Orange County’s residential composting pilot drew interest from more than 600 people, with more than 220 residents participating through free composting bins or food waste collection service trials. Enrollment has closed, but participant feedback will help guide potential improvements and expansion.

Strong Towns Apopka and local partners will host West Orange Trail Beautification Day on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 8 to 10 a.m. Residents and families can help with native plantings, participate in art activities and attend a dedication celebrating the collaborative project.

UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51.

Florida’s approach to stormwater pollution is drawing criticism over whether credits sold to developers will represent measurable improvements in water quality. For Apopka, the debate raises questions about protecting local waterways and sustaining Lake Apopka’s restoration.

Volusia County’s proposal to build a motocross facility on land purchased with conservation funding has drawn opposition and a lawsuit. In this commentary, Craig Pittman examines the environmental concerns, financial questions, and competing interpretations of what voters intended the land-buying program to accomplish.

A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes.

A congressional proposal could return federal wetlands permitting authority to Florida, potentially changing one layer of environmental review for developments in Apopka. The issue has a local connection as city officials recently reviewed wetland mitigation associated with the Bronson Lake Drive extension at The Ridge.

A UF/IFAS study suggests that removing large reproductive female Burmese pythons could have a greater impact on population control than capture totals alone indicate. Researchers developed a demographic weighting system and tested machine-learning models to help agencies focus limited removal resources.

Orange Audubon’s Bird-friendly Native Yards Tour will showcase eight Central Florida home landscapes on Sunday, October 4, from 9 am to 2 pm. Proceeds will support the planned Natural History Museum at Apopka Birding Park, and participants should register by October 2 to access a gated-community stop.

Local governments, small utilities, homeowners associations, and multifamily properties can apply early for the St. Johns River Water Management District’s water conservation rebates. The program covers up to half of eligible project costs, with a $10,000 annual limit per applicant.

A University of Florida study found that cogongrass can increase fire spread and flame length under certain conditions. Researchers say controlling the invasive grass may also reduce fire risk around homes and other properties.

Orange County Mosquito Control has added new laboratory technology to detect viruses in mosquito samples more quickly. The PCR testing capability could deliver same-day results, reduce costs, and improve mitigation efforts.

Orange County is developing its first Urban Forest Master Plan to guide how trees are planted, protected and maintained over the next 20-plus years. Residents can help shape the plan by sharing feedback through the county’s Engage Orange portal.

A fatal lightning strike near a Celebration hotel demonstrates how quickly a developing thunderstorm can become deadly. The incident warns Apopka residents not to wait for heavy rain or frequent lightning before seeking shelter.

The St. Johns River Water Management District averaged 6.84 inches of rainfall in August, nearly matching the month’s long-term average. However, groundwater remained very low, and every county in the District continued to face a 12-month rainfall deficit.

Sierra Club Florida has announced its opposition to Amendment 3, arguing that the proposed property tax changes could undermine local storm preparations and other public services. If approved by at least 60% of voters, the measure would significantly increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes.

UF/IFAS research found that robotic lawn mowers can maintain and improve Florida turf, including St. Augustine grass, despite their lower cutting height. Their frequent mowing removes small amounts of grass at a time, encouraging healthier and denser lawns.

A photograph of a Roseate Spoonbill taken in St. Augustine earned Jacqueline Burke the Grand Prize in the 2026 Audubon Photography Awards. Two other Florida residents received honorable mentions for images featuring a Common Nighthawk and a Barred Owl.

Orange County Mosquito Control is concentrating spraying efforts in targeted areas after health officials confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever. Residents are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes.