LKGA Serves on Panel at Upcoming Environmental Town Hall
LKGA is participating in the Monroe County Environmental Town Hall in Islamorada, joining local leaders, partners, and community members to discuss the most pressing environmental and policy challenges facing the Florida Keys.
As the voice of more than 80 full-time professional guides, LKGA is highlighting the on-the-water realities our members witness every day and outlining several key priorities for the year ahead:
• Protecting Local Authority on Water Quality
We emphasize the importance of allowing Monroe County and our municipalities to maintain strong, locally tailored protections—especially in light of proposed state legislation such as HB 479, which would preempt local governments from adopting their own water-quality and pollution-control measures.
• Everglades Restoration and the Proposed Rock Mine
LKGA is sharing concerns about the 8,600-acre Southland rock mine proposal adjacent to the EAA Reservoir and its potential risks to water quality, hydrology, and the long-term success of Everglades restoration. Anything that harms restoration ultimately harms Florida Bay and the flats fishery.
• Full-Time vs. Seasonal Guiding Pressure
We are discussing the growing strain placed on nearshore habitats by seasonal guiding operations and the need for fair, responsible, and sustainable policies that support full-time resident guides who steward these waters year-round.
• Protecting Access for Working Guides
Reliable, affordable boat access continues to diminish. LKGA is highlighting the importance of safeguarding existing ramps, strengthening partnerships that keep them open, and planning for long-term access solutions.
• Offshore Oil Drilling in the Gulf
We reaffirm our support for Monroe County’s resolution opposing any new offshore oil leasing that could threaten the Keys, our economy, or our fishery.
• Support for Nature-Based Resilience
LKGA endorses efforts like SB 302, which promote mangrove restoration, living shorelines, and other science-driven, nature-based approaches that strengthen habitat and coastal resilience.
Through this town hall, LKGA is reinforcing the message that local authority matters, clean water matters, access matters, and the fishery must always have a seat at the table. We remain committed to partnering with county leaders, state agencies, scientists, and fellow organizations to protect the waters, habitats, and livelihoods that define the Florida Keys.
