BY JOHN R. CAPRA 

I believe we are all responsible for the problems associated with the environment and we need all realize - we must be the solution. It starts with every one of us.

- We are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, including the St. Johns River and the miles of beautiful shoreline of both the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. These areas serve as vital rookeries and hatcheries, and their protection is key to Northeast Florida’s way of life.

- According to the Riverkeeper and the St. Johns River Water Management District, almost all homeowners over-fertilize. These excess nutrients have a dire effect on area waterways, as exhibited by toxic algal blooms that have plagued the St. Johns River in the past.

- Water problems and diversions are going to become more and more of an issue as the state grows and the strain on the water supply becomes more evident - and more critical. We need to start employing better methods of constructing environmentally conscious developments and buildings that will place the proper emphasis on protecting, and not depleting, the environment.

- As more and more of Northeast Florida is built out, it is more critical than ever that we conserve and preserve. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve is a prime example of preserving pristine areas for the citizens of the district to enjoy and I want to further the efforts made there.

My commitment is to work on behalf of all citizens to protect our district environmentally. I have two young children and it is my fervent desire to do what I can to help create a better world and environment for them and for those I hope to serve. I want my children and my constituents to be able to enjoy a clean river and pristine beaches. I want their world, our home, to be as healthy as possible. As a legislator, I will take the commitment of ensuring a healthy environment for Northeast Florida to Tallahassee.