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WPTV launches Protecting Paradise, a yearlong focus on environmental issues in South Florida

Posted at 6:30 PM, Oct 24, 2018
and last updated 2018-10-25 23:37:24-04

Many of us live in South Florida because of the climate and the wide access to natural areas and the water. Our quality of life and economy depend on a healthy and vibrant environment.

Lately, the headlines have been dominated by bad news. Red tide closes local beaches. Blue-green algae invades area waterways. Lake Okeechobee releases pollute the water with agricultural runoff.

So WPTV is launching a yearlong special project to focus on these and other environmental issues with a goal of helping to bring awareness to the crisis and search for solutions.

We are calling this project Protecting Paradise.

Following tonight's 30-minute special, you will see multiple stories per week on all of our broadcast and digital platforms. We'll be sharing stories on our social media pages, and updating special sections in our app and website: wptv.com/paradise

Reports will shed light on immediate issues like the recent red ride outbreak and the algae crisis, as well as long-term challenges like growth and development that may negatively impact South Florida’s natural areas and waterways.

We're also assembling an advisory panel made up of environmentalists, conservationists, officials from various public agencies, health professionals, scientists and industry representatives to collaborate with us during this project.

And we want to hear from you. Tell us about a special natural area, environmental problems that are impacting your lifestyle, business or health, positive stories about people or groups making an impact, stories about waste and mismanagement.

We think that together we can make a difference and help leave South Florida a better place for our children. Email us here with your story ideas.