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Committee backs moving golf-course BMP program from DEP to agriculture department
Summary
The committee approved CS for SB 544 to transfer administration of golf-course Best Management Practices from DEP to FDACS; proponents said transfer improves continuity and outreach, opponents warned springs protections could be weakened.
Senator Truenow introduced CS for SB 544, which transfers responsibility for the golf course Best Management Practices (BMP) certification program from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The sponsor framed the change as administrative: BMP standards and enforcement remain intact but FDACS better aligns with turf and sod programs and continuing-education delivery.
Senator Smith asked whether DEP retains oversight and enforcement authority for environmental standards such as fertilizer runoff in Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) areas. The sponsor said FDACS would monitor compliance and that DEP would be notified and handle corrective enforcement actions when BMPs are not met.
Travis Moore (Florida Springs Council) testified in opposition, urging the committee to consider why a 2021 DEP BMP package should be replaced and warning that golf courses are not agricultural enterprises that sell product. He argued springs' BMAPs list golf courses as nitrogen pollution sources and expressed concern that FDACS administration could be less protective for impaired springs.
David Shep (Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association) testified in favor, saying the move does not change nutrient reporting requirements or DEP's receipt of reports in BMAP locations and noting FDACS already administers turf BMPs and continuing-education programs.
Senator Truenow noted the state has roughly 1,200 golf courses and fewer than half are enrolled in BMPs; he said the goal is to increase enrollment and stewardship. A staff-technical amendment (barcode 631,778) was adopted; the committee then reported the CS for SB 544 favorably by roll call (Senator Smith recorded a "No").
