New study based on flawed past studies could be used to justify ban on fertilizer bans — leading to dirtier water     VoteWater Deep Dive: Get ready for the fight over fertilizer "Strong" fertilizer ordinances with summer blackout periods are literally the least local governments can do to keep excess nutrients out of troubled waterways, and some 130 counties and municipalities across Florida have taken this key step. But when the Florida Legislature reconvenes in January, lawmakers may have a flawed new study at their fingertips showing these bans aren't effective — and they may use it to "ban the bans," preempting local attempts to regulate summertime fertilizer use. For water bodies already plagued by excess nutrients, this could be a disaster. Our latest "Deep Dive" takes a look at the history, the problems with existing studies and the potential damage from any attempt to "ban the bans." This is shaping up to be a major fight in 2024 — and we've got you covered so you can be informed and throw a few rhetorical punches yourself. Read our latest 'Deep Dive' DONATE TO VOTEWATER   Lake O watch: Closer to the danger zone  An extraordinarily wet week pushed Lake Okeechobee much closer to the point where damaging discharges to both coasts could begin. U.S. Army Corps officials have said those discharges will start if the lake hits 16.5 feet; the lake rose from 15.45 feet on Wednesday, Sept. 20, to 15.9 feet on Wednesday, Oct. 4 — nearly half a foot higher in just two weeks. With what's being termed a "strong" El Nino on tap this winter, it's possible the lake levels will stay higher than water managers want. That in turn could ramp up pressure for dry season discharges. Stay tuned. Priority: Cleaner water (and more) Our friends at Friends of the Everglades have unveiled their 2024 Legislative Priorities; topping the list are wetlands protections, stepping up the fight against blue-green algae and demanding Florida fix the "basin management action plans" that serve as the (failing) roadmaps to cleaner water. Check out the full list, and follow Friends (and VoteWater) all session long for updates and opportunities to weigh in on key legislative proposals. Read the list ICYMI: That mailer you got about septic and sewer pollution was mean, green - and totally bogus We recognize "sugar spin" when we see it; so when a fishy mailer from a fishy group warning that septic and faulty sewage system were the main cause of most local water problems, we knew it was bunk - and you can check out the details in last week's investigation. Read the investigation BECOME A MEMBER DONATE P.S. Signatures Needed! The "Right to Clean and Healthy Waters" petition needs 900,000 signature by November 30 to get on the 2024 ballot. The petition can be printed out and signed here: [link removed] VoteWater 3727 SE Ocean Blvd Suite 200-A Stuart, FL 34996 | (772) 212-2939 VoteWater | 3727 SE Ocean Blvd, Suite 200-A, Stuart, FL 34996 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!