thursday for the first time sounded a note different from the sharp criticism leveled by state officials and industry representatives towards new federal water quality standards.The

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Florida water disputes won't be focus of new panel, chairman says

The chairman of a new select House committee addressing water issues said Wednesday she expects it to deal more with water quality issues and less with water quantity except for "big picture" issues.On Tuesday, House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, said he is establishing the Select Committee on Water Policy and he named Rep. Trudi Williams, R-Fort Myers, as chairman. She also is chairman of

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Florida Cabinet approves Gainesville biomass plant

A proposed wood-burning power plant in Gainesville that would be tied for being the largest of its kind in the nation was approved Tuesday by the governor and Cabinet.In their last meeting before leaving office, the four elected Cabinet members voted unanimously to approve a power plant construction and operating certificate as recommended by an administrative law judge. American Renewables still

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Big Cypress land deal goes through despite concerns

In their final meeting before all four members leave office, Gov. Charlie Crist and the Cabinet voted Tuesday to approve the transfer of 29,412 acres of state land to the federal government as an addition to Big Cypress National Preserve.The Cabinet also approved an option to purchase a 2,848-acre conservation easement in Polk County from The Nature Conservancy for $5.6 million. The group will

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Huge Florida biomass plant up for Cabinet vote

Conceptual rendering of American Renewables proposed plant in GainesvilleA proposed woody biomass electric plant that would be one of the largest of its kind in the nation could move a step closer to reality with a Cabinet vote on Tuesday.American Renewables and the city of Gainesville are proposing the 100-megawatt biomass plant on 131 acres at the city's Deerhaven power plant. The plant would

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New Senate environmental chairman wants to repeal septic tank inspections

The new chairman of the Senate's environmental committee has introduced a bill that would repeal a new requirement that septic tanks be inspected every five years.The inspection requirement in SB 550 earlier this year was promoted by supporters as a springs protection measure. But legislators voted during the special session on Nov. 16 to delay the program start from Jan. 1 to July 1 after an

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Agency withdraws proposed growth rule changes after veto override

The Florida Department of Community Affairs has withdrawn two controversial proposed rule changes because of the Legislature's override of the governor's veto of HB 1565.HB 1565 requires legislative approval for proposed regulations that could cost more than $200,000 a year for all businesses across the state. Supporters said the bill would prevent agencies from imposing burdensome costs on

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NOAA announces Gulf of Mexico grouper fishing restrictions

Federal fisheries managers on Tuesday announced they are imposing temporary restrictions on recreational and commercial fishing for gag and red grouper, two of the most important fishing species in the Gulf of Mexico.Possible restrictions on grouper and snapper fishing earlier this year prompted an outcry from some state and federal elected officials. HB 553, a House memorial that called on

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Pelham says he's leaving Florida growth agency

By the Florida TribuneThe embattled head of Florida's growth management agency has made it official that he will no have role in the administration of Governor-elect Rick Scott.Tom Pelham, who has been the head of the Department of Community Affairs under two separate GOP governors, wrote a letter to Gov. Charlie Crist on Nov. 8 saying he intended to resign from his job by Jan. 3.The move isn't

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Florida Legislature overrides Crist vetoes on environmental bills

By the Florida TribuneState lawmakers dealt with several environmental issues as they convened for a one-day special session on Tuesday.Although most of the work involved overriding vetoes by Gov. Charlie Crist, legislators also discussed whether to approve one Crist-backed initiative. Legislators approved $31 million in federal stimulus funds to provide energy rebates for homeowners who bought

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Florida park renamed for diver, filmmaker Wes Skiles

Florida park officials on Tuesday named Peacock Springs State Park near Live Oak in honor of cave-diver and filmmaker Wes Skiles, who died on July 21 while diving off the Palm Beach County Coast.Skiles was a member of the Florida Springs Task Force and spoke at a rally for springs outside of the Capitol in February. His films included "Polluting the Fountain of Youth" in 1998 and "Waters Journey:

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Feds unveil tougher Florida water standards

By the Florida TribuneThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized numeric nutrient standards for Florida on Sunday but decided to delay the implementation of the requirements for 15 months, leaving the door open for litigation.The EPA’s numeric limits -- which were sparked by a lawsuit from environmental groups -- have been set for nutrients including phosphorous and nitrogen in Florida's

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Constantine: Lawmakers knew about septic tanks mandate

By The Florida TribuneAs legislators seek to extend the implementation of new septic tank standards during the upcoming special session, outgoing Sen. Lee Constantine sent a letter to lawmakers requesting they back the standards and its timeline, just as they did during the past legislative session.Under SB 550, the new standards would require that all septic tanks be inspected every five years.

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DCA chief defends planning agency

It didn't get a lot of attention, but Secretary of Community Affairs Tom Pelham gave an impassioned defense of his agency this past week.DCA has constantly come under fire in the last few years, especially as Pelham has criticized legislative efforts to change the state's growth management laws.Pelham, however, fired back at critics when DCA was faulted for opposing a planned animal park in the

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Enviromental issues a key part of upcoming special session

Florida's two incoming legislative leaders announced on Thursday that they plan to take up several significant environmental issues during a one-day special session planned for later this month.The list for the Nov. 16 special session covers everything from septic tanks and energy rebates.Both incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, and House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter

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EPA taps Florida's Hankinson as director of Gulf restoration panel

John H. Hankinson Jr., a Florida native and former regional U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator, was named Monday as executive director of the new federal Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force.President Barack Obama signed an executive order earlier this month establishing the task force, which will coordinate restoration programs and projects following the BP oil spill last

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Federal official defends Gulf oil spill reporting

MISSOULA, Mont. -- NOAA Administrator Jane Lubcheco on Friday defended as "consistent" her description of the fate of oil spilled last summer in the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, an oil industry representative told environmental journalists that the nation must continue deep-water oil drilling as an important economic driver in the Gulf region.The Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded and sank in

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Florida closes on scaled-back Everglades purchase

The South Florida Water Management District on Tuesday closed on the purchase of nearly 27,000 acres of U.S. Sugar Corp. land in a scaled-down version of the once-massive Everglades restoration project.Gov. Charlie Crist in 2008 first proposed the purchase of 187,000 acres, which the district agreed to buy for $1.3 billion. But the economic downturn caused the state to twice scale back the

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Argenziano quits Florida PSC to support Alex Sink for governor

Nancy Argenziano announced Tuesday she is resigning from the Florida Public Service Commission to support Democrat Alex Sink in her race against Republican Rick Scott for governor.Argenziano -- who was elected as a Republican state senator -- told reporters she is resigning to speak out against what she considers to be a "catastrophe" facing the state if Scott is elected. State law prohibits

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State nixes bear workshops because of hunting controversy

State wildlife officials on Monday postponed workshops on black bear management because they said too many people wanted to talk about hunting bears. But it was a state wildlife official who publicly suggested that hunting should remain an option in the future.The state banned bear hunting in 1994 because of an outcry from animal rights activists, environmentalists and news media that reported on

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Environment a neglected issue in Florida governor's race

1000 Friends of Florida, a group focusing on growth management issues statewide, sent a questionnaire last month to the eight major party candidates in the state Cabinet races. The number of responses: Zero, said Charles Pattison, the group's president.That may be telling about the importance that growth and environmental issues are playing in this year's governor's race. With less than four

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La Niña contributes to tough Florida wildfire season forecast

Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson on Friday predicted a tough wildfire season because of a long-range weather forecast calling for dry conditions.Wildfire season typically peaks in January and extends until June, though fires can break out any time because of dry conditions. The dire forecast should cause state and federal parks and other land-management agencies to take notice along

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Rick Scott takes aim at Florida DCA

Republican candidate for governor Rick Scott says he would put a bull's-eye on the Florida Department of Community Affairs, the scorn of many developers. Scott said he would support eliminating DCA, which oversees growth in the state, according to a St. Petersburg Times report on Friday."On the campaign trail, I'll tell you the one that everybody's fed up with. It's DCA," Scott says. "It's really

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Meek rejects Sierra Club endorsement with Crist in Senate race

The Sierra Club's endorsement of both Gov. Charlie Crist and U. S. Rep. Kendrick Meek in the Senate race on Thursday took a surprise turn when Meek immediately rejected the endorsement.Sierra Club officials said both Crist, a former Republican now running as an independent, and Meek, a Democrat, have strong environmental records -- especially compared to Republican Marco Rubio, a former Florida

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Paul C. Parks, Everglades scientist and "pioneer," dies at 75

Paul C. Parks, a recent member of the state Environmental Regulation Commission and a key figure in Everglades and Lake Okeechobee issues at the Capitol, died Wednesday at his home in Wakulla County. He was 75.Gov. Charlie Crist appointed Parks to ERC in 2008 but Parks stepped down after discovering he had cancer, said Manley Fuller, president of the Florida Wildlife Federation. Parks, who joined

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"Zombie political insiders" vs. Florida TaxWatch in duel over growth measure

Supporters of the "Hometown Democracy" Amendment 4 are using Godzilla and vampires to get their message across while opponents on Wednesday were using a Florida TaxWatch report to put the scare into voters.Amendment 4, which is on the Nov. 2 ballot, would require voter approval of changes to local comprehensive land use plans. Supporters say the measure is needed to wrest control of local growth

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Sink quietly releases environmental platform in Florida governor's race

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, caught up in an increasingly bitter and tight race with Republican Rick Scott, has quietly distributed her environmental platform in the last week. Sink's campaign released an eight-page paid political advertisement entitled "Preserving Florida's Natural Assets: Improve our economy while protecting our environment." The document outlines her stances on issues

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Oil spill researchers gather in Florida as president creates Gulf ecosystem task force

More than 150 scientific researchers from around the nation were gathering Tuesday at St. Pete Beach for the beginning of a two-day conference to discuss oil spill research in the Gulf of Mexico.Also Tuesday, President Obama signed an executive order establishing the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force. The panel, which will have representatives appointed by each of the five Gulf states,

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Florida Panhandle legislators seek to repeal septic tank inspection requirement

Two Panhandle legislators say they have filed a bill to repeal a new requirement in state law that all septic tanks be inspected every five years. SB 550 was introduced by Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, in response to concerns about nitrogen pollution of waterways and groundwater. The law was amended by the Senate Ways and Means Committee to include the inspection requirement signed

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Petition drive launched for amendment to ban oil drilling

Environmental groups have launched a petition drive to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in 2012 that would ban oil drilling in Florida's nearshore waters.The Florida Wildlife Federation announced the petition drive in an e-mail to supporters on Friday. The amendment is needed because the House in 2009 voted to pass a bill to allow drilling within three miles of the Gulf coast, said

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Oil spill claims administrator says location now not a factor

The man put in charge of a $20 billion fund to help those hurt by the Gulf of Mexico oil spill said Monday that distance from the oil spill won't be a factor in deciding whether to pay damages to Florida business owners and residents.Although oil has washed ashore only in six Florida Panhandle counties, state officials say tourism across Florida was affected by lingering images of the summer's

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Former DEP chief Sole going to Florida Power & Light

DEP's Mike Sole speaks to reporters on June 1 as Gov. Charlie Crist, right, looks on.Former Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole is going to work for Florida Power & Light Co., according to a Miami Herald report.Sole will be vice president of state governmental affairs and will be paid $350,000 in salary, stocks and bonuses. He will report to Eric Silagy, an FPL

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Brogan "more comfortable" with Florida's role in oil spill research

State University System Chancellor Frank Brogan said Friday he is becoming "more comfortable" with the possible role that Florida's public and private universities will play in oil spill research funded by BP following an announcement by the company this week.The company said in May that it was providing $500 million for research into the oil spill that began after the Deepwater Horizon exploded

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Georgia senators seek to undo judge's favorable ruling for Florida

Two Georgia senators have introduced bills in Congress to overturn a federal judge's ruling in 2009 that was favorable to Florida in the states' lengthy battle over water.Alabama, Florida and Georgia have been fighting in federal court since 1990 over water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system. Alabama and Georgia want water for future growth while Florida wants water for fish

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Cleanup of some oiled Florida beaches may cause more harm

Federal officials are beginning to leave alone some beaches that still have oil in sand below the surface because further cleanup could cause more environmental harm, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Wednesday.The explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in April led to oil washing ashore on beaches along the western Panhandle in June and July. Federal

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Florida Cabinet delays Big Cypress land transfer

View Larger MapThe Florida Cabinet on Tuesday delayed action on a proposed transfer of 29,412 acres in Big Cypress National Preserve to the federal government after state Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson raised concerns about management of the land.Big Cypress National Preserve is part of the Everglades and covers 729,000 acres in southwest Florida. After Congress established the

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Florida to appeal ruling overturning 2009 growth law changes

The Attorney General's Office says it will appeal a judge's ruling on a controversial 2009 growth management law that may have created uncertainty and confusion among local governments and developers.Chief Circuit Judge Charles Francis on Aug. 26 struck down the changes contained in SB 360, which removed a requirement in state law that developers pay for new roads. The bill, which was passed in

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Florida House Republicans hint at special session on energy rebates

A windmill and billboard promoting solar energy were displayed outside the Capitol earlier this year on Earth Day.House Republican leaders on Thursday said a special session could be held in November -- possibly during the Legislature's organizational session -- to approve using federal economic stimulus money for state energy rebate programs.Gov. Charlie Crist got into a flap with House and

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Feds agree to review wood storks' status at request of Florida home-builders

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says it will review the "endangered" status of wood storks because of a petition filed by the Florida Home Builders Association.FHBA says the storks' 26-year-old classification is outdated, but an Audubon of Florida representative says the 12-month review raises concerns and that the future of the species should be closely studied.Wood storks, which have black

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Backlash brewing against Florida septic tanks requirement

A proposed state septic tank rule and the legislation that sparked the rule are becoming the focus of anti-government critics.SB 550 during the legislative session requires septic tank owners statewide to receive an inspection at least once every five years. A Florida Department of Health advisory board is reviewing a draft rule on Thursday and DOH has scheduled a series of workshops in

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Crist fills two Florida Public Service Commission seats to be vacated by ouster

Gov. Charlie Crist again passed over a state senator and a former Florida Public Service executive director and instead named Eduardo Balbis and Julie I. Brown to the Public Service Commission on Tuesday.Balbis, 38, is an assistant city attorney in West Palm Beach, and Brown, 35, is associate legal counsel for the First American Corp. They will replace Commission Chairman Nancy Argenziano and

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National ag groups ask EPA to reconsider water strategy nationally and in Florida

Thirty-six national agriculture groups are asking the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to delay a proposed action on water quality in Florida and to reconsider its strategy nationally because of the expected costs.The EPA has proposed numeric limits for nutrients including phosphorus and nitrogen in Florida's rivers, springs and lakes to reduce algae blooms and coastal red tide events. But

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Florida agency moves forward with sprawl, climate change rules

The Florida Department of Community Affairs last week continued moving ahead with two important proposed rule changes, but the question is whether DCA will adopt them before a change in administrations.With Gov. Charlie Crist seeking a U.S. Senate seat, voters will have to choose among Republican Rick Scott, Democrat Alex Sink and several other candidates. The winner will control the statewide

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PSC's Skop refuses to withdraw from Florida Power & Light Co. cases

Florida Public Service Commissioner Nathan A. Skop has refused Florida Power & Light's request to remove himself from all cases involving the utility.Skop's 12-page order filed Thursday is the latest round in a war between Gov. Charlie Crist's reform-minded PSC appointees and the utilities and their allies in the Florida Legislature. The Legislature in April refused to confirm two Crist

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Florida oil spill research goes on with or without BP money

When the BP oil spill began following a rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico on April 20, researchers in Florida didn't wait, says State University System Chancellor Frank Brogan. Instead, they began working to study the extent of the oil spill and the possible effects on the Gulf before they received any money from the giant oil corporation for research, Brogan said.On May 24, BP committed $500

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Florida governor, legislative leaders spar over energy rebates

A dispute between Gov. Charlie Crist and the Legislature over funding for a solar rebate program escalated Wednesday as House Speaker Larry Cretul suggested the governor's administration had been "duping" applicants into believing they would receive checks.Crist sent Cretul and Senate President Jeff Atwater a letter on Tuesday saying he was disappointed the Legislative Budget Commission did not

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Florida PSC rejects four utilities' conservation plans

The Florida Public Service Commission on Tuesday rejected energy conservation plans for three utilities after staff said they failed to meet the aggressive annual goals established by the commission. The utilities have 30 days to resubmit the plans.The PSC set the goals for seven utilities in December under the Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act of 1980. In 2008, the Legislature

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Florida Growth group shifts stance on constitutional measure

Citing the unwillingness of local governments and the Legislature to address "serious shortcomings" in the state's growth management process, 1000 Friends of Florida on Monday said it "refined" its position on the proposed Amendment 4 from "not supporting" to neutral.The measure, which is on the Nov. 2 general election ballot, would amend the Florida Constitution to require voter approval of

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DEP working on criteria after surplus lands controversy

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is developing criteria for agencies to use in deciding whether they want to get rid of conservation land following controversies over the Suwannee River Water Management District's proposals to sell or exchange land.Florida has the largest conservation land-buying program in the nation with 2.4 million acres having been purchased since 1990. Some

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Two Florida ag commissioner candidates say they are environmental advocates

The two candidates vying for the post of Agriculture Commissioner are both trying to maintain they would help Florida's environment if elected.But GOP contender Adam Putnam's two-page environmental policy paper released last week prompted a sly retort and denouncement from his Democratic opponent Scott Maddox.Putnam's paper was thin on specifics. Yet asked whether he had issued an environmental

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Renewable energy supporters back Sink for Florida governor, tussle with Scott

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink spoke June 29 to the Clean Energy Congress in Tallahassee. A spokesman for Rick Scott, her Republican opponent for governor, said she was promoting "policies that will only cost more jobs."Some renewable energy supporters who are backing Democrat Alex Sink for governor said Wednesday that her Republican opponent, Rick Scott, should explain more about his support

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State, feds agree to extend red snapper season because of oil spill

Florida has joined federal authorities in extending the length of the red snapper fishing season in the Gulf of Mexico, partially addressing a contentious issue from earlier this year.“This is just what the doctor ordered and couldn’t have come at a better time to give a much-needed boost to our Gulf fishing communities that have had a challenging summer, to say the least, because of the Gulf oil

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Supporters of growth measure go after Florida Chamber

Supporters of Amendment 4 say the Florida Chamber of Commerce, a major opponent of the proposed growth management measure, is encouraging employers to pressure their workers to join the opposition.Amendment 4 would require voter approval of changes to local comprehensive land use plans which say where development can occur. Supporters say the measure is needed to remove control of local growth

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New oil rig explosion creates Florida political firestorm

A new oil rig explosion off the Louisiana coast on Thursday led House Republicans and Democrats to trade accusations about oil drilling. The Mariner Energy production rig caught fire Thursday morning. Thirteen workers were rescued, one with injuries.There were reports of an oil sheen on the Gulf surface but it was unclear whether the rig was leaking, according to a report by the New Orleans

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BP Claims administrator Feinberg responds to Florida oil spill task force criticism

Members of a state oil spill task force on Wednesday sharply criticized independent claims administrator Kenneth R. Feinberg for his new claims review process while Attorney General Bill McCollum said he plans to meet with Feinberg to discuss their differences.The BP oil spill that began April 20 sent waves of oil ashore at Pensacola Beach in early July and has continued to send scattered tar

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Florida wildlife agency adopts new species classification system

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Wednesday approved a new process for identifying threatened species that would replace the controversial state listing process.The agency faced a firestorm of opposition in 2007 when it considered moving the manatee from endangered to the less protective "threatened" category on the state list. The commission delayed action at the request

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PSC delays action on contested utilities' conservation plans

The Florida Public Service Commission on Tuesday agreed to delay action until September on energy conservation plans proposed by six utilities.The PSC adopted conservation goals in January for the state's five largest electric utilities and two city-owned utilities. They are subject to the Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (FEECA), adopted by the Legislature in 2008.In March, those

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State wildlife agency may stop deciding which animals are endangered

State wildlife officials say they will get out of the business of determining whether species should be listed as endangered under a proposed new classification process. Environmental and some recreational groups say they support the proposed changes.The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been wrangling for the past decade with the contentious issue of whether it should list

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Judge strikes down controversial 2009 growth management changes

A Leon County circuit judge on Thursday struck down a controversial measure that dropped a requirement in state law that developers pay for new roads and schools in many areas.SB 360 was one of the most controversial bills of the 2009 legislative session. The measure lifted transportation "concurrency" requirements for new roads in designated "dense urban land areas." State oversight of "

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Rod Smith, Florida Wildlife Federation support Gainesville biomass plant

Conceptual rendering of American Renewables proposed plant in GainesvilleFormer Sen. Rod Smith of Gainesville and the Florida Wildlife Federation are among the individuals and groups voicing their support for a proposed biomass energy plant in Alachua County in advance of a hearing this week.CFO Alex Sink, who is running for governor with Smith on the ticket as lieutenant governor, supports

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Florida DEP moving forward on waterways nutrient limits

Florida is moving ahead with adopting its own rules to measure the health of estuaries despite its opposition to a federal proposal to do the same for lakes and rivers, Department of Environmental Protection officials said Tuesday.Department officials on Tuesday held a hearing in Tallahassee on proposed numeric nutrient criteria, which are specific limits for nitrogen, phosphorus and

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New recycling law allows counties to claim more than 100 percent recycling

Bay County could claim that its recycling rate has more than doubled, from 19 to 44 percent, because it burns its waste to produce electricity.Six Florida counties could claim that they're currently recycling more than 100 percent of their waste under a bill signed into law by Gov. Charlie Crist in May. But the Florida Department of Environmental Protection says it would reject any such claim.HB

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Crist, Georgia governor flirt with meeting on river dispute

Gov. Charlie Crist says he would be pleased to meet again with the governors of Alabama and Georgia to discuss a water dispute -- after negotiators from the states meet to work on finalizing proposals.The three states have been battling over water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River since 1990. Alabama and Georgia want water for industry and recreation, while Florida wants it to

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FSU professor challenges oil spill estimates before Congress

Florida State University oceanography professor Ian MacDonald during testimony before Congress on Thursday challenged federal estimates of the amount of oil spilled by BP into the Gulf of Mexico.A federal science team earlier this month estimated that 205 million gallons of oil gushed from the BP's Macondo well between April 20 and July 15. The team said 26 percent remained in the environment

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Energy group urges PSC to put off nuclear charges

An environmental group is calling again on the Florida Public Service Commission to reject requests by utilities to charge customers now for proposed nuclear power plants.The PSC has scheduled a week-long hearing next week on requests from Florida Power & Light Co. and Progress Energy under a 2006 state law that allows utilities to charge in advance for nuclear plants even if they are never

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Sen. Constantine, Bane among Florida PSC nominees

Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, and former Public Service Commission Executive Director Mary Bane were among seven candidates recommended Thursday to the governor for two upcoming vacancies on the PSC.The PSC Nominating Council on June 30 passed over commissioners Nancy Argenziano and Nathan A. Skop for reappointment, as some council members cited discord at the commission. Argenziano

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Opponents tout survey opposition to federal water quality standards

Critics of proposed federal water quality standards in Florida on Wednesday pointed to new survey results suggesting that a majority of residents oppose them and would vote against candidates who support them. But the question is based on the presumption that the regulations will cost as much as the utilities who are opposing them say they will.The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency earlier

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Researchers say Gulf oil spill remains long-term threat

University of South Florida scientists said Tuesday they've found oil spread across the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico, backing suggestions from scientists that dispersed oil from the BP spill remains an environmental threat.A federal science team earlier this month issued a report saying that 74 percent of 205 million gallons of leaked oil had been collected or burned, dispersed, evaporated or

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PSC members continue sparring despite new blood

Two outgoing members of the Florida Public Service Commission on Tuesday accused the remaining PSC veteran of stirring up trouble as two new commissioners watched in silence.Commission Chairwoman Nancy Argenziano and Commissioner Nathan A. Skop were passed over for reappointment in July as some members of the PSC Nominating Council cited discord on the panel. On Tuesday, the PSC voted to delay

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Most oil spill advisories lifted at Florida beaches

State and local officials are asserting that most of the waters off the Panhandle are now safe for swimming.A number of counties have lifted swimming advisories that had been put in place following the devastating Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.The BP oil spill sent waves of oil onto beaches near Pensacola in July, causing local health officials to issue advisories against

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State finds some money for $52-million solar rebate backlog

A solar energy representative on Monday welcomed state action to pay some of the more than 15,000 in applications that have been filed for solar energy rebates.The Florida Solar Energy Incentives Program, which began in 2006, paid up to $20,000 for solar electric panels on Florida homes. But the program has received no money from the Legislature since 2008 and expired under state law on June 30.

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Historical resources director wants Florida Forever to protect historic sites

The state Division of Historical Resources is urging the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to revise its criteria for purchasing conservation lands to help protect threatened historic sites. Florida Forever is the largest land-buying program in the nation though its funding has been sharply cut during the past two years.Earlier this year, the state Acquisition and Restoration Council

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State panel considers trimming more than 7,500 acres from purchase list

A state panel on Friday will consider removing 7,577 acres from the state conservation lands purchase list because the land has been developed or otherwise is no longer considered desirable.The Florida Forever conservation land-buying program is the largest in the nation but its funding has been sharply cut the last two years.Some Republican and Democratic members of the House Natural Resources

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First family to visit PC Beach; Oil spill research grants awarded

The White House on Thursday gave more details about the pending visit of President Barack Obama and his family to Panama City Beach.The president and First Lady Michelle Obama will travel to Panama City Beach on Saturday and will join area small business owners, elected officials and Navy Secretary Ray Mabus for a roundtable discussion on the BP oil spill recovery. The family will leave on

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Feds open more Gulf waters off Florida to fishing

Florida officials on Tuesday welcomed the reopening of 5,144 square miles of federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico that had been closed to fishing because of the BP oil spill. Federal waters are beyond state waters, which extend 10.36 miles into the Gulf. The re-opened area, which is almost the size of Connecticut, extends from Cape San Blas west to East Bay near Pensacola. (View the map at http:/

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Senate Democratic leader opposes septic tank inspections

Sen. Al Lawson, D-Tallahassee, voted for SB 550 in a committee and on the Senate floor. But on Tuesday, he released a statement saying that during the upcoming special session he wants lawmakers to remove the bill's requirement that septic tanks be inspected once every five years.The bill resulted from hearings held across the state by the Senate Select Committee on Florida's Inland Waters.

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Park visits drop after fee increases

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State ParkDid a 60-percent entrance fee increase at some of Florida's most popular state parks turn some visitors away last year?The number of park visitors decreased from 21.4 million in fiscal year 2008-09 to 20.1 million in 2009-10, according to parks data requested by the Florida Tribune. The 6-percent decline followed entrance fee increases from $5 to $8 per carload

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State panel wants answers from BP on $20-billion escrow

Members of an oil spill task force appointed by Gov. Charlie Crist grilled a BP representative Monday about how claims would be paid from the $20 billion escrow account established by the company.BP reached an agreement with President Barack Obama in June to establish the account to pay claims arising from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The company announced Monday that it had formally

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Study finds Florida, Alabama beach cleanups are "superficial"

A University of South Florida study on Thursday described the cleanup of oiled beaches on the Florida Panhandle and Alabama as "superficial" because oil remains buried within sand.The BP oil well in the Gulf of Mexico pushed mats of oil onto Escambia beaches in early July and scattered reports of tar balls continue. On Thursday, BP announced it had completed pouring cement into the well, which

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Oil spill lessons include benefit of dispersants, Florida DEP chief says

The use of chemical dispersants against the oil spill was a benefit to Florida with no drawbacks, Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole told a House work group on Wednesday.House Speaker Larry Cretul appointed work groups last month to recommend possible legislation in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill off the Louisiana coast. Sole spoke Monday on a conference

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Sole says leaving Florida DEP was a "tough choice"

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole said Wednesday that his absence from the department since the oil spill and the temporary capping of the well on July 15 hastened his departure from the agency.Sole told Gov. Charlie Crist on Monday that he is leaving the department on Sept. 10 to seek other opportunities. Sole didn't discuss those opportunities during a

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With 'static kill' working, feds report half of oil is gone

BP and the Coast Guard on Wednesday took another big step towards permanently sealing an oil well that gushed into the Gulf of Mexico from April 20 to July 15. Meanwhile, a federal science team issued a report suggesting that about one-fourth of the 205 million gallons that leaked from the well had been collected or burned while another fourth had naturally evaporated or been absorbed.BP and

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Florida officials hope "static kill" can lead to reduced state response

Florida officials said Monday they were looking forward to BP's plans for a "static kill" operation to permanently seal the oil well that gushed from April 20 to July 15.State and federal officials said they had reduced the number of workers cleaning up oil from beaches. Alabama lifted advisories against swimming on Friday, but beaches in Florida remained under advisories in Escambia, Okaloosa

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Florida's environmental chief says he's leaving for "other opportunities"

DEP's Mike Sole speaks to reporters on June 1 as Gov. Charlie Crist, right, looks on.After working nearly 20 years rising through the ranks at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Secretary Michael Sole told Gov. Charlie Crist on Monday he is leaving the department on Sept. 10 to pursue other opportunities.Representatives of counties, regulated industries and some environmental

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All Florida waters reopened to fishing

Florida on Saturday was reopening state waters near Pensacola that were closed to fishing because of the BP oil spill, Gov. Charlie Crist said late Friday.Waters along the 23-mile stretch of coast had been closed since June 13 when oil was washing ashore at beaches in Escambia County. Fishing was allowed only for catch-and-release. The area was reopened because lab analyses showed fish from the

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Opponents go to DC to argue against proposed federal pollution limits

Three Florida House members traveled to Washington, D.C. this week to urge Florida's congressional delegation to fight proposed federal water quality standards for waterways within the state.The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency earlier this year proposed specific limits for nitrogen, phosphorus and other nutrients to replace a state narrative standard that environmentalists said is too vague

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McCollum energy plan would force solar, wind to compete

Attorney General Bill McCollum said Friday that as governor he will promote nuclear, biomass and "clean coal" to diversify Florida's energy supply, and that solar, wind and ocean energy should have to compete in the private sector to bring costs down.The Republican candidate for governor joins the growing list of candidates for statewide office who have submitted plans to create jobs in the

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Coalitions forming against biomass nationally and in Gainesville

Conceptual rendering of American Renewables proposed plant in GainesvilleGroups and individuals opposed to biomass energy plants announced Thursday they are taking steps to block a proposed plant in Gainesville while opposing federal legislation dealing with renewable energy.Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson, Gov. Charlie Crist and some environmental groups say using wood, crops or garbage

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Bronson seeks $59 million from BP for seafood testing plan

While criticizing media coverage that he says raises doubts about the safety of Gulf seafood, Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson on Thursday also revealed that he has asked BP to pay $59 million over the next 10 years to test affected seafood for oil and chemical dispersants.Bronson submitted the request along with a seafood testing plan. Even while a large area of the Gulf remains closed

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U of Florida study points to real estate gloom from oil spill

More then 100 days after the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded and sank off the Louisiana coast, a University of Florida study shows that the disaster is creating real estate market uncertainties far from affected counties along the Panhandle. The gushing BP well was capped on July 15 and work to kill the well is ongoing. On Wednesday, state officials said scattered tar balls continued to wash

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Sink renewable energy plan calls for fed dollars to produce energy jobs

Democratic gubernatorial hopeful and Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink released an energy plan on Tuesday that offered broad support for new renewable energy policies while banking on an increase of federal economic stimulus dollars to grow clean energy jobs in Florida.Sink released the 10-page plan at a news conference in Miami. The BP oil spill in the Gulf showed the economic threat of

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"Hometown democracy" opponents raise 30 times more than supporters

The lead group fighting the proposed "Hometown Democracy" amendment collected $4.7 million between April 1 and July 16 compared to $138,573 for the group that put the measure on the ballot in November.Amendment 4 would require voter approval of changes by cities and counties to comprehensive land use plans. Supporters say the amendment is needed to curb urban sprawl and wrestle the growth

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Less oil in Florida waters; Feinberg to address task force on Wednesday

Scattered tar balls continued to wash up along the Florida Panhandle coast on Monday but federal and state officials said there appeared to be much less oil in Gulf waters from the formerly spewing BP oil well.The well off the Louisiana coast has remained capped since July 15 after gushing since an explosion and fire on April 20. State officials on Monday reported widely scattered tar balls in

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USF researchers confirm oil clouds that may pose long-term threat

University of South Florida researchers have confirmed that two subsea clouds of micro oil droplets found in May were from the BP oil spill. Their findings suggest that the oil spilled between April 20 and July 15 raises the possibility that the spill poses a threat to fish and sea life off the Florida coast even after the threat to beaches from oil has passed.One cloud discovered by USF's

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Florida officials trumpet opening of federal waters closed by oil spill

State officials on Thursday trumpeted the reopening of federal waters far off the southwest Florida coast that had been closed to fishing because of the BP oil spill.Florida officials had pressed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to reopen waters where they said oil no longer was found. NOAA on Thursday reopened 26,388 square miles, an area almost the size of West Virginia, or

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Cave explorer, springs advocate Wes Skiles dies while diving

Florida's globally known cave explorer, photographer and Florida springs advocate Wes Skiles died Wednesday while filming off the coast of Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said Thursday. (See statement attached as comments).Based in High Springs with Karst Productions, Skiles, 52, was a former member of the Florida Springs Task Force. His "Water's Journey: The Hidden

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Judge rules against Florida AND Georgia in water case

A federal judge has issued yet another ruling against Georgia in a tri-state water dispute but in doing so also has ruled against Florida, according to news reports.Alabama, Florida and Georgia have been fighting in federal court over water in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system since 1990. The issue pits growth in Alabama and Georgia against Florida's desire to protect endangered

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Florida prepares as storm threatens plans to seal BP oil well

A possible tropical storm in the Atlantic Ocean posed a threat to Florida later this week and to efforts to permanently seal the BP oil well in the Gulf of MexicoThe BP oil well since April 20 has fouled Escambia County beaches, threatened the state's tourism economy and caused political upheaval. A special session called by Gov. Charlie Crist ended Tuesday when the Legislature refused to vote on

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Renewable energy supporters look ahead after not-so-special session

With the BP oil spill again having sounded calls for more attention to energy alternatives, some renewable energy supporters said Tuesday they remain hopeful the Legislature will take up the issue this summer. "I don't think anybody expected [the House to adjourn in] 53 minutes," said Mike Anthiel, executive director of the Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy. "But I think we knew what was

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Crist blasts "do-nothing" Florida Legislature after no oil drilling vote

The Florida Legislature on Tuesday adjourned within three hours after opening a special session on oil drilling called by Gov. Charlie Crist. Crist had called the session to last four days to consider placing a state constitution ban on the ballot in November. But House Speaker Larry Cretul, R-Ocala, told the House shortly after the session began at noon that calling the session "is a terrible

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Florida oil drilling fears born during 2009 legislative session

In 2009, Rep. Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, argued in favor of lifting the ban in state law against oil drilling in Florida waters.Supporters of placing a ban on oil drilling in the state Constitution say you don't have to go far back in history -- only to 2009 -- to show why one is needed. In 2009, HB 1219 by Rep. Charles Van Zant, R-Keystone Heights, had simply directed the Florida Department of

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On eve of special session, groups release survey showing support for drilling ban vote

Drilling opponents protested outside of the historic Florida Capitol on May 25. On Tuesday, they will visit the Capitol again during a special session to urge the Legislature to put a drilling ban on the ballot in November.On the eve of the special legislative session dealing with oil drilling, environmental groups on Monday released a survey showing that 71 percent of Florida voters support

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Florida officials urge caution as BP well tests continue

State officials on Friday warned emergency workers against getting "happy feet" in response to the capping of the gushing oil well in the Gulf.The leaking BP oil well since April 20 has caused oil to wash ashore in the western Florida Panhandle and closed beaches and coastal fishing areas. BP and federal officials continue monitoring pressure in the well on Friday after capping it Thursday,

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BP official says well test results so far are 'encouraging' but inconclusive

BP Vice President Kent Wells said this morning that the closing and testing of the oil well in the Gulf had yielded encouraging but inconclusive results so far.Pressure within the well and capping system has continued to build to 6,700 pounds per square inch, which is about 200 times more than an automobile tire.There are no visible signs of leaks and sonar emitted from four robotic vehicles also

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BP says oil gusher has stopped -- results not final

A Florida official welcomed the news Thursday that oil had stopped gushing into the Gulf of Mexico -- for the first time in 87 days. But testing of a new well cap must continue to determine that there are no leaks."While it is hard not to have a moment of elation," Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole said during a conference call with county emergency officials, "I will

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House speaker, Senate president dismiss special session

House Speaker Larry Cretul told fellow House members on Thursday they could expect a "very short" stay in Tallahassee for next week's oil drilling special legislative session, suggesting there would be no serious consideration of a drilling ban.Cretul, R-Ocala, made his announcement shortly after Senate President Jeff Atwater sent his own letter to the speaker suggesting that another session

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Special session looms as nation awaits BP's actions to cap gushing well

With a special legislative session scheduled to begin next week to consider a ban on oil drilling, Florida officials watched and waited again Wednesday to learn whether a gushing oil well in the Gulf of Mexico can be capped. BP delayed launching tests on Tuesday to determine whether the new containment system might work and said those tests could begin late Wednesday."Clearly when I heard there

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No plan yet on oil drilling special session

A special session is only a week away but no firm plan has been reached by House and Senate leaders on what should happen.Gov. Charlie Crist wants lawmakers to put a constitutional ban on oil drilling on the November ballot, but House leaders remain opposed to it. The question, however, is whether legislators are willing to come to Tallahassee and do nothing.“I don’t know what’s going to

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BP nixes Crist request for additional $50 million for ads

BP appears to be rejecting Gov. Charlie Crist's request for an additional $50 million for Florida tourism advertising in response to the ongoing oil spill.Florida received $25 million in June for advertising to offset the negative images of oil in the Gulf of Mexico. On June 30, Crist sent a letter to BP saying the $25 million had been "deployed." He requested the additional $50 million for

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Attorneys say lawsuit focuses on oil spill's effects on property values

The sight of oil washing up on Florida's beaches and the empty restaurants, souvenir stores and bait shops already has led to the filing of numerous lawsuits -- creating perhaps a sense that attorneys are closing in like sharks at the smell of blood, or money, in the water.But some attorneys who recently filed a class-action lawsuit against county property appraisers in the Florida Panhandle say

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Owner agrees to sell vital land along manatee sanctuary

An aerial view of manatees gathered near the mouth of Three Sisters Springs.The owner of 57 acres near the Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River tentatively has agreed to sell his land to the state for $10.5 million, a landowner representative said Thursday.The Florida Communities Trust on June 24 agreed to pay $10.5 million for the land in a deal aimed at stopping a proposal to build 309 homes.

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Florida's Crist calls oil drilling special session

Saying he felt a "compelling duty to protect Florida," Gov. Charlie Crist on Thursday said he is calling a special session July 20-23 to consider a constitutional ban on drilling in Florida waters.Crist previously said he supported drilling as long as it was safe enough and far enough away to protect the coast. But he came out against drilling again after the BP oil spill began on April 20.Crist

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Chiles wants 20-percent renewable energy standard

Bud Chiles, independent candidate for governor, said Wednesday he will push for a 20-percent renewable energy requirement as governor and push to reauthorize the solar energy rebate program.Chiles announced the initiatives after touring the Florida Solar Energy Center in Cocoa. He also criticized his opponents' and their parties for accepting donations from utilities."I am the one candidate who

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Nelson says more skimmers on the way to Florida, Gulf to battle oil

More oil-skimming vessels are on the way to the Gulf of Mexico while the BP oil spill is not expected to affect Florida this week, state officials said Tuesday.U. S. Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Melbourne, visited the state Emergency Operations Center and announced that 27 U. S. Navy skimming vessels were being deployed to the Gulf from Navy ports in addition to six that already had been sent recently.

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Trade groups band together for renewable energy

Workers are trained at the Florida Solar Energy Center in Cocoa to install solar panels.An informal coalition of renewable energy trade groups have developed a policy statement that they hope will push the Florida Legislature to take action on renewable energy.Some legislators have cited disagreement among renewable energy groups as a challenge in developing renewable energy legislation.HB 7229

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Florida Legislators angry over halted beach cleanups

Workers clean oil from a Pensacola beach on June 23rd.Legislators complained Friday that oil spill clean up workers are being kept off beaches because there are not enough workers who are specifically trained to watch out for sea turtles.During a telephone conference call with Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole, Rep. Marti Coley, R-Marianna, said workers from Bay County

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Florida health officials change postings for oiled beaches

After hundreds of people complained about swimming with oil at beaches in Escambia County last week, the Florida Department of Health is making modest changes in its system for issuing beach swimming advisories.All Gulf beaches in Escambia County were closed Saturday along with most beaches in Walton County, according to a DOH website. More than 400 people complained last week to the Escambia

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Nominating council could limit governor's PSC picks

The Florida Public Service Commission Nominating Council in August will interview six applicants for two spots on the Public Service Commission even though all of them have already been nominated to fill two other seats. The council's choices could limit the governor's selection to lead the troubled agency, but the council chairman says that was not the intent.In a controversial move on Wednesday

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Fallout continues over ousting of Florida PSC members

Independent candidate for governor Bud Chiles on Thursday called on Gov. Charlie Crist to aks for a grand jury to investigate the Florida Public Service Commission.The PSC Nominating Council on Wednesday effectively ousted Chairman Nancy Argenziano and Commissioner Nathan A. Skop by not selecting them among the 18 to be interviewed for their seats after their terms end on Jan. 1. Both

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Weather hampers oil spill response but plans unveiled

Responders remove sea turtle eggs from a nest on the Fort Morgan Peninsula in Alabama on June 27. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photos by Bonnie Strawser.Bad weather hampered oil spill cleanup operations Thursday as state officials weighed in on efforts to help wildlife, fishermen and counties that are battling the spill.Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Melbourne, wrote a letter to Gov. Charlie Crist

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Florida solar program ends with $41 million backlog

Florida's solar energy rebate program ended Wednesday with a backlog of more than 11,000 applications totaling at least $41.6 million.Gov. Charlie Crist has hinted that a special session to address energy issues could be used to extend the program, which paid out $25 million in rebates between 2006 and 2009. The program, which paid up to $20,000 for home solar electric panels and up to $500 for

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Argenziano, Skop ousted from Florida PSC

Chairman Nancy Argenziano and Commissioner Nathan A. Skop have been ousted from the Florida Public Service Commission, meaning that four of the commissioners who voted against utility rate hikes in January have been removed.The Public Service Commission Nominating Council met Wednesday morning in Tampa and voted with little discussion to interview 18 candidates other than Skop and Argenziano for

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"Clean Energy Congress" calls for renewables target

The "Clean Energy Congress" concluded Tuesday in Tallahassee with a series of policy recommendations for reducing energy use and boosting renewable energy. With the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as a backdrop, representatives from a variety of environmental and industry groups and agencies met in the Florida House chambers to develop energy proposals.The delegates recommended a

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Sink calls for energy leadership but avoids committing to policies

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink on Tuesday told the "Clean Energy Congress" that renewable energy investors want "concrete hints" about policy and rules but she declined to say what new energy policies she supports.Sink, a Democratic candidate for governor, said she supports the new Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, established by HB 7179, that allows local governments to issue

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Sea turtles facing threats on two fronts in Gulf oil spill

With the Gulf oil spill threatening wildlife and coastal economies, federal officials are planning to relocate sea turtle hatchlings from the region to the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Petersburg Times reported Tuesday.Meanwhile, the Center for Biological Diversity said it is filing a federal lawsuit against BP and the U.S. Coast Guard for burning sea turtles alive in controlled burns to reduce the

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"Clean Energy Congress" to wrap up Tuesday

Speakers at the Clean Energy Congress called for requiring more renewable energy and a special legislative session to deal with energy issues. Against the backdrop of the ongoing Gulf oil spill, more than 120 business owners, environmental activists and government officials participated in the gathering in the Florida House chambers.The Florida Business Network for a Clean Energy Economy

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Groups question district's decision to sell conservation lands

Statewide environmental groups are objecting to the Suwannee River Water Management District's designation of "surplus" lands that could be sold and say they will ask Gov. Charlie Crist to intervene. Florida has the largest conservation land-buying program in the nation with 2.4 million acres having been purchased since 1990.Some legislators say the state has too much land and should sell some of

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Thousands gather in support of coastal communities

Many people along the Gulf coast are affected by the ongoing BP oil spill, says Linda McCue of Tallahassee. On Saturday, she joined hands with about 15 of them at a Wakulla County beach in a quiet demonstration in support of the coastal environment against the effects of oil drilling. Other "Hands Across the Sand" events were held around the world, with Gov. Charlie Crist briefly joining about

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State board balks at budget provision approved by Legislature

A divided state panel on Thursday refused to set aside $2 million towards a Citrus County conservation purchase that had been tucked deep inside the new state budget.Instead the board of the Florida Communities Trust would only agree to a much a smaller amount for the project that had the backing of Sen. Charlie Dean, R-Inverness.The deal was aimed at stopping a proposal to build 309 homes on 57

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Oil sticks around beaches after the clean-up crews leave

Expect oil to continue washing ashore on Florida's beaches between Escambia and Walton counties, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole said Thursday.The state was expected to mobilize heavy equipment Thursday to clean up the beaches. But research by the University of South Florida suggests that such efforts can't clean up all of the oil. Only tar balls had washed

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Quote of the week: "Psychological cloud" from oil spill

"There really is a psychological cloud descending over the Panhandle. And frankly that is beginning to affect the rest of Florida."George H. Sheldon, secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families, June 23, 2010

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Florida DEP's Sole wants federal closed fishing area reduced

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole is asking NOAA to scale back the federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico that are closed to fishing.On Wednesday, there were 78,597 square miles of the Gulf of Mexico closed to fishing. That's an area larger than Florida and 34 other states but it represents only one-third of federal waters in the Gulf. Sole this week asked the

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BP's new media star addresses state task force

Darryl Willis, a new media new face for BP in its response to the ongoing Gulf oil spill, says he doesn't consider himself a star -- or a potential new target of the company's critics.Willis, who oversees BP's claims process on the Gulf coast, spoke Wednesday in Tallahassee to the BP claims working group of the state Oil Spill Economic Recovery Task Force. Willis now is being featured in

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Beaches are closed in Pensacola as oil washes ashore

Some of the heaviest oil yet washed ashore today in Pensacola Beach where Gov. Charlie Crist and President Obama visited last week, according to news reports"It's pretty ugly. There's no question about it," Gov. Charlie Crist, who arrived at the beach expecting to see tar balls, but not pools of sticky goo, said, according to the Miami Herald.The newspaper said oil had washed up along an

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Crist asks for BP claims data as new complaints raised

Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday asked BP for claims information submitted as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill while other state and local officials expressed frustration with the company. The governor on May 11 created the Oil Spill Economic Recovery Task Force to help businesses and industry recover from the loss of business and revenue related to the ongoing oil leak since April 20.On

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Florida has 20 oil skimmers, needs 100

A sweeping arm skimmer vessel collects oil in the Gulf of Mexico on June 10.Florida is asking federal officials and BP for more vessels to skim oil from the Gulf and has hired five of their own to operate in bays, state officials said.Tar balls washed ashore in Walton and Bay counties and an oil slick is nearing the inlet to St. Andrews Bay at Panama City Beach. Currents and winds should begin to

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Once closed to news media, Crist opens conference calls

Gov. Charlie Crist said Monday that conference calls among state and county emergency officials dealing with the oil spill now are open to the media.The Division of Emergency Management holds the conference calls daily. As recently as last Wednesday, the Florida Tribune and other media were denied requests to monitor the calls. Division of Emergency Management spokesman John M. Cherry III said

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Oil spill shows need for coastal and oceans planning, experts say

Coordinated federal coastal and ocean planning would have allowed Florida to play a greater role in decisions that may have averted the oil spill disaster in the Gulf, ocean experts said Friday. The Florida Coastal and Ocean Coalition held a one-day conference in Tallahassee that was sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

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Incoming Florida Senate president blames Crist for death of energy bill

Incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos on Thursday, while announcing his plans to moderate an energy conference in Orlando in August, blamed Gov. Charlie Crist for the failure of a renewable energy bill during the legislative session. The July 8 "Florida Energy Summit" will be hosted by Citizens for Clean Energy, a new nonprofit group formed by developer Kitson & Partners and other groups

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St. Lucie plasma biomass plant permit approved, possibly nation's largest

A state air pollution permit has been issued to a proposed biomass electric plant in St. Lucie County, which could become the first of its kind in the nation and the largest in the world. Geoplasma St. Lucie LLC proposes building the plasma arc plant on nine acres at the St. Lucie County landfill.Plasma arc technology was developed by NASA, according to Golder Associates. Plasma torches provide

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Supreme Court ruling on beaches opens door to taking claims

The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled in Florida's favor in a challenge to the state law that establishes restored beaches as public property.But while ruling in favor of the state, a four-member minority of justices also may have created an avenue for future claims by property owners against courts in environmental cases, according to Florida legal experts. Florida law requires at least $30

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55 apply for seats on Florida Public Service Commission

Fifty-five applications were submitted by the Thursday deadline for the Public Service Commission seats now held by Chairman Nancy Argenziano and Commissioner Nathan A. Skop. Argenziano had submitted her application on Wednesday and Skop was among those submitting on Thursday.The nomination process and eventual confirmation likely will be controversial. Argenziano has suggested there are efforts

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Sen. Fasano questions recommendation of former Florida PSC director

Sen. Mike Fasano says he will ask Gov. Charlie Crist to scratch former Public Service Commission Executive Director Mary Bane from the list of candidates being considered for two vacant spots on the panel that regulates utilities.Fasano, R-New Port Richey, introduced SB 1034, a PSC reform bill that was intended to address ethics controversies at the agency in 2009 about inappropriate contact

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Sea turtle group active at Capitol gets name change

The Caribbean Conservation Corp., a Gainesville-based nonprofit group that lobbies for sea turtles at the Florida Capitol, changed its name Wednesday to the Sea Turtle Conservancy.The group oversees spending for 30 percent of revenue from the Florida's sea turtle license plate and lobbies the legislative and executive branches on issues including oil drilling, beach sand replacement, land

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Florida PSC members feud during meeting

PSC Chairman Nancy Argenziano, center, makes a point on Tuesday as commissioners Lisa Polak Edgar and Nathan A. Scop listen.The three remaining members of the Florida Public Service Commission traded accusations of "pettiness" and "silliness" during a tense discussion Tuesday on commission policies and procedures.The PSC has become a battleground between Gov. Charlie Crist and some legislators

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Obama calls for renewable energy, Gulf restoration plan

President Barack Obama told a military audience in Pensacola Tuesday that the administration will do everything it can to deal with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill including calling in the military if necessary. Obama wrapped up a two-day tour of Gulf states affected by the ongoing BP oil spill. On Tuesday night, he said in an Oval Office address that he is asking Navy Secretary Ray Mabus to

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Federal audit criticizes Florida solar rebate spending

Florida failed to use federal money to create jobs and, instead, targeted dollars to an energy rebate program, according to a critical federal report released earlier this month.Florida was allocated $126 million from the U. S. Department of Energy under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 which was supposed to be targeted either to new projects or to expand existing projects and

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Florida oil drilling event goes national

Organizers of February's "Hands Across the Sand" gathering in Florida against oil drilling plan to do it again on June 26, this time with a nationwide event.The Feb. 13 event attracted more than 10,000 people to 90 beaches around the state, according to organizer Dave Rauschkolb, a Seaside restaurant owner.Gov. Charlie Crist and the Legislature at the time were considering lifting the 20-year-old

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Waters off Pensacola closed to fishing because of oil

Twenty-three miles of Escambia County's coastline was closed to fishing Monday because of oil from the BP oil spill. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission closed the state waters in the area extending nine nautical miles from the shore beginning at 12:01 a.m. Monday. The closed area extends from the Alabama state line to the water tower at Pensacola Beach.The closure applies to

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Writers take on oil drilling issue with new book

Before Florida residents had ever heard about the Deepwater Horizon oil rig or had seen their beaches covered with tar balls, a group of writers decided last fall to pen their thoughts against oil drilling.And the editor of "UnspOILed: Writers speak for Florida's Coast," said she hopes the book will energize people rather than leaving them to feel further helpless about the plight of Gulf marine

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Crist's new push for renewable energy leaves some puzzled

By the Florida TribuneGov. Charlie Crist keeps saying that he wants to take up renewable energy legislation in a possible special session that would also deal with offshore oil drilling.'If ever there was a case made that we need alternative energy it's the one that out's in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico right now,'' said Crist this week, referring to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. "It seems

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Crist asks BP for $50 million while Sink, McCollum join the fray

To view AP photos of the oiled wildlife published by the Boston Globe, click here.Gov. Charlie Crist on Thursday asked BP to provide the state with $50 million to cover emergency response efforts to the oil spill in addition to $25 million earlier provided by the company. On Friday morning, Crist is scheduled to appear on ABC's "Good Morning America" at 6:45 a.m., CNN "American Morning" at 7:30

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House panel chairman says Crist must have been misled

A "pretty darn upset" Rep. Ralph Poppell said Wednesday he thinks Gov. Charlie Crist was misled by an aide into vetoing his bills dealing with petroleum contamination sites and yard waste in landfills.HB 1385 would have allowed the owners of 4,985 contamination sites to remove them from the state cleanup list if they do not pose a threat to drinking water supplies. In his veto letter, Crist wrote

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Florida calls for more shoreline protection as oil nears

Gov. Charlie Crist said Wednesday he has requested additional boom to protect Florida's coast from an oil spill that has reached within 10 miles of the Panhandle beaches. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill off Louisiana has been gushing nearly 800,000 gallons a day since April 20. Winds are beginning to blow weathered oil towards Florida and oil sheen was spotted Tuesday 9.9 miles from the Panhandle

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Bills dealing with yard waste and petroleum contamination sites vetoed

Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday vetoed bills related to yard waste in landfills and petroleum contamination sites.Both HB 569 and HB 1385 were introduced by Rep. Ralph Poppell, R-Vero Beach and chairman of the House Natural Resources Appropriations Committee.HB 569 would have lifted the state ban on yard waste in landfills where methane gas was captured and burned to produce electricity. Waste

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Georgia water law to create "culture of water conservation"

Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue on Tuesday signed a bill that supporters say could help resolve the state's water wars with Alabama and Florida. The three states have been fighting in federal court since 1990 over water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system.U. S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson on July 17, 2009 ruled that water use from the Chattahoochee River by cities was not

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Lack of money means no new Florida Communities Trust application cycle

Grant programs at the Florida Department of Community Affairs will not be accepting new applications this year for local parks and working waterfronts projects.The Florida Communities Trust (FCT) matches local dollars to help build recreational trails, preserve cultural and historic sites and provide public access to waterways and beaches. Because of the lack of funding for the Florida Forever

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Crist vetoes rule-making bill

Gov. Charlie Crist on Friday vetoed HB 1565, saying the rule-making bill violated the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of state government.The bill required the Legislature to approve agency rules that would cost economic growth in excess of $1 million or affect private sector innovation or competition with other states for jobs.Those supporting the bill

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Tar balls could be on beaches for months

A worker removes oil from a beach in Louisiana on May 23. No oil connected with the Deepwater Horizon spill has been confirmed on Florida beaches.Researchers are concerned that a sub-surface plume of oil could threaten Florida's coast for months even if BP is successful in capping a gushing oil well. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill off the Louisiana Coast already has dumped an estimated 18

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Spill tops Exxon Valdez as McCollum, Sink weigh in

Vessels conduct "top kill" operation at oil spill site in Gulf of Mexico. (Coast Guard photo) A BP official said Thursday that it was too soon to know whether the "top kill" operation aimed at ending the gush of oil from the damaged oil well off the Louisiana coast was working.BP was planning to pump more drilling "mud" into the gushing well Thursday night in an attempt to stop the flow, said

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PSC approves Gainesville biomass plant

Conceptual rendering of American Renewables proposed plant in GainesvilleA biomass power plant proposed by Gainesville was narrowly approved Thursday by the Florida Public Service Commission after nearly being voted down in February. The commission split 3-2 in favor of the plant.Gainesville Regional Utilities requested a determination of need for the 100-megawatt plant that would be built and

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"Top kill" success on oil leak still unknown

BP on Wednesday began its "top kill" procedure for trying to stop an oil well leak in the Gulf of Mexico that threatens Florida's coast. There was no word whether the procedure was working.The top kill involves pumping dense oil drilling "mud" and concrete through a malfunctioning blow-out preventer device. A BP official said during an 8 p.m. news conference that the procedure was continuing as

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Crist giving close look to rule-making bill

Gov. Charlie Crist says he is giving HB 1565 regarding agency rule-making "a close look" as he considers whether to sign the bill or veto it in response to opposition.Crist has until Friday to sign the bill, which would require the Legislature to approve agency rules that cost economic growth in excess of $1 million or affect private sector innovation or competition with other states. The bill

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Opponents argue that EPA rule affects biomass plant

Opponents of a proposed biomass gas electric plant in Gainesville are asking the Public Service Commission to delay an expected decision on Thursday because of a new federal rule dealing with greenhouse gas emissions.The needs determination for the American Renewables plant proposed by Gainesville Regional Utilities is being watched closely by supporters and opponents of biomass power. Supporters

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State purchase to help Florida family stay in cattle business

Gov. Charlie Crist and the Cabinet on Tuesday approved the purchase of a 782-acre conservation easement in Osceola County that a ranching family said will help it stay in the cattle business.Adams Ranch covers 33,000 acres and includes some virtually undisturbed areas that provide habitat for numerous threatened wildlife species, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer

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State finally receives $25 million from BP for ad campaign

Gov. Charlie Crist announced Tuesday afternoon that Florida received $25 million from BP for advertising, offsetting criticism earlier in the day from a state senator that the governor wasn't doing enough in response to the spill.At the state Emergency Operations Center, Crist announced shortly after 4 p.m. the receipt of the $25-million wire transfer from BP. VisitFlorida CEO and President

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2010-11 budget includes $15.5 million for beaches

Supporters of beach sand replacement projects are welcoming a $15.5 million appropriation in the 2010-11 state budget approved by the Legislature.Gov. Charlie Crist did not request any new money for the projects but supported using $5 million in unspent money from prior year projects. The 2010-11 budget includes $10.5 million in new general revenue in addition to the previous $5 million from the

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CFO Sink requests federal takeover as drilling opponents protest

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink on Monday asked President Barack Obama to direct the federal government to take away control by BP over the response to the ongoing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Sink also asked the president to send top administration officials to brief the state Cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday.BP said Monday it is pushing back until Wednesday its latest effort to stop the

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ERC approves tougher biosolids rule

The land application of sewage sludge, called biosolids, would be further restricted under rule revisions adopted last week by the state Environmental Regulation Commission.The Florida Department of Environmental Protection proposed rule revisions in 2009 because of increasing public concerns about environmental and health threats posed by the spreading of biosolids on farm fields and pastures.

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New Panama City airport opens Sunday

Panama City and Bay County's new airport opens Sunday amid pomp and gala with state officials visiting on Saturday. Gov. Charlie Crist, Attorney General Bill McCollum, Sen. Bill Nelson, Sen. George LeMieux and members of the local legislative delegation are expected to attend.The Northwest Florida Beaches Airport will have a 10,000-foot runway and is the first new international airport to open in

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Panel relaxes pollution requirement for Fenholloway River

View Larger MapThe state Environmental Regulation Commission on Thursday approved a rule allowing the Buckeye Florida pulp mill near Perry to discharge a darker wastewater than previously had been allowed.The mill, built in 1954, is the largest employer in Taylor County with more than 500 workers. Buckeye also has been the target of environmentalists and their disputes with regulatory agencies

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New waterway classification approved despite objections

Many canals and concrete ditches don't need the same level of water quality treatment as natural waterways, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection says.As a result, the state Environmental Regulation Commission on Thursday approved a rule that would create a new waterway classification for those altered water bodies. But environmental groups opposed the rule change, predicting it will

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Process gearing up for nominating new PSC commissioners

Senate President Jeff Atwater on Thursday named Sen. Mike Bennett to chair the Legislature's panel that nominates new members of the Florida Public Service Commission.Bennett, R-Bradenton, replaces Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs as chairman of the Public Service Commission Nominating Council. Constantine was among 61 people applying for two PSC openings that will occur in June. The

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Florida ERC tackles controversial issues today

The Environmental Regulation Commission will take up three controversial proposals when it meets Thursday in Tallahassee. The ERC will consider a proposed Florida Department of Environmental Protection rule to establish a new waterway classification system for determining water quality standards.The Florida Stormwater Association in 2009 petitioned DEP to create a new classification so that local

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South Florida reps want emergency declaration

A state representative from Miami is asking Gov. Charlie Crist to expand a state of emergency to include Miami-Dade County.Meanwhile, the Coast Guard said Wednesday that tar balls found Monday in Key West had been tested and they were not from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Even so, Rep. Carlos Lopez-Cantera, R-Miami, sent a letter to Crist asking for Miami-Dade County to be included on the

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PSC struggles with rules to prevent pressuring staff

PSC Chairman Nancy Argenziano, center, discusses proposed procedures with Commissioner Nathan A. Skop while Commissioner Lisa Polak Edgar listens.Public Service Commission members wrestled Tuesday over draft proposed administrative procedures that are aimed at preventing commissioners from unduly pressuring agency staff. Bills to reform the PSC failed to pass the Legislature during the session

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Federal fishing area closure nearly doubles in size

A federal closed area to fishing was nearly doubled in size Tuesday to extend far to the east towards Florida. But the area remained about 50 miles from its closest point on the Florida Panhandle near the Alabama state line.The movement of some oil towards the Gulf loop current led National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officials to extend the closed area east about 120 miles to a line

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Oil spill's wildlife effects could be felt for years, feds say

A pelican swims on May 13 in a make-shift pool after being cleaned of oil at the Clean Gulf Associates Mobile Wildlife Rehabilitation Station on Fort Jackson in Plaquemine, La..The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico appears to be taking a toll on wildlife but the effects of the disaster could linger for years, federal wildlife officials said Tuesday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric

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Florida groups want solar, renewable standard raised in special session

The Florida Renewable Energy Producers Association is asking Gov. Charlie Crist to support a constitutional amendment to establish a 20-percent renewable energy requirement for Florida utilities. Crist has said he will call a special session soon to consider a constitutional amendment to ban oil drilling and other measures to promote renewable energy in response to the ongoing gulf oil spill. The

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Florida DCA's Pelham says bill would tie agencies' hands

Florida Department of Community Affairs Secretary Tom Pelham on Friday joined critics in saying that a House bill now before the governor would severely hamper state agency rule-making.HB 1565 would require agencies to receive approval by the Legislature for proposed rules that would cost businesses or affect economic growth in excess of $1 million. The bill passed the House and Senate without

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Tar balls found on Escambia County beach

Five tar balls have been found on Perdido Key in Escambia County, representing possibly the first oil from the massive ongoing spill to reach Florida waters, the U. S. Coast Guard reported on Friday.The five tar balls, each about a half-inch in diameter, were collected Thursday over a 3.5 mile stretch of shoreline, said Dawn Patience, a spokeswoman for the Joint Information Center in Mobile, Ala.

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Bill would require Legislature approval of agency rules

Environmental groups and the St. Johns River Water Management District are calling on Gov. Charlie Crist to veto HB 1565, which he received Thursday from the Legislature. The bill, introduced by Rep. Chris Dorworth, R-Lake Mary, requires agencies to conduct an economic analysis of proposed rules that could cost businesses more than $200,000 in the first year after adoption, according to a House

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EPA defends use of chemical dispersants against oil

Federal officials on Wednesday defended the use of chemical dispersants to battle the huge oil spill off the Louisiana coast.The spill from the Deepwater Horizon remained more than 50 miles west of the tip of the Florida Panhandle as more oil was washing ashore in Louisiana. BP and the U. S. Coast Guard have used more than 387,000 gallons of dispersants. The surface slick is being sprayed with

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BP asked to pay for Florida advertising campaign

Gov. Charlie Crist on Wednesday sent a letter to BP asking for it to pay nearly $35 million for a marketing campaign to attract visitors to Florida's beaches and coastal waters.BP is a responsible party under federal law for the ongoing oil spill occurring off Louisiana that threatens Florida's coastline. After meeting with the Visit Florida board of directors on Wednesday, Crist sent a letter to

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Florida ag commissioner seeks support against threatened bills

Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson on Wednesday urged Gov. Charlie Crist to sign two bills, HB 981 and HB 7103.Bronson said the bills are needed to support agriculture and he'd heard rumors that Crist may veto them but wasn't sure if the rumors were true. "I'm not sure yet either," Crist said. "Some of that bubbles up before I get to weigh in."HB 981 is intended to reverse a circuit court

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Crist hints at saving cash-strapped solar rebate program

Florida's solar energy rebate program is broke and due to expire, but Gov. Charlie Crist indicated Tuesday he would consider helping the program during a special session.The state established the solar rebate program in 2007 to provide up to $20,000 for home solar panels and up to $500 for solar water heaters. The Legislature last year provided no money for the program, but the state received

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True to his word, Bronson votes 'no' on Florida land purchases

The governor and Cabinet on Tuesday approved a pair of state conservation land purchases with Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson voting in opposition.Bronson, who is leaving office later this year because of term limits, said in March he would vote against any additional land purchases other than conservation easements, which involve paying landowners not to develop their property. Bronson

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Florida, counties burning through BP cash, Sole says

Florida is quickly spending the $25 million it received last week from BP for the oil spill response and is expected to ask for more soon, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Mike Sole told the Cabinet Tuesday.BP is the legal "responsible party" under federal law, which means the company will have to pay for protecting Florida's shore and cleaning up the oil that reaches it.

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Crist to call special session for drilling, renewable energy

Gov. Charlie Crist said Tuesday he will call a special session of the Legislature to consider placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot to ban oil drilling. "I think it's important that we go ahead and have a special session," Crist told reporters before a Cabinet meeting. "I think after my conversation with Senate President (Jeff) Atwater yesterday, I'm encouraged the Legislature is of a

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Use of chemical dispersants against oil spill questioned

BY THE FLORIDA TRIBUNEOfficials battling an oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico can't claim victory simply by keeping the oil offshore with the use of chemicals, a Florida State University researcher said Monday.BP says 315,000 gallons of chemical dispersants have been used since the oil spill began April 21 off the Louisiana coast. The Coast Guard says it prefers to battle the oil offshore to

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Author says oil slick only the visible tip of problem

An environmental author told an environmental summit in Tallahassee Thursday that the spreading oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico is only the most visible aspect of the nation's dependence on fossil fuels.Bill McKibben is a scholar-in-residence at Middlebury College in Vermont, founder of 350.org and author of "Deep Economy: The Wealth of Communities and the Durable Future." He was the keynote

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Oil washes ashore in La. as Florida waits

The oil spill remained far offshore from Florida Thursday though some began washing ashore in Louisiana, coating beaches, marshes and sea birds with greasy oil.The Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded on April 21 and sank the following day, causing about 200,000 gallons of oil a day to gush from a well under 5,000 feet of water. Gov. Charlie Crist has declared a state of emergency for 18

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Mild weather keeps oil offshore

A combination of mild weather and a favorable current could keep the Deepwater Horizon oil spill from reaching the state's beaches for at least three to five days, state officials said on Wednesday."Mother Nature has played in our favor so far,'' said State Meterologist Amy Godsey.Godsey explained that winds right now are blowing out of the north and aren't expected to change until the end of the

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PSC moving forward with limited reforms

The Florida Public Service Commission is moving forward with rules to define prohibited "ex parte" communications. Bills to define such prohibited communications in commission failed to win legislative approval.The bills were offered in response to news reports last year of communications between commissioners' staff and utility representatives during rate hearing requests. PSC staff told

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Biomass plants face more delays

A proposed biomass gas electric plant in Port St. Joe will be delayed by 18 months because of siting difficulties, according to Progress Energy.Biomass energy supporters say such plants will provide needed renewable energy in Florida. But several projects have been delayed or relocated because of various problems.The Florida Public Service Commission on Tuesday approved a request by Progress

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Loop current could sweep oil to Florida's east coast

Gov. Charlie Crist toured the Gulf of Mexico oil spill again Tuesday while one federal official said the response effort had been given "the gift of time" with good weather.A leaking well from an oil rig that exploded on April 21 continues to pour what had been estimated at about 200,000 gallons per day into Gulf waters. NOAA maps suggested the spill would be within 25 miles from the Florida

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Florida Gov. Crist says "absolutely" to energy special session

Gov. Charlie Crist said the Gulf oil spill provides a clear message about the need for renewable energy and he hinted that the topic could be included in a special session of the Legislature.The governor said the timing of the spill was "pretty extraordinary" considering that the Legislative session last week had bills dealing that with drilling. Actually, there was little movement on the bills

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Florida Legislature passes energy financing measure

A bill that supporters said would establish an innovative renewable energy program in Florida passed the Legislature, but another bill that would have encouraged utilities to buy more renewable energy failed.HB 7179 would establish the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program to allow local governments to finance renewable energy and storm-resistance improvements. There are 16 states with

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Recyling bill passes along with measure allowing yard waste in landfills

Florida House of RepresentativesA bill that provides a path for the state towards reaching a 75-percent recycling goal by 2020 was adopted by the Legislature Friday and is being sent to the governor. Florida now recycles about 28 percent of its waste, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.The Legislature in 2008 adopted the 75-percent recycling goal to reduce energy use,

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Florida braces for oil spill

Forecasted movement of oil spill shows it not reaching Florida through Monday. To view the image source, click here.Gov. Charlie Crist issued an emergency declaration Friday stating that the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico poses a major disaster threat to the Florida Panhandle.The explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon oil well off the Louisiana coast last week is causing 200,000 gallons

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State matches controversial fed move reducing snapper season

Florida has agreed to reduce the length of the red snapper season in state waters to match a federal measure to reduce the season's length in federal waters.Red snapper is a key species for recreational and commercial anglers. Federal efforts to reduce overfishing of snapper and group have created a political outcry among Florida politicians and fishing groups. Critics say the 2007 amendments to

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Water bill goes to governor but springs program could get cut

Ichetuckneee Springs State ParkA springs program launched in 2001 by then-Gov. Jeb Bush would be sharply cut by the Legislature in its proposed 2010-11 state budget even as the Senate on Thursday gave final approval to a bill aimed at protecting springs.The Florida Springs Initiative has helped pay for work including research to map areas that drain to springs, educational materials such as

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PSC reform bill in doubt as session nears end, Atwater says

The outlook for a Public Service Commission reform bill passing this legislative session doesn't look good, Senate President Jeff Atwater said Thursday. And he added that passage of a renewable energy bill is in question.The 60-day legislative session ends Friday. SB 1034 would extend a ban on lobbying to top commission aides and provides fines for prohibited "ex parte" communications with

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Spill may be headed toward Florida as officials monitor

Oil could begin washing ashore on Florida Panhandle beaches as early as Monday, a federal forecast suggested Thursday. About 200,000 gallons of oil per day is leaking from an oil well under 5,000 feet of water off the Louisiana coast after an oil drilling rig exploded and sank last week.The slick appeared to be more than 80 miles south of Pensacola on Wednesday, according to a National Oceanic

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Ongoing oil spill prompts Democrat responses

Democrats on Thursday clamored for an end to talk about opening state waters to oil drilling in the wake of an ongoing spill off the Louisiana coast. U. S. Sen. Bill Nelson Thursday sent a letter to President Obama telling him that he's filing legislation to block the expansions of offshore oil drilling announced by the president on March 31. Nelson said the spill could become an "environmental

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Snakes bill passes House while FWC takes closer look

A bill that would ban Burmese pythons and five other snake species along with Nile monitor lizards was approved Wednesday by the House. SB 318 by Sen. Eleanor Sobel, D-Hollywood, now goes to the governor. The bill was introduced in response to media firestorm created last summer after a pet python strangled a 2-year-old girl in her Sumter County home.Thousands of the snakes are believed to have

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Crist calls view of oil spill "very disturbing"

Oil spill location map provided by The Response Group Wednesday evening.Gov. Charlie Crist on Wednesday described as "very disturbing" an oil slick he viewed Tuesday on an aerial tour leaving from Alabama.The Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded and sank on April 22, causing a continuing leak of up to 200,000 gallons per day from an oil well in 5,000 feet of water, according to Associated

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Water bill approved by House, headed back to Senate.

A Senate water bill won approval on Wednesday from the House despite opposition from legislators from the Wekiva River area north of Orlando. SB 550 at one time had required that septic utilities be established statewide but the measure faced opposition from the Florida Home Builders Association. That requirement was dropped from the bill last week by Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, to

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Gulf oil spill concerns Florida officials

An oil spill off the Louisiana coast drew the scrutiny from Florida officials Tuesday as it appeared the slick was moving closer to Florida. The Deepwater Horizon oil rig blew up and sank last week, causing 1,000 barrels (about 42,000 gallons) of oil per day to leak from the ocean floor.The Coast Guard said Tuesday morning that a 600-mile circumference rainbow sheen of emulsified crude was

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Energy bill divides both GOP and Dems before passing House

A bill that allows utilities to charge customers separately for the cost of renewable energy passed the House on Tuesday. Supporters cited a Washington Economics Group study that said legislation similar to HB 7229 could produce up to 40,000 jobs in renewable energy industries. But opponents raised concerns about the cost to the economy of charging more for electricity from wind, solar and

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Senate rejects Crist's nominees to Florida PSC

PSC Commissioner David E. Klement The Senate on Thursday rejected two of Gov. Charlie Crist's appointments to the Public Service Commission, widening the political divide between Crist and the Legislature's Republican leadership.Saying he wanted "new blood" on the commission, Crist last year nominated David E. Klement, a former Bradenton newspaper editor, and Ben A. "Steve" Stevens III. But

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Groups rally for action on Florida DCA

Representatives of eleven environmental groups called on the House Monday to adopt legislation reauthorizing the state's land planning agency. The Legislature in 2006 established a "sunset review" process for state agencies to determine whether a need for them exists.HB 7107 would reauthorize the Florida Department of Community Affairs but it has been stalled in the House Economic Development &

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Innovative energy bill sails through Florida House

A bill that would allow local governments to loan money to homeowners for renewable energy and storm-resistance improvements passed the House.HB 7179 by the Energy & Utilities Policy Committee passed after amendments that would extend the state solar energy rebate program were rejected. The bill establishes the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, which allows homeowners to repay the

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PSC reform bill passes Florida House, goes back to Senate

The House on Monday passed an amended version of Senate bill reforming the Public Service Commission. But Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey and sponsor of SB 1034, said he is concerned about some parts of the bill as amended by the House.SB 1034 would define prohibited "ex parte" communications and extend a ban on lobbying by commissioners and their top aides. Fasano said Monday that the House

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Several environmental bills move in Legislature

There was significant movement Monday on several environmental bills. SB 550, a comprehensive water bill that includes a requirement for septic tank inspections, passed the Senate 30-3.HB 7143 relating to recycling passed the House 115-1 after a requirement that airports recycle was removed from the bill. The Senate companion, SB 570, was amended and placed on third reading. HB 1445, a Florida

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House, Senate close on septic tank language

Rep. Alan Hays, left, talks with Rep. David Rivera and Sen. JD Alexander, the House and Senate budget chiefs.House and Senate budget negotiators on Sunday remained in disagreement on language that prohibits state agencies from requiring advanced septic tanks for another year.Springs across the state have become choked with weeds and algae as nitrogen in groundwater from a variety of sources have

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Nelson calls for oil rig investigation

U. S. Sen. Bill Nelson on Friday asked the Department of Interior to investigate an oil drilling rig explosion off the coast of Louisiana.The Obama administration on March 31 said it would allow exploration and drilling off the east coast south to about Titusville and in the Gulf of Mexico west of the Florida Keys. The House Select Policy Council on Strategic & Economic Planning held hearings on

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House, Senate agree to $15 million for Florida Forever

House budget negotiators agreed Friday to provide $15 million in fiscal year 2010-11 for Florida Forever, the nation's largest land-buying program.The program has received $300 million a year since 1990 but received nothing from the Legislature last year after the House declined to provide funding amid declining state revenues. During conference committee meetings earlier this week, House

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Bill to return to public permit hearings is revised

A proposal to require again that water management district permits be voted on at public meetings has been revised.Last year, SB 2080 was amended late in the legislative session to direct the districts to approve some permits without a public hearing. The Florida Home Builders Association said it supported the amended bill to help water management districts focus on other agency issues.

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Water bill amended to address DEP concerns, senator says

A far-reaching Senate water bill will be amended to address concerns raised by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the bill's sponsor said Thursday. SB 550 by Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, resulted from hearings held around the state as a Senate panel heard about threats of pollution and over-pumping to Florida's springs, rivers and coastal waters. The bill includes

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Planning agency reauthorization remains stalled in House

A bill reauthorizing the Florida Department of Community Affairs received unanimous Senate approval Thursday, but the bill could face a challenge in the House.The Legislature in 2006 established a "sunset review" process for state agencies to determine whether a need for them exists. DCA supporters have raised concerns that the department won't be reauthorized before the end of the legislative

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PSC restructuring appears dead in House

A House proposal to restructure the Florida Public Service Commission appears dead this legislative session.HB 7209 by the House Energy & Utilities Policy Committee was amended Thursday to remove language that would have moved the PSC regulatory staff to the governor and Cabinet. The move was proposed amid what a House bill analysis says is public mistrust for PSC and uncertainty in Florida's

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Florida Forever supporters want more for program than discussed

Gov. Charlie Crist celebrated Earth Day on Thursday by saying that residents have a duty to work together while Florida Forever supporters said they want more money for the land-buying program than is being discussed in the Legislature.Several businesses and partnerships announced initiatives to mark the Earth Day celebration at the Capitol as hundreds of schoolchildren listened to speeches and

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Septic tanks study gets $2 million as delay language looms

House and Senate budget conferees have agreed to provide $2 million to the Florida Department of Health for an ongoing study of septic tank technologies. Meanwhile, bill language looms that would prevent agencies from reducing nitrogen pollution from septic tanks while the study continues. The study has been an issue for the past two years involving legislation to protect groundwater and springs

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House adopts fisheries, climate and nitrogen resolutions

The Florida House adopted resolutions Wednesday calling on Congress to roll back federal environmental regulations or not adopt new ones.The House adopted HB 1589, which criticizes the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed water quality standards. The EPA says nitrogen and phosphorus reductions are needed to reduce algae that is clogging waterways, but utilities and industry groups say

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Groups raise concerns with nuke plants' design

Twelve national and southern environmental groups called on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to delay action on proposed new nuclear plants, including two in Florida, because of design flaws that raise safety issues. Florida Power & Light Co. has proposed expanding its Turkey Point nuclear plant and Progress Energy has proposed building a new nuclear plant in Levy County.The twelve groups,

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Contamination notification bill passes Senate

A bill requiring expanded public notification of contamination sites passed the Senate on Wednesday.SB 602 was filed in response to contamination at the Raytheon electronics manufacturing plant in St. Petersburg. Groundwater contamination was discovered in 1991 and the state was notified in 1995. But surrounding residents were not told until 2005 when the Florida Department of Environmental

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Water bill passes with home builders support

A controversial Senate water bill won committee approval Tuesday after the sponsor won support from home builders.SB 550 by Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, followed public hearings around the state last winter as senators heard concerns about algal blooms, pollution and overpumping of groundwater. Constantine told the Senate Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means that the bill

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PSC nominee left standing at podium unconfirmed

PSC Commissioner David E. KlementA Senate committee adjourned its meeting Tuesday before voting on two of Gov. Charlie Crist's nominees to the Florida Public Service Commission.The decision left the fates of two appointees in limbo although Senate President Jeff Atwater, R-North Palm Beach, said that there would be another chance to decide whether to confirm David E. Klement and Ben A. "Steve"

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House agrees to provide funding for land-buying program

The House agreed Tuesday to provide money for Florida Forever, ending a year-long funding drought for the state land-buying program.The House agreed Tuesday to provide money for Florida Forever, ending a year-long funding drought for the state land-buying program.Florida Forever is the largest land-buying program in the nation with 2.4 million acres having been conserved since 1990. After

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Biomass opponents nearly derail recycling bill

A Senate recycling bill on Monday was amended and passed by a committee after it was nearly derailed by biomass energy opponents. SB 570 by Sen. Lee Constantine, R-Altamonte Springs, lays out a path towards reaching the state's goal of recycling 75 percent of waste by 2020. The state now recycles about 28 percent of its waste, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The

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House energy bill moves despite wood supply concerns

A House energy bill was passed Monday by a committee despite concerns about biomass energy raised by a pulp and paper industry representative. HB 7229 allows utilities to recover $386 million from customers for 735 megawatts of renewable energy over the next three years. Chris Broome, general manager of the Smurfit-Stone container board mill in Panama City, said the bill would encourage the

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House budget proposal includes Everglades, not Florida Forever

The House on Monday did not include money for Florida Forever in its conference committee budget offer but it did offer $10 million for Everglades restoration. Florida Forever is the nation's largest land-buying program but the program received no money from the Legislature last year and could run out of money this year.The House has adopted a 2010-11 state budget of nearly $70 billion, which is

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Senate ag bill amended to remove fertilizer prohibition

A Senate agriculture bill was amended Monday to remove a prohibition against local governments adopting stricter fertilizer amendments than an adopted state standard. SB 382 would have established criteria for local governments to meet if they wanted stricter ordinances than the state "model" fertilizer ordinance adopted by the Legislature in 2009. A late-filed amendment (140990) by Sen. Eleanor

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Florida Tribune: Drilling comes up empty this year

Legislation to allow drilling in state waters won't be voted on by the House this year, Rep. Dean Cannon on Friday told the House Select Policy Council on Strategic & Economic Planning. The council chaired by Cannon, R-Winter Park, held 10 hearings and workshops last winter and spring towards developing legislation to lift the state's 20-year-old ban on drilling. Supporters said drilling could

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State panel hears Florida Forever pleas

Northeast Florida Blueway Project, St. Johns CountyCity and county officials, ranchers, conservationists and a Florida National Guard representative on Friday pleaded for their favorite land-buying projects and for support for the state's Florida Forever program.The statewide land-buying program is the nation's largest but it's in jeopardy. Florida Forever received no money from the Legislature

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Draft oil drilling legislation would direct Cabinet to sell leases

Images from report by the Collins Center for Public Policy report on oil drilling to the Century Commission for a Sustainable Florida. To download the report, click here.A draft proposed House council bill would open Florida's waters to oil drilling but would ban permanent rigs and platforms above the water's surface within six miles of the coast.The House Select Policy Council on Strategic &

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House drilling legislation to be heard on Friday

A House panel is expected Thursday to receive a draft committee bill that would lift the ban on drilling for oil and gas in state waters.The House Select Policy Council on Strategic & Economic Planning has been holding hearings on whether to allow drilling in state waters within 10.4 miles of the coast. Rep. Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park and committee chairman, said Wednesday he expects the proposed

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Renewable energy bill with business backing clears committee

A bill that would allow utilities to charge customers in advance for renewable energy projects cleared a Senate committee Wednesday. SB 1186 received backing from several business groups and firms that said the bill would quickly spur the growth of solar and other renewable energy technologies in Florida.The Senate Committee on Communications, Energy and Public Utilities adopted the bill by an 8-

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DEP passes along cash to schools for green programs

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is using federal dollars to help some schools in north Florida get greener. DEP announced Thursday that it had completed a $250,000 federal grant project that allowed for 199 buses in 10 rural school districts to be refitted with devices that reduce harmful tailpipe emissions. The diesel oxidation catalysts reduce children's exposure to diesel

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"Hometown Democracy" opponents raise nearly $1 million

The new group opposing Amendment 4, the "Florida Hometown Democracy" amendment to the Florida Constitution, raised nearly $1 million in its first quarter of existence with most of its contributions coming from business and development interests.Voters statewide in November will be asked to decide whether the state will require referendums for changing local comprehensive land use plans. Some

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Wekiva River amendment withdrawn but still lurking

An amendment that would have removed language in state law directing the Florida Department of Health to consider requiring advanced septic tank systems in the Wekiva River basin was withdrawn Tuesday.The DOH last year proposed a rule that would have required homeowners in the area north of Orlando to upgrade their septic tanks before they sold their homes. The proposal sparked opposition from

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Twenty-year-old deadline extended by bill amendment

A petroleum tanks cleanup bill in the House has been amended to extend the deadline for tank site owners to replace older tanks that could leak. In 1990, Gov. Bob Martinez and the Cabinet directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to require that petroleum tanks above ground and underground have secondary containment by 2010 to prevent leaks that could contaminate groundwater.

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DEP holds hearings on ranking land projects

Bald Point State ParkWith more than 100 land-buying projects facing a review and ranking by the state, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is encouraging project supporters to participate in a pair of public hearings over the next four weeks. DEP and the state Acquisition and Restoration Council have launched a new ranking process for the 109 projects on the Florida Forever

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Report for House speaker says threat of oil drilling minimal

A new report that models the risks of oil drilling in state waters in the Gulf of Mexico says oil spills are unlikely to pose a major threat to Florida. The House Select Policy Council on Strategic & Economic Planning is scheduled to meet Wednesday to hold another in a series of workshops on oil drilling. Progress Florida and the Sierra Club said last week's oil spill of 18,000 gallons in a

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Energy efficiency + renewables = jobs, studies say

A pair of studies released Monday point to potential jobs created and cost savings for utility customers if Florida pursued aggressive policies to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Georgia Tech and Duke University researchers, who released a report "Energy Efficiency in the South," said adoption of nine energy efficient technologies and practices in Florida over the next 10 years

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