Julia Lomonico Joins St. Pete Law Firm, Strengthening Environmental Team

St. Petersburg, Florida, USA - In a significant move for environmental advocacy in the state, Julia Lomonico has joined the firm of Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A. as Of Counsel in their St. Petersburg office. Lomonico brings a wealth of experience in environmental and administrative law, with a keen focus on water policy, permitting, and litigation. Her previous roles include serving as interim General Counsel and Special Counsel to the General Counsel at the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), where she tackled critical environmental resource and water use permitting tasks and provided crucial advice on water quality standards at both state and federal levels. Florida Politics reports that Lomonico’s impressive background includes overseeing a team at SFWMD on various matters, from restoration to federal compliance.

Lomonico’s work has direct implications for major programs aimed at environmental restoration and protection in Florida. As a board member of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Florida Association of Environmental Professionals, she adeptly navigates complex inter-agency collaborations that include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local water management districts, especially pertinent to initiatives under the Everglades Forever Act and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). Her expertise is well-timed as Florida grapples with the pressing issue of water resource management and ecosystem restoration.

Regulatory Framework for Environmental Protection

The Office of Water Policy and Ecosystems Restoration (OWPER) plays a pivotal role in the state’s regulatory landscape. It implements various technical, planning, and regulatory responsibilities for restoration activities as mandated by laws like the Everglades Forever Act, CERP, and the Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Plan. These acts are designed to enhance water quality and oversee vital resources, ensuring that projects align with the broader goals of ecological sustainability in Florida.

Particularly since the Everglades Forever Act was passed in 1994, the focus has been to improve the integrity of the Everglades ecosystem by reducing phosphorus levels and restoring hydrological patterns that support native flora and fauna. The OWPER is now equipped to process State 404 permit applications—a move that streamlines the regulatory touchpoints for various projects, including those related to mining and agricultural operations that could impact state waters. This is essential for ensuring compliance and protecting water quality standards across the board.

The Role of Agriculture in Ecosystem Health

Agriculture plays a crucial role in Florida’s economy and environmental stability. The handbook published by the University of Florida outlines the rights and responsibilities of farmers and farmland owners concerning water use and resource issues. According to IFAS, legislation such as the Everglades Forever Act includes provisions that support water resource development, land management enhancements, and the protection of native species. This synergy between agricultural practices and environmental regulations highlights the need for efficient management and proactive measures to curb negative impacts on the ecosystem.

With Lomonico’s experience and the ongoing efforts by the OWPER, Florida is poised to navigate the complex interplay between economic interests and environmental protections. Whether it’s through innovative compliance strategies or community-driven restoration projects, there’s much to be said for a holistic approach to our water policies. As developments continue to unfold, the integration of expert legal guidance and robust regulatory frameworks will be paramount in preserving Florida’s precious natural resources for generations to come.