[0:09] >> ladies and gentlemen, if you can take your seats for
[0:11] going to start about a manner that goes to
[0:14] ? >> One and metropolitan low
[0:27] Ares wants to the most. We've been holding back a little
[0:30] edge. Inmates are. Big shoes 50
[1:03] >> I do with the Good morning. To the county coalition for
[1:12] responsible management of Lake Okeechobee, Port St. Lucie and
[1:15] Caloosahatchee estuaries in Lake Worth Lagoon. It's
[1:18] Friday, September 4th, 2026. Before we get started, if we
[1:22] could rise, if you can rise for the pledge.
[1:27] >> I pledge allegiance to flag. To republic for which it
[1:35] stands. nation under be a for all.
[1:41] >> Thank you very much. Looking around. Good, good
[1:47] crowd. Today. It might have something to do with lunch,
[1:51] this is the lead. Everybody know that we do have the
[1:54] annual barbecue over The first Methodist church down the
[1:58] street here right after that. conclusion of this meeting and
[2:02] the first time I know of no charge to attend. So come on
[2:08] over its good food and good, good, good folks over there.
[2:10] Looking at the audience. I'll probably miss somebody. But so
[2:17] I'll just say thank you to all people from various agencies
[2:19] that are here. Appreciate your tenants the upcoming
[2:22] presentations. Review and adoption of the agenda. Any
[2:28] changes the agenda? Gentlemen? None sir. Second, motion. A
[2:37] second to adopt the agenda as presented. The only changes
[2:41] are individuals from the different counties that
[2:45] they're substituting officials Trosky for Commissioner Wayne,
[2:48] run for Mayor Baxter and And year. Your name Good bread for
[2:59] us like a wolf of for Commissioner Hazell as is
[3:04] motion a second. Any additional discussion. Any
[3:06] objection to the motion? Another passes unanimously.
[3:09] Okay. Item for treasures report. Commissioner. I
[3:17] currently have. we didn't go back to the minutes. I know we
[3:19] did the agenda, but I'd like to go back to the minutes
[3:22] before we out on a body here we get right to it.
[3:26] >> Michael, as we just adopted the agenda with this front,
[3:27] which we should go to the ministry partner. Go ahead.
[3:31] You have question on just a >> A correction for the
[3:35] minutes in the entire minutes. My name is misspelled. I would
[3:38] just like to have that. >> Corrected. It is P E T R O
[3:44] S K Y. Thank you. Pronounce that. Please. Pronounce that.
[3:48] says products that pitch Yes. Thank you.
[3:53] >> Okay. To have a motion to adopt the minutes of June. 5th
[3:58] 2025 with changes. I think second your motion a second to
[4:02] adopt the minutes from June 5th 2026 with the changes
[4:04] requested by commissioner process. Any discussion. any
[4:08] objection to the motion. Another passes unanimously.
[4:11] Thank you for catching the minutes that thank you.
[4:17] Treasures report the We have balance of $58,554 and $0.47.
[4:22] >> sounds pretty Motion to accept the treasurer's report.
[4:31] Motion second to for the treasurer's report and
[4:35] discussion. Any objection to the motion? Passes
[4:42] unanimously. Okay. Good update now from the various counties.
[4:45] Start with Commissioner Townsend for Change. This is
[4:52] unusual the new down accounts. Pretty quiet. Actually. The
[4:55] only thing we really have active is we are updating our
[4:58] port masterplan. >> Other than that, a lot
[4:59] happening. >> Commissioner Preston, High
[5:04] Commissioner Petroski. We have a few things from Lee County.
[5:09] First, we are very excited with Southwest or South
[5:10] Florida Water Management district. They're doing their
[5:14] continual operation testing and the C 43 reservoir so
[5:18] we're just hopeful and perhaps with the rainfall that we're
[5:20] getting more late lately and more Kamen that we're getting,
[5:25] the agency will be able to put more additional water and
[5:28] coming soon, the Caloosahatchee has been
[5:31] receiving far less water the necessary to maintain the
[5:36] health since October. So Lee County is glad that our
[5:38] estuaries finally starting to see some inflows. But that is
[5:42] entirely due to the race. Recent rainfall. We do want to
[5:46] thank major Corey Bell for coming out and visit us at Lee
[5:48] County this last June. He spent some time with staff and
[5:53] myself visiting our new natural resources. Lime that
[5:57] is under construction right now. But we are scheduled to
[6:01] have it reopened at the end of this year, if not early, 2027
[6:06] and then we also have exciting news that we're going to be
[6:08] welcomed. The Colonel Bowman to Lee County in the next few
[6:11] weeks. And we're going to be having looking forward to
[6:14] having some discussions regarding some of the core
[6:18] related matters. But that is all I have today. So thank you
[6:19] so Thank you very much. Commissioner sailing Glades
[6:22] County. >> And Glades County. We do
[6:27] have a whole lot. We still continue convert septic to
[6:29] sewer in the city of Moore Haven its more grants this
[6:32] year do that. But We did get 2 million Dollar grant to redo
[6:40] Indian Prairie boat ramp, which a good thing. It's very
[6:43] straight. So hopefully we can clean that area. Thank a nice
[6:46] for there. Let's get a control district in Buckhead Ridge is
[6:52] kind of unique where they don't to spray mosquitoes.
[6:55] They also maintain our canals exotic some stuff. But they
[7:00] also got a grant for $750,000 to buy a mechanical harvester.
[7:05] So they're going to try go from spraying the harvesting.
[7:07] But the only drawback to that is if this amendment 3 passes
[7:12] are not going to have enough funding to run, kind of death
[7:15] star there with here you get the funding and then the cut
[7:18] your operational expenses. But the only other thing I want to
[7:23] bring up and then it's it could be very big issue for
[7:27] this area. But there's a meal we that's out there now, you
[7:29] can tell, pressure, dressing them. It's in the cane fields
[7:32] right now. And it's really devastating. The cane fields
[7:36] that are existing that letter getting into it. They're not
[7:38] able to stop it. So as if that takes overcame, like the other
[7:43] book took over the orange industry. We may be looking
[7:46] for some serious side effects of this whole state of
[7:49] Florida. So keep your eye out on on That I mean, if a messes
[7:54] up our even our China operations, I these guys can
[7:57] grow Callaway things effect scripts. But just keep your
[8:01] eyes open for that. But that's all I got. Thank you, Tim.
[8:03] Okeechobee County. >> All right. Good morning,
[8:08] Commissioner Brett Good bridge the alternate. For Okeechobee
[8:13] County taken Commissioner David Paisley's place here.
[8:14] The conflicting. Excuse me, conflicting meeting this
[8:17] morning. We have. Coming to the finish line on or Bass Pro
[8:24] project. Looks like we're getting ready sign a a. 2,
[8:30] Tucson, the agreement to 2 change ownership to Bass Pro.
[8:36] Then a couple list of a couple things we had to clean up. So
[8:40] that looks like it's finally after. Probably been years
[8:44] now. It's coming to the finish line. And anybody that's
[8:50] looking for some recreation for the weekend from a holiday
[8:52] weekend when the Okeechobee professional Cowboys Labor Day
[8:56] Rodeo this weekend. It's a Saturday and Sunday evening at
[9:00] 06:00PM. Commissioner. Yeah. >> We had it about a month
[9:08] ago. We had a ribbon cutting for the C 23 STA Project. It's
[9:13] not Martin County. It's in Port St. Lucie County, but
[9:15] it's part of IRL South. It's a critical project and it was
[9:18] really, really well attended. It was real celebration about
[9:22] 90 of us whether the hot weather that afternoon in
[9:26] order to usher in terrific project, another project that
[9:30] we're really looking forward to the said Ron Project, we
[9:37] all deal with bio solids in an satisfactory ways. We fret
[9:40] about how to dispose of them in until now have been no good
[9:43] solutions. We have an excellent solution that we
[9:45] should all consider. The said Ron Project is moving into
[9:50] facilities moving into Indian town. I hopefully will be
[9:54] finished sometime in 2027, perhaps early 2027. It uses
[9:59] very high heat. And chemicals in order to dispose of the
[10:05] solids and the buy products are either inert or their
[10:11] their renewables and they destroy the nitrogen, the
[10:14] phosphorus and we hope the PFAS also said Ron is building
[10:21] the facility themselves at no expense to any of the
[10:24] municipalities that we're going to be using. It. There's
[10:28] 3, 300,000 tons of capacity. There. Martin County is the
[10:32] first municipality to sign up. We're only using 80 tons of
[10:38] the capacity. So there's a lot of capacity left. The rate
[10:41] payers are going to be pain just about the same amount as
[10:43] they do for disposal of biosolids. Now. So there's a
[10:48] whole lot of capacity and it's a wonderful way to get rid of
[10:53] of biosolids once and for all without doing any harm to the
[10:57] environment. So were really, really pleased to to have that
[11:00] project online. Thank you, commissioner. drum from Palm
[11:05] Beach County. Thank you, Mister Chair. Appreciate
[11:09] you're allowing me to sit in for Mayor Baxter, who sends
[11:11] her regrets due to a conflict that she had?
[11:14] >> I'm happy to report that the county in cooperation with
[11:19] the Army Corps of Engineers. We've been working on our Lake
[11:21] Worth Lagoon, Bonefish Cove Restoration Island project. We
[11:25] are the local sponsor and that project has reached
[11:28] substantial completion. It's located south of the Lake
[11:30] Worth Bridge and the southern portion of Lake Worth Lagoon.
[11:33] And it's going to provide over 28 acres of restored habitat
[11:36] for that estuary. I do want to give a shout out because I see
[11:40] some of the partners in the audience, but it would not
[11:41] have been possible without those partners. And in
[11:45] addition to the core and Palm Beach County, additional grant
[11:51] funders as well cooperators on sand for the project included
[11:54] the Florida inland Navigation district, the port of Palm
[11:58] Beach, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the
[12:01] Florida Department of Environmental Protection in
[12:03] the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. That's just an
[12:05] example of how partners or so essential to what we do. I did
[12:10] want to report and that our utilities, department or water
[12:13] utilities department is submitting 3 resilient Florida
[12:16] grant applications for the cycle for a combined total of
[12:20] 21.1 million dollars. And those are focused on
[12:23] incorporating resilient process improvements to our
[12:25] wastewater treatment plants in areas of Palm Beach County
[12:28] that are and designated disadvantage and or rural
[12:31] areas of opportunity, which are many of our glades
[12:34] communities. And lastly, I just wanted to report that
[12:38] over the summer we have 2 initiatives that rank projects
[12:42] that are essential for improving water quality in
[12:44] Lake Worth Lagoon. And the Loxahatchee River, the Lake
[12:46] Worth Lagoon initiative has forwarded will forward in this
[12:52] next legislative session just over 2.8 million dollars of
[12:55] projects and for the Loxahatchee River, $450,000 of
[12:59] projects. Those represent the top priorities of
[13:02] municipalities and those watersheds with a group of
[13:07] informed expert people around the table to rank those
[13:09] projects. So you get the most bang for the buck. So we've
[13:13] been very busy this summer and a lot of get the stuff things
[13:16] happening. And again, I appreciate the opportunity of
[13:17] reported. Thank you. Thank you very much. Commissioner, Thank
[13:24] This real quick I'll touch on biosolids. The real trick
[13:26] would be able to figure out how to get rid of everything.
[13:27] But the nitrogen nitrogen creates protein and
[13:31] >> that be great for the United States of America. The
[13:33] state of Florida, if we could utilize all that nitrogen
[13:36] essentially free nitrogen, especially with the cost of
[13:37] fertilizer right now. Anyway, I'll just put that out there
[13:43] tie up the phosphorus, tie up all the bad stuff. Keep the
[13:44] nitrogen. Let's figure that out. That's the real the real
[13:47] trick there. We did receive Osceola County did receive
[13:51] some C 31 Canal restoration money or I guess. Re surfacing
[13:57] are shoring up and hopefully south Florida man. And we
[14:00] didn't get as much as we want drew. But hopefully you guys
[14:03] can do part of the project. That's always how it goes in
[14:06] Tallahassee. We've got 3 harvesting projects going on,
[14:09] which we're excited about in Lake Tahoe. And then starting
[14:11] one soon in Lake Kissimmee, we created the Lakes Advisory
[14:15] Committee in our community and that's going really well.
[14:18] They're going through a prioritization schedule right
[14:20] now They're excited to do that. And just a touch on
[14:24] amendment 3. We have put our boat ramp restoration plan on
[14:29] holding put a lot of stuff on hold for this this budget year
[14:31] just to wait and see what happens. So there will be
[14:35] impacts I've always said, I'm gonna do with the people of
[14:36] Florida to tell me to do. But just that is one of the
[14:42] impacts that we're seeing already. And you discussed one
[14:43] as well. So there will be impacts will no matter what
[14:46] happens. So. That's all quick today. Thank you, Commissioner
[14:53] Commissioner says it's a quiet for Hendry, but I want to take
[14:54] a moment to thank Drew. Listen, Tom, that site visit
[15:00] last week or last last meeting. For the group that
[15:05] was unable to go. You guys missed out on an amazing trip.
[15:07] The slides that they're going to shows today.
[15:10] >> Show progress. But when you have boots on the ground, you
[15:12] really truly experience what they're doing out there. It's
[15:16] amazing. I said this back in December of 2024 got on this
[15:20] board. I want to be a board of that. We're just gonna see
[15:23] here discuss what's going on. I want to be a board of action
[15:27] in. We need to be involved as much as we can to help these
[15:30] agencies get the funding they need to clean this lake up.
[15:36] That's just one of the tools in the toolbox, right? There's
[15:37] going to be a lot of other projects, but it's nice. A
[15:40] funny C, some funding on the with. There's a lot more that
[15:42] needs come down the pike. But I thank you guys for the trip.
[15:46] Looking forward to many more projects. Thank you,
[15:49] Commissioner Commissioner McDaniel. What's going on
[15:52] Collier County, are you today? Because good, good, good
[15:56] >> as well, kind of quiet and Collier. Just few updates. I'm
[16:01] really excited about the Northeast Regional Wastewater
[16:05] Water facility that's been stalled in northeast Collier
[16:08] County. We already have 2 very large waste, water, water
[16:13] treatment facilities in Collier, one north and one
[16:17] down and done on South side. This 3rd will intertwine all 3
[16:21] allowed capacity to move from one to the other. A little
[16:26] known story when became a commissioner 9 years ago, my
[16:30] county manager told me I had storage tanks for wastewater
[16:33] that were 40 years old and we couldn't take them offline to
[16:38] do pm for fear disruption to the service of our community.
[16:44] That's no longer the case. And close to a billion dollars of
[16:49] investment Collier counties making into life sustaining
[16:53] critical infrastructure. really excited about it.
[16:55] There's there's additional piping coming out of that that
[16:58] goes all the way row. Clear out to state road. 29 for
[17:01] anybody that's been looking. There is no fence, a
[17:07] Stateline. There is no wall at my county line. People are
[17:10] coming and growth and development is inevitable.
[17:15] we're we're securing waste, water, water supply for those
[17:18] eastern developments at the same time. So ongoing are
[17:24] improvements to the Everglades Wastewater Everglade City
[17:29] Waste, Water Water Treatment plant is doing very well
[17:32] increasing capacity on a regular basis. And we have
[17:35] entered into custody for. of Capri to swap them over from
[17:41] septic to sewer. So that's that's what we're are not
[17:45] doing anything else. Thank you, sir. Appreciate your
[17:48] update. Charlotte County. You know, we're continue on with
[17:52] our master plan for us. Conversions septic to sewer.
[17:58] >> Just contending with that. plan as laid out by the
[18:00] consultants and staff. We're also working on in various
[18:06] stages of design and construction permitting
[18:07] construction of our water reclamation facility is going
[18:12] increasing capacity and also going to advanced wastewater
[18:15] treatment. So that's all going well talk about growth. We had
[18:19] a report from Metro forecasting came in a few
[18:21] weeks ago and told us that and from 2020 to 2025, Charlotte
[18:29] County's population increased 50,000 people. It's Bonita
[18:34] Springs basically moved into Charlotte County. And so we're
[18:38] we've got a tremendous amount of. Pressure right now to
[18:43] provide services to folks. obviously what's hanging over
[18:47] all of our heads as amendment network. And it just clarify
[18:51] because 50,000 is a lot. Charlotte yards. Total
[18:56] populations to 35 was just going to say on a percentage
[18:58] basis because Kuz Kuz your colleagues at Nick see issues
[19:04] like why I want to slice in Charlotte County. It's a big
[19:09] deal yet to be the is what Charlotte County. 73 was
[19:11] 35,000 folks with their most of the city of P**** Gorda.
[19:15] >> So anyway, it's moving along amendment threes. The
[19:17] big, the big deal for all of us trying to figure out what's
[19:19] going to happen. We're fortunate Charlotte County. A
[19:22] lot of our our services public works as an example. Our roads
[19:28] are in various neighborhood. MSP use not have a war. It was
[19:33] I set those up on this is the county administrator. 45 years
[19:36] ago never realized important would be. the stand age. So
[19:39] we're fortunate that way. But wait, we know question
[19:43] amendment 3 is the big deal going through our budgets
[19:45] right now trying to figure out what to do. So we have some
[19:48] hiring freeze things going on, things of that nature. So we
[19:51] see what really happens. But we will we will work the
[19:54] problem. As you said, commission didn't have choice.
[19:57] People will speak and we'll we'll deal with it. So okay.
[20:01] At this point we're go to agenda item 6, which is
[20:04] comments from the public on agenda items or do you have
[20:06] some carts? Thank you very much. Is that Mark Perry? want
[20:20] to do at the end of the Okay for that, sir. Nickolas
[20:23] Museum. Mr. Cook. Speak now. Thank you. Newton Cook, United
[20:43] Waterfowlers of Florida. >> Not much today because
[20:47] we're sitting here. Happy, happy, happy. The Lakers no
[20:50] high water. Vegetation is growing and the Ducks are
[20:54] started to come down. And I just heard also this morning
[20:59] that the model Ducks in Florida Pollux. It is a large
[21:02] population of mile ducks on the lake. And that means we
[21:05] have a healthier life and we have healthy lake for one
[21:08] reason. reason is water flow. And clear. And ever doubted
[21:16] not as spray out there, killing everything might pop
[21:18] up. And nothing but good things to say. As you guys
[21:25] know. Appreciate this meeting. A lot calls the real people
[21:29] could make things happen here. So look forward to spending.
[21:34] Let's review today. Thank you. Thank you, sir. she ate it. We
[21:38] haven't had any water to send him all summer us. Part of the
[21:42] Billy Walker. >> the OK, come along where
[21:48] you are. It. We're up to agency updates. We'll start
[21:53] with the Army Corps of Engineers. Good morning.
[21:59] >> Good morning. Good morning. How's everyone Happy Friday at
[22:04] the front. for landslides, I right now. So couple updates
[22:07] from the enterprise city. Assistant secretary of the
[22:10] Army for Civil Works. Mister Adam Till we'll be acting
[22:12] secretary of the Army. So the decibel feel those rules until
[22:18] Senate confirmation at the federal level has been
[22:19] completed on both secretary, the Army and the assistant
[22:23] secretary. The Army for Civil and then internally Sha. So
[22:30] South Atlantic Division, Jacksonville district, missive
[22:32] of who is the was the chief of System branch has been
[22:35] selected as the IPO. Chief, what does all this mean? So
[22:38] that is integrated project office over the EA Reservoir
[22:42] says she's moved out of her role as a chief of
[22:45] environmental Ecosystem branch to the IPO. Chief whole focus
[22:51] is now complete in on time by 2029. So if you need anything
[22:56] from the ecosystem branch that will be missed for Mike Call
[22:59] us. in interim acting branch chief right now. And I think
[23:04] that's it from from an overall perspective on. Enterprise,
[23:08] wide activities Jacksonville district. Quick agenda here.
[23:11] No big surprises. Again. You can see lot of completion
[23:17] across the program was surfer specifically a lot of green.
[23:20] So that means it's good steps moving forward. A lot of
[23:22] completions as well. lot of stuff still ongoing for for a
[23:25] lot of the program. But we're seeing. Good progress across
[23:30] the portfolio, specifically for South Florida ecosystem.
[23:36] So here are a highlight successes that we've had with.
[23:38] So we did publish final version of the yes, it's
[23:41] available on our website as well. We'd execute some PP A's
[23:44] with South Florida Water Management district under 10.
[23:46] 43 be this is the federal dollars just to non-federal
[23:51] sponsors so that there's are executed in July. We'd have to
[23:56] what's called Packers. Both officers Ation change. Reports
[23:58] are completed. So there are with headquarters or the NSA's
[24:00] office for completion to submit to Congress to be able
[24:04] to get those increased funds for those projects. We have 3
[24:08] operational updates. We do have the combined operations
[24:11] multi-year cop, what's called a copy of the Asian has been
[24:13] approved. So that's been great. And we're working with
[24:18] our South Florida the stakeholders on the per
[24:20] ability plan for a to STA get incremental benefits out of
[24:24] that when water available and I roll System operating manual
[24:28] as well as been updated. C 44 specifically. And then then we
[24:33] as commissioner heard mentioned, we did come
[24:35] complete the TSE. 23 C 24 STA system conducted the Interim
[24:39] Pump Station award. So that's moving forward to. So we ought
[24:41] to be until we get the reservoir is online have in
[24:44] Rome up ability to be able to treat some water there on
[24:47] Northern basin of real system. Again, we've got a lot going
[24:54] on. number one priority from the essay in for Jacksonville
[24:58] District is EA 2 reservoir. So that is top priority to finish
[25:00] up by 2029. So we are on track on that will briefly talk
[25:04] about that. We're still moving forward. Keeping management
[25:09] storm track for award for the seepage management feature in
[25:10] 2027 with completion. In 2020 2030, 2031 based team P we're
[25:16] still moving forward with the remainder of the North
[25:19] Reservoir design. So that's moving forward. Ferraro. We're
[25:23] still moving forward with the pump station for C 23. 24 and
[25:28] then set the A's still moving forward along with sub South.
[25:31] 67 looks like it'll be completing later next year. So
[25:36] we'll have a ribbon-cutting sometime in 2027 for that as
[25:37] well. So there's some updates from the photos. And so folks
[25:43] can kind of see what the St looks like. So right now it's
[25:44] just it's got grass and it. But we'll work with South
[25:48] Florida. Water Management district will will have final
[25:50] grade on it. So it's just coming back and planting. And
[25:53] getting those hydrated of orders available to keep the
[25:54] STA Healthy and tool. We have pump station been fried, flows
[26:00] out of the canals, be able to keep it moving and filtering
[26:01] water throughout the system. And this is the pump station
[26:06] on the North Reservoir. So this crews actually ahead of
[26:09] schedule right now. This is being done to it and are
[26:13] working at nights because of the heat, but as as record our
[26:17] Publix tradition back to daytime up operations. But
[26:19] they're moving 6 days a week. I am 0.24 hours, but mainly
[26:23] pouring concrete in. given our military standards and
[26:26] specifications for that as well. So no, no major It's
[26:30] it's doing great. And there's some some and Hamas between
[26:33] construction division and are at quarters. Colonel Bowman is
[26:39] saying or other contractors or 60 or 90 days ahead of
[26:41] schedule can move this to last. So they're working on
[26:42] try to move it to the left to get this completed early as
[26:45] well. So it's all great news for our world. Completed the
[26:51] Kissimmee River restoration projects to the head were
[26:53] schedules online. We're working through all see right
[26:55] now. We're looking for no significant impacts there. So
[26:57] that should be signed next. December's. That's great news
[27:01] as well. She 43 Ys, South Florida water management
[27:04] district. So that's great. And then set up one still ongoing.
[27:08] So we're on track right now for record of decision and
[27:09] December 27 as well. So this some pops that we have right
[27:15] now. So it'll be great. Once we get that other good
[27:19] highlight news is as we're moving the acceleration of
[27:21] that also means you have to have a water plant to be able
[27:23] to fill it. So we are moving forward on the initial full
[27:27] plan we're doing are scoping right now. We've completed a
[27:29] lot of internal meetings with South Florida, want to mention
[27:31] district an internal agencies and resource agencies also be
[27:34] able start rolling this out for public comment and input
[27:36] over the next several months. then we still are moving
[27:42] through and Rummel assessments and other things as well. And
[27:45] we're looking for no significant impact as well
[27:49] from Brown respective and hopefully have that 2028,
[27:53] which will go into effect 2029 actually do go in effect
[27:57] January 2030. So we can start to initial feel on that
[27:58] facility as well. All within foundation in bank. Then we'll
[28:07] talk on the highlight. Those in the other siletz coming up.
[28:10] We kind of already mentioned all these things. South
[28:12] Florida will will brief their projects as well. Again, this
[28:16] is just to orient to where we are talking about a 2 area
[28:18] within just south of the lake. All right there in the blue.
[28:23] The STA was completed January 2024. Question, Think so.
[28:30] Florida probably has to date on that. I'm kind of fuzzy
[28:31] with all So this is the foundation contract. So this
[28:36] is called within our paradigm. So this this is called what's
[28:40] gonna racetrack map? What I'd like to highlight to use
[28:44] bottom right corner. First before we look at all the
[28:46] other data. So the bottom right corner, you see it says
[28:50] accepted by uses. So this is what's gone through the
[28:53] quality assurance process within the federal system. We
[28:56] accept that and immediately have to that over to 11 be
[28:58] because the federal government doesn't own anything. What is
[29:02] the inner area between the final product in the end user
[29:03] South Florida Water Management district. Now, if you look at
[29:09] all all the now, if you look at the with all of colors on
[29:13] it, that is showing us the in the center there you have a
[29:15] process of how we have to get after putting the foundation
[29:18] down. So you have to clean the material. Porous. Limestone
[29:22] capstone, then you have to what's controlled fulfill on
[29:24] it. And engineering structures the permit would permit
[29:28] ability of it. You know, it's a solid structure across the
[29:30] limestone and then you can put your top cover on it. After
[29:33] that. So you can see the green is completed. So that's good.
[29:36] And you can see that we're moving out on all headings,
[29:38] which is also amazing and they can see where we are on the
[29:41] cut off all the stuck. How that's the cutoff was just
[29:45] acronym that, you know, Army loves its acronyms. So that's
[29:46] where we are on that. We're currently ahead of schedule
[29:49] when we summon the slide and I think are actually a few more
[29:51] days ahead of schedule right now, which is great on since
[29:53] we haven't had the rain so they can be able to work
[29:55] through that. With that in the worry about on site waters as
[29:59] well. So it's been great right now currently at 40% on total
[30:02] contract. Again, this is based on extra payments. that based
[30:05] on physical work that's been done? That's that's how the
[30:09] federal system work. So just to highlight that little bit
[30:11] different than actual substantial completion on
[30:13] teachers of work that are required contracts little bit
[30:16] different. How we look at that and make payments or
[30:18] contractor. Now we move to 11 This is actually the
[30:23] embankment material that creates the embankment and the
[30:25] feel on the outside in the river up that protects that
[30:28] you see the blue green is what's been turned over to
[30:30] that contractors. It's a different contractor.
[30:32] Executing that. But you can see they have a different type
[30:34] of work effort. So they're doing on site processing.
[30:37] material was questioned in mining and they have to create
[30:42] that material create embankment on that. So that's
[30:44] what you see. Here all the data. has to go with that to
[30:50] highlight. Here is we have to bring in materials
[30:53] specifically granted United States mining facilities here
[30:55] doesn't have the quantity of grant and we need import
[30:58] Canada and through Jamaica. So that creates other logistical
[31:04] challenges. Because after the U.S. flag vessels, we're
[31:05] working through that all that we only have one more shipment
[31:06] of granite that's required for the projects that's great. And
[31:11] Palm Beach County been great supporters of help and support
[31:13] as we have frustrated cargo. So it's been amazing to work
[31:16] through no major changes. And we are ahead of schedule is so
[31:18] as well. And the contractor has great ideas. During the
[31:22] wet season switched extremely what this dry season, which
[31:27] will create challenges from a construction standpoint. But
[31:29] they have a great method of a hangar that rules with them
[31:32] still be able to complete the embankment and sections. And
[31:33] will this huge hanger across to get to keep their area
[31:38] juror say and do placements and as we do or inspections to
[31:40] make sure we have court of control on the embankment
[31:42] itself. Again, this is a cut out. This is very technical,
[31:46] but you can see how that the contracts are broken up. So
[31:49] that is the foundation and cut off. And then they let be
[31:52] contractors, everything else. So they have to do some
[31:54] engineering features with drainage as well. See which
[31:57] managed within the facility itself. To make sure we can
[32:00] hold that embankment of 23 feet with inside the facility
[32:01] itself. 67 is wrapping up. So we're major issues there. So
[32:10] we'll be able to have a ribbon-cutting next year's.
[32:11] It'll be great news for Blue Shanty. And then I'm available
[32:15] for questions or this any questions or comments. The
[32:21] court I just thank you so much for the update on C 43
[32:24] reservoir in the P palm. That's huge lots of
[32:27] ramifications for the Caloosahatchee. So Lee County
[32:29] where >> we're watching, you are in
[32:32] lockstep with you. And we just want to say in his much
[32:33] communication as we can on that one. The one question
[32:36] just how is, when do you think we'll get an update on that?
[32:39] You know, the latest draft or the P palm and then how much
[32:44] time with stakeholders have add additional comments or
[32:45] discuss? >> So I have to specifically
[32:49] look at the dates on that, but I can get back with you, So I
[32:51] can tell you that I know that I met with some of the county
[32:56] folks as well as any time. There's the issue or
[32:58] discrepancy. If you let me know I can. I can help the
[33:02] process. But we are under different rules now. But I
[33:05] will try help you as best I can and will get you
[33:07] information you need to be able to have. The staff
[33:09] expects acute or recordings from from Lee County.
[33:12] >> Thank you. And I thank you for your coronation with 13.
[33:13] You can really wonderful, helpful. We any other comments
[33:16] or questions. Seeing none. Thank you, sir. Appreciate
[33:21] your update. Next. We have the South Florida Water Management
[33:23] District. for Good morning. Good morning.
[33:39] >> I'm Jennifer Reynolds. The director of ecosystem
[33:42] restoration at South Florida Water Management District's.
[33:44] Thank you so much for. >> Having me this meeting.
[33:52] Major Bell gave you a really broad overview of all the
[33:55] projects that we're working on together, which gives me the
[33:59] opportunity. >> To do a little bit of a
[34:01] different presentation for you today. And today I'm going to
[34:03] focus on the lake and on water quality. And so I don't have a
[34:09] lot of project updates for you this meetings. Presentation,
[34:16] but I will look forward to giving you a project update at
[34:20] our next meeting. But I hope that you'll enjoy this
[34:22] presentation to update you on some of the other work that
[34:24] we're doing And so let's start with the lake. When you get to
[34:31] FWC is presentation. They're also going to give you some
[34:34] updates. So there's some things that I don't have the
[34:36] specifics on because FWC is going to update you on those
[34:38] in a minute. But I did want to tell you about a few projects
[34:42] that we've been working on. And one is the Dema king of
[34:46] the navigational botox. And so I'm showing you here. The s
[34:49] one. 35 o'clock. This is the one at the Janice Fish camp in
[34:55] Martin County. And so this is what it looked like before.
[34:57] You can see that there's a lot of vegetation in the basin.
[35:03] And so with brought some equipment in. And started Dima
[35:06] King. They removed about 8,000 cubic yards of muck from this
[35:15] boat lock. And that's what it looked like. After that. a
[35:22] king so huge improvement that we're taking an opportunity to
[35:27] do some of this work this year. While the lake levels
[35:30] are low. In addition, FWC is going to tell you about our
[35:35] burned plans. And one of the other ways that we need to
[35:43] manage vegetation, particularly Brazilian pepper.
[35:46] And so these are some pictures and some of the treatment area
[35:51] location of Brazilian pepper and also Indian Rosewood. We
[35:54] sweep for that as well. When we do Brazilian pepper work,
[35:57] it's treated similarly. And so we treated swept untreated
[36:02] over 1200 acres on Lake Okeechobee in the North Marsh
[36:06] for Brazilian pepper in order to keep this invasive species
[36:12] from really creating really terrible habitat on the lake.
[36:16] So the reason that we treat Brazilian pepper is because it
[36:21] produces a canopy that is really terrible habitat and
[36:24] prevents all of our native species from being able to
[36:27] create the kind of habitat that are birds and other
[36:32] animals and plants enjoy around the lake. And so this
[36:35] has been really successful the summer. And then we've also
[36:42] done over 66,000 plantings in Lake Okeechobee. Here's the
[36:46] picture we have star of our show here. Commissioner here.
[36:54] And then our photos from from the visit that you all made
[37:00] out to these locations on at the last meeting. And so we
[37:02] really appreciate the support and all of the recognition of
[37:08] how important it seems like small areas, right? These are
[37:11] seemingly tiny areas. But in each of these bays, if we can
[37:16] make improvements in all of these small micro habitats, it
[37:20] starts to make a real big difference. And it definitely
[37:24] makes a difference in those areas. And so we're going to
[37:25] continue doing this work. Drew has challenged the staff to
[37:32] keep a list of all the projects that we can do along
[37:37] the lake. And so we have a menu so to speak of Lake
[37:41] Okeechobee projects that are part of a 10 year plan for us
[37:45] to make improvements along the lake. And we're focused on
[37:49] nearshore habitats that will improve fishing as well as
[37:54] habitat for fisheries for our sea grasses and 4, all of the
[38:02] species that really enjoy the lake, but also for the people
[38:06] who recreate at the lake. And so we're focused on keeping
[38:11] those going as funding is available for us to continue
[38:14] to make improvements on Lake Okeechobee. And then again,
[38:21] FWC is going to tell you a little bit more about them
[38:24] occur removal. But I wanted to set the stage for their
[38:27] presentation we've talked a lot about the muck removal
[38:30] that was done in 2007 and harkened. Back to that is like
[38:36] we've got to do more of that. When the lake it's low, we've
[38:37] got to do more machir removal. Well, this year we did it. In
[38:42] fact, we did about twice as much as we did in 2007. So
[38:46] thanks again for the support for pushing all of the
[38:49] agencies to work together so that we could be in a position
[38:50] to make this happen. And again, we are going to
[38:54] continue to be postured that when we have local lake levels
[38:57] that we can continue this work along the areas of Lake
[39:03] Okeechobee, where we can make this happen. And so as we move
[39:09] from Lake Okeechobee in 2, the central and southern
[39:15] Everglades delivering clean water for the Everglades is
[39:18] what we do. And it's really important for us to stay
[39:23] focused on that. And we have been working in collaboration
[39:30] with the basins that contribute water to Lake
[39:35] Okeechobee and then moving at south into the Everglades. And
[39:39] so it's a collaboration and a partnership between the
[39:44] basins, agricultural and municipal that have run off
[39:50] that go into our canals and watersheds and the water
[39:54] management district and how we clean that water. And so our
[39:58] partners in. have been doing a great job. And again, this
[40:07] year had a total phosphorus reduction. Based on the
[40:11] activities that they are doing on farm to have a phosphorus
[40:17] reduction of 65% in water year 2026. And so this chart shows
[40:21] their annual reduction required by law. They're
[40:25] required to reduce their phosphorus levels from the
[40:29] baseline. a minimum of 25%. And you can see. They're
[40:36] really doing a great job this year. Likewise in the C one.
[40:47] 39 basin. And this is out West. Again, the calculations
[40:52] are down a little bit differently in the C one. 39
[40:54] basin, but the is diamonds show the requirements. So
[41:03] there are not allowed to exceed these requirements. And
[41:04] you can see again that they are reducing the phosphorus
[41:09] numbers. In order to stay under those requirements and
[41:15] really significantly stay under those requirements. And
[41:19] so C one 39 basin also exceeded all of their total
[41:22] phosphorus reduction requirements. And so then what
[41:27] does that mean for our projects? Well, it means that
[41:30] all these projects that we've been working on with
[41:31] restoration strategies and all of the stormwater treatment
[41:36] areas that the water management district has built
[41:39] are also performing well and that means that we are
[41:44] reducing phosphorus in our water conservation areas. And
[41:47] so these are the first places where we deliver water to the
[41:52] Everglades. Right? So here's the refuge, water conservation
[41:55] area. our conservation area, 3. And this just shows the
[42:00] reductions from the baseline period in the late 70's and
[42:05] the 1980's of what you could see it with the parts per
[42:09] billion of phosphorus. Bmp implementation and then our
[42:15] stormwater treatment areas coming online and you can see
[42:18] the levels of phosphorus in these areas. Now. And so this
[42:23] is much clear water that we're delivering to habitats that
[42:26] are enjoyed by lots of species throughout our water
[42:29] conservation areas. And that's delivering water quality
[42:36] results at all of our monitoring stations. And so
[42:40] you can see that in water year 2025. More than 98% of the
[42:45] Everglades Protection area achieve the phosphorus levels
[42:48] that meet the state water quality standards of less than
[42:50] 10 parts per billion. And so that's what you see in these
[42:54] all these little dots. So these are all of our
[42:56] monitoring stations where we monitor the phosphorus levels
[42:59] in the Everglades. And you can see that in 1980's. There's
[43:05] lots of red dots. In the current monitoring period.
[43:11] There's lots of green dots and so water quality matters. All
[43:16] the projects that we're doing matter. All of the bmp is
[43:20] matter. And the partnership together to make this happen
[43:23] in deliver real results that improve water quality and
[43:28] improve. The habitats in the Everglades are working and
[43:29] we're going to keep at it. And we're going to keep at that
[43:35] with the projects that we're working on the improvements
[43:38] that we're doing and the operations that go with And so
[43:42] our team is working day in and day out to not only maintain
[43:46] these results but continue to improve on them. And that
[43:52] means that we're also going to continue working on the
[43:55] project. So that major Bell talked about. He talked a
[43:57] little bit about this, first of a kind signing agreement in
[44:01] July of 2025. the governor. Signed an agreement. In order
[44:10] to start a new phase with the federal government and really
[44:14] expedite Everglades restoration partnership way
[44:18] with the federal government. And then in July of this year,
[44:24] we signed 2 agreements that allow the state, the South
[44:28] Florida water Management district to use federal
[44:31] dollars to construct some of these Everglades restoration
[44:35] In addition to the work that the federal government is
[44:38] doing through the Army Corps of Engineers and the work that
[44:42] the state is doing through the South Florida Water Management
[44:43] District. Now there's a new partnership. And it's called
[44:47] the 10 43 be. And that just has to do with the legislation
[44:50] that allows this to happen. That was authorized by
[44:53] Congress. But what that does is it allows the state to ask
[44:58] for federal dollars to expedite projects that were
[45:02] really good at in order to help move Everglades
[45:07] restoration along not only quicker but cheaper as well.
[45:11] And so there are 2 project agreements that we signed. One
[45:15] is for the seepage pump station at the EA Reservoir.
[45:20] We deliver that package for solicitation to the Corps of
[45:23] Engineers about 2 weeks ago. They have 30 days to review it
[45:27] and provide their feedback back to us so that we can put
[45:30] that solicitation on the street. So we're looking
[45:33] forward to doing that in the coming weeks. And then the
[45:36] second agreement is for the blue shanty flow way. And so
[45:40] we are putting that package together and look forward to
[45:43] delivering that to the Corps of Engineers later this
[45:47] calendar year so that we can go out for solicitation on
[45:49] that project as well. And with that project that will
[45:54] basically complete and put in 2 construction. All of the
[45:59] phases of SAP. And so it's a huge achievement. Our teams
[46:05] are working together very closely. Major Bell talked
[46:09] about some of the changes in the leadership that they have
[46:13] at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. I will assure you
[46:15] that we are continuing to work together extremely closely.
[46:19] None of that slows anything down Mike Hollis, who is now
[46:25] the chief over the ecosystem branch for the Corps of
[46:30] Engineers has been there for a long time. He's been the
[46:32] second in command under Eva for a long time. And so it's
[46:36] really no changes what they go through those transitions. It
[46:40] makes us continue to work together seamlessly. And we're
[46:42] just so proud to be part of this partnership moving
[46:46] Everglades restoration along. With that. take your
[46:51] questions. Very good. Thank you very much for your
[46:53] presentation. comments or questions?
[46:54] >> I think you >> I just want to kind little
[46:58] update on the C 43 reservoir do we know how much water is
[47:02] in the reservoir right now? >> Right now we just hit
[47:08] elevation. 24 and so next week at our governing board
[47:12] meeting, we do plan on giving a little sneak preview of what
[47:16] that looks like in the reservoir and giving a a
[47:20] greater update on how that's going. How the initial Phyllis
[47:23] going. >> Now with real time and the
[47:24] heavy rains that we're experiencing. Is there a
[47:28] possibility where we can start to utilize pumping some of the
[47:31] water into the reservoir as we know are collecting this heavy
[47:36] rainfall. >> Yes, as waters available,
[47:37] we are putting water into the reservoir in accordance with
[47:40] the initial feel plan. And so depending on how much it
[47:44] rains, we may be able to capture a lot or we may need
[47:50] to hold the levels at the reservoir consistent with our
[47:52] initial feel plan. >> And speaking of the filth
[47:55] plant, do we have any timeline for the next raise and not.
[48:04] >> We do. I don't have that in front of me. But we do have a
[48:05] very deliberate plan that allows us to accept water as
[48:11] it's available and then progressively Phil, the
[48:15] reservoir and monitor the reservoir and the impacts to
[48:21] those fillings on the reservoir embankment as well
[48:25] as be able to test all of the monitoring equipment for the
[48:30] reservoir itself. >> And just remind me how far
[48:32] into the test team are we now? Like, what percentage are we
[48:37] almost done where we can release this thing? You know,
[48:39] I'm I'm afraid to report that were not almost done. So the
[48:42] initial feel plan will take about 2 to 3 years. Total,
[48:46] wonderful. But there are limited operations that we can
[48:49] also conduct during initial Phil. So releasing water is
[48:54] also part of the initial feel plan that allows us to test
[48:58] all of the different components of the rest of our
[49:02] and so we can definitely give you a more detailed briefing
[49:07] about how that works and what you can expect to see during
[49:08] that initial Phil. Awesome. Thank you.
[49:12] >> Thank you. Any other questions or comments? And one
[49:18] Under current conditions on Lake Okeechobee. What would
[49:21] your forecast to be for the lake level in December if we
[49:23] just no hurricanes know? >> First of all I mean, what
[49:36] we're what we're seeing in the climatic forecast right now is
[49:37] a wetter than usual winter. So we expect to see rains that
[49:45] won't look quite like a summer rain, but more staged out. So
[49:48] we anticipate seeing the lake level continue to rise between
[49:52] now and December. So we expect that were. Finishing up on the
[50:01] lowest levels of the lake and that we'd expect to continue
[50:03] to see the lake levels rise between now and December.
[50:08] >> I know it has held pretty steady right around 11 law for
[50:10] and we've been going quite a bit of rain in the area, but I
[50:13] don't know. Are you holding water north? Are we are we
[50:18] doing this to help with removal or and that's what a
[50:22] way to keep so many? Well, don't think they're gone from
[50:24] room with a little bit, are we letting water that's coming in
[50:29] out of the Everglades wise a leg to stand the study 11 on
[50:30] the stand up. >> it's I mean, as you know,
[50:34] it's a super big lake. So it's kind of rain, an awful lot in
[50:38] order to raise the lake levels. And so right now we're
[50:40] balancing the water needs across the system. And that's
[50:46] really our focus is trying to maintain the water levels in
[50:50] all of the different areas. I'm going to turn the mic over
[50:57] to my office good morning. Mister Bartlett. Good So
[51:01] Jennifer's doing our best, but I work with John Mitnick, our
[51:03] operator dust on morning and evening and
[51:05] >> Millan. I basis right now. It's our focus is getting and
[51:09] holding as much water in the lake as possible. All the all
[51:14] the rain you're getting in Martin County, that's going in
[51:15] the say. 44 Canales going back into the lake, right? And just
[51:20] yesterday, it was like 4,000 CFS coming into the lake. So
[51:22] we're not holding water north. We're not sending water south
[51:26] because it's raining south, right? So it's whatever we're
[51:28] doing. We're trying to get in the lake and help the lake for
[51:31] our a future planning water supply scenario right? When
[51:37] you look at the forecast, every board meeting next week,
[51:38] we'll have the squiggly plots, right, that that sort of have
[51:42] the possibilities of the lake. If you take that median, which
[51:45] does not have a tropical system. You'll get at the end
[51:49] of the dry season because going to be a wet, dry season.
[51:51] So we include that in our forecast. You'll be between 12
[51:54] and 13. You know, if you just follow that median, I can tell
[51:59] you the lake never follows the media, right? So, you know,
[52:03] it's just somewhere around time that sort of level. But
[52:07] what you'll say between now and December is a probably
[52:09] going to stay and water shortage and it will start to
[52:13] eke out of water shortage around that time frame and
[52:15] continue to rise through the dry season.
[52:20] >> Okay. So and I know according to or whatever you
[52:24] want to mention, takes control like a certain level. What
[52:26] level of those >> So really it's been that
[52:32] way ever since. You know, the wet season started and towards
[52:35] the end of last dry season. So we the Corps been following
[52:37] all recommendations. >> All along and because of
[52:45] with. So we've been very conservative in Lee County can
[52:47] tell you, we've been very conservative with Lake water
[52:50] and because of that conservation, if you just
[52:53] followed Lowsome, you know, in the modeling doesn't lowsome
[52:56] we would be about a half a lower right now. But for the
[53:00] recommendations on conserving water in Lake Okeechobee.
[53:05] >> sure you're keeping it down. I mean, is doing wonders
[53:07] for the other nations. Anything at letter with the
[53:12] boat locks around the lake, it's got to get up to 13 feet
[53:16] and are. Tourists may not be too happy with this year when
[53:19] they come down. They can't get like I think it'll be all
[53:21] right. I could be all right. >> If I could address of the
[53:26] operations of say 43. So right now, our operational protocol
[53:29] is to try to keep the deliveries 79 between 1002
[53:36] 1000 CFS, which is in that optimal range. We've looked at
[53:41] the salinities and Caloosahatchee it stabilized.
[53:42] Now they're all good shape. report that next week. And so
[53:46] I just want to. So even though we're in operational testing
[53:50] and the engineers will tell you, we look to give benefits
[53:52] to the system at the same time we've been an operational
[53:56] testing with the C 44 reservoir for a number of
[53:58] years now and we've been able to provide all the benefits to
[54:03] Port St. Lucie Estuary while an operational testing right?
[54:06] We may not get the opportunity like we did on the West Coast,
[54:08] but that's our goal. So we will. And we're at 24 and a
[54:13] half feet deep. We're going to try to get that. We think
[54:15] we'll get to 25 feet This. Weekend. And at that point, we
[54:22] hold it and we do inspections to make sure everything's
[54:25] working right. And then we'll able to go to the next level
[54:28] which I don't have that. It could take year and a half.
[54:34] could take 3 years. It all depends on how much water is
[54:36] available and how the inspections go. Right. So
[54:37] that's why we get that big time frame.
[54:41] >> I appreciate the update. We're really excited that we
[54:43] can still utilize it during this testing phase because
[54:46] that's going to be so beneficial. That's right.
[54:49] Thank On the Martin County, all of this talking point that
[54:51] this wet season, not a drops, gone into the estuary last,
[54:53] but that's not surprising. Last wet season. Not a drop
[54:57] the season before that. Not a drop. So we've been able to
[54:59] use that to great effect. Martin questions or comments.
[55:05] >> I have one comp one question. I we're talking
[55:07] about the new agreement. That was just exercise of the core.
[55:13] just wondered about the cash flow component of that. You
[55:16] get the project and you ship it to the quarter review and
[55:19] approve once that's approved. Does the transfer of funds
[55:23] from the feds come down to you before contract can be signed?
[55:27] I just wanted to make sure that was the case. You didn't
[55:28] have to complete the work to get reimbursed. We didn't have
[55:32] to front dollars in a That's correct. There is a second
[55:35] process that is available under the federal process.
[55:38] That is a reimbursement process. So if you've heard of
[55:40] that, that's >> more commonly known as
[55:45] called to a 3. But we chose the 10. 48 in the car was very
[55:46] supportive. So we they they'll give us the money to pay the
[55:50] invoices. Excellent. Thank you very much. go. Back to
[55:55] Jennifer. drew, I have a question for I heard you say
[56:02] that you're trying to hold as much water in the lake as
[56:05] possible. And we sent e-mail to your operation room this
[56:10] morning because we are seeing water released. has one
[56:14] >> And we are asking to minimize those releases to
[56:16] Lake Worth Lagoon. Right? And there has been 354 CFS or
[56:23] divert daily average. And so if that's not consistent with
[56:27] holding water because there are ways to get it back to
[56:29] where you wanted to. So we're yeah. And they asking you to
[56:38] optimize the operations of your St Ays and to look, look
[56:43] to send water to the LA can out 3G 5.41. For immediate
[56:47] water supply needs for Lake Okeechobee. So we've said that
[56:49] that narrative to your operations control room. But I
[56:53] just want to say that. You know, we have needs in Palm
[56:58] Beach County as well to protect Lake Worth Lagoon. And
[57:01] we hope that you will honor those requests. Thank you very
[57:03] well. Tell Paul look into. >> they hired Paul and there
[57:09] used to be our operations guy. So he knows all the tricks
[57:10] shift back Is that every Thank you for good. Thank you very
[57:17] Okay. Next presentation FWC. >> Good Thank you, Mr.
[57:29] Chairman commissioners. Appreciate the opportunity be
[57:30] here. I am Tom right and the regional director for Florida
[57:35] Fish Wildlife Conservation very pleased to present slides
[57:37] prepared by Alyssa Jordan who couldn't be here. Another at
[57:39] have her up here. She deserves a lot of credit for what I'm
[57:43] about to show you arm up, move the project. district did
[57:49] touch on this. I think are fully demobilize now on most
[57:51] or all the equipment is gone from the lake. Bottom. This
[57:57] was we would call our first point connector site. You can
[57:58] see here on this graphic, the the hatch, the red hatch
[58:05] approval is from the past from 2001, 2008 and the yellow is
[58:10] what this current covered about 510 acres of not kept a
[58:15] limb up to us from 6 to 20 inches deep and that we
[58:20] actually able to move money around and get it done in 2
[58:22] different fiscal years, which was great, sir. As Jennifer
[58:26] mentioned, over a million cubic yards of vegetation and
[58:29] muck removed, I'm told it's 2 billion pounds with a b of
[58:35] sediment and it's up at our Yankee Point to disposal site
[58:38] for potential future beneficial use. we are in the
[58:43] process of calculating just what that means. In terms of
[58:45] total, phosphorus and nitrogen moved. But this is a great
[58:49] project. You some of you are able to visit last at our last
[58:52] meeting and see it in and work. Here's some photos got
[58:59] we just we had to change contractors. think we
[59:02] mentioned this last time. The first contract was just not
[59:03] doing the job we had to go through the arduous task of
[59:07] releasing them from a contract and hiring someone else and
[59:09] immediately all the legal hurdles and everything,
[59:15] they're not withstanding a, but Texas aquatics came in and
[59:17] he's done a fantastic job that out there and did the work
[59:19] kept doing it. Even though we had some some rain delays. But
[59:23] they were working hard and they tried very hard to keep
[59:25] the dust down on some of our communities that are there
[59:28] moving the trucks around. So really appreciate their
[59:31] efforts to work with the community on that. We're
[59:35] already seeing naturally grows of a diverse native plant.
[59:38] Species is all from from the seed bank. That's theirs or
[59:40] native grasses and said is things are popping up. And as
[59:45] the lake begins to fill, we'll start to see. And hopefully it
[59:47] is. Hopefully the lake will will rise but slowly. I
[59:52] appreciate the district want it to keep water in the lake.
[59:56] Let it have that slow rise. And yeah, hopefully we don't
[1:00:00] get a storm. It rises up too fast, but a slow steady rise
[1:00:03] will be great for this. This area. And there we go. This is
[1:00:08] a Jeff showing you the progress. You can see it
[1:00:10] slowly. Taking shape there. This is from April 29th to
[1:00:16] August, 17th and it's just some fantastic work. And you
[1:00:23] can see a few the green patches that are left in
[1:00:24] there. Those purposefully left tree islands and areas of of
[1:00:31] native vegetation left to 4 to enhance bird nesting Andrew
[1:00:36] staying now account play through one more time. So you
[1:00:39] can just see the great work that was done in that in that
[1:00:41] short amount of time. think that's the last one. Yeah. All
[1:00:49] right. And some aerial photos you can see this is from
[1:00:55] August. One nearing completion. Of the area.
[1:01:00] Again, you can see some of those green tree islands that
[1:01:03] left as habitat to fill in. The waters come back and
[1:01:09] emergent vegetation, mergen flooding vegetation, submerged
[1:01:11] vegetation, return to the site. Some plantings we've
[1:01:16] completed a quite a few plantings, 3 acres, a bull
[1:01:18] rush, 2 acres of field grass that was fence to reduce the
[1:01:23] amount depredation by or before This is the Fishing Bay
[1:01:30] area. These plantings hurt so far pretty successful. We've
[1:01:33] got some great habitat out there with a low water. It's
[1:01:35] just it's gorgeous out there right now. Here they are
[1:01:38] actively planting some yield grass upcoming plantings 2027.
[1:01:45] The first points grave site that just talked about. We've
[1:01:48] got a full suite of native vegetation and we're going to
[1:01:51] get put back out there. Some the stuff is coming back
[1:01:52] naturally, which is awesome. But we got about 7 to 8 acres
[1:01:56] plant planned of bull rush by crushed, maintain Cypress. And
[1:02:03] in steamboats, Steamboat Marsh, the slower image.
[1:02:06] There's a couple planting areas we're going starting
[1:02:10] adding Sawgrass Rakers the It's important component that
[1:02:13] ecosystem fishing day. We're going to add some bull rush,
[1:02:15] Kissimmee grass and Spike rush. Fire. Another popular
[1:02:21] subject on the lake. combined efforts of Mother Nature,
[1:02:27] unauthorized burn agents and prescribed fire. We've got
[1:02:30] over. 31,000 acres have burned a big wildfire in the
[1:02:35] Northwest Marsh. 7200 acres burned. That was an area that
[1:02:39] we're intending to burn. So, you know, we didn't have to
[1:02:42] spend money on that. So that's good. We'll take it. Island,
[1:02:49] another area that seems to burn to the exact same time
[1:02:52] every single year just in advance of Turkey season. So
[1:02:53] I'm not sure mother Nature ranges that but somehow and
[1:03:01] then prescribed burns, the Eagle Bank, things bar up in
[1:03:05] the Northwest Marsh, 850 acres burned Chancey Bay with help
[1:03:09] from the district 600 acres and then some district
[1:03:12] Burnstown the south end 1000 acres. So this is all a great
[1:03:14] way of getting restoring natural progression of the
[1:03:21] marsh. Removing vegetation, getting that that carbon out
[1:03:25] of there that phosphorus and nitrogen. I'm going to bring
[1:03:30] up an alley, Howard. She's our fisheries biologist for Lake
[1:03:34] Okeechobee, relatively new to our program. She's based here
[1:03:38] Let her talk to you about some proposed rules that we have
[1:03:40] that are coming before the commission regarding fresh
[1:03:42] water commercial fisheries. This is statewide, but it does
[1:03:46] have an impact here in Okeechobee. I thought I'd let
[1:03:47] her come up and tell you about that. So Natalie, thank you.
[1:03:52] >> Good morning, commissioners. Thank you. My
[1:03:54] name is Natalie. Like Tom said, I work for the division
[1:03:57] of Freshwater Fisheries Management on Lake Okeechobee.
[1:04:00] I wanted to introduce you all to some of our proposed rules
[1:04:03] related to fresh water, commercial fisheries. These
[1:04:06] proposed rules are intended to address 2 main challenges we
[1:04:09] face with commercial fisheries, a lack of data on
[1:04:15] freshwater commercial harvest and no quality control
[1:04:18] standards. The goal of these proposed rules is to improve
[1:04:21] our understanding of commercial freshwater
[1:04:22] fisheries. Currently FWC does not collect any information
[1:04:31] related to fresh water commercial harvest, excluding
[1:04:35] our hall. Same programs that have some specific
[1:04:37] requirements. So to address these data gaps were looking
[1:04:40] to implement an electronic trip ticket reporting system.
[1:04:44] This would collect data related to water body fish.
[1:04:47] What species are targeting, how much you harvest, cetera.
[1:04:52] Mandatory reporting would provide us with the
[1:04:54] information needed to better understand our commercial
[1:04:55] fisheries. We're also looking to implement quality control
[1:05:03] standards. There are currently no standards for quality
[1:05:06] control requirements for fresh water. Harvesters. This would
[1:05:09] be reasonable and minimal impact on our fisherman. So it
[1:05:13] would be protection from the elements such as the sun or
[1:05:16] weather and separating it from any sources of contaminants
[1:05:20] such as the build or gas. We're also looking to
[1:05:24] implement refrigeration or icing requirements so that we
[1:05:28] can maintain quality catch that's intended for consumer
[1:05:31] harvests are human consumption. Sorry. We have
[1:05:37] done stakeholder engagement related to this topic that
[1:05:40] included statewide public meetings at the beginning of
[1:05:43] February. And we are continuing the conversation.
[1:05:47] If you participate in fresh water commercial harvest or
[1:05:49] know anybody that does please feel free to contact me. from
[1:05:53] ation above. Lastly, I have our Lake Okeechobee Hall same
[1:06:01] program. It currently has 2 permit holders. The image on
[1:06:04] the left shows their normal water boundary where they
[1:06:06] fish. When water levels are greater than 11 feet and DVD.
[1:06:12] That image on the right shows. Right there. They're low water
[1:06:19] boundary. So when the water levels are below 11 feet, it
[1:06:21] pushes them one mile further offshore and north of the
[1:06:27] southern grief. This is to protect any vegetation that's
[1:06:32] growing back in our shoreline areas. We don't want them to
[1:06:33] drag the whole scene through there. Currently they are
[1:06:37] fishing at the low water boundary as of August 31st.
[1:06:40] But since the water levels have returned to 11 feet,
[1:06:43] we're looking to move them back to their normal water
[1:06:44] boundary Tuesday. If you have any questions related to
[1:06:49] freshwater commercial fishing, please feel free to contact me
[1:06:51] with the information that's up there.
[1:06:57] >> Thank you, Natalie. Appreciate Some out of the
[1:07:00] area we're not out of area of the system, but Kissimmee,
[1:07:05] Lake, Kissimmee, plantings. We've got some pond. We deal
[1:07:06] grass plantings that went on this year. So 47,000 yield
[1:07:13] grass plants, one in 32,000 pond. We this is all up in
[1:07:16] Lake Kissimmee. Here's the map. You can see there on that
[1:07:20] on the eastern shore and some of the embedded images there,
[1:07:24] areas where we're adding habitat and OK, that's There's
[1:07:30] a beautiful snail kite. I do have Tyler back, our snail
[1:07:33] kite expert here today. If you have any question snail kites,
[1:07:37] but I'll take or try to avoid any questions that you might
[1:07:40] have. >> Thank On the first day.
[1:07:44] question, plantings. What is your survival rate? Are you
[1:07:48] are you finding that? They're holding up? I mean, our boats
[1:07:53] running through. There's cold. Yeah. So from what I've heard
[1:07:58] yet, the planting seemed to pretty successful. The fencing
[1:08:00] self and keeping some of their boards out.
[1:08:02] >> Still, turtles get in. And then they everything. So
[1:08:06] they're pretty efficient. But so what I've heard of the
[1:08:10] plantings are looking pretty good with this low lake level
[1:08:12] in the slow rise that's helping support them. They're
[1:08:15] able to grow with the rising water towards the sun. So so
[1:08:20] that's very helpful. A sudden increase a massive storm that
[1:08:23] raises the lake level very quickly. That would be
[1:08:25] probably devastating for those plantings. But so on wood.
[1:08:30] Things are going well and for all imports, I've heard the
[1:08:33] North West March is looking fantastic. Clearwater, good
[1:08:36] plants. Very good Any other questions? Thank you very
[1:08:42] much. Thank you. Appreciate Okay. Last agency was ftp but
[1:08:50] I believe Mr. Smith is not going to be providing an
[1:08:52] update today, John. The correct?
[1:08:55] >> That's correct. Mr. Chairs. They did not. They didn't have
[1:08:58] anything that they thought Purposeful for the mission.
[1:09:03] >> Still working on that think their 5 contracts is that. So
[1:09:05] think it's 6 they've had 6. I thought he said the last
[1:09:09] meeting as one of them might have dropped I'm not sure
[1:09:11] about that. So then when the agency reviews and updates.
[1:09:18] Item 8. Khaleesi contract renewal.
[1:09:24] >> So this is a point of procedure. The De Lisi Inc
[1:09:28] contract requires or has the option of renewal annually.
[1:09:33] And we it's our opinion that the board, we need a
[1:09:37] resolution for that each year. that's what that's and
[1:09:38] therefore, if there's discussion or questions, we
[1:09:42] any questions for John this. This isn't.
[1:09:44] >> An ongoing contract. It's been since what September
[1:09:49] 2018, I commence and same terms. Same dollars. Same
[1:09:55] everything. No change on Motion to approve a second.
[1:09:59] The motion and multiple second to approve. I got a discussion
[1:10:03] resolution. 26, 0, one. Yes, sir. just want to say I have a
[1:10:06] problem with this contract. It Mr. De Lisi is too easy to
[1:10:13] contact. >> And Martin County too much
[1:10:15] and make sure that I try to get down to all these
[1:10:17] meetings. And also this. I just want to take a moment to
[1:10:20] say thank you for all that you do for this for this
[1:10:22] coalition. I appreciate that. And the thank you to Martin
[1:10:26] County for stepping up and kind of making sure keep the
[1:10:28] engine running here. So thank you very much. I thank you. I
[1:10:34] approve any other comments. other discussion? Any
[1:10:37] objection to the motion hearing? None passes
[1:10:39] unanimously. Moving on. Item 9 comments from the public on
[1:10:45] coalition related items will have.
[1:10:46] >> Several cards. Mr. Kerry, Europe.
[1:10:54] >> Or it commissioner support. appreciate This coalition
[1:10:59] coming together is County coalition since its inception
[1:11:02] has been great to bring people together in this community to
[1:11:05] understand the full scope of what's going on around Lake
[1:11:10] and all the surrounding areas. You know, we have rain events
[1:11:13] that have been happening and hasn't moved too much up from
[1:11:19] 11 feet. So it's right about that time. But we had seen a
[1:11:22] jump in the 44 canal, of course, and they started to
[1:11:25] put water back into the reservoir. And C 44, it's
[1:11:29] limited capacity, but also back into the lake at that
[1:11:34] time. So that's what's going on now. But the lowsome
[1:11:38] schedule this really working pretty You know, when we look
[1:11:41] at and how we got implemented to that, we have now really
[1:11:45] prevented a lot of discharges into estuaries that are that
[1:11:52] are not desired. Bringing a lot of not only fresh water to
[1:11:54] tide, but also tons of Foster's time Turgeon and also
[1:11:58] total suspended solids which is produce lot of mock and
[1:12:02] settlements over the years. So what is doing is is is really
[1:12:07] good. We went through the after action. We haven't been
[1:12:11] through the after action report yet. But the as you
[1:12:15] know, the Lake Okeechobee recovery plan was implemented
[1:12:17] December and through April of 25 and then, you know, we have
[1:12:23] to have that after action report. We've been working
[1:12:26] with the colonel to try to update that last year that
[1:12:29] they wanted to have a schedule earlier this year to to go
[1:12:33] over that it came out at a meeting in August, 25th of
[1:12:37] Ecosystem Task group Working Group meeting. And we want to
[1:12:42] kind of understand all of us around too, what that after
[1:12:46] action permits on the lake, you know how it impacted other
[1:12:49] systems and so forth. I think the thing I want to also
[1:12:53] comment on this, you know, the integrated delivery schedule
[1:12:57] is it's really fantastic. Understanding all these big
[1:13:02] major projects and what's going on and how they're going
[1:13:04] to benefit. But I also want to keep on to the northern
[1:13:07] Everglades and Estuaries protection plan. These 3
[1:13:11] watersheds Lake Okeechobee, Port St. Lucie and
[1:13:13] Caloosahatchee are really in need of monitoring how we're
[1:13:18] not meeting our reduction goals and not going to beat
[1:13:20] the B maps are not going to beat the TMT else and we
[1:13:22] really need to kind of get FX and the table along with FDP
[1:13:28] and the district to come together and really implement
[1:13:30] those. And lastly, I want to make mention sure that.
[1:13:35] Sometime today mention too, recognize this guy, Paul Gray.
[1:13:40] We want to thank Paul Gray. This will be his last day.
[1:13:44] He's retiring after 31 years. we all know Paul and have
[1:13:49] known him 30 plus years. And he's just amazing. We hope
[1:13:53] that he doesn't go too far away and continues to connect
[1:13:55] with us and contribute to our to our I want to appreciate
[1:14:00] Paul and I'm sure you all do to at this point. Thank you,
[1:14:03] Mr. Byrne next. >> That's we have, Mister. You
[1:14:08] see it. The was it? >> As thank you very much.
[1:14:17] Want to echo marks had to adjust. General appreciation
[1:14:19] of all year time, commitment and leadership to a great
[1:14:24] cause of Lake Okeechobee. Watershed dots connected water
[1:14:26] bodies in Florida here. But I want to just come up, provide
[1:14:29] a real quick reduction and an update too. The scene
[1:14:35] Shoreline Project that we're working with Ed Smith and DP
[1:14:39] on. my name lose principal engineer and a dime Bill
[1:14:41] project manager with seen shoreline. But I'm happy to
[1:14:44] report that as of July, we're fully permitted all the
[1:14:50] federal and state permits. as of 2 weeks ago, we're able to
[1:14:52] get through our system testing with our project that
[1:14:57] specifically targeted at removing high phosphorus and
[1:15:01] high nitrogen mark sediments. That impact harmful algal
[1:15:05] blooms specifically cyanobacteria blue-green algae
[1:15:07] to the high phosphorus and water clarity which impacts
[1:15:10] submerged aquatic vegetation. That's like goals of our
[1:15:14] project is to improve those 2 conditions things are going
[1:15:18] well. We're learning some efficiencies, but I want to
[1:15:20] take this moment. Also invite all of you to our project
[1:15:25] update, meeting which is happening next week at our
[1:15:27] project site and we'll have data to show starting to roll
[1:15:32] in as we just got started in the end of August. But we'll
[1:15:34] have data to show on what we're removing from the lake
[1:15:38] and be able to see the process. all that I have. I
[1:15:40] really appreciate all of your time, everybody. And thank you
[1:15:42] very much. Thank you, sir. Next Billy Walker. For
[1:15:52] Everybody. Good morning. So this week. I was able to get
[1:15:58] out on the lake on my brother-in-law's airboat 2
[1:15:59] days in a row. >> So we had put in County
[1:16:04] park because the Buckhead Ridge talk, of course, is
[1:16:06] closed due to low water. And so what we found was it's
[1:16:12] really low out there. And if anybody was thinking about
[1:16:16] investing in an airboat him, I want to do it. So we toured
[1:16:20] all along that its from up to 10, a major way all the way to
[1:16:23] peers Canal through the pass. Which and water quality, of
[1:16:28] course, is We didn't see any real good vegetation and the
[1:16:30] pass. toured around the bar. We went all the way down to
[1:16:37] and then when we got to peers can now like say when you come
[1:16:38] out of the mouth of peers can now, I mean, basically you can
[1:16:41] step out of the boat and it's about knee deep as you work
[1:16:46] your way to the inside edge, its ankle deep. So we saw a
[1:16:50] lot of dresses and stuff growing. And of course, looks
[1:16:54] like the bull rush is thriving. Again. Water quality
[1:16:58] was good. As we made our way on down 2 Indian Prairie.
[1:17:02] That's where we saw the large mallard population is really
[1:17:09] between peers and in your prayer can now they're loving
[1:17:12] that they're a puddle dock. And so there the conditions
[1:17:13] for them is fantastic. And probably the most we've seen
[1:17:16] in quite a while. With the water at scammers point. Now.
[1:17:22] I mean, that is present level. I mean, we made our way down
[1:17:26] Piers Canal and took a look at the 510 acres that was
[1:17:27] cleared. The course of great. Us. Although the eastern
[1:17:32] portion looks like though it's growing fast. I mean, I know
[1:17:38] what Tom number saying. I mean, if we don't get the
[1:17:41] water on it. I mean, it looks like it could just grow back
[1:17:45] quickly. So I don't know. I'm I'm a proponent of hopefully
[1:17:51] we get the rain and we fill it in, you know, cause don't I
[1:17:55] think a lot of Asia takes is going to grow back and that
[1:17:58] project would be maybe compromised. Be the word I'd
[1:18:01] use. But so and so we got out of there, went on Wayne on
[1:18:07] down work along it all the way down to Prairie. And as I
[1:18:11] said, there's there's not gonna be a new book traffic
[1:18:13] into those zones that people would fish anytime soon. I
[1:18:17] mean, even at 13 got to be careful where you're going. If
[1:18:22] you're going to try to work your way into the inside edge,
[1:18:24] the other item would be the there's not going to travel in
[1:18:30] the marsh and any kind of air boat at their even at 13. I
[1:18:34] mean, it's got to get to 14 and better if you're going to
[1:18:37] have any other boat traffic such as mud boats or anything
[1:18:39] else into that area during the season. Duck season fishing
[1:18:42] season, the whole 9 yards. But again, the water quality was
[1:18:47] very There's a huge brand population has been betting in
[1:18:50] there. mean, you can see the shell bottom. So see a lot of
[1:18:53] great improvement there to echo what Tim is saying for
[1:18:58] the season to help out to and all we need a lot of water. So
[1:19:04] whatever water can get in there. And of course, Mother
[1:19:06] Nature is in control of that. Let's eat. Thank you very
[1:19:08] much. Thank you, Next Mike. Good to see you, sir. Ave to
[1:19:28] push up. And I love pipes. One Florida Foundation. First of
[1:19:36] all, I want to echo everybody's comments about the
[1:19:37] appreciation for the work being done in the lake.
[1:19:41] >> Everybody has really come together and it's amazing the
[1:19:43] kind of work we can get done with these low lake levels.
[1:19:46] And I I see that improvement myself. And I just want to
[1:19:49] recognize the lake release needed that for a long time.
[1:19:52] I'm going to continue my efforts to push for ongoing,
[1:19:57] dedicated funding so that every time the lake it's low,
[1:19:59] we've got the options available to us as much as
[1:20:05] possible. So thank you for everybody who's been involved
[1:20:06] say no, that that's every agency and every level of
[1:20:09] government. Connection. Just been a lot of talk about
[1:20:15] connection as should be, because this system does not
[1:20:18] work without everything working together. And one of
[1:20:23] the things I really wanted to talk about today was
[1:20:28] connection south of Lake from Lake Okeechobee all the way to
[1:20:30] the trail and beyond. I appreciate the presentation by
[1:20:35] Gendron Olds about the projects to reduce nutrients
[1:20:37] and how they matter. I think one of the things that was a
[1:20:40] little bit missing in that presentation was that
[1:20:44] connection. I want to remind everybody that not only to
[1:20:50] farmers do an amazing job and do more than he's asked of
[1:20:53] them by statute. But I also want to remind people that
[1:20:58] they get water from the lake that is hiring new trance to
[1:21:01] anything that ever leaves that farms. And that matters. And
[1:21:05] this was the part I'm not sure got really communicated. No,
[1:21:09] no offense to Jenna whatsoever. I just want to
[1:21:10] remind people this is how it works. What matters is that
[1:21:14] they are a part of the treatment train. So if we
[1:21:18] don't have that reduction that we're getting in we don't get
[1:21:23] the results with the stormwater treatment areas and
[1:21:25] water conservation areas in order to send that water
[1:21:28] south. So that connection really, really matters. It
[1:21:31] also matters upstream. So I appreciate the commentary
[1:21:35] about how we need to do more north of the lake all the way
[1:21:37] to the head waters. The final thing I want to put on
[1:21:42] everybody's radar is the connection with these
[1:21:45] projects. If we don't get all of the projects time and we
[1:21:49] don't pay attention to all the constraints. We have a problem
[1:21:54] where we can utilize the projects. We've got. The one I
[1:21:57] want to put on everybody's radar is a reminder about the
[1:21:58] Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow. We have discussions about the
[1:22:02] captive breeding program. We have efforts in place. But
[1:22:07] we're not there yet. And I would hate to see us not solve
[1:22:11] the Cape Sable. Seaside Sparrow program upside problem
[1:22:13] before we get the EA Reservoir online and and the rest of it,
[1:22:17] right? Because I would hate to catch Jeopardy opinion, right
[1:22:20] when we're trying to put that EA Reservoir online. So I
[1:22:23] think the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow, distance, everybody's
[1:22:26] attention. Once again, it's really easy to lose track of
[1:22:28] some of these constraints, especially when they seem like
[1:22:30] a small thing. It's a small bird, but it can be a big
[1:22:34] problem. And it's still an issue that we need to work on.
[1:22:36] Thank Thank you very much. >> Last have Mitchell last
[1:22:42] month. Thanks so much. Appreciate it. I just want to
[1:22:54] sort of bring you guys to a historical perspective on the
[1:22:57] lake. >> I mean, maybe all Apollo
[1:22:58] Gray. I don't know if we'll get to that level. But
[1:23:02] >> think about what used to be in the E a how much storage
[1:23:06] was there that the system is able to flow from the lake in
[1:23:09] where the is now and then disseminate through the
[1:23:13] system. We've lost that. We don't have Seymour. And so.
[1:23:18] Where we are right now with the lake being so low for so
[1:23:22] long is a result of the way that we have to manage the
[1:23:24] lake because we've lost that capacity. We have to make sure
[1:23:27] that we don't let the too high because it can be a danger
[1:23:31] right? We also can't let it get too low and there will be
[1:23:35] water supply. And so if we had storage south of Lake
[1:23:38] Okeechobee to solve these problems, we would have to
[1:23:41] manage the lake the way that we are. So this is a symptom
[1:23:43] of a disjointed system that isn't functioning properly.
[1:23:48] And so friends of the Everglades, this proposing a
[1:23:52] rescue, the river of grass solution, which is more
[1:23:56] storage and treatment south of Lake Okeechobee. Even after
[1:23:57] the EA Reservoir. So reservoir only gets us about 20% of the
[1:24:03] way there to our storage goals. We still need to 80%.
[1:24:07] And so we're going to need at least a total of 1.0. 2 5
[1:24:12] million acre feet storage in so will only be at 250,000. So
[1:24:16] think about it like this. When the lake is high and you want
[1:24:21] to get water off the leak, you'll only be able to get
[1:24:22] about a half a foot off a leak and that's generous because
[1:24:26] they're probably be it decent amount of water already in
[1:24:30] that reservoir, right? So that's a best-case scenario
[1:24:32] like, you know, now, think about how much water we could
[1:24:37] get off Lake if we had the right amount of storage south,
[1:24:39] we could get close to 3 foot off the lake. Okay. So that's
[1:24:44] huge, right? That means we don't have to send any water
[1:24:45] to the estuaries. And that means that we can keep the
[1:24:48] water levels healthy, where we need to keep them when we need
[1:24:51] to keep them there keep the system functioning. How ship.
[1:24:55] So we need to focus on getting back there. And I think it's
[1:24:59] going to take everybody. It's not just environmental us and
[1:25:02] the groups and whoever else, you know, it takes everybody
[1:25:06] involved and everybody who cares about this system to
[1:25:08] come together and make this happen. thank you. Thank you
[1:25:11] for your comments. there any additional carts? Okay?
[1:25:21] Commissioners worth item 10 on the agenda. Let's start with
[1:25:23] staff comments >> they could you introduce
[1:25:27] you had some folks here with you from? that's on my agenda,
[1:25:29] Mr. Chair, thank you. Couple of things. One I I'd like to
[1:25:36] take commissioner, but comments about our counties
[1:25:40] can contribution to this and make it more specific and also
[1:25:44] expanded to include the Okeechobee County staff that
[1:25:46] that us here in this beautiful council chambers. But this
[1:25:51] wouldn't happen if it weren't for the work Sarah Fili. And
[1:25:55] think she's hiding over And and Sarah Power's out. We do
[1:25:59] have females that work for Martin County that don't go by
[1:26:00] the name. Sarah. >> I was wondering about I
[1:26:05] want to introduce one of them. This is Alice L there. She's
[1:26:11] our county attorney the nature sheet that the attorneys
[1:26:13] office also help staff to make sure we keep this thing on the
[1:26:16] rails. And to that point, I want to request an agenda item
[1:26:22] if the board be pleased to do this in December.
[1:26:26] >> Some history and in December of 2019, if if and if
[1:26:29] you can remember that the board took action as as part
[1:26:33] of a reorganization to ad, a couple of counties to the
[1:26:39] coalition as voting members and then COVID happened we
[1:26:44] didn't meet for a while. And we did not. We failed and I'll
[1:26:49] take the blame for this. We failed to update the bylaws to
[1:26:52] reflect that action. And so we'd like to clarify that have
[1:26:58] a board resolution in December to update those bylaws. I
[1:27:03] actually caught that the other day I found the okapi went
[1:27:05] online and found the original by laws. And I saw the
[1:27:07] counties that originally started. I want to work with
[1:27:14] Charlotte, now had been at it particularly germane to to
[1:27:16] yourself. Mister >> How do you get to be the
[1:27:21] chairman? What's going We were able to validate that the that
[1:27:24] the board took action and we have that record in the
[1:27:27] minutes weeks. We just need to update laws to reflect that.
[1:27:30] The 7, 8 later. >> So and then I also wanted
[1:27:35] to give a brief update on the boards interest in a trip to
[1:27:41] DC to advance the coalition's priorities with our with
[1:27:43] Congress and with agencies week. We made attempt to do it
[1:27:48] next week and trying to thread the needle between coalition
[1:27:53] members. Busy schedules and the erratic nature of the
[1:27:56] schedules and in DC particularly with the election
[1:28:00] cycle. It went from impractical to impossible. And
[1:28:04] so we pull the rip cord on on a trip for next week. And then
[1:28:08] there is a lot of discussion about that. The idea of having
[1:28:13] a follow-up trip in February to coincide with the National
[1:28:16] Association of counties. So as interested to hear your
[1:28:20] thoughts on on your county's respective participation and
[1:28:24] and Naco and whether or you'd expect to be up there. And
[1:28:26] there was an opportunity for us, we might be able to pick
[1:28:30] PT back on that to have to assemble an Everglades caucus
[1:28:34] and and maybe have a reception or something tonight before to
[1:28:38] really advance the coalition's interest and Lake Okeechobee
[1:28:41] and Everglades. Kick it You know, will be open the safe or
[1:28:47] Naco. I participated on a couple of committees up there
[1:28:50] and I know some of the other members will be there probably
[1:28:53] as well. think that's a great idea to try to integrate the
[1:28:57] Naco trip February roughly mid mid February. Yeah. That would
[1:29:01] make sense to try to figure out some kind of a
[1:29:05] >> schedule over at the Capitol. So I think that I
[1:29:08] think what would be helpful and unite sure had this
[1:29:10] discussion of the day. I that putting together the trip. For
[1:29:16] the next meeting in December. kind itinerary of what you're
[1:29:18] doing dissipate us accomplishing would be very
[1:29:22] helpful. Then we can see. Who really wants to participate
[1:29:28] December would be a good time. Still give us a couple of
[1:29:30] months to make reservations, call all that stuff. So but
[1:29:33] that we will have something to look at in December. This is
[1:29:36] what we plan on doing. This is what we plan on talking about.
[1:29:38] We've got to keep the the agenda kind of tight, 2 or 3
[1:29:44] items. Probably, you know, the the audience doesn't usually
[1:29:45] let us go much longer than that, right? So I think that
[1:29:49] would be very good. suppose my thought anybody else? it
[1:29:53] actually is one of the talking points that I wanted to bring
[1:29:56] up the and my suggestion is pick a date.
[1:30:00] >> this many people what their schedules like. You'll never
[1:30:02] get a consensus pick a date. Those of us that came up
[1:30:06] probably be there anyway with myself, just might. My
[1:30:11] suggestion is pick a day. Don't ask opinions, just pick
[1:30:14] a date. Say this is what we're going to do. It and those of
[1:30:19] us that can go will schedule around that and and pull the
[1:30:20] trigger. I think that's good. I think before nakos meetings
[1:30:26] begin maybe a day so before that.
[1:30:28] >> Probably works out better. Usually at the tail end
[1:30:32] scrambling to get back to to meetings. over. Usually like
[1:30:37] on a Monday or Tuesday. And that's I'm just thinking it
[1:30:41] might be better to try to if we can to try schedule just
[1:30:47] before the NATO meetings to talk about that in on December
[1:30:48] meeting, pick pick a couple of dates. Don't too many opinions
[1:30:51] to sit this. >> Anybody else? The comments?
[1:31:00] We'll do. We'll bring you something in December for
[1:31:01] good. Okay. Staff comments. That's all we've got. And
[1:31:08] congratulations. Then on board another year. Appreciate all
[1:31:13] your help to There were going to start with the board
[1:31:16] comments, Sir. Commission towns of anything.
[1:31:21] Additionally have a great Labor Day Commissioner
[1:31:24] protest. >> I just want to thank
[1:31:25] everybody in attendance and even into for your engagement
[1:31:28] with the audience today. Thank you for stepping forward I
[1:31:31] wanted to thank South Florida water management and the Army
[1:31:34] Corps for your update. That was available today for the C
[1:31:38] 43 reservoir. It really means a lot to us in Lee County and
[1:31:41] FWC Lee County is very grateful for the efforts such
[1:31:45] are making to make or Lake Okeechobee health here as a
[1:31:50] stakeholder who receives the most discharged the healthier
[1:31:52] are the water is to us the better the Caloosahatchee
[1:31:55] doing so. Thank you for your efforts on that. And lastly, I
[1:31:59] am honored to be a part of the vote going through for
[1:32:03] reviewing See contract today. Thank you. And thank you for
[1:32:07] having me today. And we have Commissioner Ruane. It's been
[1:32:10] an honor to serve on this collision and the brief time
[1:32:12] that I've been here and I look forward to the barbecue today.
[1:32:16] >> Thank you, Commissioner Commissioner Stanley. Anything
[1:32:19] additional? I don't have anything other than I'm
[1:32:20] looking forward to talking to some of lunchtime.
[1:32:28] Commissioner you're looking for was just want to thank
[1:32:30] everybody that gives of their time and talents to to this
[1:32:31] board. And actually old all the other or is that we, as as
[1:32:37] commissioner said on it takes a lot of time lot of driving.
[1:32:42] So thank you, everybody. For all you do. Thank you, Sir.
[1:32:45] Mr. Yeah, place component of Indian River Lagoon South is
[1:32:50] Mark removal. >> And it absolutely essential
[1:32:55] component. All the the projects leading up to it,
[1:32:57] make it absolutely essential. We can do all these projects.
[1:33:02] But if we don't take kind of the estuary, then we have
[1:33:03] failed. And so that's been it's been hour challenge to
[1:33:08] find. First of all, a site spoil site for Mike Removal.
[1:33:13] And I'm very pleased to say that Martin County negotiated
[1:33:16] with one of our developers and obtained 13225 acres. It's
[1:33:24] next to a find site of 125 acres. These 2 sites are Jason
[1:33:30] to the C 23 Canal. They are in the perfect location in order
[1:33:33] to put the muck spoils on the site. So this will give us the
[1:33:41] finally the opportunity to get that. It's 8 million cubic
[1:33:45] yards of mock the Port St. Lucie Estuary. So hopefully
[1:33:47] now we can proceed with the Army Corps to create I design
[1:33:53] and a work plan get this project underway. Thank you,
[1:33:55] Commissioner. >> Just thank you to all the
[1:34:00] agencies for the very great presentations today.
[1:34:02] Appreciate you. >> I want anything, but
[1:34:08] there's a microphone for me. So on on
[1:34:11] >> Yeah. Thank you to all the agencies who presented today
[1:34:13] is a lot of great work. Just I know Osceola were way up in
[1:34:15] the northern part of this. So probably say this at every
[1:34:19] meeting, but just as simple reminder, I know we haven't
[1:34:23] had a ton of rain in Osceola County and Orange County this
[1:34:24] year. Maybe a little bit lower than normal. I don't want to
[1:34:28] challenge what south Florida says, but just from were a
[1:34:31] little bit drier on our ranch, the normal for sure. But I do
[1:34:35] remind everybody and it's great that we don't have the
[1:34:38] discharges and all that. But this that organization used to
[1:34:40] be called flood control we're not going to flood. 25 30, 40,
[1:34:47] 50,000 homes in Orange and Osceola County because there's
[1:34:49] a little too much phosphorus in the water. So always keep
[1:34:53] that in mind that that that its safety of people and flood
[1:34:56] control and property first. And then all the important
[1:35:01] things a very, very important, much removal, phosphorus
[1:35:04] removal, all of those things. But when we have these major
[1:35:09] events, we got to move the water south and it's coming to
[1:35:11] you. And so just just always try to keep that in mind. And
[1:35:14] that's why I'm glad to be a part of that. The here, how
[1:35:18] all of this works and how all of this has put together in
[1:35:20] the southern part of this region. just one small voiced
[1:35:26] To remind everybody houses aren't going anywhere.
[1:35:29] Unfortunately. all the gave the updates like like the
[1:35:37] other board members mentioned. Thank you.
[1:35:39] >> And it takes days to get these reports ready for us.
[1:35:41] And then to show up another day and lose another day of
[1:35:45] work, too present. This is as important to us. Because we're
[1:35:49] not seeing what you're seeing on day-to-day basis. Those
[1:35:51] presentations Ceasar. Well get this the ammunition to fight
[1:35:56] for this lake fight for the estuaries. And we're going to
[1:35:58] continue to do so. So this board is a board of action. So
[1:36:01] tell us your wishlist has how much money you need tells what
[1:36:03] projects you want to do and let us help fight for you. So
[1:36:05] I got. Commissioner >> Well, I one brief
[1:36:12] complaint. Commissioner Booth has allowed everybody,
[1:36:16] including the agencies to refer to it as Mark. I was
[1:36:21] corrected several years ago. I've been on the pedestal for
[1:36:24] a long time. Guests. Can I guess legacy said it legacy so
[1:36:29] I would like it added into de ligas. See sediment does that.
[1:36:33] That's a real word. what at the end of the day, what's
[1:36:39] what brought them create? >> With breadth, the depth
[1:36:42] creates of all you. >> History matters. We had a
[1:36:47] speaker that talked about what was going on with history.
[1:36:51] Ivor, I know for the several years that I've been here,
[1:36:54] we've had levels of a higher levels of rainfall or good
[1:36:59] lord, send rain, not we have to fight the level of lake.
[1:37:00] >> Right now we're at a lower stage and the agencies are
[1:37:06] allowed to hop in there and grab can do what it is. The
[1:37:09] legacy sediment as too as this referred to and create value,
[1:37:13] I would like. Us this organization 2.
[1:37:21] >> to to to to, to begin to address the legacy sediment
[1:37:25] that is there in the lake today. Somehow some way. We've
[1:37:31] had several presentations dredging operations.
[1:37:36] >> And the like and I would like I would.
[1:37:41] >> I would think it's imperative, especially at this
[1:37:42] stage with what we have going on north of the lake with what
[1:37:45] we have going on south of the lake with the reservoirs and
[1:37:48] so on the C 43 reservoir. It's going to be enormous for the
[1:37:52] water quality that we have coming out on the
[1:37:54] Caloosahatchee. History matters. So I would like for
[1:38:01] us this organization to take that up of some particular
[1:38:05] stage, even if it means bringing in different
[1:38:08] presenters and so on to discuss the minute, the
[1:38:12] methodology so that we're not dancing around what the good
[1:38:14] Lord is sending us with regard to water levels to the north
[1:38:18] and so on areas that are flowing into the lake. I would
[1:38:27] like us to. I would like to see the capacity volume
[1:38:31] created within the lake. So the less. Human interaction
[1:38:35] with control of the lake level. I mean, we've we've
[1:38:39] listened to ecologist and environmentalist talk to us
[1:38:41] about the happy levels of the lake. And my brain tells me is
[1:38:45] love and 12 feet. And then we start talking about 13 feet.
[1:38:48] You've got to get through the locks and and so on and so
[1:38:51] forth. So might my I want is for us to take take that
[1:39:01] subject matter up in-depth again. It has to do with And
[1:39:05] if we can coordinate a trip coming up, that's something
[1:39:07] that we can talk about with the federal government. My
[1:39:11] other ask is from the agencies. I want to I noticed
[1:39:18] today that there was no historical report of the lake
[1:39:19] level. I would like to see that regularly at these
[1:39:24] meetings. I mean, Commissioner Stanley and I serve on the are
[1:39:28] perceived southwest Florida Regional Planning Council. And
[1:39:32] lives right by it. So you can look at it and see what the
[1:39:36] lake level I would like that. I would like that information
[1:39:41] regularly coming to this organization. Thank you.
[1:39:45] Commissioners, far as historical levels. The
[1:39:50] district can probably correct me. But I think on your
[1:39:53] website, I have seen a graph that shows multiple years of
[1:39:58] the level of the lake to write words, what it's doing right
[1:40:00] now. I didn't bring it with me, but it's on their website.
[1:40:05] >> Lake Okeechobee, click tap into some menu of things to go
[1:40:07] down. I believe I'm correct on date is there. But having it
[1:40:10] at this meeting would be very helpful just to keep keep it
[1:40:12] all in perspective. And that's quite honestly, Commissioner
[1:40:17] Daniel, what you brought up about the settlement
[1:40:20] discussion and so forth is he's probably the key item. I
[1:40:24] would like to see us address when we go to D C because and
[1:40:28] get quick update thanking them for all the work that's
[1:40:30] occurred occurred today. But really plugging in the fact
[1:40:35] that this is this initiative is high priority. And so this
[1:40:40] particular coalition, this new group of members of the
[1:40:43] coalition really like a relay race at the baton has been
[1:40:45] passed to We're running with it. Mark Removal Legacy
[1:40:52] sediment. ultimate Power. What is is a top priority.
[1:40:56] Commissioners. I think we have completed everything on our
[1:40:59] agenda today. The only thing I want to do now is is remind
[1:41:02] everyone that I don't know what time that they expect us
[1:41:05] over church. Do we know? 1 o'clock of For the barbecue.
[1:41:12] Anybody know. said they weren't expecting us at 10.
[1:41:16] 45? We're not there. They probably were. But I would
[1:41:19] assume that we could all find things to the doors are locked
[1:41:23] and we know we have to wait a few minutes I don't think the
[1:41:24] doors are ever locked. >> Okay. Well, let's just want
[1:41:28] to remind everybody the barbecues down at the first
[1:41:31] the United Methodist Church it starts. Momentarily. I guess.
[1:41:38] And there's no charge to to participate this year. So