What Dori has to say - Florida Hometown Democracy

"Florida was, less than 100 years ago, a wetland-studded peninsula which was wet for most of the year. The early settlers clustered near the thin strip of higher ground created by coastal ridges, which, like the sides of a bowl kept water stored in inaccessible inland swamps. Today, Florida is densely developed. Usually the state enjoys plentiful rainfall (an average 53 inches a year), but in 2006, there was a 15-inch rainfall deficit. Lake levels were below their annual low levels and rivers were flowing below normal ranges."

"Florida's water supply must support more than 6.5 million residents and millions of seasonal visitors. More than 90% of Floridians get their drinking water from groundwater sources, which are primarily replenished by rainfall. Since treating sea water or surface water for consumption is very expensive, water conservation is critical to preserving the environment."

The above data is part of the current curriculum of Real Estate licensees. I recently completed my continuing education course for my brokers license renewal and this information, under "Water Consumption" in the "Green Design" chapter of Bert Rogers School of Real Estate curriculum. Interesting enough that it is 'educating' licensees about the unique way Florida uses/needs its wetlands (swamps) however, the solutions offered in a list of 8 water conservation techniques....the one main conservation technique is not mentioned.

The list includes:

• installing native landscaping suited to rainfall in local area

• keeping as much native growth on lots as possible

• using water-pervious materials, such as crushed granite or open paving blocks to allow water to percolate into the ground

• use rainwater catchment systems, such as gutters and rain barrels to catch and store water for irrigation

• installing front-loading washing machines that use less water

• reducing water and fertilizer needs by recycling yard waste and leaves as mulch

• renewable or recycled materials

The one major conservation technique not mentioned: Leave wetlands and swamps to do what nature intended for Florida's unique peninsula...Keep growth and development from encroaching into wetlands and swamps!


Dori Sutter
Amendment 4 -Seminole-Orange Coordinator
Vote for 4 in 2010, for Florida, for You!
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