Water

As of Tuesday morning, Florida became the second state in the country to end its practice of adjusting fluoride levels in its water supply.

The county commission's 5-1 vote comes after it learned its fluoridation system has been broken since 2021, and no fluoride has been actively added since then.

The measure, introduced in the state Senate, includes numerous issues related to the state Department of Agriculture. Many local governments have ended fluoridation in recent months.

The 4-1 vote came the council heard public comments from he proposal's opponents and supporters, including Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo.

Research has generally shown that fluoridated water at recommended levels is safe. But many experts and a judge say more research is needed to better understand whether and when risks kick in.

The shutdown starts at midnight on Oct. 10. The city said it’s in response to a major water main break, which will impact citywide drinking water services.

Florida’s currently “disjointed and inconsistent” framework for choosing, funding and evaluating the impact of water projects isn’t good fiscal stewardship, according to Florida TaxWatch.

Protecting the Floridan Aquifer — the main source of our drinking water — is arguably the most important conservation step going forward.

All across the University of Florida campus, people can find one consistent item: bottled water.

Few things are taken for granted in modern society as much as tap water. Fresh, drinkable water is available at the twist of a knob or the turn of a wrist.

Poe Springs is the largest spring in Alachua County, and a beloved spot for kayaking, swimming and other water fun.

Florida’s aquifer and springs are at risk. Their blue waters are in decline, including loss of flow, excessive algae and so called “brown-outs.”