It's understandable that environmental activists would worry that an agricultural exemption to Hillsborough County's wetlands rule will create a loophole that allows widespread abuse.
Just last year, a commission majority appeared ready to drop the county's wetlands protections altogether until an outraged public protested.
But this exemption, passed by the commission last week, is narrow and will be carefully monitored by the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission. It should become quickly apparent if the rule jeopardizes resources or allows landowners to destroy wetlands to enhance future development.
Hillsborough farmers - who contend with the weather, bugs, disease, foreign competition, rising labor and transportation costs and fluctuating prices - need consideration.
The measure would allow farmers to destroy wetlands smaller than a half-acre when essential for agricultural. The exemption applies to crops, not cattle ranching, so it affects relatively few parcels.
Farmers still would need approval from state regulators, but the EPC would retain ultimate oversight. The agency would be required to make quarterly reports on the ponds and wetlands lost under such an exemption.
The measure should pose no threat to significant resources, and it could make a big difference in helping farmers realize the necessary return. Results need to be scrutinized, but this approach appears to offer balance and common sense.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement