Lake Okeechobee pollution is high
WEST PALM BEACH (AP) – The amount of phosphorus pollution in Lake Okeechobee has reached more than four times the level that state agencies hope to reach six years from now.
State and federal data show that 656 tons of phosphorous flowed into Lake Okeechobee between May 1, 2008 and April 30, 2009.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection in 2001 set its target level at 140 tons a year. However, the agency noted Tuesday it has until 2015 to meet that requirement, and that they were working toward that goal.
The department said phosphorous levels increased from last year, largely because of more rainfall.
The nutrient runoff has stymied Everglades restoration for decades, because it can nourish algae blooms and poison ecosystems.