Vote for Clean Water 

I believe the salinization of the St Johns River is the greatest threat to the health of the river. High saltwater levels have reportedly begun killing the trees surrounding the river and threatening to throw this vital ecosystem out of balance. Saltwater intrusion is mainly caused by sea level rise and overuse of our aquifers. As a Senator, one piece of legislation I will sponsor to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise will be public funding for wetlands restoration to create vibrant living shorelines. Living shorelines act as a buffer between our rivers and the ocean and filter out pollutants. We must also work on water conservation so we don’t overdraw fresh water from our aquifers allowing saltwater to seep in. I will also sponsor legislation to mandate the use of water-efficient appliances in construction, the modification of existing appliances to be more water-efficient and maximizing the use of gray-water systems for irrigation. These systems will not only reduce our water use but save us all money in the long run.

Nutrient pollution mainly comes from fertilizer runoff from lawns and agriculture into our waterways. An overabundance of nutrients in the water can contribute to an algal bloom. We must implement policies that reduce the use of fertilizers and ensure fertilizers remain out of our waterways. I will sponsor legislation to provide public funding and tax incentives for conversion to sustainable, organic farming methods as well as funding research at Florida’s colleges and universities that focuses on organic farming and integrated pest management, rather than chemical biocides and fertilizers. We must also mandate systems to capture or filter fertilizer out of runoff through requirements for xeriscaping and retention of native vegetation in new construction; and for previous construction these efforts will reduce the likelihood of nutrient pollution and toxic algae blooms in the St Johns River

I am a former intern at the Democratic Environmental Caucus of Florida (DECF) and have worked with them during session to push for environmental policies. I am also the sitting Treasurer of the DECF. I am also one of the creators of the Florida Climate and Economic Defense Initiative (FLCEDI) which is the most comprehensive plan to date to combat climate change in Florida while creating millions of good paying jobs, ensuring access to clean air and water, and increasing climate resiliency in at risk areas. I along with the rest of the FLCEDI team have recruited over 40 Floridian candidates for state house, senate, and congress to sign onto this legislation therefore pledging their campaign to the ideals I laid out above therefore laying the groundwork for a large voting block of legislators committed water conservation and climate justice.

Part of the Florida Climate and Economic Defense Initiative is to address sea level rise and protect vulnerable communities through sea walls, coastal armoring, and living shorelines as I mentioned earlier. FLCEDI also requires a plan to be created to bring Florida to a carbon negative economy by 2030 which is essential to slowing and mitigating climate change. I will also support legislation to: Place stricter regulations and penalties on corporate polluters Invest in solar and wind power Require and drastically improve statewide recycling program Boost funding for Florida Department of Environmental Protection

I agree with the restoration of the Ocklawaha river 100%. I will increase biodiversity, habitat access, and the overall health of each river system. This is a perfect example of the kind of environmental projects both the state and local governments should be funding

Nutrient runoff caused by overdevelopment and unchecked sprawl appears to be the biggest threat at this time, in addition to climate change. We should reestablish the office of Growth Management so that the DEP has oversight to ensure compliance with the law, as the current “honor system” is not working. We also need to increase funding for DEP so they can be more proactive to crack down on polluters throughout the state.

We should reestablish the office of Growth Management so that the DEP has oversight to ensure compliance with the law, as the current “honor system” is not working. We need common sense growth management laws and we need to enforce those laws to protect the environment against overdevelopment and unchecked sprawl. We also need to increase funding for DEP so they can be more proactive to crack down on polluters throughout the state.

I will be a leader to ban fracking in Florida because fracking is a threat to our groundwater. I will seek increased funding to protect and restore our vital springs. I will also seek to reassess the permitting process and requirements for those who seek to sell water from our aquifer.

Climate change is a threat to Florida. Transitioning to clean, renewable energy will help avert the worst impacts of climate change while creating good jobs, boosting our economy, saving consumers money, and protecting our health. Floridians are already feeling the effects of climate change, from sunny-day flooding to sea level rise. Meanwhile, clean, renewable energy options have grown rapidly as technology prices continue to plummet. I support policies and programs to transition to clean, carbon-neutral energy by 2050. Florida also took a first important step last year with passage of the bill sponsored by Sen. Jose Javier Rodriguez that mandates that experts study the potential of damage from sea level rise before construction begins, looking at impact on public safety and the environment and providing alternatives to lower the risk. We need to build upon that first step.

We need to listen to scientists and ecology experts and give them the tools they need to advance effective solutions.

As a lifelong resident of Central Florida, I have seen the damage that runaway organic compound pollution can do, especially when in tandem with man-made restrictions and diversions to natural water flow. I grew up a few hundred yards from the shores of Lake Jesup, a once vibrant and pristine spring-fed body of water along the St. Johns, now afflicted by runaway muck from organic pollution and inexpert human manipulation. I believe it’s time or state focuses environmental funding on more than just beaches and the Everglades. Our inland springs and waterways lack vital funding for protection and rehabilitation. I’ll fight for programs and dollars to do just that.

Agriculture is a large consumer of water in our state. Industrial farms, especially, need to be accountable for the quality of water that they return into the system. To that end, the legislature must supply state agencies with the necessary funds to ensure that water quality regulations are enforced.

I grew up on the St. Johns and its tributaries. I love our land and waterways here in Central Florida and, like you reading this, am a true conservationist at heart. I’m excited to be an advocate in Tallahassee for the river and its stakeholders. You can always count on me to have an open door and to answer your call (my cell is 407-752-0258). I want to be the first stop in the capital for advocates and hope to be placed on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government once elected. A position here would allow me to fight for policy and funding where it counts.

I believe that Florida must take sea level rise into account as we make future development plans. It’s responsible and it’s just common sense. If we don’t start now, we will surely pay later. I believe that we must use the best available science to make updates to our building codes at a state level. At the local level, sea-level rise needs to be taken into account when any new project is proposed in coastal and vulnerable areas.

I support the breaching of the Cross Florida dam to increase habitat for wildlife and restore natural flow through the Ocklawaha and into the St. Johns.

Over development and unmanaged Federal Waters. Support legislation to limit development that will burden our waterways and fight legislation which will allow too much access to rural areas.

Work with agricultural producers to continue to reduce sulfur and other toxicants and get more support from the Federal government to provide resources to Federal Waters or to cede control of Federal Waters to the state.

I am happy to express public support for measures to protect groundwater and to sponsor legislation.

See above.

I support restoration.

The greatest threat I see is the weakening of the EPA and the erosion of the Clean Water Act. When elected, both of the institutions will have my support and I work to buttress them from future political grand standing.

Enforcement of the Clean Water Act and adherence to Basin Management Action Plan. Agricultural runoff and fertilizer is the largest component on nutrient pollution in the St Johns.

Organize locally to fund restoration. Introduce legislation to enhance existing water regulations. Hold the EPA accountable for rules enforcement, and strengthen where needed. Voting for legislation that has the best interest of our natural resources in mind. Working to pass an infrastructure that will update our drinking and waste water systems.

Rejoining the Paris Accords, portions of the Green New Deal, and strengthening and expanding the Clean Air Act.

For restoration, 100%.

The increase in pollutants to the watershed. I support proposals that treat, divert and capture stormwater runoff to reduce pollutant loads entering the St. Johns River.

Diversion, treatment and storage of stromwater runoff

I support changes to Florida laws to reduce the amount of water permitted for commercial use to help preserve future water capacity for residential usage.

I support public policies that help combat the adverse effects of climate change and support rthe expansion renewable energy technologies to reduce the use of fossil fuels.

I support the goals of this project.

Bio solid pollution that is entering the river down state. While in the Legislature I have advocated for stricter restrictions on the disposal of bio solids in or near the river and will continue to do so.

Looking at research from UF/IFAS the science is now looking at regulating both phosphorous and nitrogen levels to prevent algal blooms. The wise use of fertilizers, such as only when lawns show nutrient deficiencies, and avoiding the use of fertilizers just prior to a rain. In addition, we can each use chemicals responsibly. Proper maintenance of storm water systems and removal of outdated septic system is proximity to the river is also important.

I will continue to do what I have done in Tallahassee which is advocating and voting for the record levels of funding that we have appropriated for our lakes, rivers and springs. As the state continues to grow, more and more pressure will e placed on limited resources. Proper management and planning is vital to preserving our quality of life for future generations.

I have been an advocate for upgrading infrastructure and storm water abatement from the coastal areas. This includes beach hardening and dune restoration.

There is a long history of litigation at the state and federal levels that impact what the Legislature can or will do with the Ockawaha River. I am interested in exploring option that increases water flow while preserving the recreational opportunities that are currently being enjoyed in the surrounding counties.

I believe the biggest threat is climate change and groundwater pollution. We must regulate the use of pesticides and agricultural chemicals to ensure the health of our waterways.

I think the legislature should pass bills that will regulate the use of nitrogen and phosphorus to ensure that they are not carelessly polluting the river. If we can slow the pollution, we can control the growth of algae.

When I am elected I will support bills that regulate pollutants and implore my community to not waste water or energy. Our water supply is not endless so we must save as much as we can.

Climate change is one of the biggest problems facing Florida and the nation as a whole. I support the green new deal and think it could be a good idea on the state level. This problem will not go away if we ignore it. We must change our habits today.

I support it 100%.

I believe river dredging and saltwater intrusion are the greatest threat to the St. Johns River and they are related. The St. Johns River is becoming more like an ocean, and less like a river, with each passing day. That’s having an impact on river height levels, coastal erosion in the intracoastal, and the ecosystems within the river. Saltwater intrusion is having a negative impact on fresh water ecosystems, and the rising waters, being caused by dredging, are causing damage to properties. As State Representative, I’ll look to reduce the dredging, and tackle the issue of sea level rise within our coastal communities. We have a legislature that says they are going to act but hasn’t. We must address sea level rise today, because it’s not just our coastal communities and properties at stake, but the St. Johns River and the species that live within in.

We’ve got to reduce the nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients which are causing these blooms in the St. Johns River. That’s why I will support clean water legislation that addresses runoff issues from industrial industries, addresses storm water runoff, fixes old water pipelines in our communities, and addresses wastewater treatment plants. We need real legislation that addresses water issues in Florida; not half-baked attempts to pass legislation that looks good for the resume but actually does little. We need to lead by example and work to protect our rivers and water from these toxic algae blooms. Our tourism industries, our ecosystems and our wildlife are at risk if we do nothing.

We should raise awareness about the need to conserve our water resources, not to overpump our aquifer, and make Floridians realize the importance of conserving when they can. This would include a public awareness campaign… conserving water actually saves us all money. Lower water production will lead to lower water utility bills. It also results in a reduction of water use in wastewater treatment plants, saving the state money as well as reducing environmental impacts of runoff. There are many advantages to water conservation and it starts with not only a cleaner environment, but also saving taxpayers money. As a state, our leaders can and should be more aggressive in how we advertise the advantage of water conservation and the need to protect our groundwater.

I would support addressing carbon by supporting legislation that reduces our carbon emissions as a state. We should look into legislation that will build up our dune systems, protecting our coastal communities from rising sea levels. We should support local community infrastructure improvements, especially as it relates to drainage and storm water systems. I would also back legislation that provides tax credits to farmers, like legislation which has been introduced, that addresses the carbon they are producing regionally and supports them for reducing the carbon production in our area. Florida can and should lead the nation in clean energy, which will bring good-paying jobs to our local economies and curb our carbon emissions.

I support the restoration of the lower Ocklawaha River. It would help local wildlife, provide water quality improvements, help to reduce the recent increased salinities in and around the St. Johns River, and protect and support endangered species, while giving a boost to ecosystems. Florida is supposed to lead when it comes to environmental regulations – our tourism industry, our agriculture industry, rely on a clean and safe environment. In addition, the restoration of the lower Ocklawaha River will result in expanded recreational opportunities, and give a boost to tourism and economic opportunities in the region.

Excessive nutrient levels from stormwater runoff and dumping of biosolids. We must take another look at the recommendations of the blue-green algae task force and take more stringent measures to begin restoring Florida’s water quality.

Stop dumping biosolids, find another mechanism to convert the material into something that doesn’t make its way into a watershed.

It’s going to be a key part of both sea level rise resiliency efforts, growth management and transitioning to a green infrastructure to promote sustainability. Conservation will be a key element in establishing genuine sustainability. We can’t just keep giving water away to Nestle.

I would mobilize the state university system to undertake a comprehensive analysis of all the dimensions of the challenges posed by climate change and sea level rise. That is, I would give them direction and funding to examine every aspect of the phenomena and to recommend programs and policies for consideration by the legislature. We must address the social justice dimension of adaptation and mitigation, as well as issues like property law for private property that will be lost to SLR, and must be restored to a more natural state as part of managed retreat. The state university system is an enormous resource that is not being properly leveraged to help find workable, effective solutions to solving this crisis.

I’m in favor of restoring the Ocklawaha. We’ll have to look at the economic cost to the region from the change in recreation and perhaps offer support in attracting new recreation users and creating new opportunities for local business in the restored watershed.

Sea level rise is the greatest long term threat to our river and city. I will fight for the resources necessary to invest in natural mitigation and sea walls, remove septics from the ground, and harden our infrastructure and drainage.

Regulation surrounding the use of fertilizer and chemicals is essential to protect the river.

I’d like to look into opportunities for homeowners to use grey water and runoff from roofs for use in toilets and other purposes outside of consumption or cleaning. Additionally, I will stand firm against attempts by developers to bend the rules and will work collaboratively with them and organizations like the Riverkeeper to promote better green techniques.

Mentioned above, I see sea level rise as a huge threat to our river and city. I will push for the resources necessary to not just protect property but buy out neighborhoods which are at high risk for continual flooding and get septics out of the ground.

I am absolutely in favor of securing the resources necessary to restore the Ocklawaha.

The biggest threat to the St. Johns Rivers, and many other Florida waterways, is the power of the largest corporations and the ultra wealthy who prioritize profits over the interests of the public and general Floridians. We must always ensure that the St. Johns River is protected from water withdrawals, polluters, and possible privatization. We must work to ensure that Tallahassee always works with organizations, such as the St. Johns Riverkeeper, to always protect the St. Johns River and holding those in power accountable. We must never sell our beautiful water systems in the name of profit.

We must continue to invest, research, and develop new technologies and techniques to reduce the nutrient pollution from our wastewater treatment facilities, our farms, and the urban centers. Through policies and proposals, such as the Green New Deal and the Florida Climate + Economic Defence Initiative we can achieve a better society, protected water systems, and limit the amount of nutrient pollution.

As we face the growing threats of privatization of our natural water resources and the existential threat of Climate Change, we must plan for the future and ensure that water conservation and the protection of our groundwater are paramount. We will work with the private and public sector as well as the environmental movement to ensure that we are implementing and fully funding new programs and services to prioritize water conservation and ensure that the general public is informed of the importance of water conservation. Regarding the use of our groundwater, its important that we always ensure that the use of Florida’s water is in the best interest of the Florida public rather than of that of large corporations and the ultra wealthy.

Climate Change is the greatest existential crisis according to the U.N., the scientific community, and the U.S. Military. We must begin to address the threat of Climate Change including rising waters. When in office, I will work with the scientific community, local environmental activists, and our federal partners to ensure that our communities have the support, funding, and technology needed to protect themselves from the effects of Climate Change.

I fully support the restoration of the Ocklawaha River and believe that it is long past time to right these wrongs and ensure that the communities of the Ocala National Forest reep from the ecological benefits of the restoration. Also, expanding the economic opportunities in the region will provide more support for the residents of the Forest and provide more funding for public resources and services.

I believe the biggest threat is climate change and groundwater pollution. We must regulate the use of pesticides and agricultural chemicals to ensure the health of our waterways.

I think the legislature should pass bills that will regulate the use of nitrogen and phosphorus to ensure that they are not carelessly polluting the river. If we can slow the pollution, we can control the growth of algae.

When I am elected I will support bills that regulate pollutants and implore my community to not waste water or energy. Our water supply is not endless so we must save as much as we can.

Climate change is one of the biggest problems facing Florida and the nation as a whole. I support the green new deal and think it could be a good idea on the state level. This problem will not go away if we ignore it. We must change our habits today.

I support it 100%.

The greatest to the St. Johns River is our lack of action to protect it. In addition to preventing pollution and toxins, we must stop approving projects that threaten the vitality of the river and drain water from it each day.

One of the ways we can prevent toxic algae blooms is preventing nutrient pollution. We must do more to protect the water from septic leakage and fertilization runoff.

I think we have to do a better job teaching people about water conservation and explaining ways everyday people can play a role in this effort. It is also important that we pass public policy that reflects our commitment to water conservation. We can do this through local ordinances on sprinkler use, usage of reclaimed water where appropriate and more.

We have to get serious about it. The state needs to give more funding for environmental protection and not raid the funds and trust that were created to fund these type of projects.

Storm water, agricultural and industrial run off. In my second term I’ll continue to pass legislation to fund additional clean water projects. I passed six in my first term.

Stopping pollution at the source and implementing effective mitigation protocols. Algae blooms are most often the result of poor pollution prevention and failed watershed management practices.

Based on my 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, leadership by example is the best course of action to implement real change. I’ll sponsor and pass meaningful legislation to protect Florida’s unique watershed and aquifer.

During my first term we passed legislation to conduct a resilency study and make scientific recommendations. I’d like to conduct a complete review of that study in order to develop an executable strategy for our state. I believe we need a complete plan or “road map” for Florida, not just working around the edges.

I support it.

One of the greatest, ongoing threats to the St. Johns River is pollution and waste affecting the water quality of the river. As a State Representative, I would be working towards a solution that would include regulating sewage treatments and work towards replacing failed septic tanks in District 29. I recognize this is only one part of the many moving parts of preserving, maintaining, and aiming to regain a safe water quality. Advocating for more regulation when it comes to sewage treatments can prevent harmful metals, pharmaceuticals and pollutants futheruthering the threat to the river. My aim is to take steps to prevent and reduce. Proper funding is needed both for FDACS and FDEP to guarantee proper results and move on to prevent results.

Moving forward with advocating for a stricter and consistent sewage system regulation, this would be one of the most effective steps. Along with reviewing the effectiveness and improving sewage treatment plants, I will be on board to make it implemented that these ordinances are seen and attended to by making sure there is some sort of appropriation and education as to the effects of not keeping up with the regulations. By taking these stricter preventative measures, we can keep our water quality safe and take the necessary steps to not only prevent toxic algae blooms but get constituents of District 29 involved in taking part in doing so too.

BMPs are the blueprints in ensuring environmental conservation, protecting water quality, and irrigation to reduce water and nutrient loss. I support the local education of water conservation, promoting the importance of fertilizer ordinances and ensuring there is proper funding to enforce those ordinances. This would look like providing education and training for those who have businesses that are pest control and landscaping. Encouraging there to be a more up to date certification that should be upheld to be aware of the practices that should be in use. By focusing on prevention and education, this can be a community effort.

Flooding due to sea level rise is a big challenge due to thousands of miles of coastline, low elevation, and many communities built near swampland throughout the state, but there are solutions to keep coastal communities safe. State Legislators can have a unique role in protecting communities from rising waters, and that includes increasing funding for infrastructure, instituting flood prevention in urban and house development, and giving local communities the personnel and resources to plan effectively for their local area. Programs like Florida’s Resilient Coastlines Program need greater attention. Lastly, we need to work hand-in-hand with the federal government including Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development to command greater attention to areas like Tampa Bay and other high-risk communities.

I am in full support of breaching the Rodman Dam and restoring the flow of the Ocklawaha River. From the St. John Riverkeeper’s website itself, it talks about restoring more than 15,000 acres of floodplain forests and wetlands and more than 20 springs submerged as a result of the dam. Additionally, it points out the valuable recreational and commercial fish species free access to their traditional range in the upper parts of the river and Silver Springs, including striped bass, channel catfish, mullet, American shad and eels. This increases habitat for wildlife, including black bears and the endangered manatee. Lastly, it improves water quality in the Ocklawaha, St. Johns and Silver Springs while expanding recreation, tourism, and economic opportunities

Among other things, some major concerns are phosphorus pollution, heavy metals and salt water intrusion .A representative in the state house must fight to protect Florida’s waterways against the corporate polluters and industrial facilities that continue to dump chemicals without restriction. I am a director of West Central region of The newly formed FL Rights of Nature Network (FRONN.ORG) I will fight against State legislative preemption of local municipalities and individual rights to protect the natural elements of their communities and our state! Please see the FRONN.ORG website for more detailed information about this game changing approach to environmental protection in our state!

Restore the rights and the power to the people and away from corporate polluters buy up ending the current system of Environmental protection which is basically controlled by corporate polluters!

Protecting Florida‘s water and conservation land is my number one priority. I will fight to protect our water from corporate polluters which I feel are the number one issue threatening our quality of life here in the beautiful state of Florida.

And intense comprehensive task force including members of the environmental community needs to be formed and serious attention must be paid to the facts presented by the science doesn’t that currently we have a state legislature it does not take climate change seriously.

I studied the destruction and restoration project of the Kissimmee River In depth and in researching the Ocklawaha River issues I see that breaching the dam Is vital to the restoration. But beyond this I must stress that protections need to be put in place to ensure that these river destructions never happen again. This is why I am a Florida Rights of Nature Network board member and director and I believe that the only way to save Florida’s waterways is to move away from the current system and into one that is sustainable and local in nature! The state legislative body seats need to be filled with environmentally conscious representatives and not those who support the corporate polluters! I am one such candidate that will represent the rights of the people and nature in Tallahassee!

Increased population adding pollutants in our waterway; overdevelopment of lands near or on environmentally sensitive lands. To solve this problem I will repeal the land mitigation credit that was passed this last legislative session so that developed lands must be preserved in the local area they are impacted. Bring back the annual agricultural inspection from the 3 years just passed this past session.

Over nitrification and phosphorus. I would like one of my bills to be a mandatory rain season State no fertilize in any store.

Increase education and regulation on wasting water, lawn watering etc. Incentivize water conservation products and utilities. I know there is a huge gap here. I worked for a small business sprinkler company. I would impose fines on the utility company for excessive water usage which would be passed onto the customer.

Land by-backs and stop development on costal areas at known risk. Move people out of the areas we know nature is going to take over. Stop allowing insurance companies to insure lands in FEMA flood zones.

The restoration of the Ocklawaha mirrors the restoration of District 53 restoration of the Indian River Lagoon in the ecological benefits of river grass, fish and wildlife, economic and recreational opportunities.

Agricultural run off and over development.

Identify those who create the run off and assess the cost of clean up to those businesses and individuals.

Supposed legislation that not only demonstrates the causes but exposes the long term damage to the ecosystem, as well as the detrimental effect on lives and the economy.

I would support policies such as the Green New Deal. Climate Change is a global issue that must be first dealt with locally and nationally.

I am in favor of all legislation and action that restores and protects our ecosystems and environment.

I believe the toxic algae blooms are the greatest threat to the St Johns River. Not only do these blooms warm the water and directly kill wildlife, but they are also particularly dangerous because the river empties into the ocean here the effects of the toxic algae blooms are felt by more plants and animals. Moreover, the warmer water flowing into the ocean affects currents and natural warming and cooling cycles of the coastal waters. In essence, the toxic algae blooms are not only a substantial threat to the St Johns River, but also to ecosystems and environments far beyond it. This problem, despite its gravity, has been met with a lack of attention and resources. By and large, environmental crises are consistently pushed to the back burner of policy agendas. If elected, I will use my office to prioritize environmental concerns such as the toxic algae blooms in the St Johns River. I will fight for funding, education, and infrastructure building in regards to protecting the river.

The overarching strategy to protect the river from nutrient pollution and toxic algae blooms should focus on preventing the blooms from growing in the first place by stopping pollution from the source. The Blue Green Algae Task Force has created a list of comprehensive recommendations that I believe are necessary reforms. Additionally, in order to ensure that proper standards are being enforced, I support funding for and mandating agricultural best management practices. A current proposed bill, for instance, does not require funding or penalize noncompliance. I also support the ban on synthetic fertilizers and rebuilding agriculture infrastructure to achieve greater sustainability, which can be achieved with government subsidies and programs that I will fight for in Congress.

As I mentioned, I believe the biggest reason why environmental issues are often neglected is because of a lack of prioritization. In Congress, I will demonstrate leadership on water conservation by consistently advocating for it, and other environmental issues, and refusing to let it be pushed aside. Young people like myself have the most at stake when it comes to the environment — and we’re ready to fight for it. I support the use of financial incentives to encourage people to use reclaimed water or stormwater, as well as incentives for users who meet certain water conservation guidelines. I also support an increase in EPA funding and oversight to help manage groundwater and oversight to agricultural and recreational industries.

In addition to feasibly implement the Green New Deal and other ambitious environmental legislation, we must first remove the corruptive influence of dark money in politics. Before we can pass climate-friendly legislation and enact much-needed and urgent change, we must end the subsidies and close the loopholes that have been propping up polluting industries. Big money has put the fate of our nation in the hands of profit-driven corporations, effectively distorting our democracy and polluting our planet. Polluting industries are increasing public health concerns while exacerbating environmental harm; our government is not only permitting this behavior, but by subsidizing it, they are supporting and encouraging it. If elected, I will fight to eliminate these subsidies and instead redirect the money, approximately $20 billion, towards clean and renewable energy alternatives.

The Ocklawaha River was considered one of the most endangered rivers in 2020 after a rich history as a throughway for transportation and tourism. I fully support reconnecting the Ocklawaha River. Reconnecting the rivers would bring back native species populations and rebuild habitats for endangered species. A reconnection would be economically beneficial for the areas along the river, as there will be more land and opportunity for recreational activities. While more money will be made from increased tourism, less money will be spent on dam maintenance and vegetation control. Restoring the Ocklawaha river would Florida’s natural beauty, add wealth to the area, and provide more land for people to tour, kayak, travel, and experience.

I believe the greatest threats to the river continue to be septic tanks, ground water runoff, algae blooms, water draw drowns, and rising seas. If elected I would support bills to address infrastructure needs, limit the pollution, and water draw down, mitigation and climate initiatives to address rising seas and salt water intrusion.

We need to pass laws to prevent sewage sludge from getting into the river. Stronger fertilizer ordinances would help too. On the federal level, we need to address rising seas and fund proper mitigation and infrastucture needs.

Personally following restrictions for lawn watering and other water conservation methods. Also, making education about the environment and our impact on it front and center in my campaign.

It’s first important to acknowledge that the climate crisis is real and already hurting our communities. We must protect our wetlands, and enact smart growth policies. Ultimately we must end our dependence on fossil fuels, which continue to trap harmful greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and heat up the planet. We should invest in green technologies like solar energy, and in sustainability practices.

I’m in support of restoring the Ocklawaha River’s natural flow. It’s the largest tributary to the St. Johns and it’s restoration would significantly improve the health of the river and mitigate some of the harmful effects of dredging.

I support the restoration project as defined by the DEP. It seems to be both economical and effective.

We must protect our environment for moral, economic, and security reasons. Morally, we owe it to our children and grandchildren who will bear the burden of our failure to act. Economically, no state depends on the environment more than Florida; it is integral to our way of life. I believe the greatest threat to the St. Johns is the ongoing emergence of Harmful Algae Blooms (HABS) that have plagued the state at large. Congress passed two of my measures to combat harmful algae blooms, which are harmful to human health, water quality, recreation and tourism, and the economy. The first measure increases funding for NOAA to research ways to reduce HABs, and the second measure provides NOAA with $1 million to sponsor a much-needed study on the economic impacts of HABs, both nationally and in hard-hit states like Florida. A better understanding of economic impacts will likely drive federal and state policymakers to enact additional measures to combat HABs.

Regulating both point and nonpoint source pollution at the federal and state level is necessary to address the ongoing damage to our waterways. Increasing water quality standards will decrease the release of phosphorus and nitrogen into the water by the real estate and agriculture industries. Florida must also take advantage of federal grants from the Environmental Protection Agency designed to give local and state governments the flexibility to create conservation programs to reduce water pollution from storm runoff and other sources that are specific to their communities.

I will continue to work closely with state leaders and the St. Johns River Water Management District to ensure the bodies of water in my district and around the state are utilizing best conversation practices. In particular, I’m interested in the proposed conservation projects in the Lake Jesup watershed including the restoration of the natural flow of the St. Johns River into the lake. As a Member of Congress, I am advocating for the inclusion of such projects in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) Reauthorization.

Climate change is real—and Florida is ground zero for its devastating effects. If we don’t take urgent action now, future generations might not be able to overcome the rising sea levels, damage to our fisheries, more frequent and stronger storms, and hotter temperatures that could render our state unlivable. I’m a proud member of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, which brings Democrats and Republicans together to combat climate change while growing our economy and creating good jobs. I also helped introduce the CLIMATE Act, which would nullify the president’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord.

I support the restoration of the Ocklawaha River to its original state. Around Florida, we’ve seen the devastating environmental impacts when delicate ecosystems are disrupted by human intervention. The Florida way of life is built on its natural beauty—its clean waterways, beaches, and air. Like so many Floridians, I love to explore our state’s natural wonders and I especially love to fish with my family. We must treasure and preserve what we have been given.