Palm Beach County considers Southland Project for private rock mine near Everglades

During the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board meeting on May 8, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the proposed Southland Project, a private rock mine planned for an 8,600-acre site adjacent to the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir. This project has raised concerns due to its potential impact on critical Everglades restoration infrastructure, as it would involve mining activities within a thousand feet of these vital areas.

The Southland Project is currently under review by the district, having been submitted as an unsolicited proposal. However, there are complications regarding its approval process. Palm Beach County is also evaluating the project, and there is a hearing scheduled for May 22. Local regulations prohibit mining in the area unless it serves specific purposes, such as agriculture or road building, or is deemed a viable water resource initiative by the district or the Army Corps of Engineers.

A key point raised during the meeting was the misrepresentation of the project's status. It was noted that the district has not yet approved the Southland Project, and it has not been brought before the governing board for a vote. Concerns were expressed that if Palm Beach County were to approve the mine on May 22, Southland could withdraw its proposal from the district, potentially eliminating the opportunity for further review.

Board members were urged to take immediate action by sending a letter to the Palm Beach County Commission. This letter would clarify the district's review process and emphasize that the Southland Project has not been identified as a viable water resource initiative. The urgency of this action was highlighted, as the board will not meet again before the county's decision, and the implications for Everglades restoration could be significant.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the importance of collaboration between local governments and water management authorities to ensure that decisions made today do not jeopardize the future of vital environmental projects. As the situation develops, the community will be watching closely to see how these discussions translate into action and what impact they will have on the Everglades and surrounding areas.