To the Editor:
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is pleased with (the) decision by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approving the state's numeric nutrient criteria. The result will be cleaner water.
EPA's decision confirms the efforts of hard-working scientists at DEP. EPA's decision is also supported by Judge Cantor who, after reviewing the science and criteria, upheld DEP's rules entirely.
DEP and EPA are working diligently to complete the job statewide, returning the focus to restoration rather than litigation.
While EPA has approved the state's criteria, we are disappointed about EPA's decision to issue new proposed federal rules. We will work with them to craft solutions that will allow the State to assume all nutrient criteria rulemaking in Florida.
Florida knows its waters best and we remain committed on the path to a state-lead solution, which is the best answer for Florida.
Fact Box
- Statement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
- Statement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
