Mangrove protection clears first hurdle
Mangrove butchers were put on notice today, when legislation filed by Senator Aronberg (D-Greenacres) passed the Florida Senate’s Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee.
Concerned by the disappearance of mangroves on both sides of his sprawling five-county district, Aronberg began working with officials a year ago to strengthen Florida’s protection laws.
“I was shocked to learn that this precious resource can be completely destroyed and we cannot do anything because our hand are tied,” said Aronberg. “Florida’s weak laws allow renegade trimmers to easily skirt important mangrove protections.”
Florida has suffered dramatic losses to mangrove habitats. The Lake Worth Lagoon has experienced an 87 percent decrease of its mangrove acreage over the past forty years.
Currently, enforcement officials cannot revoke licenses of individuals who repeatedly violate mangrove protection laws. Additionally, only licensed individuals can be fined. In many instances, unlicensed workers are hired because the rogue workers cannot be penalized.
Aronberg’s bill would give enforcement officials to go after anyone who violates the law, revoke licenses of professionals who repeatedly violate the law, and increase penalties for egregious violations.
“We need to ensure that future generations of Floridians will be able to enjoy all that our state has to offer,” said Aronberg.
Senator Aronberg’s bill is sponsored in the House by Representative Rick Kriseman.