Message from Secretary Colleen M. Castille

In just three days, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection will embrace a new year of environmental opportunity under the leadership of a new Governor and a new secretary. And, reflecting upon 2006 – we achieved what we set out to accomplish – restore, protect, preserve and improve Florida’s environment.

In 2006 and in the seven years before, Florida remained committed to restoring the beloved River of Grass, and this year proved to be a turning point in the endeavor. Building on the hard work, long hours and the tremendous dedication throughout the years, we are seeing real progress. Ninety-seven percent of the land needed to complete the Acceler8 projects, initiated by Governor Jeb Bush, is in public ownership and six of the eight Acceler8 projects are underway or already complete.

Reservoir construction is in progress and treatment marshes already are filtering nutrients while improving water quality in the vast and beautiful wetland. And, we are seeing concrete evidence that our restoration methods are working with renewed habitat for more than 60 threatened and endangered species.

As the nation’s foremost land acquisition program, Florida Forever has enabled the State to acquire more than 500,000 acres, at an investment of more than $1.7 billion, since the program was established by Governor Bush and the Florida legislature in 1999.

The most recent and largest parcel of land acquired was the 74,000-acre Babcock Ranch in Lee and Charlotte counties. Significant with its native vegetation, natural beauty and water recharge area, this historic acquisition stands out as the shining example of partnerships, conservation and passion for the Florida Forever program.

While none quite as large as Babcock Ranch in size, there were many other notable acquisitions this year including one of the most important areas to Central Florida’s water supply -- the Green Swamp in Polk and Lake counties. Earlier this year the State added 5,100 acres to the Florida Forever project, designating that portion as a state park. With the highest ground water elevation in the peninsula, and giving rise to four major rivers -- the Peace, Hillsborough, Withlacoochee and Oklawaha -- Green Swamp is critical to the recharge of the Floridan aquifer.

We are also making tremendous progress acquiring land in the Florida Keys. One visit to the Keys and it is no wonder why so many people have chosen to live there. Through the Florida Keys Ecosystem Florida Forever project, more than 60 acres were acquired this year along the 106-mile chain of islands. These acquisitions help preserve the fragile Keys ecosystem and outlying coral reefs; protect the undeveloped hardwood hammocks, marsh rabbit and Key deer indigenous to the islands; and safeguard the Keys’ Outstanding Florida Waters.

As the only state surrounded by two oceans, water defines our quality of life. Restoring water quality and ensuring a reliable supply of water is a top priority for the Department and we are doing so by safeguarding our oceans, springs, lakes and rivers, as well as the Floridan aquifer. During the 2006 legislative session, Governor Bush secured $385.4 million to expand funding for water quality improvement projects throughout the state, strengthening protection for Florida's water resources.

In March the Gulf of Mexico Alliance released the Governors’ Action Plan for Healthy and Resilient Coasts uniting two nations, five Gulf States and 22 separate and distinct agencies with common goals to protect and preserve our coastal waters.

In addition, through low-interest loans from the State Revolving Fund programs, the Department awarded more than $248 million to cities and counties to upgrade, plan, design and build public water, wastewater and stormwater plants and systems.

Recognizing that our natural resources are limited, we have also made great strides under the foresight of Governor Bush in planning for Florida’s future energy needs. With the passing of Senate Bill 888 this year, the Florida Renewable Energy Technologies & Energy Efficiency Act and the Florida Energy Commission was created -- a four-year, $100 million plan to diversify the state’s fuel supply and to promote energy conservation and efficiency.

The law is providing rebates, grants and tax incentives to stimulate the development of alternative fuel energies such as solar, hydrogen and biofuels -- and to stimulate opportunities for new businesses and services that will provide Floridians with more high paying jobs.

With nearly 1,000 new residents arriving daily, Florida is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. A diverse, efficient and affordable energy supply, coupled with a long-term commitment to energy conservation, is vital for maintaining Florida’s growing economy and quality of life.

Florida’s natural resources are a key factor to our growing economy and popularity as an ideal place to live. With 159 award-winning state parks and thousands of miles of trails to accommodate all types of outdoor enthusiasts, it comes as no surprise that Florida State Parks twice received the Gold Medal from the National Recreation and Parks Association -- the only state to do so. It was an honor this year when the Florida Senate recognized that achievement with a resolution praising the Florida Park Service for its quality management practices.

Outdoor enthusiasts are also discovering the remarkable beauty of Florida’s waterways. Earlier this year, I paddled along the first completed segment of Florida’s new Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. Upon completion, this unique trail will consist of 1,300 miles with 26 segments. Paddlers will be able to navigate around the entire peninsula and observe some of Florida’s most pristine waters and marine life.

Protecting Florida’s natural resources is one of the most important roles an agency can have. Under Governor Bush’s leadership we have seen unprecedented accomplishments in both showcasing and safeguarding these natural treasures.

Beyond enforcing our environmental laws, DEP also is demonstrating – to business and industry – ways to adopt ‘green’ practices to both reduce waste and save money. This year, the Department’s Compliance Assistance Program hosted nine workshops across the state to guide Florida’s automotive recycling industry through the environmental compliance process.

In addition, our Clean Marina and Clean Boatyard programs are great examples of the agency working with partners to improve compliance, reduce waste and market green practices. This year, 18 marinas throughout the state joined the Clean Marina program -- each committing to protect Florida’s waterways by reducing stormwater and wastewater runoff, building environmentally friendly docks, offering pump-out facilities to customers, establishing hazardous spill protection plans and educating boaters on the importance of protecting Florida’s waterways.

As the Department continues serving the people and natural resources of Florida, I foresee a state that leads the way in scientific technology and remains a pristine wonderland with native plants and animals protected, a clean and healthy water supply and bountiful natural resources to sustain and entertain Florida’s future residents and visitors alike.