The Apopka Voice logo

Nesta proposes Apopka government restructuring; former campaign manager expresses interest in chief of staff role

Log in
Environment
Sort by: Featured Most recent
1008 results total, viewing 151 - 175
Lake Okeechobee, the largest lake in Florida, has been ranked as the dirtiest lake in the nation.
Big Florida lake ranked as the most polluted in the U.S.
The pollution crisis at Lake Okeechobee serves as a stark warning for Lake Apopka, showing how unchecked agricultural runoff and weak enforcement can devastate Florida’s waterways. Without stronger protections and investment in natural filtration, Lake Apopka risks repeating Okeechobee’s toxic algae and ecological decline. more
|
Photo Caption
Slow-moving Atlantic storm could bring heavy rain and gusty winds to Florida this weekend
A slow-moving storm forming off the Georgia coast later this week could deliver days of rain and gusty winds to Florida, including Orange County and Apopka. While the strongest impacts are expected further north, local residents should stay alert for showers, breezy conditions, and minor urban flooding through the weekend. more
|
Photo Caption
Bird-friendly Yards Tour returns this October with native plant showcase
After a seven-year hiatus, the Orange Audubon Society is bringing back its popular Bird-friendly Yards Tour on Sunday, October 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can visit eight self-guided yards featuring native plants, pick up tips for attracting birds and pollinators, and connect with Backyard Biodiversity Day the following weekend at Mead Botanical Garden to purchase native plants. more
|
Florida’s 1,100 natural springs are under threat – a geographer explains how to restore them
Once praised by early explorers for their crystal-clear beauty, Florida’s freshwater springs now face serious decline from pollution, overuse, and habitat loss. With most of the state’s 1,100 springs unmonitored and 26 of 30 “Outstanding Florida Springs” impaired, experts say restoring them will require far more than a one-size-fits-all solution. more
|
The Golden Gem reclaimed water pond is 102.79 acres, located at 3513 Golden Gem Road in Apopka. Two separate ponds within the perimeter hold about 50 million and 200 million gallons of water, respectively.
Apopka approves sixth extension for Golden Gem road project amid resident concerns
The Apopka City Council has approved a sixth extension for the Golden Gem road project, pushing the deadline to May 29, 2026, with a seventh extension already being discussed. While city officials point to technical challenges and environmental safeguards, residents voiced frustration over compliance issues, aquifer safety, and a lack of oversight. more
|
A Rose-breasted Grosbeak, one of the many species that migrates through Florida during the fall.
30 million birds flew over the Sunshine State this week – fall migration is on
Over 30 million birds migrated across Florida this week, including millions passing over Central and South Florida counties, as they head south for the winter. Residents can support these long-distance travelers by visiting parks at dawn, reducing nighttime lights, and taking steps to prevent window collisions. more
|
Photo Caption
Coastal flooding, rough surf are expected to be Hurricane Imelda's main US threats
Hurricane Imelda, strengthened to Category 1, is expected to turn away from the U.S. coast this week, sparing Florida a direct hit but triggering dangerous surf, rip currents, and minor coastal flooding. As the storm passes offshore, residents can expect unsettled weather with more showers, storms, and humid conditions in Apopka and Orange County. more
|
The Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, a power plant managed by TECO (Tampa Electric Co.) at sunset.
Florida utilities 'slow to move off fossil fuels,' risking climate goals
A new Sierra Club report gives most Florida utilities failing marks for their slow shift away from fossil fuels, citing coal and gas dependence as a major risk in a state highly vulnerable to climate change. Advocates say affordable solar and battery storage could provide cleaner, more reliable alternatives. more
|
Photo Caption
Explore Lake Apopka’s wildlife this fall with beginner birdwatching classes
The Orange Audubon Society’s Beginners’ Birdwatching Class returns in October 2025, including sessions at the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, one of Central Florida’s top birding spots. Classes run October 11, 18, and 25, with instruction from experienced guides, providing a hands-on introduction to Florida’s diverse bird species. more
|
Photo Caption
Vote now for Florida State Parks’ 2025 photo contest winners
Florida State Parks is inviting the public to vote in the 2025 Capture the Real Florida photo contest, which highlights stunning images of beaches, wildlife, and park adventures. Winners of the People’s Choice award will be selected in five categories, with voting open online until October 10th. more
|
Rainbow Snake.
Protecting Florida’s rainbow snake through waterway conservation
Florida’s rainbow snake is one of the state’s rarest and most mysterious reptiles, with sightings so uncommon that scientists still have much to learn about its population. Protecting the wetlands and waterways that may still shelter this species is central to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s mission. more
|
An NRDC report shows the Trump administration is canceling $29 billion in community climate and environmental grants as Florida focuses bringing attention to climate issues during its Climate Week.
Florida Climate Week highlights urgency as federal funding cuts stall resilience projects
Organizers of Florida Climate Week say the state’s resilience efforts face new hurdles as federal funding for key projects is cut back. With more than 75 events across Florida, the annual initiative aims to rally communities around urgent challenges like extreme heat, stronger storms, and coastal protection. more
|
Juniper Springs in the Ocala National Forest, where Congressman Randy Fine held his press conference to tout his national parks idea.
National park proposed for Florida springs doesn’t spring from desire to fix problems
Freshman Congressman Randy Fine has introduced a bill to study creating Florida’s fourth national park, focused on the state’s iconic springs. While Fine touts the plan as a way to honor and protect the springs, critics warn it could open the door to federal overreach, commercial development, and unnecessary bureaucracy. more
|
The sun rising on Lake Apopka, as seen from the lakeside observation tower on the Clay Island loop.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive closed this weekend
The St. Johns River Water Management District announced that the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will be closed from September 12th to 14th to complete slope-stabilization work. The nearby Lake Apopka Loop Trail will not be affected and will stay open for pedestrians and cyclists. more
|
Photo Caption
August rainfall varied across the District, averaging slightly above normal
The St. Johns River Water Management District recorded an average of 7.57 inches of rainfall in August, slightly above the long-term average, with significant variation across counties. Groundwater levels mostly improved, and spring flows at Silver, Rock, and Wekiwa Springs remained within or near normal ranges. more
|
Photo Caption
Florida water districts collaborate on long-term plans to secure a sustainable supply
The District is updating regional water supply plans across three key areas to ensure reliable water for communities and natural systems for the next twenty years. Collaborative efforts emphasize conservation, alternative supply projects, and a One Water approach that balances growth with environmental protection. The District is actively working with regional partners across all … more
|
Photo Caption
Wildlife ecologist busts myths about coyote behavior, including their predatory actions
Coyotes are often misunderstood, but University of Florida wildlife ecologist Hance Ellington is working to change that. By studying their behavior, diet, and movement, Ellington hopes to reduce human-wildlife conflicts while highlighting the important role coyotes play in controlling pests and maintaining ecological balance. more
|
The Mississippi National River & Recreation Area provides access to water activities right in the middle of the metropolitan area of Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Hidden treasures of America’s national parks are closer than you might think
America’s national parks go far beyond the 63 most famous destinations, encompassing nearly 400 sites that protect history, culture, waterways, wilderness, and urban escapes. From sea caves on Lake Superior to civil rights monuments in New York City, these parks offer hidden gems, affordable access, and opportunities for reflection close to home. more
|
The island nation of Tuvalu is losing land to sea-level rise, and its farms and water supplies are under threat from saltwater.
5 forecasts early climate models got right – the evidence is all around you
Decades before today’s warming trends were measured, pioneering climate scientist Syukuro Manabe’s models accurately predicted global temperature rise, stratospheric cooling, and Arctic amplification. His work laid the foundation for modern climate science, showing that despite uncertainty, models remain powerful tools for understanding and preparing for climate change. more
| | 1 comment
Photo Caption
Orange County trains with Tiger Dams to boost flood protection
More than 40 Orange County employees recently trained on the Tiger Dam System, a collapsible water-filled barrier designed to keep rising waters at bay during hurricanes and floods. more
|
Photo Caption
Protect your irrigation system from lightning this hurricane season
With hurricane season upon us in South Florida, it is important to remember to take cover when lightning is in the area. In today’s digital age, you can find videos of lightning striking tall … more
|
Photo Caption
Why home insurance costs are soaring in climate risk regions
Recent report shows rising home insurance costs in climate risk areas due to increased natural disasters and climate change risks are pushing homeowners to seek alternatives. more
|
Cleanup workers try to scoop up all the toxic globs on Pensacola Beach from the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon spill. Now BP is back with a new deepwater drilling plan.
BP is back 15 years after the Deepwater Horizon disaster, with plans to drill even deeper
BP is seeking approval for a massive new Gulf oil project—dubbed “Kaskida”—just 15 years after its Deepwater Horizon disaster poisoned U.S. coastlines, wildlife, and livelihoods. Environmentalists warn that this deeper, riskier well could unleash another catastrophe, but federal regulators seem poised to give BP the green light. more
|
Photo Caption
Prepare for the Storm: How to use sandbags for flood protection
With tropical systems forming in the Atlantic, many Orange County residents are preparing for flooding by turning to sandbags — a simple but effective defense. From where to place them to how to stack them, here’s what you need to know before the next storm hits. more
|
Photo Caption
6 tips for staying safe in extreme heat if you’re a runner, cyclist or anyone else active outdoors
With heat waves gripping much of the U.S., experts warn that runners, outdoor workers, and children face serious risks from extreme heat and humidity. Understanding how the body adapts and following safety tips like hydration, timing activity, and listening to warning signs can help prevent heat-related illnesses. more
|
« Prev | 1 … 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 … 41 | Next »
Currently viewing stories posted within the past 5 years.
For all older stories, please use our advanced search.

© Copyright 2026 The Apopka Voice Terms of Use
Powered by Creative Circle Media Solutions