On November 30, 2014 at 05:51PM, Tom at Watery Foundation published the following article:
We hear once again how the next legislative session will be the “year of water.” Why it this so hard to accomplish? Answer: Many of the best policy tools are not allowed on the job site.
How about additional water regulation, like more efficient plumbing standards to save money and water? Nope, not to be considered.
Re-examine existing tax incentives that encourage water use and pollution? No way, buddy.
Restricting residential landscape fertilization practices? Verboten.
Maybe put in place some price incentives, creating a fee per thousand gallons of water or pound of fertilizer? That certainly would reduce wasteful and damaging water practices–but any new fee is anathema.
The Legislature could take a look at the state Water Plan and decide what deserves more or less emphasis, right? Shhh–no Plan is needed.
Maybe update the state Climate Plan to make sure that the water management system can adapt to rising sea levels, higher temperatures, and changing rainfall patterns? Whoops–throw that one as far back in the woods as you can.
How about incorporating national water advice, like that in books or foundation reports? Nah, not wanted.
Maybe adopt the recommendations from recent collaborative efforts in Florida? Nope, put that down the memory hole, like right now.
Wait, here’s one additional obvious idea–summarize and draw lessons from the many recent statewide public hearings held on this important topic. What’s that? You say no such meetings were held around the state? Oh.
Fixing big Florida water problems requires more than a minute toolbox containing only a few tiny policy ideas.
Read this article from Watery Foundation at http://www.wateryfoundation.com/?p=10952.
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