State, feds strike deal on water pollution limits

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — State and federal environmental authorities have agreed on rules relating to water pollution in Florida.

But environmental groups are slamming the deal as not tough enough on how much fertilizer and other pollutants should be allowed in Florida waters.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the compromise agreement on Friday. The rules attempt to head off contamination that leads to toxic algae blooms. They can kill fish and make people sick.

State officials say the limits are adequate to protect water quality.

Environmental groups are criticizing the deal. They wanted stricter pollution rules to be adopted and say tainted runoff will continue to pollute Florida waterways.