Jessica Meszaros
Jessica Meszaros reports on climate change and the environment for WUSF.
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Wildlife commission staff brought in law enforcement and an expert on global turtle trafficking to make the case against captive breeding of diamondback terrapins, while the majority of public commenters were for it.
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The captive breeding of diamondback terrapins has not been allowed in Florida since 2006, but wildlife officials on Wednesday will discuss whether to bring it back.
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While an original plan was presented in 2020, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service now wants to designate approximately 1.2 million acres as critical habitat across 13 counties - this marks a 21% reduction from the previous proposal.
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One hatchling was rescued from a parking lot after crawling across Gulf Boulevard, a major roadway along the barrier islands of Pinellas County.
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The diamondback terrapin, a unique turtle species found in Florida, has become a popular pet in Asia. The overseas demand has led to increased poaching. To fight this illegal market, advocates want to create a legal breeding program.
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"As we increase the temperature of the atmosphere... the air that is all around us can hold more water," says Daniel Gilford of Climate Central. "There's been about a 10% increase in atmospheric moisture and rainfall associated with Hurricane Ian."
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At a time when developers are cutting down mangroves and building in such a way that's harming coral reefs, scientists will work with community members on solutions and policy changes.
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By analyzing 9 years of data, Florida researchers recently proved that toxic algae blooms are exacerbated by nutrient-rich freshwater releases. The results confirm what scientists, activists, fishermen, and others have observed anecdotally for years.
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When residents purchase "waterfront properties," many don't realize the function of their nearby stormwater ponds and actually cause them harm by removing plants and mowing the grass too close to the edge.
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Rising seas will shift tidal boundaries, leading to the loss of taxable properties, according to a new study. This is expected to impact the tax base of hundreds of U.S. coastal counties, with Florida being the state most affected.