New LOSOM Model Reduces Discharges to Caloosahatchee River
Army Corps Engineers release new LOSOM model that reduces discharges to Caloosahatchee River
Contact: Josh Goergen, Government Relations Manager
(239) 992-2943
Southwest Florida (November 18, 2021) – On Tuesday November 16th, the Army Corps of Engineers announced their final schedule for the upcoming Lake Okeechobee Systems Operating Manual, or LOSOM. The selected model, model run 260467, will reduce harmful discharges to the Caloosahatchee River Estuary.
When the Army Corps announced Alternative CC back in July, SWFL Inc. and the business community voiced concerns about the number of harmful discharges the Caloosahatchee would receive. Regional stakeholders had asked the Corps to look for a more balanced approach for the distribution of flows. Tuesday’s announcement is clear that unified message of the Southwest Florida residents was heard.
“This is a significant improvement for Southwest Florida. Our voices were heard, and we continue to advocate to protect water quality and the business community throughout the region” stated Tiffany Esposito, President & CEO of SWFL Inc.
Not only does the selected model reduce discharges, but it also increases flows south to the Central Everglades to an average of 200,000 acre-feet per year and provides a better water supply to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Lake Okeechobee Service Area.
SWFL Inc. will continue to follow the LOSOM process and advocate for solutions that solve our water quality issues.
About SWFL Inc.
SWFL Inc. is a regional chamber of commerce serving the Southwest Florida business community. It connects businesses to a regional network of customers, offers educational resources to help them grow in a modern economy, and actively works to solve regional issues that impact the business community. At SWFL Inc., membership is free and open to all businesses to create (inc)lusive opportunities for all.
Ranked among the top 1 percent of chambers nationwide, SWFL Inc. produces exceptional business resources and programs to serve the business community, promote a region where business can grow and prosper and enhance the quality of life in Southwest Florida.