| U.S. Sugar Deal Not Sweet Enough to Save Everglades? |
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| Written by Heather McKee | |
| Wednesday, 15 October 2008 | |
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For decades, phosphorous run-off from agricultural fertilizers has been choking the Everglades. Sugarcane is a major crop surrounding the Everglades, and its irrigation and fertilization have played a large part in the eutrophication and massive ecosystem changes in the Everglades. Earlier this year, our friends at Envirowonk informed us that the South Florida Water Management District was planning a $1.7 billion buyout of U.S. Sugar to inactivate 187,000 acres of their sugarcane fields. But the buyout has been stalled by hesitant lenders, as well as protests from the Miccosukee Indians.
The Miccosukee, whose 150 square mile reservation is located within the Everglades, are concerned that the buyout would prevent the water district from finishing other Everglades restoration projects, including the construction of a large reservoir which would provide a source of freshwater for the drying wetlands. The tribe sued the EPA before to complete the reservoir, but failed.
The Miccosukee have reason to be concerned about lackadaisical attitudes about Everglades restoration projects – the EPA was awarded $8 billion to restore the Everglades 8 years ago – and to date, not one restoration project has been completed. The approaches requested by the tribe seems to make the most sense: identify pollutant sources and uphold water quality standards. Unfortunately, the state of Florida seems to prefer the buyouts of polluters, instead of making the polluter pay.
Via NPR
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It's true what our moms said...we are what we eat. In fact, it's truer than they thought. What I eat doesn't just affect me anymore, it affects all of us.
Unfortunately, the story of food can sometimes be complicated. But envirovores help each other out...which is why this blog will be bringing you news, tips, and information about food and the environment every step of the way.
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