SPRINGS PROTECTION PROPOSAL INADEQUATE

Editor, The Sun:

An open letter to the Wakulla County Commission:

I applaud the Wakulla County Board of County Commission in their effort to identify areas for water quality improvements and protection. Unfortunately, when I read the proposed updated requirements, I was underwhelmed. The document begins with the repeal of current protection while not articulating any improvements. The document fails to identify current vulnerabilities, existing geological studies, recent profound discoveries concerning the connectivity of caverns and underwater passages proving the fragile nature of our Karst topography to our drinking water and springs. I have highlighted the introduction for reference:
WHEREAS, the Board has determined that it is in the public interest to repeal Ordinance No. 94-28 and adopt updated water quality protection requirements to better protect ground water quality from contamination. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WAKULLA COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. INCORPORATION OF RECITALS. The above recitals are true and correct and are hereby incorporated by reference. SECTION 2. REPEAL OF WAKULLA COUNTY ORDINANCE NO. 94-28. Wakulla County Ordinance No. 94-28, entitled “The Wakulla Springs Water Quality Protection Regulation,” is hereby repealed in its entirety. SECTION 3. AMENDMENT OF SECTION 2-4 OF THE WAKULLA COUNTY LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE. Section 2-4 of the Land Development Code, entitled “Definition of Terms,” is hereby amended to include the following definitions: …
The proposed amendments need to be tabled due to numerous technical inaccuracies, misinformation, incomplete information and a host of other deficiencies. The current proposed amendments read like an instruction manual for storing hazardous materials in sensitive areas based on inaccurate and unproven mitigation procedures.
If the Board is sincere in their rhetorical wish for enhanced protection, I submit the following comment:
It is prohibited to store any hazardous materials in any manner within any area identified as being within 2000 feet of karst features, caverns, conduits or other sites identified as vulnerable to groundwater contamination.
Respectfully,

Peter J. Scalco
Crawfordville