Some people think we clean-water types are in it for the aesthetics. That water ought to be clean like Mother Nature made it, so it can support all sorts of wildlife and other living things.

That’s part of it. But then there’s the economic impact: Clean water is worth money, lots of it. And dirty water takes money out of your pocket.

The latest evidence: a new study showing that the Indian River Lagoon generates $28.3 billion in local economic impacts, and that every dollar spent restoring the lagoon generates $24 in economic benefits.

According to the TCPalm report: “The lagoon’s economic impact includes $17 billion in direct spending at local businesses; $5.8 billion in indirect economic activity; and $4 billion in induced economic impacts.”

Think about it. Fishing and boating and paddleboarding. Hotel stays; restaurant tabs. Property values. Jobs; prosperity.

And much of it goes down the toilet if and when the water quality tanks.

And of course it’s not just the lagoon. Another recent study showed the Everglades is worth $31.5 billion to the regional economy each year.

A study back in 2012 estimated that water pollution in Florida cost up to $10.5 billion annually – that number would obviously be far higher now.

Bottom line: Clean water makes for economic prosperity; dirty water sabotages it.

Our elected officials claim to know this. But if they really did, would they continue to propose and vote for legislation destined to make our water dirtier?

Again for the 2026 Florida legislative session, it looks like we’ll be fighting numerous proposals that would enable more development, faster development, all of it guaranteed to generate huge impacts. The “dirty money” continues to flow freely, ensuring polluting industries continue to get their way.

Bottom line: If elected officials were as committed to clean water as they claim, our water wouldn’t be in the shape it’s in. That’s why we fight – and with so much at stake, we can’t stop now.