While the Everglades still struggle years after a landmark state and federal agreement on restoration plans, Florida Division of Elections records show tens of millions in political contributions from an industry that environmentalists blame for pollution in the wetlands.
The sugar industry, led by United States Sugar and Florida Crystals, steered $57.8 million in direct and in-kind contributions to state and local political campaigns between 1994 and 2016, according to a review of state elections records by the Tallahassee bureau shared by The Miami Herald and the Tampa Bay Times. here
Manatee deaths linked to pollution have resumed in the algae-stricken Indian River Lagoon of Brevard County, according to state wildlife officials. Since the end of May, eight manatee carcasses have been recovered, bearing signs of trauma that has killed more than 150 of the marine mammals in the past four years.here
Photos and news videos of gunk-covered shorelines are making headlines all over the world. Why would anyone bring their families to vacation on Playa Guacamole? And do they even make haz-mat suits in children’s sizes?here
Standing just feet away from putrid algae fouling local waters last week, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio questioned whether buying land south of Lake Okeechobee to build reservoirs to reduce discharges would help clean the St. Lucie River. Another elected official who hasn't publicly supported buying land is Republican Gov. Rick Scott, who's been noncommittal despite reporters asking for his stance several times in recent years. Rubio and Scott have another thing in common: They've received the most campaign contributions from the sugar industry.here
The Hillsborough County School Board backed off on a vote for inclusion, sending conservative activist Terry Kemple and The Citrus Taliban on a victory lap. Theyflooded a board meeting by the dozens and vowed political retribution should this pass. Cindy Stuart should be more concern with her vote for TBX.here