 Supreme Court Decision not exactly a win for the home team It certainly appears as though Atlanta “won” with last week’s Supreme Court ruling. Unfortunately, the prize is likely to be 10 more years of unproductive litigation with no end to the “water wars” between the States. By refusing to hear the appeal, the Court upheld a previous Appellate Court decision and gave the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers an official green light to exercise its authority to manipulate Lake Lanier’s water use and provide Atlanta with all the water it needs, and then some. If past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior, the Corps will indeed exercise this authority. Unfortunately, it will once again be at the expense of those living downstream whose survival depends on these waters just as much as the folks in Buckhead.
The Corps’ unilateral interpretation of the Fish and Wildlife and Recreation authorizations will no doubt be challenged. The Court did address this authorization and left it up to the Corps’ discretion. Georgia’s claim to all the water that falls on Georgia also remains in dispute.
All the Courts, lawyers and legal arguments in the world will not provide what Georgia, Alabama and Florida are thirsting for – a truly equitable plan to share the waters we all depend on. A practical water allocation plan can only come from those of us with a clear stake in the outcome, not from a Solomon-like Court decision. All of us have paid the price of the more than 22 years’ of litigation, and have practically nothing to show for it, except lawyer bills. After fighting so long, many wonder if it is even possible to divide up the water flow and effectively and sustainably manage its usage so that it is here for us, our grandchildren and their grandchildren. I happen to believe that it is possible and moreover, that each of us has a responsibility to each other to do it! Courts hand down decisions, they do not create plans. No Court will ever be able to do what we can do - develop a practical water management plan that provides real guidance to groups for sharing a resource that every individual has an equal right to use.
I know that such a plan is achievable because I have seen it first-hand in the progress made by the Apalachicola-Flint-Chattahoochee (ACF) stakeholders. This forward thinking group represents the individual economic and ecological interests of those living along the three divisions of the River. With a methodical and balanced approached to problem-solving, the stakeholders are making headway toward an equitable water allocation plan that will balance the interests of all three states.
The path to a solution that is fair to all three states does not go through the Courts, but through intentional work toward the common good. The ACF Stakeholders work must be supported along with all efforts toward an equitable and sustainable water management plan. Riverkeeper Responds to Supreme Court Decision
APALACHICOLA, FL (June 29, 2012) - The Apalachicola Riverkeeper’s executive director, Dan Tonsmeire, not only keeps a watchful eye over the river itself, but everything that affects it—including Supreme Court decisions.
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court refused to take up an appeal filed by Florida in the case involving the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system. Both the Apalachicola Riverkeeper and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) warn that the decision not to hear Florida’s request to review an 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling is likely to have a negative impact on the Apalachicola River and Bay.
The water dispute between Alabama, Florida, and Georgia has been taking place in federal court since 1990. Alabama and Georgia want water for industry and growing cities, while Florida needs water for fish and wildlife along the Apalachicola River and to support the seafood industry in Apalachicola Bay.
Lake Lanier, a federal reservoir on the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta, Georgia, has been the focus of the dispute because it provides 60 percent of the storage capacity among the reservoirs on the river system. U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson in 2009 ruled that Congress must authorize Lake Lanier to provide water to Georgia cities. Without authorization, he ordered that water use be cut off in three years. But the 11th Circuit overturned the decision and instead directed the Corps of Engineers to analyze its authority related to the Lake Lanier. Florida and Alabama in February asked the Supreme Court to review the case.
“I’m disappointed by the decision,” Tonsmeire said, “but I’m also reminded how vital our work is. At least the Court’s decision will bring some resolution to the legal issues surrounding use of Lake Lanier for water supply,” Tonsmeire added. “Now that we’re out of the courtroom, we can focus on the next step—managing water to meet the needs of all users throughout the ACF (Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint) Basin because ultimately any lasting solution depends upon Georgia, Alabama, and Florida working together to reach a water sharing agreement.”
The ACF Stakeholders group have suggested that instead of new rounds of litigation, that everyone involved sit down together, and using the best available science, achieve a sustainable plan for how the water can best be managed throughout the entire ACF basin.
“Our organization is redoubling its efforts to protect this national treasure,” Tonsmeire said of the Apalachicola Riverkeeper group, “and we’re working hand in hand with the other ACF stakeholders in order to protect the entire basin. It’s too important not to. And we really need help to do it—donations and volunteers to help us fight the good fight for one of the most fragile and diverse ecosystems in our country.”
The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is a member-supported, non-profit organization that monitors the Apalachicola from the upper reaches at the Florida/Georgia line downstream into the Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. One of its primary missions is to ensure that the Apalachicola is guaranteed its fair share of the waters of the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint watershed in perpetuity.
For more information or to contribute or volunteer, call 850-653-8936 or go to http://www.apalachicolariverkeeper.org/.
Dear River Basin Neighbor,
Join Mr. Culpepper in supporting Riverkeeper efforts today!
We are truly blessed by the beauty of the Apalachicola River and Bay. It colors each and every part of our lives in Northwest Florida. The Apalachicola Riverkeeper wants to see our river run free, do you?
Did you know that the Apalachicola Riverkeeper is the only organization whose sole mission is the protection, preservation and restoration of the Apalachicola River and Bay? Why are we as an organization so committed to the future of the Apalachicola? We want our children and our children's children to grow up boating, fishing, hunting and enjoying the Apalachicola River just as we do.
Ask the Franklin County Seafood Workers who's livelihood depends on the health of our river and bay how important our work is. Wildlife and honeybees depend on adequate river levels to reproduce. The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is here to protect not only them but our way of life.
The Apalachicola Riverkeeper has taken a lead in putting together the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint Stakeholders group. There are 56 members living, working and sharing the water of the entire basin from Georgia, through Alabama and down through the six Florida counties bordering our river system. Instead of waiting for the molasses-slow judicial system, we hope to help negotiate a solution that is fair to all and keeps the river flowing.
The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is on the front line helping our recreational and commercial fishermen, a major economic force worth $5 B/year. The Riverkeeper is the first responder for local government actions that threaten the river, the tributaries and the floodplain. The Riverkeeper is fighting to protect our public waters from being sold by the state.
The Apalahicola Riverkeeper is supported by people like you, fisherman, outdoorsmen, hunters and nature lovers who want to see our way of life in Northwest Florida continue and prosper.
Your membership in the Apalachicola Riverkeeper will help us continue our work of protecting, preserving and restoring the Apalachicola River and Bay, truly an American Treasure.
Please consider supporting the Apalachicola Riverkeeper with your membership. In return, we offer you...
Free monthly kayak trips;
Community forums to discuss threats to our river and bay from drought, development, and other issues important to our commercial and recreational fishing community; and
The knowledge that the Riverkeeper is there to protect, preserve and restore your Apalachicola River - an American Treasure.
Please check our website, www.apalachicolariverkeeper.org for the latest environmental news, our blog, forums and links as well as more information about what we are doing to ensure the health of the Apalachicola River and Bay.
All the best,
Dan Tonsmeire
 Special Limited Offer …
for a minimum contribution of $125.00, receive an autographed copy of Richard Bickel’s book: "Apalachicola River, An American Treasure." Please indicate “Bickel Offer” when ordering by phone (850-653-8936), or select "Bickel Book Offer" on the donation page.
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WE NEED YOUR HELP TO PROTECT CLEAN WATER!
PLEASE CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TODAY AND ASK THEM TO VOTE AGAINST THE MICA/RAHALL BILL (HR 4965) THAT IS SCHEDULED FOR FULL HOUSE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MARKUP THURSDAY, JUNE 7TH.
Posted 6-5-2012
Please join hunters, boaters, anglers, and conservationists nationwide, and call your Congressional Representative today! Ask them to vote against the Mica-Rahall bill (HR 4965).
This bill prohibits the Army Corps of Engineers and Environmental Protection Agency from implementing any Clean Water Act guidance and rule that would protect vulnerable streams, rivers, and wetlands.
Background: The Army Corps of Engineers has proposed agency guidance—a document that will begin the process of restoring protections for streams, wetlands and other waters critical to our hunting, angling, and water recreation traditions and the outdoor recreation economy. This guidance will clarify which waters are covered under the Clean Water Act as “waters of the United States.” Currently, millions of acres of wetlands and miles of streams that recharge aquifers, help retain floodwaters, provide important fish and wildlife habitat, and provide clean water for iconic systems like the Chesapeake Bay and Great Lakes are at risk. As these waters are polluted and diminished, their tremendous ecological and public health benefits are lost as well.
HR 4965 undermines our clean water future by blocking the Army Corps of Engineers and EPA Clean Water Guidance and their anticipated rulemaking—now and indefinitely. It also makes even more confusing an already confusing regulatory status quo. The Mica-Rahall bill prohibits the Army Corps of Engineers and Environmental Protection Agency from finalizing and implementing the much-needed Clean Water Act guidance and rulemaking that would get us off the regulatory merry-go-round.
Please call, email, tweet, or facebook your representative and urge him or her to VOTE NO ON THE MICA-RAHALL BILL (HR 4965) and safeguard America’s clean water legacy. Telephone numbers for Members of Congress can be obtained by calling (202) 224-3121. Please let Rachel Dawson at NWF ( dawsonr@nwf.org, 202-797-6625) know if you have contacted your Representative and if there is any related feedback.
Thank you!
Apalachicola Riverkeeper & SweetWater Brewery
Teaming Up to Save the APALACH!
Apalachicola, FL – The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is joining with SweetWater Brewing Company for a SAVE THE APLACH fundraising campaign. The campaign runs now thru 4thof July at the Tap Room at The Owl, Honey Hole Liquors & Hole in the Wall in Apalachicola; Captain Snook’s in Eastpoint; Blue Parrot, Sometimes It’s Hotter & The Market Place on St. George Island and New Leaf Market in Tallahassee. Participating locations are selling commemorative paper fish for $1, $5 & $10. Some locations also are offering SAVE THE APLACH T-shirts and glassware while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the Apalachicola Riverkeeper.
Besides the month long-campaign at these locations, three venues are having special events for an extra fund-raising effort. Mark your calendars and don’t miss these additional fun events to raise money for Apalachicola Riverkeeper and help Save the APALACH!
On May 31 from 6-7 p.m., Sometimes It’s Hotter on St. George Island will feature SweetWater Ale and have a raffle drawing.
On May 31 from 8-10 p.m. the Tap Room at the Owl Cafe in Apalachicola is hosting a special Kickoff Party & Tap Takeover offering five different SweetWater Brews including the limited edition Waterkeeper Ale with live music & sweet raffle prizes throughout the evening
On June 2 starting at 4:20 p.m. at New Leaf Market in Tallahassee, for a $5 donation, enjoy an afternoon of SweetWater beer tasting, including the limited edition Waterkeeper Ale, door prizes, glassware giveaways and T-shirts while supplies last.
SweetWater Brewing Company, an Atlanta‐based craft brewery,realizes the importance of protecting vital water sources such as the Apalchicola River and has once again joined with Waterkeeper®organizations throughout the Southeast to help conserve some of these most threatened rivers, streams and coastlines. This is the first year SweetWater has teamed up with the Apalachicola Riverkeeper.
The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is a non-profit organization that monitors the Apalachicola River from the upper reaches at the Florida/Georgia line downstream 107 miles, through the middle reaches around Wewahitchka, to the estuary and Bay on the Gulf.Its mission is to provide stewardship and advocacy for the protection of the Apalachicola River and Bay, its tributaries and watersheds, in order to improve and maintain its environmental integrity and to preserve the natural, scenic, recreational, and commercial fishing character of these waterways. For more information, visitwww.apalachicolariverkeeper.org.
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Posted May 16, 2012
The Tallahassee Democrat printed an excellent editorial on the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint drought crisis and the 20-plus years of ongoing water rights negotiations between Florida, Georgia and Alabama. If you missed it, please take a minute to read the editorial below or click on the link beneath the editorial for a printable PDF.
We need your help to keep leading this fight. We couldn't be leading this effort without your support! For a limited time, you can receive Richard Bickel's book Apalachicola River, Saving An American Treasure for a contribution of $100 or more by either calling the office at 850-653-8936 or online by clicking on this link http://www.apalachicolariverkeeper.org/join_us0.aspx?count=true. Please indicate "Bickel Offer" in the comments section on-line or by phone if you call in.
Posted May 9, 2012
Apalachicola Riverkeeper Sends Call for Action
to Florida, Alabama & Georgia Governors
Apalachicola, FL – This week the Apalachicola Riverkeeper issued calls for action to the Governors of Florida, Alabama and Georgia to mitigate economic and ecological impacts from the prolonged drought conditions that all three states are experiencing. The Riverkeeper also is seeking action from Senator Nelson, the federal government and the Northwest Florida Water Management District. According to reports by the Southeast Climate Consortium (SECC) and National Integrated Drought System (NIDIS) , D3-Extreme and D4-Exceptional Drought Conditions exist throughout the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) Basin. The severity of the drought is being reported across the basin. The following facts are of particular concern, and are the basis for this Call for Action.
· Lowest observed historical readings are being recorded on Flint River and groundwater levels in areas of southwest Georgia.
· Historically high, prolonged salinity levels in Apalachicola Bay associated with loss of estuarine seafood habitat and significant oyster mortality are being reported by Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve.
· Shrimp harvests in Apalachicola Bay and eastern Gulf have diminished to levels that will not support commercial shrimping reported by commercial fisherman.
· Crab harvest is likewise below historical lows and cannot support commercial harvesting.
· Salt water species rarely seen in upper portions of Apalachicola Bay indicative of a prolonged depletion of normal freshwater flows necessary for a healthy estuarine habitat are being observed by commercial fisherman.
· Forecast by weather and climate experts at all levels is for continued Extreme Conditions to prevail for at least the next three months.
· On May 1st, the Corps of Engineers decided it will move its operation of Federal reservoirs in the ACF Basin into Exceptional Drought Operations mode essentially further reducing the minimum water flows allowed to the Apalachicola System·
· Despite these repeated Federal assessments of extreme drought conditions and forecast of continued drought, the States of Georgia and Florida have not yet called for additional available water conservation measures for water users in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River basin.
· Apalachicola Riverkeeper is calling for the following actions:
1. The Governors of Florida, Alabama, and Georgia meet in an emergency session to assess joint and unilateral actions available to mitigate the significant economic and ecological impact of this prolonged drought on the people and communities of their states.
2. Governor of Florida Scott to call for action that will prompt effective State action to assist and provide Florida seafood industry workers relief during the ensuing disaster.
3. NW Florida Water Management District to establish water conservation measures consistent with extreme drought in the Apalachicola Basin and to work with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to ascertain the Ecological Instream Flow Needs of the Apalachicola River, Floodplain, and Bay.
4. Georgia Governor Deal to encourage and impose significant water use restrictions on water users to conserve the water to help all water users survive the drought.
5. US Senator Bill Nelson (Florida) based on his demonstrated leadership on this issue, to continue to work with the Florida Delegation and State of Florida leadership for a fair allocation of water for the Apalachicola River, Floodplain and Bay that will ensure healthy wildlife populations and a productive commercial fishing and oyster industry.
6. That the 3 States and the Federal government seek opportunities to involve the Stakeholders that comprise the communities of the ACF Basin in effective action to mitigate the adverse impacts of this prolonged drought.
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Posted April 27, 2012
https://www.change.org/petitions/prevent-the-bp-oil-disaster-from-happening-again
 By Dan Tonsmeire, Apalachicola Riverkeeper
Executive Director & Riverkeeper
I was born and raised on the Gulf. The Gulf Coast is an essential part of my family history and tradition—where I live, work and play.
From scuba diving, fishing and swimming to raising my son on its shores, the Gulf is a part of who we are. When the Deepwater Horizon rig exploded on April 20, 2010, killing 11 workers and spewing millions of barrels of oil, it left the Gulf and surrounding communities gasping for life support. Gulf Coast families continue to face health and financial crises, and an ecological disaster with an unsympathetic ear from BP's corporate heads.
The incompetent actions of BP purely to maximize their profits have unbelievably and inexcusably cost lives and damaged a family treasure for many.
BP should be held accountable for their actions and the industry as a whole must, at the very least, prove it is capable of protecting human and environmental health before being granted a permit to drill. Take action now by signing the petition that asks the directors of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to enforce strict regulations to make off-shore drilling safe.
We are no better prepared for a disaster now than we were in 2010. "Regulation" has become a dirty word courtesy of oil lobbyists in Washington, D.C. We already know what happens when nobody is watching Big Oil—cutting corners at our expense. It is time we answer back.
Until we can assure the safety of these drilling projects, there should be no more permits granted to BP or any other company. BP's actions cannot be overlooked or written off. Unless permits are enforceable, making rigs safe, reliable and readily monitored, they MUST NOT be granted.
Help us keep our nation's waters safe from irresponsible polluters. This goes beyond the Gulf, what we have seen here could happen in your backyard.
Send a message to Washington asking for strict, enforceable regulations that make off-shore drilling safe for the environment and its people.
Deepwater drilling permits should NOT be issued until the Oil Spill Commission's recommendations are implemented. TAKE ACTION NOW by clicking this link, signing the petition & forwarding to all your contacts requesting them to take action also!
Posted April 16, 2012
EXTREME DROUGHT CONDITIONS HIT APALACHICOLA BASIN
During Senator Nelson's April 12th visit to Apalachiocla, Executive Director and Riverkeeper Dan Tonsmeire discussed the drought conditions in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin. A summary of the extreme drought conditions in ACF Basin per NOAA/NIDIS (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration/ National Integrated Drought Information System) can be found at:http://www.drought.gov/imageserver/NIDIS/DEWS/ACFRB/docs/ACF-Drought_10_April_2012.pdf.
Summary Points from the NOAA/NIDIS Report:
1. Drought and heat continue through most of the basin with extreme to exceptional drought in the central part
of the basin.
2. Streamflows are all in the lowest 25% of observed values with the lower part of the basin in the lowest
10% of observed values.
3. Lake Lanier levels have continued to increase, but have not yet reached full pool
4. Ground water levels in Miller County, GA have returned to levels that are lower than any previously observed.
5. Outlooks for rainfall and streamflows all indicate that drought and heat will continue or intensify through
May and into June with slightly more chance of recovery in the northern part of the basin than to the south.
Posted April 4, 2012
Visiting Our North Basin Neighbors . . .
Our Executive Director & Riverkeeper Dan Tonsmeire spoke with neighboring Chipley Kiwanis Club last week regarding the Apalachicola River. You can read more about his visit in the Chipley Bugle at:http://chipleybugle.com/news/2012/03/30/kiwanis-club-hears-from-apalachicola-riverkeeper/
Also watch an interview by Paul Goulding ofReal Florida TVwith Dan Tonsmeire and Chad Taylor (Board Member for RiverWay South and Apalachicola Riverkeeper).Real Florida TV
If you have a club or organization you would like us to speak at, please contact:Riverkeeper@apalachicolariverkeeper.org.
Posted March 30, 2012
Dolphins along the Gulf Coast are Dying in Record Numbers…
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued an Unusual Mortality Event (UME) because dolphins have been showing up dead in record numbers along the northern Gulf of Mexico. For more information: http://blog.al.com/live/2012/03/louisiana_dolphins_are_very_si.html
Also read: http://www.newsherald.com/articles/world-101065-helps-investigate.html#ixzz1qdl4Pnga
Posted Mar 10 2012
Many thinks to River clean-up volunteers - Yvonne Stinson and Beth Grant!
RESTORE ACT
I was living in California at the time of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster. With shock and horror, I watched the story unfold. The inability to cap the well, the quick fixes, the reluctance of the government to intercede, all of it unfolded while I was 2400 miles away. I keep in close contact with my Gulf Coast friends while watching in horror the devastation of the marshes and bayous along the coast - the very wetlands and waters that sustain all life in our region.
So it is with great pleasure I have watched the progress of the RESTORE Act - first through the House and then the Senate. And finally - we have made progress. The battle is not over but it is close. The RESTORE Act is part of a transportation bill. And there are perilous twists and turns waiting out there to trip it up. We will keep you posted on its progress.
Let me share some links with more information about the RESTORE Act and what it means to us. It is ironic to me that co-sponsor Marco Rubio chose to vote against this measure. You will have to go to this website news item to try to understand his reasoning.
Good news for the Annual Riverkeeper Membership Meeting - March 31 at the ANERR in Eastpoint. My good friend Matt Greene, currently managing the St. Joe Buffer Preserve on Cape San Blas. Matt will be talking about the bio-diversity of the Apalachicola Basin. Since Matt is a very skilled photographer - I'm looking forward to great presentation with awesome slides. We will have some refreshments at the ANERR but I believe the plan is to adjourn the meeting to a local pub where we can all enjoy adult refreshments if we so choose. So join us March 31 - 2 to 4 p.m. at the ANERR. If you haven't been there - the exhibits are terrific and the scenery is gorgeous.
Also on the agenda is an update on RiverWay South Apalachicola Choctawhatchee. RWS AC promotes tourism throughout North Florida and in particular, the group supports eco-tourism, cultural-tourism and historical tourism - all things economically friendly without the negative side effects of a large amusement park. RWS AC celebrates all that is wonderful about North Florida.
Posted Mar 3 2012
I paid a visit to Jeff Massey at the Springhill Regional Landfill. I am the Riverkeeper's representative on the RiverWay South Apalachicola Choctawhatchee and Jeff was kind enough to host our monthly board meeting at the facility in Campbellton - Jackson County. RWS AC promotes rural tourism throughout North Florida from Holmes to Gadsden counties. The Riverkeeper was a founding member of the group under the leadership of Andy Smith.
Those who know me, know that by education I am an environmental chemist. Consequently, I had a million questions for Jeff and he was happy to supply the answers. But here I want to focus on the wildlife habitat created at the landfill - the industry has come along way from the Jersey Meadowlands whose flares of burning gas lit the New Jersey night when I was a child.
The Wildlife Habitat Council recognized the Springfill Landfill for its dedication to the enhancement of wildlife habitat and certified its wildlife habitat program in 2006.
The facility is home to a range of native wildlife including alligators, wood ducks, coots and a large number of other birds and mammals. Catfish and bream now populate their man-made retention ponds. Waste Management continues to preserve and maintain numerous wetland areas on-site. Springhill features a 1,650-foot boardwalk made of recycled plastic that leads through pristine wetlands. In addition, as part of a wetland mitigation project, Waste Management has deeded approximately 2.2 acres of wetlands to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
In addition to that - and I think this is so great - Waste Management is collecting the methane gas emitted by the Springhill Landfill (and every other landfill in the country) and sending it to Alabama Electric Cooperative. The landfill now supplies power to 4,000 homes. That's what I call a win-win situation.
Tours of the habitat are available for garden groups, etc. Contact Waste Management at (850) 263-7100.
Posted Mar 2 2012
I put this in our headline section of the home page but it is too important not to post here as well:
Retired DEP biologist Pam McVety talking about the damage done by this year's legislative session.
Posted Mar 1 2012
Don't miss our Annual Membership Meeting, Saturday March 31, 2 to 4 p.m. Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, Eastpoint, Florida. Special guest speaker: Matt Greene,St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve, Bio-diversity in the Apalachicola River Basin. Refreshments served. To RSVP, contact your Riverkeeper.
World Water Day March 22, 2012 - our most precious resource.
Posted Feb 28 2012
Tell the EPA To Regulate Toxic Dispersants - From the Sierra Club - "Tar balls, dead dolphins, and sick Gulf residents remain in the headlines across the Gulf Coast leaving questions about the long-term impacts of the oil -- and the chemicals used to disperse it -- on our seafood, shorelines, and public health. Tell EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson we need rules that will regulate toxic oil dispersants! When we were in crisis, nearly 2 million gallons of chemical dispersants were dumped into Gulf waters with little knowledge or research into the chemicals' toxic impacts. Currently, regulations dictating how and where dispersants can be used are based solely on their effectiveness at breaking up oil. Tell the EPA that we need to learn from our mistakes. We need to set standards for dispersants that protect public health and the environment!" For more information and to sign-on, please go to http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=226241.0&dlv_id=194761.
Pick Up the Phone For the Gulf - From the Gulf Restoration Network (GRN), "Despite continuing to deal with the worst off-shore oil drilling disaster in U.S. history, BP made nearly $24 billion dollars in profit last year. Meanwhile, the rumors of a settlement between BP and the federal government continue to swirl.... Help us make sure any settlement is indeed fair and reasonable for the Gulf. Please take 5 minutes to make a phone call to President Obama and then share this action with your friends and family. For more information and to make a call, please go to http://healthygulf.org/201202091802/blog/bps-oil-drilling-disaster-in-the-gulf-of-mexico/pick-up-the-phone-for-the-gulf#.TzVk7_7MYL4.twitter.
Posted Feb 17, 2012
Membership Meeting, March 31, 2012, 2 to 4 p.m., Apalachicola Estuarine Research Reserve
Elections, Speakers, Refreshments - we plan to have some fun!
(Scroll down for the video on Falling Waters)
Information on the RESTORE ACT from Board Member Toni Riordan
Here’s the piece from E&E daily about the “RESTORE” vote (also a piece in the Times Pic and maybe others, but I think Paul Quinlan explains it well below). We did send a letter to the Hill supporting the amendment, while listing what was really needed - the Senate RESTORE Act - however we did not put out a press statement. We do want this amendment to be seen as building momentum for RESTORE, but do NOT want it building momentum for this energy bill (which I believe all our groups oppose) nor for the language that was used for this amendment.
So in brief: a good step forward for, and show of support for the intent of, the RESTORE Act, but now, more than ever we need to keep the pressure on the Senate to get it done.
GULF SPILL:
House votes to wall off penalty money for Gulf restoration
Paul Quinlan, E&E reporter
Billions of dollars in Deepwater Horizon spill fines would be walled off in a special trust fund that could only be tapped to pay for Gulf Coast restoration, under a measure approved by the House yesterday.
Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) introduced the amendment, which was attached to the House-passed transportation legislation in a voice vote. He touted it as a milestone in efforts that began shortly after the 2010 spill to dedicate 80 percent of the resulting Clean Water Act fines to Gulf Coast economic and environmental restoration.
Scalise's proposal deftly sidestepped some of the controversies that have prevented similar RESTORE Act legislation from reaching the floor in either chamber (E&E Daily, Dec. 8, 2011).
Still, what will become of the measure is unclear, as the Senate must take up and approve its own transportation legislation. Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), sponsor of the RESTORE Act in the upper chamber, put the full committee-passed bill forward as an amendment to the Senate transportation bill.
If both vehicles pass, the Scalise language would then presumably be reconciled with the Landrieu bill in conference committee and, proponents hope, something close to the full RESTORE Act would become law.
The Scalise provision approved yesterday calls for devoting 80 percent of the fines, which could exceed $20 billion, to be deposited in a newly created "Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Fund." Only an act from Congress could draw from the fund and only for the purpose of economic or environmental restoration in the five Gulf states of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
What may have made the measure more palatable to the deeply divided House was that it did not come with the $1.2 billion price tag assigned the full RESTORE Act by the Congressional Budget Office, which would have added to the cost of the transportation bill.
That is because Scalise's amendment would not divert money headed to the Treasury, like the full RESTORE Act would, but rather segregate the money into a separate fund within the Treasury.
"We need to secure the fines from the Deepwater Horizon disaster for Gulf Coast recovery before a settlement is reached, and this amendment starts that process," Scalise said in a statement issued immediately after the vote. "I'm proud that we achieved this milestone and established a precedent for future votes on the full RESTORE Act."
Agreeing on how to offset the cost of the full RESTORE Act legislation remains a sticking point. Landrieu has called for extending a per-barrel tax on oil drilling for three years but has said she is open to other suggestions.
Disagreement also centers on differences between the House and Senate versions of RESTORE. The House version would allow spending more of the penalty money on economic -- as opposed to environmental -- restoration. In other words, more of the money could be used to build boat ramps, highway interchanges and convention centers, instead of restoring wetlands.
During debate on the Scalise trust fund amendment, Rep. Cathy Castor (D-Fla.), who co-chairs the Gulf Coast Caucus with Scalise, a coalition formed specifically to advocate for sending the penalty money to the five states, went on record with her objections to the full version of the RESTORE Act awaiting consideration by the House.
"I'm going to have to urge everyone to vote no, but let's not lose momentum here," Castor said. "The problems with the RESTORE Act are many."
Among them, she said, was that it does not focus on Gulfwide research and recovery, does not devote sufficient resources to long-term environmental monitoring and potentially duplicates the efforts of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment, or NRDA, process.
But Castor also stepped out of the way, ceding her time to Democratic Rep. Cedric Richmond, one of several Louisiana lawmakers who spoke in favor of the Scalise amendment.
"We should not let the 200 million gallons of oil spilled and 11 lives that were lost open up an opportunity for a windfall to the American Treasury," Richmond said.
He described the amendment as an important step forward.
"It's not perfect," Richmond said. "It's not the end-all. But this is the best way right now to make sure that the sentiment is established."
Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) praised Scalise in a statement for "choreographing this strong vote."
"It's a very important step forward in advancing RESTORE, in modified form," he said. "As a leading member of the Conference Committee on this highway bill, I'll fight for inclusion of the full RESTORE language in the final version as a top priority."
Landrieu also issued a statement commending Scalise and the Louisiana delegation.
"We are not going to stop until the RESTORE Act is passed by both the House and Senate and signed into law by the President," Landrieu said.
Posted Feb 16, 2012
I visited Falling Waters State Park today. Thanks to a wonderful prolonged rain - we actually had the tallest waterfall in Florida functioning. That is a rare occurrence so enjoy.
Posted Feb 10, 2012
Apalachicola Riverkeeper joins lawsuit to stop the 7-year leak at the site of the Taylor Oil well off the coast of Louisiana. Read about it HERE. And view the slick Here.
North Basin Campaign: 100 members at $100 that is our challenge and we have a matching gift waiting for us if we can accomplish our goal. Please join the Riverkeeper today. I will be visiting the entire North Florida basin over the next few weeks in an effort to gain awareness of our goals and mission. If you can host a group of friends, I will be happy to provide information on programs, projects and why the Apalachicola Riverkeeper is working so hard to maintain our way of life here in Northwest Florida. I can be reached at meg@apalachicolariverkeeper.org I look forward to hearing from you.
WFSU's Rob Diaz de Villegas writes about this adventures on the Apalachicola:
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23rd
(FL) 8:30am EST - 4:00pm EST - Building Coastal Community Resilience Workshop - Location: Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, 108 Island Drive, Eastpoint, FL - This workshop is intended to address coastal resilience planning needs of local elected officials, city and county staff, resource managers and others in the Apalachicola Region of Florida. The event will include expert speakers, relevant community examples, and participatory activities. It will highlight the need to adapt to changing environments, including the impacts of sea level rise and dynamic coastlines in Franklin County and surrounding areas. For more information and registration information, please go to http://gulfalliancetraining.org/detail.aspx?Id=40. Registration is required no later than Friday, February 17th.
Stand with the GRN to Hold BP Accountable - "Nearly two years ago the people and places of the Gulf of Mexico suffered the greatest oil disaster in American history. Understanding that there would be an equally historic price for BP to pay, GRN and our partners have been working hard to bring BP's Clean Water Act fines back to the Gulf. Now it seems like BP may settle their case out of court, behind closed doors. Even if the process is not inclusive, we still need to ensure that long-term protection and restoration are guaranteed under any settlement agreed to with BP. Join us in asking the White House, the Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of the Interior to hold BP accountable. " For more information and to take action, please go to https://secure3.convio.net/grn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=333.
Tell the EPA To Regulate Toxic Dispersants - From the Sierra Club - "Tar balls, dead dolphins, and sick Gulf residents remain in the headlines across the Gulf Coast leaving questions about the long-term impacts of the oil -- and the chemicals used to disperse it -- on our seafood, shorelines, and public health. Tell EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson we need rules that will regulate toxic oil dispersants! When we were in crisis, nearly 2 million gallons of chemical dispersants were dumped into Gulf waters with little knowledge or research into the chemicals' toxic impacts. Currently, regulations dictating how and where dispersants can be used are based solely on their effectiveness at breaking up oil. Tell the EPA that we need to learn from our mistakes. We need to set standards for dispersants that protect public health and the environment!" For more information and to sign-on, please go to http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=226241.0&dlv_id=194761.
Posted Feb 3, 2012
Meg Nelson writes: I was pleasantly surprised to discover the beauty of the Town of Chattahoochee, just east of the Gadsden/Jackson County line. Small and charming, I was given a tour by local Leigh Brooks - the landing, the dam, and the beautiful Gholson Nature Park, the Clyde Hopkins Riverside Park with the stunning Victory Bridge.
Leigh told me about a pending project, Chattahoochee Landing that will combine an amphitheater, boat mooring in the Apalachicola River, zip lines and other recreational elements, I'm sure will add much tourism value to the town. Unfortunately, a recent decision to shift the project from sewer to septic creates major problems. The project lies in the flood plain. Apalachicola Riverkeeper is challenging this change. So I was grateful to see the site of the proposed project and be able to understand the true ramifications of this violation to the town's comprehensive plan.
We had a good lunch downtown at Jerry's and I had a chance to admire the old architecture found in some of the oldest homes there. The Jim Woodruff Dam was interesting to me as I'm an old dam admirer - I have spent many happy hours at the Grand Coulee Dam in Washington State. The massiveness of the projects and undertaking just takes my breath away. I detoured on the way home to investigate Three Rivers State Park. It is a wonderful park and it is now on my must-do camping list.
The day was glorious and I really had a marvelous time cruising Hwy. 90 from Marianna on over to Chattahoochee.
Dan Tonsmeire writes:
The half day event in Apalachicola with Representative Patronis was organized by John Robert Middlemas, a former State Legislator and well known conservationist in North Florida. The tour included information about how the land acquisitions and growth management programs of the State of Florida and the federal government have served well to help protect the Apalachicola River and Bay over the past 30-40 years. Representatives from most of the riparian counties were giving a similar message that the reduced flows and persistent drought are having impacts on the River and Bay environment and economies. Gulf County Commissioners Bill Williams and Ward McDaniels and Franklin County Commissioner Joseph Parrish emphasized the need for the State of Florida to help us protect this system which is an economic as well as an ecological treasure for our area. Bryanne White from Calhoun County and Governing Board member of the ACF Stakeholders spoke of past land acquisition efforts and payments in lieu of taxes which were aimed at minimizing reduced taxes from the conservation purchases. Most of those mentioned are behind the efforts of the ACFS. The ACF Stakeholders is a major cooperative initiative to help resolve the 22 year Water Wars between the States of FL, GA, and Al. Bill McCartney, Dan Tonsmeire and Dave McLain also represented the ACF Stakeholders Apalachicola Caucus and spoke to gain the legislature’s help with the development of a Sustainable Water Management Plan and Instream Flow Assessment. Toni Riordan brought to the representatives attention that potential for funding this assessment using funds set aside by the legislature for restoration efforts following the BO Oil Spill. Representative Patronis offerd to assit the effort by including language in a bill he is sponsoring in the House (HB 503).
Here's a great overview of the Apalachicola Basin from Protecting Our Water.
Posted Jan 30, 2012
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9th
(FL) 8:30am CST - 4:00pm CST - Energize Florida Advocacy Day - Location: Florida State Capitol, Tallahassee, FL - Rethink Energy Florida is joining with other organizations to make sure Florida legislators know that we need Renewable Energy and an emphasis on energy efficiency in Florida now! Come for some or all of the event. To register and for more information, please go to http://rethinkenergyflorida.org/events/advocacy-day. Facebook users can go to https://www.facebook.com/events/142194872565556/. There will be solar and energy efficiency displays in the capitol courtyard and rotunda. Come meet with your legislators and make your voice heard.
Posted Jan 27, 2012
Captain Ron Boyce, Executive Director, AMIkids West Florida (left) and Rusty Russell, Executive Director, AMIkids Panama City Marine Institute demonstrate to students how to install shallow seagrass caution markers near Lanark Reef.
Shallow Seagrass Markers Installed
Heartfelt thanks to the faculty, students and board of AMIkids Panama City Marine Institute and AMIkids West Florida for assisting the Apalachicola Riverkeeper with installation of shallow seagrass caution signs. On January 25th the group installed ten markers delineating seagrass beds from Carrabelle to the east end of Lanark Reef. These sea grass beds provide foraging and nursery habitat for over 2,000,000 juvenile grouper and other Gulf species that spend part of their life cycle in near shore waters and return to the Gulf when more fully grown. Over 90% of commercially harvested species in the Gulf spend some part of their life cycle in estuaries like Apalachicola Bay.
Not all seagrass beds are marked, so if in doubt, boaters should go slow to protect the seagrass beds. Seagrasses are flowering plants that live underwater in shallow coastal areas. According to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), 70 percent of Florida’s marine recreational fish depend upon seagrass communities at some time in their lives.
The completion of the installation marks the culmination of a five-year project by the Apalachicola Riverkeeper in collaboration with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, U. S Army Corps of Engineers, Northwest Florida Water Management District, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Marine Research Institute and SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. The signs will reduce damage to the sea grass beds form scarring from the props of boats running in shallow waters, as well as save boaters the cost of replacing damaged props form hitting the sea grass beds when operating in unfamiliar waters.
Posted Jan 26, 2012
Comments Due March 5th - The Public Review Draft of the National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy - In response to increasing impacts of climate change and other stressors on America’s natural resources, the United States Congress has called for the development of a national, government-wide strategy to safeguard fish, wildlife, plants, and the natural systems upon which they depend. The National Fish, Wildlife, and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy is currently being developed with input from a broad range of federal, state, and tribal partners, with active engagement with non-government organizations, industry groups, and private landowners. The Public Review Draft of the National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy is now available for public review and comment. To download a full copy of the report and to comment, please go to http://www.wildlifeadaptationstrategy.gov/public-review-draft.php.
Posted Jan 22, 2012
Okay, apologies for misidentifying Ken Salazar as head of EPA in Friday's eblast. Of course, he is head of the Department of Interior. Lisa P. Jackson is head of the EPA. Blame it on a long week for all of us at Riverkeeper.
Posted Jan 20, 2012
Busy week at the Riverkeeper - I visited with Georgia Ackerman in Tallahassee on Monday. Georgia owns The Wilderness Way - a wonderful outfitter shop in Crawfordsville. She is also a major supporter of the environment and the Apalachicola Riverkeeper. We're starting to make plans for this year's RiverTrek so stay tuned. We are also gearing up for the Apalachicola Blueway Trail designation - that will happen in March. We are starting up our 4th Saturday Paddle again a week from Saturday - many thanks to Katie and Tom Herzog for their help in guiding our paddles.
Tuesday was the start of the Everglades Restoration Conference in Tallahassee. Sen. Graham gave a stirring key-note speech about protecting our natural resources from privatization. There are several bills before the Legislature right now that will pave the way to private ownership of public lands. Tuesday ended with a reception at The Moon and a concert by Gavin DeGraw.
Riverway South Apalachicola-Choctawhatchee met on Thursday in Bristol. After the meeting we took a ride on the Veterans Memorial Railroad, a narrow-gauge track that winds through the cypress off Hwy. 12 South of Hwy. 20. The Veterans Memorial Railroad was formed by a group of local residents of Liberty County and neighboring areas who were interested in both railroading and community service to create a non-profit organization. With a 1/2 mile of track and a "depot" - riders can enjoy a great little jaunt around this Bristol park. More information at Veterans Memorial Railroad.
Posted Jan 18, 2012
THURSDAY, JANUARY 26th
1:00pm CST - 3:00pm CST - Building Disaster Resilient Economies–How the Economic Development Administration Can Assist in Post-Disaster Economic Recovery - Location: Webinar - During 2011, a record number of natural disasters swept through the country–causing loss of life, property damage as well as significant economic damage in many communities. If your community was affected by a natural disaster in 2011, it may be eligible for new federal funding from EDA. The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) in collaboration with the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), and the Business Civic Leadership Center (BCLC), will hold a webinar to showcase successful EDA-funded projects focused on post-disaster economic recovery. In the coming months, EDA is expected to announce the new federal funding opportunity to support long-term economic recovery efforts from disasters in 2011. The webinar will also provide some preliminary guidance on funding priorities and requirements associated with the new federal funding opportunity.
In this webinar, you will learn how to:
• identify critical economic recovery priorities and projects for your community
• leverage EDA funds to secure other sources of financing
• successfully implement these projects to ensure long-term sustainability and community resiliency
For more information and to register, please go to https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/164660170.
Posted Jan 6, 2012
Happy New Year. Sorry for the hiatus from this blog but...travel to Seattle to see family and celebrate Grandma's 100th birthday kept me busy.
Speaking of Seattle, it was so refreshing to see the commitment the community has to conservation and the environment. The City of Seattle has just banned all plastic shopping bags - something I lived with in my little town of Los Gatos California. We all were dedicated to cloth shopping bags and it became a way of life. It seems like when I show up with my own shopping bag in Florida - people look at me like I'm crazy. I hope we all make a commitment to end our dependence on the ever present plastic bag in the coming year. It's a small thing that can change our world.
Life before the EPA...check out this article from the National Archives. In the 1970's the EPA sent photographers around the country to document abuses to land, sea and sky. If you want to go back to the days before the Clean Water Act - look at this article. It's shocking.
And Patagonia - the company - has embraced a new legal status. The Riverkeeper is a beneficiary of the company and we appreciate their support of our Wild and Scenic Film Festival as well as the general support they give to us. Their new legal status protects them from having to post profits over philanthropy to satisfy shareholders. While Patagonia is a privately held company - the new status is an interesting take on balancing shareholder needs vs. stakeholders. Read more about this concept here.
The BP struggle continues...There seems to be no will to hold these companies accountable by our government and regulators. See below.
Petition to Request a Congressional Hearing on Health Effects From the BP Oil Drilling Disaster - This petition, sponsored by Gulf Change and people whose health has been destroyed on America's Gulf Coast, requests a full citizen based congressional hearing concerning actions needed in order to address the continuing health affects since the 2010 BP Deep Water Oil Catastrophe. To read and sign the petition, please go to http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/hold-a-congressional-hearing-concerning-the-continuing-health-affects-from-the-bp-deep-water-oil/.
Petition to Stop BP From Starving Fishermen for Final Releases - This petition, sponsored by the GO FISH Alliance, petitions our elected representatives to stop BP from starving fishermen for final releases. A final release in this agreement drops spill-related claims against BP and all potential defendants. To read and sign the petition, please go to http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/458/124/185/.
The Coast Guard Has Sided With BP - Sign the Gulf Restoration Network's Petition Demanding the Obama Administration Keep Their Promise to Hold BP Accountable - "While we honor the heroism of the the Coast Guard during the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we cannot ignore that they are letting BP off the hook. Under an agreement entered into between BP and the Coast Guard, BP is being given the “all clean” signal in many areas and will not be required to conduct any long-term monitoring. The Obama Administration promised to hold BP accountable for their disaster, we need to remind the President that the Gulf's people and places have not yet been made whole." For more information and to sign the petition, please go to https://secure3.convio.net/grn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=321&JServSessionIdr004=re9oostjx7.app334b.
Posted Dec 29, 2011
More about the Taylor Well chronic leak site in the Gulf of Mexico.
http://blog.skytruth.org/2011/12/taylor-23051-chronic-leak-site-in-gulf.html
Posted Dec 24, 2011
Happy Holidays to all our friends. The Riverkeeper wishes you a Merry Christmas! Let there be peace on earth and let our rivers run free.
And a special message to us all from Sen. Bob Graham:
Posted Dec 19, 2011
If you think we can relax our vigilance on oil spill issues ...Look what's happening at the Taylor Well site...
Posted Dec 13, 2011
NYT editorial on the RESTORE Act is right on:
Posted Dec 9 2011
Continued from the eBlast...Indian Creek Park project from Riverkeeper Dan Tonsmeire:
The students are helping restore the park’s shoreline by planting native vegetation using funds provided by the USFS, national Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and NW Florida Water Management District. Their efforts will improve water quality and reduce erosion of the shoreline. They are also monitoring the changes by working with the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve to measure improvements in water quality and habitat along the shoreline. Today was the fourth visit Franklin County students have made to Indian Creek Park to work with Apalachicola Riverkeeper improve the park from an esthetic and ecologic standpoint. Without their help this project simply would not have succeeded the way it has. The benefits include they will have a place they can return to for years that they know they have worked hard on to keep it nice and healthy for themselves and future generations.
Here is really interesting PDF with everything you need to know to paddle the Apalachicola River. Please check out our Blueway Trail page for maps and more information.
Wow, check this out - sounds interesting and fun. Moss Point is just over the Alabama/MS line on the beautiful Pascagoula River - it would be a drive but worth the effort.
(MS) 9:00am CST - Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Holiday Hayride - Location: Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve at the Coastal Resources Center. 6005 Bayou Heron Road, Moss Point, MS - Did you ever wonder what native greenery was safe to have in your house for holiday decorations? Join us for one of our special holiday hayrides and to learn how to identify the different native plants used in holiday decorations and the do’s and don’ts for collecting them. We will serve hot chocolate, peppermints and cookies after the hayride to get you in the holiday spirit! Pre-registration is recommended! Please go to http://goog_1983459270/nerr.org/archives/1491 for more information and to pre-register.
Posted Dec 7 2011
Huge bear hunt in New Jersey - do you think this is a good way to control wildlife?
Who knew? Florida leads the country in the number of injuries from wild exotic animals. Read about how Zanesville (the massacre of wild animals) could happen right here.
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