From the new Naturalist:

Public opposition to nearshore oil drilling was so intense that Florida’s Senate refused to take up a proposal offered late in the 2009 legislative session by lobbyists for Texas oil companies. But those favoring the bill declared their intention to push for 2010 passage of legislation that would allow oil and gas drilling in Florida’s nearshore waters.

To head off this assault on Florida’s beaches, nearshore waters, and coastal economy, Audubon is joining with other organizations in a Campaign to Protect Florida’s Beaches. The initiative, which coincides with two of Audubon’s priorities—Coastal Conservation and Climate Change—is designed to mobilize public support for protecting Florida’s coastal waters.

Florida’s tourist-based coastal economy generates an estimated $60 billion in annual economic activity. The proposed oil and gas revenues would amount to only about $1 billion a year. At a moment when Florida must resolve its climate and energy challenges by moving aggressively to replace oil-based fuels with clean energy, it makes little sense to increase our dependence on oil. Although the oil and gas industries claim that drilling is now foolproof, who can forget images of seabirds coated with oil, and the lingering impacts to shores in states that allow drilling?

Audubon invites you to join us online and become a part of our Protect Florida's Beaches campaign. You can also receive news about energy and climate issues by signing up to receive Florida Climate Action News.