"Over the course of the twentieth century, Florida conservationists had helped stop plume hunts, preserve millions of acres of wetlands, mandate minimum flows to Everglades National Park, and secure the largest nutrient cleanup in history." - Michael Grunwald (Endgame 78)
I really like this quote because it shows the conservation efforts being made in Florida. Ever since I moved to Florida you often hear about the negatives like the Everglades is shrinking, panther, ect. It’s nice to hear about the positives every now and then they just and secured the largest nutrient cleanup in history. That takes time, effort and lots money. It also makes me wonder just how destructive were we in the past, if we need to go through all these restoration efforts. At one time the everglades flowed pretty much right through Florida undisturbed now its shrinking. We finally understand the value of these wetlands and were taking steps to protect them, which could be considered a positive.
http://hatory.9amp.com/?c=2014-11-15&p=florida-everglades-area-cover
"Alan Fargo, the Sierra Club activist leading the airport opposition, always figured the fight would come down to raw politics." - Michael Grunwald (Endgame 80)
I can completely see why Alan Fargo might feel the
airport division would come down to politics. There are plenty of situations in
history where despite what might be best the government chose to go with the
decision that was popular with the people, so they could get reelected. Also
when government are making these decisions are they truly qualified enough to
make these environmental decisions? I understand that they have advisers but
when government officials are sitting in there comfy air conditioned offices it
can be hard to see the damages of putting that kind of airport in. If this
decision came down to politics where money is involved, it's hard to see those
fighting for the environment coming out on top.
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/09/01/does-seeing-president-obamas-foot-on-the-oval-office-desk-make-your-blood-boil/
"On January 16, 2001 four days before Clinton left office, the administration announced its decision on Homestead. It rejected the airport." - Michael Grunwald (Endgame 103)
Against all odds
a victory for the everglades. This quote if anything shows us that all
is not lost for nature even if there is big money in play. I have a lot of
respect for all the people that stood up and fought for the everglades
despite the odds. Before I moved to Florida and learned what the everglades is
all about I would have just thought it was some dirty swamp. If
environmentalist, the people, and politicians can all get together and understand
the facts I believe the best decision will be made. In the end we all want
to live and enjoy this earth.
http://blingee.com/blingee/view/70438014-coming-together-around-the-world
