FLORIDA PLANNING A Publication of the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association
Winter 2019
www.florida.planning.org
The Economic Ripple Effects of
FLORIDA RED TIDE By Randy Deshazo and Sarah Vitale, AICP-C
Harmful algal bloom events like the Florida Red Tide have impacted coastal areas in Florida since 1844, when observers noted a bloom event off the coast near Panama City.
The Red Tide organism, Karenia brevis, produces neurotoxins that create massive fish kills, as well as increases in mortalities in marine mammals, sea turtles, birds, and affecting crustaceans and other benthic organisms. Occurring offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Red Tide blooms encroach into the state’s nearshore waters, affecting coastal communities. While Florida Red Tide is naturally occurring, there is evidence that discharges from urban type development (such as stormwater runoff, leaking sewerage systems and septic tanks from the Mississippi River and northern Gulf of Mexico watersheds) aggravate Red Tide events. Offshore activities such as oil platforms and fishing waste products and even dust blown across the Atlantic from the Sahara Desert also contribute to Red Tide’s impact. Beginning in November 2017, the latest Florida Red Tide bloom has since impacted more than 100 miles of Florida’s coastline. continued on page 4
OTHER FEATURES
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
6
Protecting the Everglades & Expanding Ports
9
No Reef, No Treasure
12
Hurricane Michael & Timber Loss
13 15 17
Urban Forests
SLR & Salinization
Panhandle Resources Post Michael
20 22
Chapter Wins National Awards
Minority Scholarships Awarded
24
Conference Call for Presentations
25
Student Member Wins Dissertation Award
President’s Message - p. 3 In Memoriam - p. 21 Planner Q&A p. 26 Planners on the Move p. 27 APA Working for You - p. 28 Planning & the Courts - p. 29 Consultants Directory - p. 31 Events - back page
The Florida Chapter of APA provides statewide leadership in the development of sustainable communities by advocating excellence in planning, providing professional development for its members, and working to protect and enhance the natural and built environments.