The task force was appointed by the commission in February 2019 to study the problems plaguing the bay and how to address them, not knowing that just weeks before this presentation, the dire predictions of scientists would come true — an unprecedented fish kill in the middle of Biscayne Bay where thousands of fish died from lack of oxygen, and the subsequent devastating algae bloom that stretched from the Haulover Inlet south to North Bay Village
Environment
Newest Hurricane Season Forecast Predicts an Even More Above Average Season
On Tuesday, Colorado State University released its newest projection for the remaining hurricane season, forecasting 20 named storms by the end of the year – four more than what was originally predicted.
Of those 20 storms, nine are expected to become hurricanes, four of which could be major hurricanes – Category 3 or higher.
Everglades National Park is Reopening in Phases
Everglades National Park, FL
News Release Date: May 1, 2020
Contact: Visitor Information, 305-242-7700
Contact: Media: Allyson Gantt, 786-610-8023
Homestead, Fla. – Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Everglades National Park is increasing recreational access. The National Park Service (NPS) is working service wide with federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.
Beginning May 4, Everglades National Park will reopen access to:
- Main Park Road from the Homestead entrance to Flamingo (note exceptions below)
- External restrooms at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
- Flamingo Marina and boat launch ramps
- Flamingo Marina Store, restrooms, and gas pumps
- Flamingo Fish Cleaning Station and restroom
- Chekika Day Use Area (roads and surrounding areas only)
In addition, entry fees are waived, and the following spaces continue to be available:
- Marine waters of Everglades National Park
- Beach campsites in wilderness
With public health in mind, the following facilities remain closed at this time:
- Royal Palm area including the Anhinga Trail
- Long Pine Key area and campground
- West Lake area
- Flamingo campground
- All visitor centers and public buildings
- Concession tours and boat rentals
- All other park restrooms
- Other park locations such as Shark Valley and Gulf Coast
For more information visit:
https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-is-reopening-in-phases.htm
Florida Aquarium Makes Breakthrough
MIAMI (CNN) — The Florida Aquarium has made a breakthrough that will help save “America’s Great Barrier Reef,” the third largest coral reef in the world and is found just off the coast of the Florida Keys.
For the first time in world history, the aquarium in Tampa has successfully reproduced ridged cactus coral in human care.
Read more..
https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/04/22/florida-aquarium-breakthrough-saving-coral-reef-florida-keys/
Broward Concrete Counter Tops by EcoSimplista
We moved: 217 SW 33rd Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Not all concrete countertops are the same! Finding a reputable concrete craftsman is the first step!
EcoSimplista works closely with Alternative Constructors, whom manufactures concrete countertops using a new school method called GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete). Alternative Constructors create thin, lightweight countertops that have the appearance of solid, large pieces. GFRC countertops weigh anywhere from 30%-70% lighter than our traditional mix and have more tensile and compressive strength to go with it.
Our pricing will include all project costs: such as surface preparation, needed machinery,
You will need to setup an appointment to talk about your project and for us to quote you.
Alternative Constructors concrete countertops are 100% custom, made-to-order countertops. There are 32 standard colors to choose from. Countertop widths are typically 3/4″ thick but can be built to fit your needs. Aggregates such as recycled glass, mirror pieces, shells or other decorative items can be added to countertops to create an even more one-of-a-kind countertop (this will drive price up). Prices start at $80.00 per square foot.
Check out Alternative Constructors for pictures of countertop products. http://alternativeconstructors.com/portfolios/
Please call (954) 565-5900 or contact us online https://www.ecosimplista.com/reach-us/ to set up an appointment to receive a custom estimate. Only applies to South Florida region.
“There are no limits when it comes to artisan concrete – whether it’s a traditional design or constructed into a beautiful piece of artwork inspired by patterns and forms. Alternative Constructors applies an imaginative vision to artisan concrete projects by adding glass, shells or other decorative items to create an eye-catching masterpiece. In addition to the versatility of the green building material, it’s high-performing, low maintenance and provides durability to stand up to excessive wear and tear. – Derek Shambora”
EcoSimplista – Your Eco Friendly Home Improvement Company
217 SW 33rd Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 565-5900
Green technologies for integrating stormwater management
As Broward has become built-out, urban densification and redevelopment activities have made innovative strategies to providing stormwater management increasingly necessary. These new approaches, often referred to as green techniques, help mimic natural processes and integrate stormwater management within the landscape to create multi-functional site designs.
These green technologies divert stormwater from traditional storm sewer systems to areas where it can be absorbed and treated by the soil and native vegetation. Designed to retain and treat water on site, these green technologies create water resource benefits that include enhanced aquifer recharge and stormwater recycling.?
Green technologies for integrating stormwater management on urban/suburban single-family home sites:
- Naturescape with native vegetation to reduce water and fertilizer use
- Cisterns/Rain Barrels
- Rain Gardens
- Bioretention
- Bioswales
- Stormwater Wetlands
- Green Roofs
- Permeable Pavements
Read more:
https://www.broward.org/waterresources/Pages/GreenInfrastructure.aspx
The end of Florida orange juice?
The end of Florida orange juice? A lethal disease is devastating the state’s citrus industry
By Darryl Fears, Washington Post
The citrus industry is fighting to find a cure for a disease that is caused by the Asian citrus psyllid, an insect, that carries the bacterium huang long bing from tree to tree. There is no known cure for the disease that forms when the insect deposits the bacterium on citrus trees, causing the leaves on the tree to turn yellow, the roots to decay and bitter fruits fall off the dying branches prematurely.
Read the complete article:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2019/11/09/end-florida-orange-juice-lethal-disease-is-decimating-its-citrus-industry/
FWC – Red Tide Mid-Week Update for November 6, 2019
Red Tide Mid-Week Update for November 6, 2019
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission sent this bulletin at 11/06/2019 04:00 PM EST
Current Conditions
A bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was observed in Southwest Florida over the past week in Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties. Additional details are provided below.
- In Southwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was observed at background to very low concentrations in and/or offshore of Pinellas County, background to high concentrations in Sarasota County, low to high concentrations in Charlotte County, background to high concentrations in and/or offshore of Lee County, and background to high concentrations in and/or offshore of Collier County. Bloom concentrations (>100,000 cells per liter) persist in Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties. Two samples from Sarasota County, one sample from Charlotte County, 25 samples from and offshore of Lee County, and three samples from Collier County contained high concentrations of K. brevis (>1 million cells per liter).
- In Northwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was not observed.
- Along the Florida East Coast over the past week, K. brevis was not observed.
For more information, visit:
New Zealand Has Plan To Plant One Billion Trees By 2028
The One Billion Trees Programme is how the government of New Zealand plans to plant one billion trees by 2028. The overall objective, apart from more trees, is to deliver improved social, environmental, and economic outcomes for the country, in addition to playing a significant role in moving towards a low emissions economy.
Wood Flooring by EcoSimplista
Wood is the product of nature, and this flooring collection, From The Forest, embraces every natural aspect of wood: grains, texture, and durability. View the collection on our website:
https://www.ecosimplista.com/shop/building/flooring/hardwood.html
From The Forest – The Choice Collection – Lace White Oak
The Choice Collection celebrates diversity and embraces individuality. Inspired by differences, each wide plank features an unforgettable combination of unique grain patterns and textures. With a color palette ranging from subtle gray neutrals to bold brown hues, this collection is certain to bring natural warmth and character into any room. 8 layers of WearMax® XT Ceramic Finish provide Choice Collection hardwood floors with superior durability, functionality, and lasting beauty. Backed by a Limited Lifetime Residential Warranty, as well as a 5 Year Light Commercial Warranty, this collection is engineered to last and provide many years of comfort. Choose to make a statement that reflects your distinctive style with the Choice Collection.
Style: Wire-brushed
Color Name: Lace White Oak
Wood Species: Northern White Oak
https://www.ecosimplista.com/from-the-forest-the-choice-collection-lace-white-oak.html
From The Forest – The Choice Collection – Ecru White Oak
The Choice Collection celebrates diversity and embraces individuality. Inspired by differences, each wide plank features an unforgettable combination of unique grain patterns and textures. With a color palette ranging from subtle gray neutrals to bold brown hues, this collection is certain to bring natural warmth and character into any room. 8 layers of WearMax® XT Ceramic Finish provide Choice Collection hardwood floors with superior durability, functionality, and lasting beauty. Backed by a Limited Lifetime Residential Warranty, as well as a 5 Year Light Commercial Warranty, this collection is engineered to last and provide many years of comfort. Choose to make a statement that reflects your distinctive style with the Choice Collection.
Style: Wire-brushed
Color Name: Ecru White Oak
Wood Species: Northern White Oak
https://www.ecosimplista.com/from-the-forest-the-choice-collection-ecru-white-oak.html
From The Forest – The Choice Collection – Sahara White Oak
The Choice Collection celebrates diversity and embraces individuality. Inspired by differences, each wide plank features an unforgettable combination of unique grain patterns and textures. With a color palette ranging from subtle gray neutrals to bold brown hues, this collection is certain to bring natural warmth and character into any room. 8 layers of WearMax® XT Ceramic Finish provide Choice Collection hardwood floors with superior durability, functionality, and lasting beauty. Backed by a Limited Lifetime Residential Warranty, as well as a 5 Year Light Commercial Warranty, this collection is engineered to last and provide many years of comfort. Choose to make a statement that reflects your distinctive style with the Choice Collection.
Style: Wire-brushed
Color Name: Sahara White Oak
Wood Species: Northern White Oak
https://www.ecosimplista.com/from-the-forest-the-choice-collection-sahara-white-oak.html
From The Forest – The Choice Collection – Biscuit White Oak
The Choice Collection celebrates diversity and embraces individuality. Inspired by differences, each wide plank features an unforgettable combination of unique grain patterns and textures. With a color palette ranging from subtle gray neutrals to bold brown hues, this collection is certain to bring natural warmth and character into any room. 8 layers of WearMax® XT Ceramic Finish provide Choice Collection hardwood floors with superior durability, functionality, and lasting beauty. Backed by a Limited Lifetime Residential Warranty, as well as a 5 Year Light Commercial Warranty, this collection is engineered to last and provide many years of comfort. Choose to make a statement that reflects your distinctive style with the Choice Collection.
Style: Wire-brushed
Color Name: Biscuit White Oak
Wood Species: Northern White Oak
https://www.ecosimplista.com/from-the-forest-the-choice-collection-biscuit-white-oak.html
EcoSimplista – Your Eco Friendly Home Improvement Company
217 SW 33rd Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Phone: 954 – 565 – 5900
https://www.ecosimplista.com/
Oil Hunt Damages Everglades’ Big Cypress National Preserve
Natural Resources Defense Council
Jun. 07, 2018 12:12PM EST
New oil development has no place in sensitive wetland habitats in the Florida Everglades. The Burnett Oil Company, based in Texas, claimed it could explore for oil in the Big Cypress National Preserve with no significant, long-term impacts to sensitive wetlands. But these claims have been refuted, as Burnett Oil has caused significant damage.
Read the article along with the sad images of the destruction
https://www.ecowatch.com/everglades-oil-development-nrdc-2576012062.html
10 Things the Department of Defense Needs to Include in Their New Climate Change Report
After a dearth of action on climate change and a record year of extreme events in 2017, the inclusion of climate change policies within the annual legislation Congress considers to outline its defense spending priorities (the National Defense Authorization Act) for fiscal year 2018 was welcome progress.
Read the article: https://www.ecowatch.com/defense-department-climate-change-ucs-2629054045.html