Letter IP pipeline

IP pipeline denial is the right decision

May 23, 2007
Letter to the Department of Environmental Protection

Dear Secretary Sole:

The League of Women Voters of the Pensacola Bay Area supports the decision of Judge Canter recommending denial of International Paper’s request to construct a ten mile pipeline to wetlands which drain into Perdido Bay. Judge Canter correctly concludes, based on all the relevant facts, that the pipeline plan would not comply with the minimum water quality standards that DEP is responsible for enforcing. He also accurately notes that International Paper has failed to prove its plan would not degrade water quality.

For too many years, the paper mill, now owned by International Paper, has discharged damaging noxious effluent into Eleven Mile Creek and thereby Perdido Bay. These discharges have seriously degraded the water quality of the creek, as well as the bay, and destroyed many types of marine life. It is past time to end the unauthorized pretense under which various corporations have operated the Cantonment paper mill since 1989, never complying with Florida’s standards.

Our area’s present viability, and its long term prospects, are a direct function of local water quality. The Pensacola Bay Area needs its water quality maintained more than it needs to have a shrinking polluting industry maintained.

Under Florida law, DEP has the ultimate responsibility to maintain water quality in our area. It is, therefore, crucial that you adopt the recommendation of Judge Canter and deny IP’s permit request. The physical and financial health of this area depends on your decision.

Very truly yours,

Janet deLorge and Sharon Barnett, Co-Presidents
League of Women Voters of the Pensacola Bay Area