Issue Position: Local Issues: Treasure Coast

Issue Position

Protecting our local environment.

The Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River are prized Treasure Coast assets. I will work to prevent Lake Okeechobee releases that contain too much phosphorous and other fertilizer run-off from entering the St Lucie River. These releases have caused great damage to the fish population and sea grasses in recent years. Addressing Lake Okeechobee restoration issues will help the water quality in these bodies. Further, I will fight the federal and state logjam that prevents the restoration of the Everglades. We must secure sufficient funding to protect the Everglades, which my opponent has voted to remove safeguards from.

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are along and adjacent to the Treasure Coast, including Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge and John D. MacArthur State Park at Singer Island. I oppose drilling for oil off the coast of Florida to ensure that these special beaches remain pristine. We must look for ways to develop standards and new sources of sand for beach re-nourishment projects.

Lastly, as a life-long Floridian and outdoorsman, I understand the importance of our environment -- not just as a matter of air and water quality for future generations, but for our economy. Our tourism, hospitality, real estate, fishing, and many other industries depend on it.

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