Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection is in the process of updating its 10-year plan for Biscayne Bay, but not everyone is on board. During a public meeting last night at Florida International University’s Biscayne Bay Campus, state officials outlined the revised proposal, which emphasizes education and community outreach.
However, some residents and environmental advocates say the plan lacks the strong protections the bay desperately needs.
Many pointed to seagrass die-offs and fish kills as signs of an ecosystem in crisis.
“Biscayne Bay is at a tipping point,” said Laura Reynolds, an FIU project manager. “And the Department of Environmental Protection is proposing making the plan a lot softer,.”
Critics argue that the current draft plan prioritizes awareness over enforcement, potentially allowing further degradation of the bay.
Some said staff limitations and unclear priorities could hinder progress. Parts of the bay are reportedly being handled by teams lacking expertise because of a lack of manpower.
With public comments open through June 5, the community can still has a chance to push for revisions. Advocates hope this period will lead to a stronger, more actionable plan that reflects both the urgency of the bay’s condition and the community’s calls for change.
