Florida farmers in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) were praised for their accomplishments in protecting water quality at the South Florida Water Management district meeting on Aug.11.
According to the 2022 South Florida Environmental Report, farmers in the area have reduced the phosphorus content of water leaving their properties by 66% from May 2020 to April 30 2021.
For the past 26 years, farmers have prevented more than 4,000 metric tons of phosphorus from entering the Everglades through the implementation of state-of the-art best management practices.
“We are so appreciative of our EAA farmers who have worked relentlessly to ensure that these water quality goals are not only met, but far exceeded,” said Florida Farm Bureau Assistant Director of Government & Community Affairs Jake Fojtik. “Their excellent stewardship not only benefits residents in south Florida, but it impacts the millions of Americans who consume the fresh fruits and vegetables grown here during the winter months.”
For more information and to view the report click here.