By Jackie, Keystone Heights, FL
I’m a 5th generation Floridian and I’m sure my great-great grandfather is rolling over in his grave because of the wanton greed that has almost destroyed some of the greatest treasures on earth: our beautiful rivers, incredible lakes, and stunning springs. The last time I went to visit some of the springs of my childhood, they were so deteriorated that it made me literally cry.
Over-development and poor planning, consideration of how much money can be gained rather than what will the ecological impact be, disgusting dumping allowed for big ag and industry is why we are losing Florida. Why do we tout this growth policy of inviting people to come on down here knowing we have already depleted the water supply, particularly in south Florida. Saving Florida’s natural resources should not be politicized. We all need clean water and air. Why do private businesses get to go in our state and national forests and make millions from cutting down the timber and then make more money by drilling or fracking for gas, titanium and other specious minerals? Why do big bottling companies get to get richer by withdrawing water from our springs despite public outcry? The reason is because people don’t vote for the politician that has an environmental agenda. Quite frankly, I don’t understand why everyone is not as outraged a I am. We need to develop an environmental ethic in Florida that supersedes profits. Our losses are too great. Vote the smarmy liars out and put in people who don’t just talk the talk but walk the walk and save Florida. That’s the only way things will change.
