Volume 4, Issue 7 More Protection, Less Process April 8, 2004
Governor Jeb Bush Secretary Colleen M. Castille Helpful Numbers: Office of the Secretary 850-245-2118 Office of Communications 850-245-2086 Press Office 850-245-2112 Environmental Education 850-245-2130 Citizen Services 850-245-2118 Northwest -- Pensacola 850-595-8300 Northeast - Jacksonville 904-807-3300 Southwest – Tampa 813-744-6100 Central - Orlando 407-894-7555 South – Ft. Myers 239-332-6975 Southeast - West Palm Beach 561-681-6600 Please send comments and feedback Previous Issues of The Post	Florida Puts Seal on Plan to Restore Indian River Lagoon AMERICA’S EVERGLADES – On April 7, Secretary Castille signed off on a joint plan by the State and federal government to protect the Indian River Lagoon. When complete, the project will restore more than 53,000 acres of wetlands, reduce pollution and provide water storage to return a natural flow of fresh water to the St. Lucie and Indian River estuaries. “Approval of this plan to protect the Indian River Lagoon is the next step in the restoration of America’s Everglades,” said Governor Bush. “This is further evidence of Florida’s continued commitment to restore the River of Grass on time and under budget.” Once complete, the $1 billion restoration project will return historic flows of cleaner water across 90,000 acres of natural land spanning Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. The plan includes construction and operation of 12,000 acres of inland reservoirs and 9,000 acres of pollution-filtering treatment marsh. To restore habitat within the estuaries, the plan also recommends removing more than 5 million cubic yards of muck from the waterways. Together with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Florida water managers plan to build miles of pumps, levees and canals to capture and redirect water. The reservoirs and treatment marshes, which will provide 170,000 acre-feet of water storage, offer an alternative to discharging excess water into the St. Lucie River that can harm habitat and degrade water quality. "The South Florida Water Management District has completed a thorough scientific evaluation and delivered a comprehensive restoration plan,” said Secretary Castille. “Delivering water at the right time to the right places will restore habitat, improve water quality in the St. Lucie River and provide flood protection to residents across three counties.” The Indian River Lagoon is recognized as an estuary of national significance and is a Florida Aquatic Preserve and an Outstanding Florida Water. Part of the $8 billion, 30-year plan to save America’s Everglades, the project now requires federal approval by the U.S. Congress. "The Indian River Lagoon South Restoration Project is moving forward because of a dedicated partnership between federal, state and county governments," said South Florida Water Management District Executive Director Henry Dean, "and because of the invaluable contributions from the local community." Florida’s share of Everglades restoration is ahead of schedule and under budget. Since 2000, Governor Bush has committed more than $2.5 billion through the end of the decade to clean up and restore the famed River of Grass.
Hydrogen Business Partnership to Lend Advice on Energy Future TALLAHASSEE - Executives from the world’s leading energy technology companies met on April 1 to begin building Florida’s business climate for developing advanced hydrogen energy technologies. Secretary Castille charged the newly-formed Hydrogen Business Partnership to explore strategies to commercialize hydrogen technologies. “Florida is quickly becoming a national leader in clean fuel technology,” said Secretary Castille. “Our investment in pollution-free technology benefits Florida’s environment, quality of life and economy.” Florida is powering up a long-term commitment to “next generation” energy technologies and the environment. Earlier this year, Governor Bush proposed $15 million to demonstrate the latest advances in hydrogen energy technology as power sources for homes, businesses and vehicles. The initiative would also create new public-private partnerships and attract corporate investment, accompanied by highly skilled jobs to manufacture, install and operate the emerging technology. “More than $1.5 billion is invested in hydrogen technology each year,” said Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell. “Florida’s leadership in the development of hydrogen technology would protect the environment and bring new investment, companies and jobs to the State.” The Department gathered hydrogen technology developers, fuel and power producers and major energy consumers to assist the State with a business plan for Florida’s hydrogen future. Over the next four months, the Hydrogen Business Partnership will recommend government and industry approaches to accelerate the development, demonstration and commercialization of hydrogen technology. The Partnership is comprised of senior executives from 16 leading companies including: Air Products, Apollo Energy Systems, Cummings Westport, Disney, DynEco Corporation, Florida Power & Light, Fuel Cell Energy, Gulf Power, Plug Power, Praxair, Progress Energy Florida, Shell Hydrogen, Siemens Westinghouse Power, Stuart Energy Systems, Tampa Electric Company and Teledyne Energy Systems. The Partnership will meet again in May and June before delivering recommendations to the Florida Energy Office for a final state-wide hydrogen business plan in July.
North Port High School Becomes Pioneer in Hydrogen Education NORTH PORT- North Port High School today became a leading demonstration site for ‘next generation’ technology when energy officials flipped the switch on a new project that combines science education with clean energy technology. North Port is the first school in the nation to teach students about emerging hydrogen technology using an on-site hydrogen fuel cell together with a hydrogen science curriculum. “Just like the students of North Port High School, hydrogen is the future. Seeing cutting-edge technology up close is good for students and teachers, but having the chance to work with it hands-on is exciting,” said U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary Garman. “Hydrogen will be powering the cars they’ll drive in years to come and—in time—the houses they own.” The U.S. Department of Energy designated North Port as one of only 10 Hydrogen Education sites nationwide, supplying the school with a hydrogen curriculum complete with laboratory experiments. To further hands-on learning, the Department partnered with Florida Power and Light and Sarasota County to install a hydrogen fuel cell at the school. “Fuel cells have the potential to revolutionize the way we power our nation, offering cleaner, more-efficient alternatives to fossil fuels,” said Secretary Castille. “Combining hands-on learning with ‘next generation’ technology is an investment in natural resource protection, future energy security and tomorrow’s scientists.” The pollution-free fuel cell combines hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity, forming just water and heat as byproducts. The cell will supply the power grid at North Port High School with five kilowatts of energy -- enough to completely power one classroom. North Port plans to use the water produced to care for landscaping and the heat to warm water in the school’s kitchen. Powering up a long-term commitment to “next generation” energy and the environment, Governor Bush is proposing $15 million to support the latest advances in fuel cell technology. President Bush is proposing a $1.7 billion investment over the next five years to develop hydrogen-powered fuel cells, hydrogen infrastructure and advanced automotive technologies. Opened three years ago, North Port High School is one of the largest schools in Sarasota County with more than 1,500 students. The hydrogen curriculum will be used by all science classes at the school, with a special focus by the Environmental Science Academy, which connects career goals to real-life experiences for students. “North Port students are leaders in education, and now lead the nation in testing this new technology,” said North Port High School Principal Dr. George Kenney. “The fuel cell project is a perfect fit for our school, allowing students the opportunity to not only learn science, but experience it through this hands-on approach.” For more information about Florida’s energy programs, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/energy/.
Florida Schools First in Nation to Use “Utility Report Card” OCOEE – U.S. Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham joined forces with the Department, Orange County Public Schools and Walt Disney World Co. on April 5 to launch a new energy-savings initiative that helps schools reduce utility bills and save millions of dollars. Secretary Abraham unveiled the nation’s first on-line “Utility Report Card” at Citrus Elementary School in Ocoee. “The ability to pin-point energy use in our Nation’s schools will give school districts the tool to assess where they can save energy and save money,” Secretary Abraham said. “Not only will energy be saved, the students will have the opportunity to learn more about the cost of energy and smart energy use.” Florida’s schools are the first in the nation to demonstrate the web-based “Utility Report Card,” which tracks, evaluates and charts energy consumption in schools. First implemented by Walt Disney World Resort to track energy consumption throughout its parks and resorts, the modified software tool allows school districts to pin-point energy use and expenditures. “Currently Orange County Public Schools spend about $55 million a year on energy,” said Orange County School Board Chairman Bert Carrier. “Ultimately, our goal is to direct our limited resources where they are most needed -- in the classrooms.” The information system helps school districts monitor energy used by individual schools during everyday activities, allowing districts to implement operation and maintenance changes to reduce consumption. Teachers and students can also examine on-line data to learn more about smart energy use and efficiency as a complement to the U.S. Department of Energy’s EnergySmart Schools education program. The pilot program for Orange County Schools was funded by the Florida Energy Office, which launched an initiative last year to reduce energy consumption by government and save taxpayers dollars. The State’s energy-saving program focuses on installing energy-efficient technology, modifying behavior to use resources wisely and encouraging government’s use of hybrid vehicles. “Using energy wisely protects resources, protects the environment and saves money,” said Secretary Castille. “The Report Card shows students how their individual actions can preserve resources, and challenges them to make a difference both in their schools and homes.” The “Utility Report Card” is available online at www.utilityreportcards.com. For more information on conserving energy, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/energy. For information about energy savings, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s consumer information web site at www.eere.energy.gov/consumerinfo/.
Front Porch Florida Goes Solar OCALA– Governor Bush is putting Florida’s sunshine to work to conserve energy and reduce electricity bills. Florida is providing solar water heaters to seven households in the Ocala area – part of 150 that will be delivered to residents in underserved communities throughout the state. Named Front Porch Sunshine, Florida is the first in the nation to install solar energy technology in weatherized, low-income homes. “Energy conservation protects the environment and saves money,” said Governor Bush. “Extending the environmental and economic benefits of conservation to Florida’s neediest citizens improves our quality of life and strengthens our communities.” The reliable, low-maintenance solar systems use the sun’s energy, instead of electricity, to heat water. A solar collector installed on the roof holds water that is heated by the sun. A traditional water heater serves as a backup supply of hot water on overcast or rainy days. “Harnessing the power of the sun is clean, free and expands energy savings to Florida’s underserved communities,” said Secretary Castille. “By providing weatherization and energy-saving opportunities to our residents, families that need it most are able to minimize their energy bills and dedicate their financial resources to other important items in their monthly budgets.” The Florida Energy Office, Florida Solar Energy Center and Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation established a partnership with Front Porch Florida, a program launched by Governor Bush in 1999 to revitalize low-income neighborhoods and improve energy efficiency of homes in designated communities throughout the State. State agencies are assisting 20 neighborhoods with community-driven initiatives for economic growth, education and environmental preservation. “The solar water heater program is a perfect compliment to the Front Porch Florida initiative,” said Interim Department of Community Affairs Secretary Heidi Hughes. “These dynamic neighborhoods have continued their legacy of promoting economic revitalization and community education while embracing this environmentally friendly technology.” “I am thrilled the West Ocala Front Porch community will benefit from this groundbreaking program,” said Patricia West, Director of Florida’s Office of Urban Opportunity. “Bringing the power of solar energy to our communities is a wonderful way for residents to take advantage of the successful collaboration between Community Affairs, Environmental Protection, Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation and community partners.” For more information about Front Porch Florida, visit www.myflorida.com. For more about Front Porch Sunshine, visit www.fsec.ucf.edu/solar/projects/frontporch/frontporch.htm.
State Finalizes Sale of Timber Island TALLAHASSEE – On March 25, the Department finalized the sale of Timber Island, which sits at the mouth of the Carrabelle River and the Gulf of Mexico in Franklin County. The St. Joe Company closed on the purchase of the 49-acre spoil island for $6.8 million. “Placing the spoil island in private hands will provide a boost to the local economy and community,” said Director of the Division of State Lands Eva Armstrong. “A marina and related facilities would support the community’s character and bring additional jobs to the area.” Acquired by the State through a property exchange two decades ago, Timber Island was intended for development to provide an economic boost to the city of Carrabelle. A downturn in the Carrabelle-area seafood industry hindered attempts to lease the land for development. The Governor and Florida Cabinet voted to sell the spoil island last fall. “Timber Island has the potential to become an important asset for Carrabelle and Franklin County,” said Billy Buzzett, Director of Strategic Planning for The St. Joe Company. “We are committed to work toward a plan for Timber Island that can compliment the waterfront activities in Carrabelle.” Florida’s state land sales are administered by the Department. Revenue from the sale will go to the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, which supports Florida’s programs to manage state-owned real estate and conservations lands.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Salutes “McDonald's Fleet Week” FT. LAUDERDALE – In recognition of National Military Appreciation Month and “McDonald’s Fleet Week” in Broward County, the Florida Park Service is waiving entrance fees at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for all members of the U.S. Armed Forces. “We wanted to do something to let our servicemen and women know how much we appreciate their commitment and sacrifice,” said Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Manager Jim Gibson. Free entry to the park for the armed forces will be available for an entire week beginning Saturday, April 24th. Personnel should present military identification at the front gate. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park serves as a staging area for the “McDonald’s Air and Sea Show.” The park will be closed to the general public over the weekend of May 1st. For additional information and directions, call Hugh Taylor Birch State Park at (954) 564-4521. Florida State Parks are open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year. For more information about Florida’s award-winning state parks, visit www.floridastateparks.org.
Protecting Florida… Forever Established by Governor Bush, the 10-year, $3 billion Florida Forever program conserves environmentally sensitive land, restores water resources and preserves important cultural and historical resources. State Adds Another 109 Acres to Green Swamp ORLANDO – Central Florida’s groundwater received another boost with the addition of 109 acres to the Green Swamp Florida Forever conservation project on April 2. Designated as an ‘Area of Critical State Concern,’ the land will be preserved through conservation easements, which allow property owners to continue to use the land while protecting it from development. “Green Swamp is an integral part of central Florida’s water supply,” said Secretary Castille. “Conservation easements are a cost effective tool for protecting environmentally sensitive areas -- taxpayers, property owners and Florida’s natural resources share the benefits.” Extending throughout Lake and Polk counties, the Green Swamp Florida Forever project protects 279,224 acres of cypress swamp, pine forest and pasture. With the highest groundwater elevation in the peninsula, Green Swamp is critical to maintaining the flow of water from the Floridan Aquifer, which gives rise to four major rivers in the region -- the Withlacoochee, Oklawaha, Hillsborough and Peace Rivers. Two Florida State Parks are located within the Green Swamp area. Once a railroad track, the Van Fleet Trail State Park provides a 29-mile trail for bicyclists, hikers, joggers and equestrians. Lake Louisa State Park covers 4,372-acres -- the lake is one of 13 in a chain connected by the Palatlakaha River. Governor, Cabinet's Vote Protects Morrison Spring WALTON COUNTY – On March 30, Governor Bush and the Florida Cabinet added 161 acres of protection to Morrison Spring along the Choctawhatchee River through the State’s premier land conservation program, Florida Forever. The acquisition protects one of Florida’s 600 freshwater springs and its underground caverns carrying water below. “Freshwater springs are among Florida’s most famous and important natural and recreational resources,” said Secretary Castille. “Acquiring the land around springs protects water quality and safeguards the economic and environmental value of our ‘liquid bowls of light.’” Located in Walton County along the 170-mile Choctawhatchee River, Morrison Spring is an undeveloped second magnitude spring famous for its abundance of freshwater eels. Surrounded by cypress trees, the spring’s large underwater caverns attract scuba divers from around the nation. The property will be managed by Walton County as a county recreational park. Flowing into the state from southeastern Alabama, the Choctawhatchee River supports Florida's largest population of beaver. Considered one of the state’s most outstanding canoe trails, the river spans six Panhandle counties emptying into the Choctawhatchee Bay in Okaloosa County. Florida is home to the largest concentration of freshwater springs in the world. Just three years ago, Governor Bush initiated the first-ever comprehensive, coordinated plan to restore and protect Florida’s springs through the Florida Springs Initiative. Called ‘liquid bowls of light,’ springs are early gauges of trends in Florida’s drinking water quality and quantity. Florida Acquires More Land Along Wekiva-Ocala Greenway LAKE COUNTY – Florida acquired another 267 acres along the Wekiva-Ocala Greenway, expanding a natural corridor stretching from Orlando to the Ocala National Forest. The State has conserved more than 42,000 acres through the Florida Forever program to create a greenway around one of Florida’s largest metropolitan areas. “Conserving a continuous land corridor protects our rivers, springs and wildlife,” said Secretary Castille. “This greenway is helping to sustain the Florida black bear population by establishing an uninterrupted pathway to the Ocala National Forest.” The State began acquiring property in the Wekiva-Ocala Greenway in the 1960s. When complete, the 75,000-acre tract will form a continuous corridor linking the Wekiva Springs State Park, Rock Springs Run State Reserve, Lower Wekiva River Aquatic Preserve, Hontoon Island State Park and the Ocala National Forest. Over half the total lands needed to complete the greenway are in public ownership. Expansion of the greenway protects the region's springs, rivers and lakes and provides habitat for more than 50 Florida black bears. Close to the booming Orlando metro area, the greenway also provides the public with access to natural areas for camping, swimming, hiking and canoeing. Greenways and trails preserve and protect Florida’s natural areas, connect communities and provide recreation. Thousands of miles of trails wind through Florida’s urban and rural areas. Visit www.floridagreenwaysandtrails.com for more information. State Expands Conservation Corridor for Florida Panther BIG CYPRESS – Florida acquired more than 2,000 acres in Hendry County to help create a wildlife corridor stretching from the Big Cypress National Preserve to the Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest. The acquisition is part of a 53,000-acre expanse approved for acquisition by Governor Bush and the Florida Cabinet that protects habitat for the endangered Florida panther. “This acquisition preserves important wildlife habitat and, at the same time, sets aside public land for nature-based recreation,” said Secretary Castille. “Linking natural lands creates contiguous roaming areas for the Florida panther, which is critical for maintaining viable populations of this endangered animal.” The six-by-nine-mile Panther Glades Florida Forever project in Hendry County borders the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation and adjoins the 220,000-acre Save Our Everglades Florida Forever project. At $4.8 million, the latest 2,000-acre acquisition was purchased for 90 percent of the approved value. The large ecosystem is comprised of forestland interspersed among cypress stand and dome swamp. Conservation of the tract protects habitat for 23 endangered and threatened species along with wading birds, including the great egret, snowy egret, little blue heron and tricolored heron.
Calendar March 15 - April 15 Florida Heritage Month April 22 Earth Day May 29 – 30 Florida Folk Festival
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