Tallahassee, Fla. – On July 8, the Environmental Regulation Commission (ERC) voted to approve a stringent, science-based water quality standard of 10 parts per billion (ppb) for phosphorus in the Everglades. Indeed, it is one of the first such numeric water quality standards for any waterbody in America.

“Ninety percent of the water in the Everglades already meets the 10 ppb water quality standard,” said Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary David B. Struhs. “Today’s approval guarantees progress for cleaning up the remaining 10 percent.”

DEP proposed the water quality standard in December 2001. Over the last 2 ˝ years, the seven member commission has heard scientific data and expert testimony supporting the stringent water quality standard.

“This is likely the most well-researched, scientifically-proven environmental standard ever passed in Florida,” said Struhs. “It will guarantee restoration and protection of the Everglades, while recognizing the complexity and variability of the ecosystem. It will ensure Florida remains in compliance with the federal court settlement and that we continue to collaborate closely with our federal partners.”

The Everglades Forever Act required the Department to adopt the phosphorus rule by December 31, 2003. The South Florida Water Management District must comply with the water quality standard by December 31, 2006.

Amendments to the Everglades Forever Act made earlier this year provide more than $600 million over the next 13 years to implement advanced technologies to reduce phosphorous flowing into the Everglades.

For more information, visit www.EvergladesForeverAct.com.