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These Frequently Asked Questions are what the DEP's Southeast District Office gets asked most often either over the phone, through letters, or in person.

Click on the appropriate section for a set of Frequently Asked Questions listed under that topic.

A TIP ON THE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - this list is extensive. If you can't find a specific question to meet your needs, try searching for a specific word by going to Edit, then Find (on this page).

ABOUT DEP

AIR RESOURCES

BOATING

ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

HAZARDOUS WASTE

MARINE RESOURCES

STATE LANDS

STATE PARKS

WATER RESOURCES

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ABOUT DEP

Who is the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and what is their role in protecting the environment?

DEP was formed in 1993, through a merger of the Departments of Natural Resources and Environmental Regulation.

The Mission of the DEP is:

"More Protection, Less Process"

The DEP promotes stewardship, or public ownership, of Florida’s ecosystems so that:

• the state’s unique quality of life may be preserved for both present and future generations;
  

• protects the public health and safety;
  

• provides for the responsible and wise use of the state’s mineral, cultural and living resources;
  

• and provides consistent and impartial implementation of state rules and regulations.

The Environmental Regulation Commission (ERC) is the rule making arm of the DEP for rules that establish environmental standards, such as the DEP’s water body classifications, and its air and water quality standards. The ERC’s membership is composed of seven citizens of the state who are appointed by the Governor for 4-year terms, and are subject to confirmation by the Senate.

 

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AIR RESOURCES

Is the air we're breathing safe?

Our area is currently meeting all federal and state air requirements.

 

Who do I go to if I have a problem with mold in my home?

It is recommended that you contact your local health department. Also, there is an informative web link on the Broward County Health Department's web page.

 

What is the difference between upper level and ground level ozone?

Ozone is a gas that is formed in the atmosphere when three atoms of oxygen are combined. Ozone gas is not directly emitted into the air. There are chemical compounds, called precursors, which are emitted from both natural sources and human activities that react together to form ozone. These reactions are driven by light energy from the sun.

Ozone is both a good and bad thing. It occurs naturally in the atmosphere and is of concern in two places: the troposphere, 0 to 10 miles above the earth, and the stratosphere, 10 to 30 miles above the earth. The stratospheric ozone layer provides the earth with a protective barrier that protects humans from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Without this "good ozone" in the stratosphere, humans could no longer exist on earth. The depletion of stratospheric ozone allows more ultraviolet radiation to reach the earth, which can lead to an increase in skin cancer and cataracts, and damage to the human immune system. It can also reduce crop yields and harm plans and animal life. Therefore, ozone in the stratosphere is something we want to keep in tact!

Near the ground, in the troposphere, ozone exists naturally in low concentrations. If the ozone present in the air we breathe were produced only from natural sources of emissions, it would be of little concern. However, urbanized areas, where lots of traffic and industrialized activities occur, often form pockets of high concentrations of ozone near the ground. This ozone is part of what is commonly called "photochemical smog." This "bad ozone" is only "bad" because high concentration of the gas exist at elevations where it can interact with human, animal and plant life.

Ozone is a highly reactive gas, and as a result, is damaging to lung tissue, reduces lung function and sensitizes the lungs to other irritants. High concentrations of ozone not only effects people with impaired respiratory systems, such as asthmatics, but healthy adults and children as well.

 

What are CFCs, and how do they effect me?

Chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, are used as coolants in refrigerators and air conditioners. They have also been used as propellants for aerosol sprays. Sources of this pollutant are wide-spread, but are predominant in the major industrialized countries.

CFCs, along with halons, are believed to rise to the upper atmosphere where they destroy the protective stratospheric ozone layer. The chlorine atoms from the CFCs can destroy as many as 10,000 ozone molecules. These atoms spend an average of 60 to 100 years in the atmosphere before they are broken down by ultraviolet light.

 

What are VOCs and NOx gasses and how do they effect me?

VOCs are created by human activities and, are more concentrated in urban areas. Major sources of VOCs include motor vehicle exhaust, and emissions from the chemical and petroleum industries.

NOx is also produced by human activity with the major sources of emissions being the combustion of fossil fuels in motor vehicles and power plants. In Florida's urban areas, 50 percent of hydrocarbons and almost 50 percent of nitrogen oxides, come from motor vehicles. A large proportion of nitrogen oxides also comes from power plants and industrial plants.

Ground level ozone is formed by the chemical reaction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight. These gasses react with each other to produce ozone, especially during warm weather.

The counties that are at a greater risk of ground level ozone pollution, or smog, are Pinellas, Hillsboro, DeSoto, Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade. This is because of the great number of people and automobiles.

 

How do I get my DEP certificate to buy freon?

There is no DEP certificate for freon. Miami-Dade County has a freon certificate for their county and you can find out more by calling 305/372-6925. For information on the federal requirements for freon, please call 1-800-296-1996, or go to www.epa.gov/ozone.

 

What are the hazards of freon, why is it regulated?

The reason that freon is regulated is that the chlorine it contains can destroy the ozone layer. This ozone layer protects us from the UV radiation that can cause skin cancer and effects our immune system.  

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BOATING

To obtain the latest boating information, be sure to also check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Why do we need a Clean Vessel Act program?

A preventable source of nonpoint source pollution is boat sewage. Discharging sewage into Florida’s waterways introduces disease-carrying microorganisms that contaminate aquatic environments. People who swim in, or eat shellfish taken from, these affected bodies of water risk exposure to this contamination.

The Clean Vessel Act program will make a difference by providing additional pumpout facilities throughout the state and will regulate how boaters and liveaboards dispose of their sewage. Boaters will benefit from the Act by having greater access to convenient and inexpensive pumpout services. While all Floridians will benefit from reduced levels of discharged waste into waters, thus lowering the risk of disease carrying contaminants to the aquatic environment.

Participation and voluntary compliance are key components from the boating community. In the near future, a comprehensive directory of Clean Vessel Stations will be available to boaters using Florida waterways.

 

What is a marine pumpout station and how does it effect me? How does it operate?

A pumpout station is a marina where marine sanitation devices and holding tanks should be pumped out. A boater can request pumpout service from the pumpout station provider. Although a dock attendant operates most pumpout systems, some are coin operated systems that the boater can use without assistance.

A hose and fitting are connected from the pumpout equipment to the deck fitting on the boat. The system is turned on and either pumped directly into a local sewer system or pumped into a holding tank, with the later to be removed by a septic hauler. Boaters can expect to see these services provided complimentary or up to $40.00. There is usually no charge for emptying a portable toilet into an approved waste reception facility or dump station.

Is there a minimum age to operate a personal watercraft (Jet Ski)?

Yes. If the watercraft is personally owned, then the legal age is 14. A rental business may not lease, hire, or rent a personal watercraft to any person who is under 16 years of age. If there is an adult on the craft that will take responsibility, then the young rider does not need a boater safety ID card. If no adult is present, then they need the ID card.

 

Who do I contact to renew my Florida Vessel Title Registration?

Contact the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles at (850) 488-1195.

 

Who do I contact about an abandoned/derelict vessel?

In Palm Beach County call Ben Harkinson of Palm Beach County's Environmental Resources Management at (561) 233-2400.

In other parts of the state:

DEP Bureau of Emergency Response (for fuel/oil leaks)

State Warning Point: 1-800-320-0519
Or the Ft. Lauderdale Office:
(954) 958-5575

Coast Guard Auxiliary-Lake Worth (navigation concerns):
(561) 844-4470

Florida Marine Patrol (navigation and investigation):
(305) 956-2500

Other Information:

• If it has been abandoned anyone could claim it - so we may be able to contact a salvage company.

• FWCC-Florida Marine Patrol, should be the one to respond to the complaint (hazard to navigation), ID it, do their investigation on it, and put it on a list from which the county could apply for funds to remove it.
• Captain Richard, Tallahassee (850) 488-5600 for the top down approach to get action
• Major Clark, Miami (305) 956-2500

• Abandoned vs. derelict vessel is an issue for salvage companies; unfortunately fiberglass hulls aren’t too beneficial for them

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ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

How can I get information from the DEP, from rules to literature?

There are several ways:

• General to Specific Questions: Call the DEP Office of Citizen Services at (850) 245-2118, or contact your local DEP District Office.
  

• For publications: Call the DEP's Office of Environmental Education at (850) 245-2130, and ask for the Publications List.
  

• Rules can be found on the DEP web page under the "Index by Subject" drop down box.

• Rules, Statutes and Publications also are available at the DEP Library, first floor, DEP Twin Towers Office Building, Tallahassee, (850) 245-8050.

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HAZARDOUS WASTES

Is there a licensing requirement for consultants dealing with removal of lead based paint?

Florida does not require any licensing for the removal of lead based paint. The Florida Lead Information contact is in the Florida Department of Health's Toxicology Section at 850/488-3385. You may also wish to call the Federal Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD (1-800-424-5323) to answer questions about federal requirements.

 

Who do I contact about pesticides in FL?

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bureau of Pesticides at (850) 487-0532. Or check out the EPA’s Pesticide web site.

 

What is a brownfield and how does a site, or property, become designated as a brownfield in the Florida Brownfields Program?

The Brownfields Redevelopment Act uses two terms to define this concept:

• A "Brownfield site" is defined as a site that is generally abandoned, idled, or under-used industrial or commercial properties where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by actual or perceived environmental contamination.
  

• A "Brownfield area" is defined as a contiguous area of one or more brownfield sites, some of which may not be contaminated, and which a local government has designated by resolution. Such areas may include all or portions of community redevelopment areas, enterprise zones, empowerment zones, other such designated economically deprived communities and areas, and Environmental Protection Agency-designated brownfield pilot projects.

 

What is the DEP’s role in the Florida Brownfields Program?

Generally, the DEP’s role in the Florida Brownfields Program will involve providing oversight and regulatory assistance for contaminated site cleanups, including development of site rehabilitation criteria that incorporate risk-based corrective action principles. After a brownfield area has been designated, the person responsible for brownfield site rehabilitation must contact the DEP or its delegated local pollution control program to negotiate a Brownfield Site Rehabilitation Agreement (BSRA). The BSRA will include provisions relating to the site-specific cleanup schedule, time frames for regulatory review of documents, site access, environmental professional requirements, and an agreement containing terms for redevelopment of the brownfield between the person responsible for brownfield site rehabilitation and the appropriate local government.

 

What are cattle dipping vats?

Cattle dipping vats are concrete lined pits in the earth, about 3 or 4 feet wide, 5 feet deep, and 25 feet long. One end has a sharp drop into the pit, the other end is gently sloped so that the cattle could walk out. They were filled with strong solutions of arsenic, or synthetic pesticides such as DDT and toxaphene. From about 1906 to 1961, about 3,500 of these vats were built in an attempt to eradicate the cattle fever tick, and so release the state from a federal quarantine. Most of cattle dip vats were required by state law and state officials supervised and paid for their construction and the chemicals used in them.

Dipping vats may be a serious environmental hazard to people living or working nearby. The arsenic and other pesticides may have contaminated the ground water and the soils around the vats, and may put your family at risk if disturbed.

Recently, the Legislature acknowledged this and released landowners from the environmental liability associated with owning a vat. If you have a vat on your property, or know of one nearby, call your local DEP district office or the DEP Bureau of Waste Clean Up in Tallahassee at (850) 488-3935.

 

Are golf courses a serious threat to our environment?

Golf courses are often singled out because they are seen as large users of pesticides and fertilizer, and large consumers of water for irrigation. This may or may not be true, depending on the management of the golf course. Some golf courses have even gone so far as to become urban wildlife sanctuaries.

In the last several years many golf courses have dramatically reduced their use of pesticides through the use of sophisticated Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. The use of fertilizers has also been reduced at most golf courses. Agrochemicals, especially pesticides, are very expensive, and savings in this area directly impact the maintenance budget of the golf courses. Many golf courses use no water other than the rain which collects in the lakes on the course, and others use only reclaimed water from municipal water reuse facilities.

The homes surrounding the golf courses have the potential to be a greater environmental hazard. Homeowners are often unaware of urban IPM programs, or even the basic safe practices to be followed when using fertilizers and pesticides at home. The result is often improper and excessive use of these chemicals at rates far higher than used on the golf course itself.

For more help in this area contact a Master Gardener with your County's Cooperative Extension Service.

 

Are pollution prevention techniques limited to hazardous waste?

No, both industrial and consumers can apply pollution prevention techniques to many facets of business and daily life.

Industrial waste streams can include air pollution, hazardous waste and water contamination from spills. However, many industries do focus on hazardous waste pollution prevention techniques due to the high cost of disposal and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)  requirements for a waste minimization plan.

On our site visits to small companies, we often find that air emissions make up the largest waste stream. Often solvents are a source of the pollution. Eliminating the solvent use, or substituting a slower evaporating solvent, would reduce several waste streams.

Consumers also have ample opportunity to implement pollution prevention within their own homes in order to help Florida prevent the generation of unnecessary pollution. Consumers can evaluate such things as: 

• Water Usage - add flow restrictors to showers and faucets, landscape with native plants that do not require a great deal of water, and maximize laundry loads
  

• Other Products Usage - substitute cloth rags with paper towels, purchase products in bulk to minimize packaging, and substitute natural alternatives to chemical pesticides in landscaping maintenance

 

If pollution prevention is such a great idea, why doesn't everyone do it?

There are many reasons for this. Pollution prevention represents a fundamental change to using resources in more efficient ways. This fundamental change takes time. The very thing that makes traditional control technologies like incinerators, scrubbers and treatment technologies attractive is their turnkey convenience. They don't require modification of behavior, you just pay more for the convenience. And home consumers are slowly realizing the savings on their water and electric bill for using energy and resource saving fixtures.

 

Why should I do pollution prevention if it is not mandated?

This is just a short list for industry:

• It can save money for your business!

• It can help your business meet environmental regulations in an economic way

• It can reduce the amount of time you spend managing waste

• The waste audits will point out inefficiency in the processes

• Reduction in the use of hazardous and toxic materials improves worker safety and morale

• It can reduce the raw materials that get wasted

• It can reduce the amount of time workers spend handling waste

• It can improve product quality

• It can be used to improve public relations and as a positive marketing tool

• and most important, it will help improve the environment!

 

Which rules/regulations apply to above ground storage tanks (ASTs) and what size tank do they apply?

Florida Administrative Code 62-761 covers ASTs storing specified fuels used for specified purposes as well as certain other regulated substances. This rule differentiates based on the user and the use, i.e. residential, commercial, and agricultural in the case of the user and typically wither the fuel is used for powering vehicles rather than heating a residence.

 

Why do we worry about storage tanks, particularly underground storage tanks, in Florida?

One word - LEAKS! Florida’s groundwater is at or near land surface in many areas of the state. Even when ground water lies deeper beneath the surface, Florida’s porous limestone rock and sandy soils allow easy percolation of leaked or spilled contamination into the aquifer.

Also, because of the generally high water table, many tanks and their piping are buried in damp soils or even in the groundwater. This promotes corrosion. Further, many of Florida’s soils are acidic and will quickly corrode unprotected tanks and pipes. Also, much of the material in the tanks is itself corrosive.

 

I may have a discharge from my storage tank, who should I contact and when?

Tank owners and operators should monitor all tanks and their contents as often as possible. State rules require the inspection for leaks at least every 30 days. The sooner a leak is discovered, the better. Early detection limits the spread of the leak and is also less costly to clean up.

 

Where does DEP get their authority to enforce Federal EPA regulations?

In 1976, Congress passed the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to protect public health and the environment from improper management of hazardous waste. The authority to enforce these hazardous waste regulations has been delegated to the State of Florida under a memorandum of agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In other words, for hazardous waste enforcement we are the same as the EPA.

 

Why is waste management important?

Every day we see new products being marketed. Over 70,000 different commercial chemicals are used in the United States. Approximately 1,000 new synthetic compounds find their way out of the research lab and into consumer goods each year.

Years ago, little thought was given to what would become of this material when it was used and then discarded. For example, back in the early 1950s, detergents began replacing soaps as the cleaning agents of choice because they did a much better job. At that time, no thought was given to the fact that detergents didn’t biodegrade as well as soaps did. This problem was not recognized until continual rafts of foam began to appear on streams where treated wastewater was discharged. Then in the early 1960s, detergents were reformulated to make them biodegradable.

We now live in an age of greater environmental consciousness. Part of the burden for ensuring the proper waste management not only rests on the government and business community, but on each and every one of us!

 

What kinds of waste are considered hazardous?

The term "hazardous waste" has a legal meaning as defined by the EPA. A hazardous waste is a discarded substance whose chemical nature makes it potentially dangerous to people.

Some wastes are defined as characteristic waste. Simply put, this means that the hazard associated with them is readily apparent. For example, many hazardous wastes are easily flammable, such as mineral spirits, paint thinners and various other solvents. We call this ignitability, meaning they will catch fire at temperatures of 140 degrees F or less.

Corrosives are also familiar to most people. Examples of these are such chemical as acids and caustics. They will react with metals and have a pH of 2 and lower, or 12.5 and higher. While most people do not think of these in relation to corroding metals, they are well aware of what they will do to a person if these get onto ones skin or into ones eyes. Corrosive chemicals are found in many homes as well as being used in industry. 

Reactives are not as common. This basically refers to unstable chemicals such as explosives which can react violently, and some types of chemicals which can produce toxic gases such as cyanides. More commonly used items are aerosol cans. Not only can they explode when subject to too much heat, as in a car left setting in the sun, but they can also contain either highly flammable solvents or toxic pesticides. These types of containers fall under several characteristics. Lithium batteries also fall into this classification. 

Toxics are much more common. This category includes what we call heavy metals, because the can accumulate in the body, many chlorinated compounds, because they can cause cancer, and many pesticides, which not only are great health risk, but because they do not biodegrade. Mercury is the one you hear about the most. Although most people have not regarded this liquid metal as much of a hazard, depending on its form, it can be very hazardous to your health.

As for pesticides, one thing everyone should be aware of are those that are marked "Restricted Use Pesticides." These chemicals are for commercial use only for they are much more concentrated and must be applied under very restricted conditions. These are some of the most dangerous chemicals that are around and many of the ones used prior to 1977 are banned entirely from use, such as chlordane, endrin, and heptachlor.

In addition to the characteristic waste, there is a long list of approximately 200 specific chemicals that are listed because they have some characteristic which makes them hazardous.

The major determining factor in classifying chemicals as hazardous waste is the fact that they are no longer useful for their originally intended purpose. In some cases, even virgin products become hazardous waste when they must be disposed of. In other cases, even container residues in quantities as small as 1 kg, must be managed as hazardous waste because of their extreme toxicity.

 

Aren’t biomedical and radioactive waste also hazardous waste?

Biomedical and radioactive waste are obviously dangerous, yet legally they are not hazardous waste. Currently both biomedical and radioactive wastes are regulated by the Florida Department of Health.

Similar to biomedical and radioactive wastes, there are hazardous substances such as asbestos, lead based paints, and PCBs. These wastes are regulated by EPA under the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA).

 

How must hazardous waste be handled?

Hazardous waste must be handled in ways that prevent them from reaching dangerous concentration in the environment. They need to be kept out of the soil, ground water, surface water and air. Exposure to them can cause adverse health effects.

In Florida, because of our shallow aquifers, even small amounts of hazardous waste can seep into the groundwater and contaminate our drinking water supply. To show how serious Florida regards the improper disposal of hazardous waste to the ground, state statutes allow assessment of penalties ranging up to $50,000 per day per violation.

The best way to manage hazardous waste is first to reduce the amount of waste we produce, recycling the waste when possible, or by treating them to make them nonhazardous. Burying them in specially designed landfills is least desirable.

 

Who generates hazardous waste?

Most hazardous wastes generated in Florida are by businesses engaged in such activities such as:

• repair and maintenance of motor vehicles

• electroplating

• operating printing and copying equipment

• dry-cleaning and laundering services

• photo processing, operation of laboratories

• building and road construction

• pest control services

• wood preserving

• making or refinishing furniture

Chemical manufacturers, petroleum refiners, and primary metal producers also generate large quantities of listed hazardous waste but there are not many of these operations in Florida.

What surprises most people is that households generate considerable amounts of hazardous waste. While hazardous waste generated from households is exempt from regulation, we ask that all households follow a few simple guidelines to ensure that their hazardous waste is disposed of in a responsible fashion to protect our environment.

It should be pointed out that household hazardous waste is every bit as dangerous as that produced in the workplace, and under certain conditions, even more dangerous. This is because households do not have all the environmental controls and safety equipment that would be found in the workplace to protect those who handle this waste on a day to day basis.

 

How are hazardous wastes generated?

Hazardous waste can be generated in several different ways. These can be:

• products containing hazardous materials that are damaged during shipment

• discontinued supplies

• products having expired shelf life

• discarded paints

• spent solvents

• degreaser wastes

• cleaning compounds

• or by-products of chemical processes
  

What can you do at home to reduce the amount of hazardous waste?

• Before you buy a product, read the label!  Make sure it will do what you want.
  

• Whenever you buy a product, you take on a responsibility to use and dispose of the product properly. Read and follow the label’s directions on how to use the product and dispose of the container. There is a good reason why the labels says: Do not refill this container; Do not incinerate; or Do not mix with bleach.
  

• Don’t buy more that you need. That way you won’t need to dispose of surpluses.
  

• Learn to recognize what types of products can become hazardous leftovers and what can be done with them. Sometimes you can switch to an equally effective product that does not produce a hazardous waste.
  

• With the except for medicines and certain pesticides, if you do end up with more of a product then you need, give the leftovers to someone who can use it up. If there were any precautionary notices on the box or on leaflets in the box, pass those on too.
  

• Never create unlabeled containers of hazardous waste, keep it in the original container with the original label.
  

• Never repackage hazardous waste in containers whose shapes suggest the contents are edible. Children have died from drinking substances stored in empty soft drink bottles.

The manufacturers of the product put the messages on the labels to protect you and the environment. The law often requires such notices! Do your part by following them.

 

What is household hazardous waste?

Household hazardous waste takes many forms. In addition to the more obvious forms you can find in most homes under the sink or in the garage, their are other less obvious forms such as burned out fluorescent lamps, dead batteries, and even some outdated pharmaceuticals.

Since many of the materials still have some usefulness, they are not considered a hazardous waste until you decide to get rid of them. Examples are:

• bleach

• window cleaner

• drain cleaner

• auto maintenance chemicals (carburetor cleaner, brake cleaner, degreasers, touch-up paint, etc.)

• waste paint and used cleanup solvents

• pesticide/herbicide

• batteries (NiCd, lead acid, lithium)

Always be careful what is stored next to each other.

Examples: bleach and ammonia next to each other generate chlorine gas; a petroleum product next to and chlorine tablets produce lots of heat.

 

How does a person get rid of household hazardous waste (HHW)?

Most counties, have established household hazardous waste collection programs. The intent of this program is to separate hazardous wastes generated from households for disposal in a more environmentally sound manner than incineration or landfilling. In addition to establishing collection times where wastes can be delivered to manned collection sites throughout the county, they often have mobile units which travel to various communities to make it as easy as possible for the householder to properly dispose of his hazardous waste. This service costs nothing and is available to all householders. Call your local county government or local DEP district office for more information.

Hazardous wastes brought to these centers are recycled when possible.

 

Where can you have hazardous wastes disposed of (including household HW and rechargeable batteries)?

Hazardous wastes that are generated by a business are regulated by Federal and State regulations (Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 260-268 and Chapter 62-730, Florida Administrative Code). The requirements that apply to the generator of the waste, depends on the volume of hazardous waste generated per month. For the most part, all hazardous waste must be properly containerized to ensure delivery to a permitted treatment, storage or disposal facility. Records to account for disposition of the wastes must be retained for three years.

Hazardous waste cannot be:

• evaporated

• discharged to the sewer system (or septic tank)

• or discharged to soil or waters of the state

 

What do I do with hazardous waste if I’m a business?

Once you have determined that you generate hazardous waste you must then decide to which regulations you must comply. This is determined by the amount of hazardous waste generated in a calendar month. In the lowest category of a conditionally exempt generator, there are only two additional requirements, proper disposal and record keeping. For other generators, the regulations are more complex. It is recommend that you call DEP for guidance. Fact sheets, a Small Quantity Generators Handbook, sector pamphlets, etc. are available to help you.

 

What happens to the hazardous waste when it is sent off for disposal?

The main methods of disposal, in order of desirability, are recycling, fuel blending, incineration, and burial. Many hazardous wastes still have some value depending on the type of waste.

• Recycling - A company may dispose of waste solvents because they are too dirty to perform the solvent function for which they were originally used. Entire businesses have been have been built around the recovery of usable solvents from the waste product. In most cases the solvent can be recovered through simple redistillation to separate the contaminants from the solvent. Then instead of having to dispose of the entire quantity of waste, the recovered solvent is sold for reuse and only the still bottoms that consist of the removed contaminates remains to be disposed of.
  

• Fuel Blending - Waste solvents which are not economically recoverable are blended to make a hazardous waste fuel product. This fuel, although still a hazardous waste, is burned under strictly controlled conditions in such operations such as cement kilns. Energy is recovered from the burning of these hazardous waste solvents. In addition to recovering the energy from the burning, any toxic metals that had contaminated the solvent in the first place are fixated and incorporated directly into the cement which is being produced by the kiln.
  

• Incineration - Solvent waste, or still bottoms that cannot be recovered, must be incinerated to actually destroy the organic components. Some inorganic liquid waste is also incinerated to reduce the volume of waste that then must be landfilled to complete the disposal.
  

• Burial - The least desirable way of disposal is burial in a hazardous waste landfill. Since the buried waste is still hazardous, these facilities must be located in areas were the geology can prevent the escape of the toxic constituents to groundwater. Since the geology of Florida does not meet these requirements, no hazardous waste landfills are located here.

 

What do I do if I see someone dump waste on the ground?

If possible, call your county’s sheriffs office or the DEP's Environmental Crimes Strike Force at 1-877-2 SAVE FL (1-877-272-8335) and report the dumping. Be sure to write down as many facts as possible about what you saw and try to identify the dumper if possible.

• If the material is regular trash, call the city or county’s solid waste authority.
  

• If it cans or drums of chemicals like solvents, used oil, or contents unknown, call DEP as soon as possible. You can also call the State Warning Point at 1-800-320-0519 in an emergency.

The DEP takes a very serious stand on dumping wastes on the ground. We work closely with local environmental crimes investigators on such cases.

 

How do you, DEP, handle complaints?

All complaints are written up and referred to the proper agency for a compliance evaluation. The most important thing about filling a complaint, is timeliness. Many of our complaints come from former employees of the companies they are reporting. If improper waste management is going on, it's easier to get the problem corrected if/when it's reported immediately. Sometimes, if you even wait a couple of days, the harm to the environment has already occurred and it may already be too late to correct the problem without a substantial expenditure of time, money and effort.

 

Does Florida charge a fee or tax to help dispose of hazardous waste?

There are no charges at all for household hazardous waste disposal, but businesses must bear the burden of paying for the disposal of the hazardous wastes they generate.

There are only a few fees associated with waste disposals that are mandated by state statute. Two of such are a $1.00 fee for each new tire, and a $1.50 fee for each lead-acid battery sold. The purpose of these fees to promote collection, reuse, volume reduction and proper disposal of these items.

We get many complaints from consumers who are told they are being charged various fees, supposedly mandated by the state or federal government, for the proper disposal of hazardous material, used oil or other wastes associated with services provided to them. For example, many auto repair shops charge fees to recoup their cost for disposing of hazardous waste. What that amounts to are the respective businesses just passing along their cost of disposal to the consumer. If they say these fees are government mandated, they are not being honest with their customers. In many cases, if you object to the charges and ask them to explain them, you will find that they will deduct them to keep you a happy customer.

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MARINE RESOURCES

To obtain the latest marine fisheries information, be sure to check with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.

 

Who do I report a fish kill to?

It is important to report any fish kill as soon as possible. This will enable scientists to get accurate water quality information that may help determine the cause.

The Aquatic Health program of FWC's Fish and Wildlife Research Institute should get the first call. The number is toll free, 1-800-636-0511.

If you suspect pesticides for the fish kill, be sure to also call the Bureau of Pesticide at the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at (850) 488-3314. They investigate any fish kill related to the misuse of pesticides.

 

If you are snorkeling or scuba diving, do you have to display a Diver’s Down flag?

A Diver's Down flag is required at all times while diving in state waters.

 

Are you allowed to harvest snook with a net?

No. Snook may only be harvested, or caught, with hook and line gear. A gig, grain, spear, gang hook, multiple hooks, snatch hooks, or any device designed to impale or hook the fish by any part of its body other than its mouth is prohibited.

 

When is the closed season for snook?

• Statewide, during the period beginning December 15 of each year and continuing through January 31 of the following year.
  

• In all state waters of the Atlantic Ocean north and east of the Dade-Monroe County Line, except in waters of Everglades National Park, during the months of June, July or August.
  

• In all state waters of the Atlantic Ocean south and west of the Dade-Monroe County Line, in all state waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and in waters of Everglades National Park, during the months of May, June, July, or August.

 

When is the regular open lobster season?

The regular open season for the harvesting of spiny lobster in Florida state waters is August 6 through March 31. No person shall harvest, attempt to harvest or have in their possession - regardless of where taken - any spiny lobster during the Closed Season of April 1 through August 5 of each year.

 

What is the recreational bag limit for spiny lobster during the regular open season?

When the regular crawfish season is open, the bag limit for spiny lobster is 6 per recreational harvester per day, or 24 per boat, whichever is greater. 

 

What are the size restrictions and stamp requirements for spiny lobsters during season?

The size limit for spiny lobster is a minimum 3-inch carapace (head) measurement, and lobster must remain in a whole condition while on or below state waters. A minimum tail measurement of 5-1/2 inches may be used in lieu of the 3-inch carapace measurement, but the tail can only be separated from the body on land. However, all measurement must occur in the water before you return to you boat or dock!

Wringing tails on the water is prohibited, and the possession of such wrung tails while on the water is also prohibited.

All recreational harvesters must possess a current Saltwater Fishing License affixed with a current Crawfish Stamp.

 

What are the dates for the two-day spiny lobster mini season each year?

The sport season for recreational harvesters of spiny lobster is the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year.

 

What is the recreational bag limit for spiny lobster during the two-day mini season?

• For all counties except in Monroe County - during the first day of the two-day sport season, no recreational harvester shall harvest more than 12 spiny lobsters, or possess more than 12 spiny lobsters, whether on or off the waters of the state. During the second day of the two-day sport season, no recreational harvester shall harvest or possess, while in or on state waters, more than 12 spiny lobsters, or possess more than 24 spiny lobsters once such harvester has landed and departed the state waters.
  

• In Monroe County - during the first day of the two-day sport season, no recreational harvester shall harvest more than 6 spiny lobsters, or possess more than 6 spiny lobsters, whether on or off the waters of the state. During the second day of the two-day sport season, no recreational harvester shall harvest or possess while in or on the waters of Monroe County more than 6 spiny lobsters, or possess more than 12 spiny lobsters in said county once such harvester has landed and departed the Monroe County waters.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is closed to spiny lobster harvest during the two-day sport season.

 

What is the season and recreational bag limit for blue crabs?

The season for blue crabs is year round. The daily recreational bag limit is 10 gallons whole. The harvesting of egg-bearing crabs is prohibited.

 

What is the season and recreational bag limit for bay scallops?

The season for bay scallops is July 1 - Sept. 10. The daily recreational bag limit is 2 gallons whole or 1 pint of meat per person and no more than 10 gallons whole or 1/2 gallon of bay scallop meat per vessel anytime. There are restricted harvest areas in certain areas. Call the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Law Enforcement Division for more information,
1-800-404-FWCC.

 

Who actually needs a fishing license?

a) Any person who takes, attempts to take, or possesses any marine fish for noncommercial purposes.

b) Any person who operates any vessel wherein a fee is paid either directly or indirectly for any taking, attempting to take, or possessing of marine fish for noncommercial purposes.

In freshwater: Everyone who is 16 or older, unless you are a Florida resident who is 65 or older.

In saltwater: Everyone who is 16 or older, although you don’t need a license if:

• You are a Florida resident over the age of 65.
  

• You are a Florida resident fishing in saltwater from land or from a structure fixed to land.
  

• You are fishing from a boat that has a valid Vessel Saltwater Fishing License.
  

• You are a Florida resident who is a member of the armed forces, and not stationed in Florida, while home on leave for 30 days or less, with valid orders in your possession.
  

• You are fishing from a pier that has been issued a Pier Saltwater Fishing License.
  

• If you are certified as totally and permanently disabled, you are entitled to receive, without charge from the county tax collector, a permanent saltwater fishing license.

 

If you are a FL resident over the age of 65, and not compelled to possess a saltwater fishing license, do you still need the stamps or tag normally required for snook, spiny lobster and tarpon?

Under these circumstances, as long as you can show proof of age and Florida residency, such as a valid drivers license or a Florida ID card the snook and spiny lobster stamps would not be required. The $50 tarpon tag would still be required.

 

Do bag limits apply to children?

Yes, recreational bag limits still apply.

 

If you stay out for two consecutive days, can you catch double the maximum amount of snapper and grouper?

No, with this exception: any person who has fished aboard a charter vessel on a trip that spans more than 24 hours may possess and land double the bag limit of snapper and grouper, if the vessel has a sleeping berth for each passenger aboard the vessel, and each passenger possesses a receipt issued on behalf of the vessel that verifies the length of the trip.

 

If you are fishing from a charter boat with a valid recreational vessel saltwater fishing license, do you need a saltwater fishing license?

No, you do not need a Florida saltwater fishing license if you are fishing from a boat that has a valid vessel saltwater fishing license.

 

Is it permissible for a person to fish for mullet in fresh water without a saltwater fishing license?

Yes, if the person fishing is a Florida resident and possesses a Florida freshwater fishing license.

 

Where can I find manatee statistics, decals and other information?

Manatee information and statistics, including manatee decal information, can be found on the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Bureau of Protected Species Management or Fish and Wildlife Research Institute web sites. 

 

Where can I get a "Manatee Caution" sign?

Those signs are available at no cost to single family homes and marinas by contacting regional Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement Division Offices.

 

Where can I get information pertaining to fishing regulations, license requirements and fishing locations?

Visit the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Division of Marine Fisheries website, or call that office at (850) 487-0554.

 

Where can I get those wonderful fish posters you have?

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is the agency that distributes those posters now. There was a time when the posters could be requested by mail. However, due to the overwhelming requests for them and the rising costs associated with mailing, this is no longer the case. They can only be picked up at many of the Events that the FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries attends.

 

What are Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA)?

CAMA is responsible for the management of four major statewide programs including:

• the National Marine Sanctuary

• the National Estuarine Research Reserve

• Florida Aquatic Preserve

• and Florida Buffer Preserves

CAMA manages the upland properties under its jurisdiction under the policy of providing public uses that are compatible with its mandate to protect the environment. Some of the many public activities provided in these areas are: hunting, hiking, camping, fishing, beach access, fishing, nature appreciation, environmental education field trips and research projects conducted by public universities.

 

What is the National Marine Sanctuary (NMS) program?

The NMS was created by Congress via the enactment of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) of 1972. It provides for the protection of the nation’s unique marine resources via designation of the sites that contain these resources as sanctuaries. Florida’s original sanctuaries were designated at Key Largo in 1976, and Looe Key in 1981.

The Key Largo NMS, approximately 100 square nautical miles in area, was established immediately adjacent to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, joined at the line that delineates between waters of state and federal jurisdictions. The Looe Key NMS is slightly larger than 5 square nautical miles, and located on the Atlantic side of Big Pine Key about 11 miles from shore.

In 1990, the President enacted the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) Protection Act, which designated a 2,800 square nautical mile area surrounding the Florida Keys and the Dry Tortugas islands as a NMS. Upon adoption of the FKNMS Management Plan, the Key Largo and Looe Key NMSs were incorporated into the larger FKNMS. Approximately 65% of the area of the FKNMS is State of Florida Sovereign Submerged Lands, the remainder being waters of federal jurisdiction. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and DEP's Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas jointly manage the sanctuary through a partnership that lends to a more efficient management of the invaluable marine resources of the Florida Keys.

 

What is the National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) program?

The National Estuarine Research Reserve Program (NERR) was established by Congress via adoption of Section 315 of the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) of 1972 to provide for the protection in perpetuity of representative estuarine ecosystems in each of the biogeographic regions of the United States and its territories.

Florida is a strong supporter of the NERR system and its approach to coastal ecosystem management. The State of Florida has three designated NERR sites - more than any other state in the nation.

Florida's National Estuarine Research Reserves:

Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Florida reserves are the best among the nation’s 25 reserves based on the level of state funding support, the total coastal upland and submerged land acreage managed, and the overall effectiveness measured by the number of people in the public served through educational programs and the amount of ongoing scientific research activity at these sites.

 

What is an aquatic preserve?

The Florida Legislature established the Aquatic Preserve Program in Chapter 258, Florida Statute to protect state-owned submerged lands which have exceptional biological, aesthetic or scientific value. Forty-two sites along the coasts of Florida are designated as aquatic preserves. The major focus is on the protection of water quality. This effort is enhanced by designating the waters within aquatic preserves as Outstanding Florida Waters (OFW), which is the highest classification for waters of the state. This designation provides for the maintenance or improvement of the ambient quality of the water at the time of designation as an OFW.

 

What is a buffer preserve?

State owned uplands that are purchased to assist with the protection of the water quality and/or the sovereign submerged lands of the state’s aquatic preserves and managed under the provisions of Chapter 253.03, Florida Statute are referred to as Buffer Preserves. DEP's Office of Coastal & Aquatic Managed Areas manages these upland areas adjacent to the aquatic preserves in a manner to protect the natural resources while providing for compatible public use of the property.

 

What is sea lice and how do you treat it?

Sea lice is the larval stage of the thimble jellyfish. If you get rashes associated with sea lice, remove and wash clothing right away.

 

What can I do to help protect sea turtles during the nesting season?

• Do not disturb or handle any sea turtles, their eggs or their nests. All are violations of both federal and state laws.
  

• Avoid visiting the sea turtle nesting beaches at night during the summer unless you are with a guide permitted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
  

• Prevent all lights from illuminating, or being visible from, the beach including security lights, balcony and porch lights, flashlights and car headlights. These lights are indirectly responsible for the deaths of thousands of hatchlings every year and could be eliminated from use or easily modified to avoid their impact.
  

• Prevent pets from disturbing nesting females, digging up nests and eating hatchlings.
  

• Do not drive any motor vehicles on the beach.
  

• Avoid digging deep holes or sticking poles into the sand, such as beach umbrellas, during nesting season.

 

How do hatchling sea turtles know the direction of the ocean when they emerge from their nests?

Hatchlings possess an inborn tendency to move in the brightest direction. On a natural beach, this brightest direction is most often the open view of the night sky over, and reflected by, the ocean. Hatchlings also tend to move away from darkly silhouetted objects associated with the dune profile and vegetation.

 

What should be done with misdirected hatchling sea turtles found on the beach?

Hatchling sea turtles found wandering away from the ocean should be taken to a darkened portion of beach and allowed to walk into the surf on their own. Hatchlings that do not crawl vigorously can be placed in the ocean and allowed to swim away. In all cases, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Division of Law Enforcement (1-800-404-FWCC), their Bureau of Protected Species Management, or one of their local offices.

 

What impact does boat discharged contaminated water have on shellfish and seafood?

The impact from boat sewage falls into three categories: aesthetic concerns, health hazards and water quality issues.

• Aesthetic Concerns - it smells and looks bad.
  

• Health Hazards - Decaying waste reduces oxygen levels in the water, making it difficult for fish and other marine life to breathe. Elevated fecal coliform levels indicate that people are at risk who eat shellfish taken from, or who swim in, affected bodies of water. On the average, 25% of the total fecal mass produced is composed of bacteria. For more information on health related issues visit the Florida Department of Health's web site.
  

• Water Quality Issues - A single overboard discharge of human waste can be detected in up to a one square mile area of shallow enclosed water. This amount can also close down shellfish beds for harvesting. Contaminants from human waste include hepatitis, streptococci, fecal coliform and other bacteria. Marine sanitation devices may also contain harmful chemicals in the disinfectants and deodorants that are used. The highest levels of boater generated fecal coliform bacteria are most evident in "hot spot" areas of high boat traffic and low tidal flushing. Florida's "hot spots" include the enclosed waters of: the Indian River Lagoon and Tampa Bay, and Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties.

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STATE LANDS

What is the definition of state waters?

• In the Gulf of Mexico, state waters extend from the territorial base sea line out to a distance of nine miles
  

• In the Atlantic Ocean, state waters extend from the territorial base sea line out to a distance of three miles.
  
  

Can I build a dock on my property?

Prior to construction, you generally will need to obtain a permit from DEP to build your dock, as well as written authorization from DEP to use the State’s submerged lands. However, some (exempt) docks have minimal environmental impacts because of their size and location, and do not require written authorization.

A pamphlet, "Know what you need before you build... SINGLE FAMILY DOCK CONSTRUCTION and the Department of Environmental Protection" (PDF) will explain the authorization requirements and mention ways to design your dock so the review process may be shortened. Before you build, or to get a hard-copy of this pamphlet, contact the Submerged Lands and Environmental Resource Permitting Program at your local DEP District Office.

 

I have heard that a permit for a private dock is one of the most difficult to get. Is this true? Do I need a permit for all types of docks?

No, a permit for a single-family private dock on a lake or other inland waterway is probably one of the easiest DEP permits to obtain. In fact, the DEP has a General Permit and permit exemptions for certain modestly sized private docks, which eliminates any extensive processing time delays.

 

Why is it important to remove invasive exotic plants from public lands?

Scientific studies strongly indicate that invasive exotic plants harm Florida’s natural environment and lead to a loss of biodiversity. Many of Florida’s unique native plant and animal communities are found nowhere else in North America. Invasive exotic plants disrupt Florida’s natural environment by forming novel habitats, and by altering ecological processes that permit native plants and animals to survive.

For example, the Australian melaleuca tree can form dense forests in formerly treeless saw grass marshes of the Florida Everglades. Melaleuca trees alter ecological processes by increasing soil elevations and change natural fire regimes that destroy the uniqueness of the Everglades. Endangered plants, animals, and native ecosystems are being pushed closer to extinction by invasive exotic plants.

It is estimated that more than 1.5 million acres of Florida’s remaining natural areas have become infested with exotic plant species. Hydrilla, Florida’s most widespread invasive exotic aquatic plant, covered 65,486 acres of public waterbodies in 1996.

• At least 45% of the invasive exotic plant species found in Florida were imported for ornamental or agricultural reasons.
  

Public land managers, who are charged with preserving and restoring Florida’s remaining native ecosystems, have found themselves spending more and more time controlling and removing invasive exotic plant species. Current control methods employed range from hand pulling of undesirable species to applying herbicides selectively to avoid harming native plant and animal communities.

Here is an example of the monetary investment made in controlling/removing invasive exotics in fiscal years 1997 and 1998:

The DEP's Division of State Lands, through the Bureau of Invasive Plant Management, spent $15 million for to control hydrilla and other exotic plants found in Florida’s lakes and rivers. An additional $1 million was matched by the South Florida Water Management District to remove melaleuca trees from the Everglades wetland system. While another $1 million, allocated by the Florida Legislature in 1997, was spent removing upland invasive exotic plants found on public lands from the Florida Keys to North Florida. 

 

Why does it take such a long time to purchase public land?

We are often asked why it takes such a long time to purchase public land. Almost every homeowner is familiar with the delay between when you sign a purchase agreement for a home and the land it sits on, and when you actually close. This is the same process we go through - only we typically are buying larger parcels of land, often involving multiple owners, and using public funds. That takes more time.

To begin with, it is important to understand the acquisition process of which the closing is only the final part. After public hearings, we begin by evaluating and ranking proposed public land acquisitions based on importance and need. This selection and ranking process alone takes approximately one year. The process then continues through contacts with property owners, and on through the mapping, appraisal, negotiating/contracting phases, and finally the closing phase.

During the review of these products, potential "issues" are often discovered. Almost all state acquisitions have issues that must be examined, evaluated, and resolved prior to closing. Examples of issues we often encounter include: fence encroachments, easements, deed restrictions, dirt trails, environmental concerns, and outstanding oil, gas and mineral interests. Matters considered during the evaluation of an issue include the potential impact on the land’s value, the land’s manageability, and the long-term ownership risk to the state. Expectedly, problem resolution tends to slow down or delay the closing of a transaction.

Once a contract for sale and purchase has been approved by the Governor and Cabinet at a regularly scheduled Cabinet meeting, it is assigned to the Closing Section within the DEP’s Division of State Land’s Bureau of Land Acquisition for completion.

Although these real estate closings for public land acquisition take a long time, it is important to remember that these procedures are designed to make sure we are not wasting Florida’s tax dollars.

 

What do I need to do if I want to remove vegetation from my shoreline?

Before removing vegetation on your shoreline, call the DEP's Bureau of Invasive Plant Management at (850) 245-2809 to see if you need a free plant removal permit. If you plan to construct a seawall, riprap, or other shoreline stabilization structures, be sure to contact your local district Submerged Lands and Environmental Resource Permitting Program. The pamphlet, "Know what you need before you build... SHORELINE STABILIZATION and the Department of Environmental Protection" (PDF), provides more information about shoreline protection.

 

My neighbor is mowing the marsh along his waterfront. Can you come out and stop him?

Without a DEP permit a person may not dredge, excavate, fill or construct in a waterbody or wetland. However, there is nothing in Florida law that prohibits a person from mowing a wetland they own - however, this activity is not encouraged. Further, when it is said that it's not prohibited to mow, it is meant by equipment small enough to not cause rutting and dredging with the tires. This would exclude tractors, but may include push mowers or small ride on mowers.

But don’t worry about the wetland marsh. In most cases, marshes that have been mowed or burned grow back even thicker than they were!

 

Land is being cleared that has endangered or protected species on it. What can I do?

Contact your local office of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation  Commission (FWC). You can also visit the US Fish & Wildlife's web site to learn more about endangered species. The FWC's Bureau of Protected Species Management web page offers information about efforts to protect Florida's marine turtles, manatees and whales.

 

The importance of mangroves and why are there regulations?

Mangrove wetlands provide breeding, nursery and feeding areas for a great assemblage of life, including endangered and threatened species. They also provide food for a multitude of marine species such as snook, snapper, tarpon, jack, sheepshead, red drum, oyster and shrimp. Florida’s recreational and commercial fisheries will drastically decline without healthy mangrove forests. Mangroves also protect our shorelines from weather erosion such as wind and storm surges from hurricanes and other storms.

It has been estimated that more than 23,500 acres of mangroves have been lost through dredging and filling in Florida, primarily to develop waterfront property. Additional unknown acres of mangroves have been altered by trimming activities to obtain a view of the water.

As you can see, mangroves provide many benefits to man and the marine environment. It's up to us to ensure a place in Florida’s future for one of our most valuable coastal resources -- mangroves.

 

What is the Florida Forever program and what is the history of Florida's land preservation initiatives?

The Florida Forever program is the state’s newest blueprint for conservation of our unique natural resources. It replaces the highly successful Preservation 2000 Program (P2000), the largest program of its kind in the United States. P2000 was responsible for the public acquisition, and protection, of more than 1.25 million acres of land. 

This new program is more than just an environmental land acquisition mechanism. It encompasses a wider range of goals, including: restoration of damaged environmental systems, water resource development and supply, increased public access, public lands management and maintenance, and increased protection of land by acquisition of conservation easements.

In 1990, the rate at which forest, wetland, and agricultural land was being converted to urban uses was estimated at approximately 19 acres per hour. Because of this growth, Florida’s ecosystems are now considered the most endangered of all the fifty states.

Fortunately, Florida has a long tradition of land conservation - it is the site of the nation’s first wildlife refuge (Pelican Island) and the first eastern national forest (Ocala National Forest). The state also has implemented several substantial land acquisition programs to save its native landscape from development. In 1964, the legislature established a $20 million bond program to acquire outdoor recreation lands. This was followed by another $40 million outdoor recreation bond program in 1968 and a $200 million environmentally endangered lands bond program in 1972. In 1979, the legislature created the Conservation and Recreation Lands (CARL) Program and, in 1981, the Save Our Coast (SOC) and the Save Our Rivers (SOR) Programs. CARL and SOR were funded primarily from documentary stamp tax revenues, while the SOC Program was a $250 million bond program.

As Florida’s human population continued to grow, it became apparent that increasing demands would be placed on what remained of natural Florida. Recognizing this, former Governor Bob Martinez created a blue-ribbon commission in 1990 to evaluate the state of Florida’s environment. The commission conducted its work and issued a report warning that, at the 1990 rate of development, about three million acres of wetlands and forests would be converted to other uses by the year 2020, dooming much of Florida’s freshwater aquifer recharge areas, unique ecological diversity, open space, recreational lands, and many of the state’s 548 species of endangered and threatened animals and plants.

The commission concluded, "the single most effective way to accomplish large scale gains in our environmental well-being is to substantially increase the level of funding for the state’s land acquisition programs."  Citing a November 1989 Florida State University poll that indicated 88% of Floridians believe state government should give more attention to the environment and 63% favor spending more money on the environment, the commission concluded there was "strong, statewide public support for an expanded land acquisition program."

In response, Governor Martinez proposed a $3 billion land preservation fund based upon $300 million in yearly bonded funds over ten years. Florida lawmakers agreed with his proposal, and in 1990 provided funding for the first year of bonds in the form of an increase in the documentary stamp tax. Thus P2000, the most ambitious land acquisition program ever created in the United States, was born.

The program has been a success in not only saving many of Florida’s unique and most fragile natural habitats, but also spawning local community conservation efforts. More than twenty local governments in Florida have matched state funds to purchase environmentally sensitive land to fulfill their conservation needs.

Florida’s estuaries and offshore waters support one of the largest commercial and recreational marine fishing industries in the nation, and it relies on undisturbed estuarine and coastal systems. Local governments have realized that acquiring land for conservation purposes can actually save taxpayers money by reducing needs for additional crime control, infrastructure, and community services.

Florida Forever, P2000 and other conservation efforts throughout Florida produce considerable economic and quality of life benefits, such as clean air and water, lower governmental infrastructure costs, healthy fisheries, enhanced tourism, and protected open spaces, such as greenway corridors, park lands, forests, and public beaches. Public access to open space is a valuable amenity in the real estate market as well as for our quality of life.

Florida Forever and P2000 have also helped save many of Florida’s beaches, rivers, bays, forests, coral reefs, and estuaries that provide the foundation for our $3 billion tourism industry that attracts more than 42 million visitors each year.

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STATE PARKS

Where can I find information on Florida’s state parks, including rules, regulations, recreational activities, historic sites, events and fees?

The DEP's Division of Recreation and Parks web page. You can also contact any of the state parks for a The Florida State Parks Guide publication. In addition, each park can inform you of the numerous festivals and events that are planned.

 

How are Florida's state parks managed?

The state park system contains over 500,000 acres in more than 150 park units. Each state park is managed as a natural systems that represents the landscape conditions and biological communities in Florida before it was altered by human activity. This original landscape was ever changing in response to the elemental forces of fire, flood and drought. As a result, this helped shape the diverse habitats that support the native flora and fauna.

All plant and animal life are protected in the state parks; consumptive use activities such as hunting, livestock grazing, and timber removal are not permitted. However, each park promotes passive recreation; hiking, camping, photography, etc. Each park, in addition to providing for a broad range of recreational opportunities, serve as museum pieces for the enjoyment of those who wish to see, feel, or study the origins of their cultural inheritance. 

 

How are Florida's state parks funded?

Florida's state parks are not supported by general revenue taxes, i.e. taxes paid for goods and services. The state parks are supported by park revenue generated by entrance, use and camping fees, which provide only slightly more than one-third of the operating costs of state parks. State parks are also supported by a percentage of documentary stamp fees from the sale of property/land. These funds provide revenue for the State Park Trust Fund. 

 

How can individuals help Florida State Parks?

By contributing time, money, goods or services. Individuals can make a big difference to the Florida Park Service. Many projects are put on hold due to insufficient funds or staff time. Contributions can help some of these big dreams become a reality. Each park has a volunteer program, and you can contact your local state park for more information on:

• AmeriCorps Florida State Parks Program provides members with the opportunity to learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, and encourage community involvement through service in Florida's state parks. In return for an eleven-month commitment, and a minimum of 1,700 hours of service, members receive a modest living allowance and qualify for an Education Award of $4,725. The Education Award may be used to finance college, graduate school, vocational training, or to help repay outstanding student loans. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and possess a valid driver's license. The AmeriCorps program is funded in part through a grant from the Florida Commission on Community Service, 
  this program.
  

• Citizen Support Organizations (CSOs) are volunteer, not-for-profit groups formed to provide aid for a specific park or group of parks. Currently there are 57 different CSOs throughout the state. Ask your local state park about theirs.
  

• Help Our State Parks (HOSP) is a program to obtain private support for Florida’s state parks. Organizations, corporations, educational institutions, and individuals can make donations of money, goods, or volunteer services directly to the Florida Park Service in general, or earmark for a specific park.

 

Why is fire used as a land management tool?

Smokey the Bear certainly has done an excellent job of publicizing the detriments of forest fires. But, many times the public does not understand the difference between destructive man-induced wildfires and the need for natural, or controlled fires in maintaining the ecological integrity of our upland ecosystems.

Fires have occurred naturally in Florida's environment and plays an important role in the maintenance of healthy ecosystems. Many species of plants and animals evolved with fire as one of the influencing environmental factors and as a result, their survival is dependent on fire. Trained land managers understand this and conduct controlled burns in these fire-dependent communities to replicate the natural fire cycle.

To learn more about wild land fires, visit the state's Division of Forestry website. To report suspected arson or fire, call the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement at 1-800-342-5869.

 

How much are the entrance fees?

The entrance fee into most State Parks is $3.25 per carload for up to eight people. Selected parks are $4.00 per carload. Extra persons, walk-ins and bicyclists are $1.00 per person. There may be additional fees for camping, tours and museum entrances. Contact the park you are interested in for more information.

 

How can I get an annual state park pass?

Individuals and families may purchase annual entrance passes. They can be purchased at your nearest state park or call (352) 628-1002.

How can I find state parks that accommodate RV campers?

Look for full facility parks in The Florida State Parks Guide or phone the individual park to be sure they can accommodate your needs.

 

Are pets allowed in Florida’s state parks?

Pets are permitted in designated day-use areas at ALL of Florida's State Parks. They must be kept on a hand-held leash that is six-feet or shorter and be well-behaved at all times. Pet owners are required to pick up after their pets and properly dispose of their droppings. Pets are not permitted on beaches or playgrounds, or in bathing areas, cabins, park buildings, or concession facilities. There is a fee of $2 for each pet per night. Within individual parks, specific areas also may be designated as no-pet areas. 

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida's State Parks.

 

How can I make camping reservations?

Year round reservations can be made by phone by dialing our toll-free numbers 1-800 326-3521 and 1-866-ICAMPFL, or online at Reserve America.

 

Are State Parks ADA accessible?

Florida's State Parks are in various stages of accessibility and all are working to improve access to services and facilities. Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the individual park office as soon as possible. Sometimes, as many a ten business days may be needed to schedule a particular accommodation.

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WATER RESOURCES

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Public water systems are required to monitor for bacteria and a variety of chemicals at regular intervals. The specific monitoring requirements are based on the type of water system (Community, Non-Transient Non-Community, or Non-Community) and its size. These requirements can be found in Florida Administrative Code 62-550. The results of these analyses are public information. For more information visit the Water Facilities Regulation home page or contact your local DEP District Office.

 

How do I get the water in my private well tested?

Individuals on private wells, should contact their county health department or have their well water tested by a private laboratory. Testing requirements are specific to the particular type of system and must be researched to determine what has already been (or not been) done. Visit the Water Facilities Regulation page, or contact your local DEP district office’s Water Facilities Program.

 

Why do I have to drink the chlorinated water? / What if I feel that there is too much chlorine in my water?

DEP rules require chlorination and a chlorine residual of 0.2 mg/L throughout the distribution system in order to prevent the spread of waterborne disease due to accidental cross connections or water pipe breaks.

There is no regulation as to the upper limit of the amount of chlorine that can be added to water in a public water system. There is just the minimum of 0.2 mg/L. The utility may keep chlorine high in order to maintain an adequate residual throughout the distribution system. Chlorine levels are likely to be higher closer to the water plant. 

If you feel your water has too much chlorine is to call your water utility. To reduce chlorine levels in your drinking water, place it in a pitcher and leave it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the chlorine to dissipate.

 

Is my water fluoridated or how can I get my water fluoridated?

To find out if your water is fluoridated, contact your water utility. Your local DEP district office may have a list of utilities that fluoridate as well.

If you are on a public water supply, your water supplier must make the decision to fluoridate. Municipalities may have a referendum vote on this. If the decision is made to fluoridate, the utility must get the required DEP permit(s) to install fluoridation equipment.

 

Why does Florida well water smell bad?

The most common natural reasons for Florida’s water to smell unpleasant is because of the surrounding environment. With a high organic content, the water may smell "humic" and the presence of sulfur compounds makes the water smell of rotten eggs. Filtration often resolves the problem.

Under certain circumstances, the human nose may also identify the presence of contaminants from spills, such as gasoline, or extreme bacteriological activity. It is important to determine the source of any unusual odor in your drinking water and report it.

 

What happens to the water we use that goes down the sink drain?

This answer can vary from place to place. Most drains are either connected to a sanitary sewer system or septic tank.

The sanitary sewer carries the wastewater to a treatment plant where it is processed to reduce and/or remove the wastes. After processing, the treated water may be released to the groundwater or surface water.

Any place served by septic tanks must observe some special precautions. A septic tank is just a small underground treatment plant that relies upon bacteria to "eat" domestic wastes. The clean water is then discharged back into the surrounding soils (the drain field). If harsh or toxic chemicals are put into a septic tank system, they may kill the bacteria and render the system useless. Then, the wastewater and chemicals pass through the septic tank and into the earth without treatment. This is especially important in homes that utilize private wells for drinking water because their water source may become contaminated.

 

How should I fertilize my yard so I don't cause water pollution?

Talahassee Democrat: Posted on Thu, Mar. 13, 2003
Are you using the right fertilizer? By David W. Marshall SPECIAL TO THE DEMOCRAT Fertilizer can be a good thing because it contains nutrients that plants need to grow. A typical fertilizer contains N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus) and K (potassium), in that order. Those are the three numbers in a fertilizer analysis. A 5-10-15 fertilizer, for example, contains 5-percent nitrogen, 10-percent phosphorus and 15-percent potassium. Excess fertilizer can be as bad, just as excess food can cause health problems. You should not apply fertilizer that isn't needed. You also should apply fertilizer in the ratios that do plants the most good. Many fertilizers give plants too high of a nitrogen-to-potassium ratio. A perfect example is the 27-3-3 lawn fertilizers. That's a 9:1 nitrogen to potassium ratio. Too much nitrogen over too short a time can result in excessive vegetative growth on plants. Excessive growth forces you to mow and prune more often and can lead to secondary problems such as increased disease and insect susceptibility. Fertilizers such as 27-3-3 also lack sufficient potassium. Potassium is needed for strong cell walls in plants. Strong cell walls help increase plant hardiness to temperature extremes. Many fertilizers also supply more phosphorus than is needed. Many Florida soils have adequate phosphorus levels. So phosphorus deficiency is rare. If you apply too much phosphorus, it can run off into the stormwater and then into our lakes. There, it stimulates excessive algae and plant growth that can result in fish kills. So excess fertilizer in our yards becomes a water-pollution problem. Considering these factors, a 15-0-15 fertilizer is a good general-purpose landscape fertilizer. It has a 1:1 nitrogen to potassium ratio. It has no phosphorus. And if you select a 15-0-15 fertilizer with 7.5-percent slow-release nitrogen, you reduce the rapid growth flush that too much nitrogen applied at once can cause. You also reduce the amount of nitrogen that leaches below the root system and into our groundwater. Here is a list of good fertilizers for our area: • 15-0-15 - General-purpose landscape fertilizer for shrubs, small trees, lawns, flowers, and groundcovers. Select one with 7.5-percent slow-release nitrogen. • 15-5-15 - For new plantings where the available phosphorus may help establishment. Also for short-term plantings such as flowering annuals or for when a soil test indicates a need for phosphorus. Select one with 7.5-percent slow-release nitrogen. • 10-10-10, 20-20-20, 15-15-15 etc. - For general vegetable garden and fruit tree use. Vegetables and fruits can probably use the phosphorus. • 5-10-15 - For vegetable gardens when you need to use less nitrogen. If you've been getting lots of vegetative growth and no vegetables, excess nitrogen may be your problem (provided you have plenty of sun). • 5-0-15, 5-0-20 - If you want to fertilize your lawn in late August to late September, these would be good winterizer-type fertilizers. They also can be used on shrubs at that time of year. • Palm fertilizers - Those such as 15-5-15 with 1-percent magnesium (Mg) and also containing sulfur (S), about 1- to 2-percent iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn), and trace amounts of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and boron (B). • Citrus fertilizers - They can be a fertilizer such as 10-10-10, but should contain about 1.6-percent magnesium, about 0.5-percent manganese, and small amounts of copper and boron. Actually, the palm fertilizers mentioned above should work fine for the citrus, too. Plants absorb nitrate forms of nitrogen more readily than the ammoniacal form from cold-winter soils. Check the nitrogen source of your winter fertilizer to make sure it has nitrate nitrogen. Many natural organic fertilizers are good because they are slow-release. But try to avoid organic fertilizers that contain excessively high phosphorus levels. Also, be aware that urea is a synthetic organic fertilizer and is not slow-release. David W. Marshall teaches environmental landscape management for the University of Florida Extension in Leon County.

 

I live on a lake or bay. What can I do to help keep it clean and healthy?

There are several things you can do to keep your lake (bay, etc.) clean and healthy:

• Do not throw trash, lawn or garden clippings and debris into the waterway. Have these materials picked up at your curb or take them to a proper landfill or composting facility.
  

• Leave a buffer of natural vegetation (plants, marshes or trees) between the water and your house. If there is no natural vegetation, do not apply fertilizers or pesticides within at least 25 feet of the water’s edge or the wetland. If you are interested in "going natural," contact DEP, the Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Program or local nurseries to find out what kinds of vegetation would be best at your water’s edge.
  

• If you are on a septic tank, but a sewer line is available, tie into the sewage line. This will avoid the potential slow leaching of partially treated sewage from your septic tank’s drainfield into the water.
  

• Protect the natural slope of the shoreline. If a shoreline must be hardened, instead of a sea wall, use riprap (a retaining wall made with large rocks or clean concrete rubble that breaks the force of the waves).
  

• Re-grade a damaged shoreline to its original slope and re-vegetate with native plants.
  

• To filter runoff, maintain a healthy fringe of native plants at the edge of your waterway.
  

• Design docks to allow light to reach the water and penetrate to the aquatic grasses that hold the sediment and shelter aquatic animals.
  

• Use fertilizers and pesticides only as a last resort. If you mow or trim the vegetation you can reduce the amount of fertilizers needed by not cutting the grass too short (less stress on the grass), by leaving the clippings on the lawn (a natural fertilizer -- but don’t place the clippings in the water), and by keeping the mower blades sharp (dull blades damage and weaken the grass).
  

• Try not to apply fertilizers and pesticides just before a rainstorm -- or near a waterbody or wetland. If they runoff into the water, they could kill fish and other aquatic organisms.
  

• Read the labels. Pesticides labeled CAUTION are less toxic than those labeled WARNING, which are less toxic than those labeled DANGER.

 

What is Nonpoint Source Pollution?

Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution, unlike pollution from industrial and sewage treatment plants, comes from diffuse sources. NPS pollution occurs when rainfall or irrigation runs over land or through the ground, picks up pollutants throughout the watershed, and deposits them into rivers, lakes, coastal waters or introduces them into ground water.

Imagine the path taken by a drop of rain from the time it hits the ground to when it reaches a river, ground water, an ocean or other waters. Any pollutant it picks up on its journey can become part of the NPS problem. NPS pollution also includes adverse changes to the vegetation, shape, and flow of streams and other aquatic systems.

NPS pollution is widespread because it can occur any time activities disturb the land or water. Septic systems, urban runoff, construction, recreational boating, agriculture, forestry, grazing, physical changes to stream channels, and habitat degradation are all potential sources of NPS pollution. Careless or uninformed household management also contributes to NPS pollution problems which is why it is also called pointless personal pollution.

 

Can I empty my pool directly in to a waterway?

A number of local county environmental programs do regulate this activity. It would be advantageous for the homeowner to contact their local environmental programs to establish whether they have any concerns.

 

What are groundwater contaminates?

"Groundwater contaminants" is the catch-all phrase used to refer to any one of many compounds that has been determined to have a some impact on human health if present above certain concentrations. Groundwater contaminants are grouped into three classes: primary standards, secondary standards or organoleptics, depending upon the seriousness of the impact. The concentration over which a compound is a source of concern is called the Maximum Contamination Level, or MCL, for primary and secondary standards and is enforceable under Florida Statute and regulation. Organoleptic compounds (those whose impact is more aesthetic than an issue of real health impact) are addressed in Florida by a guidance concentration.

 

How do contaminates get into my drinking well water?

To properly answer this question you need to understand water. Water is often referred to as the universal solvent. Almost everything, to a greater or lesser degree, dissolves in water. Because of this, contaminants may enter drinking wells by a number of natural and accidental processes.

A good analogy is to consider a bowl of breakfast cereal. Sugar may be a coating on the cereal or sprinkled on the top. Either way, the milk will dissolve the sugar and distribute it throughout the bowl.

Likewise, a hazardous spill may occur or a tank of gasoline may leak. The surrounding soils may then consist of these undesirable chemicals. Any liquid (including rain or irrigation water) that comes in contact with the contaminant can dissolve and/or carry it throughout the soils and down into the groundwater. In some rare cases, contaminants have even been accidentally pumped into an unlocked well.

 

Can contaminated well water be used for other purposes?

The use of any contaminated water would depend upon the type and degree of contamination. If the alternative use involves discharging to the environment (i.e. soils, groundwater or surface water), there may also be some regulatory considerations.

 

Can contaminates be cleaned from a well?  How much will fixing my contaminated well cost me?

That question is similar to one that a patient would ask a doctor. The answer depends upon what condition the patient suffers from:

• how extreme the case is

• whether or not it is a condition that can be ignored

• whether or not the body is capable of healing itself

• and what the patient considers acceptable as a remedy.

The efficiency and cost of cleaning a well depends upon the type and level of contaminants and whether or not the source of the contaminants has been abated. If the contaminant poses no actual health hazard, any cost may not be acceptable. Likewise, if the contaminant poses an immediate health hazard, any cost may be acceptable.

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