Keep the lock
To the editor:
Cape Coral again promises Chiquita Lock removal with premeditated, historically-known consequences extending far beyond its boundaries to impact waters of Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, Captiva and all nearby islands.
The city ignores the science of expert testimonials in DEP Judge Ffolks’ 2019 recommendation to keep the lock due to economic greed that will eventually affect every Lee County resident.
The deafening silence from all Lee County conservation groups, municipalities, Lee County commissioners and businesses that will be negatively impacted is astounding. Where is the outrage? What keeps the directors and councilmen silent? Economic gain to benefit a few at the long-term expense of environmental degradation thrust upon all Lee County citizens is unacceptable and simply nonsensical.
All Lee County residents should rally to prevent lock removal. An economic collapse is on the horizon from toxic waters and contributions by lock removal must be considered. Defeating the canals’ purpose for engineered storm water treatment will immediately result in yearly releases of 30,000 pounds of nitrogen into estuaries fueling harmful algae blooms and red tide along with death of beneficial mangroves.
Perhaps Cape Coral’s actions to knowingly and willfully destroy federally protected species should be considered.
Keep the lock!
Capt. Karl R. Deigert
Matlacha