Clearwater Land & Minerals Fights Back: Appeal to Drill Near Apalachicola

Apalachicola, Florida, USA - In a contentious battle over environmental protections and drilling rights, WFSU reports that Clearwater Land & Minerals has officially submitted an appeal against the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) denial of a permit to drill near the Apalachicola River floodplain. The DEP’s decision came after an administrative law judge notably warned that any drilling could lead to „catastrophic consequences“ for this sensitive area. The appeal was filed on July 15, shortly after the permit was denied on June 16, but Clearwater has yet to publicly outline specific arguments in favor of drilling. This controversy is particularly significant given new legislation that prohibits any drilling within 10 miles of the Apalachicola River Basin.

The fight against drilling has stirred a considerable backlash from environmentalists and local community members alike. Franklin County’s A.J. Smith passionately spoke at a „Kill the Drill“ rally in June, highlighting concerns over potential environmental dangers. Alongside him, Adrianne Johnson, executive director of the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Association, pointed out the community’s staunch opposition to the drilling plans. Prominent local figures, including Rep. Jason Shoaf and Sen. Corey Simon, have actively advocated for the protection of the river, culminating in the unanimous passage of House Bill 1143 this spring. The Florida legislature’s commitment to banning drilling in such a critical ecosystem underscores the urgency of conserving the Apalachicola area’s unique environment.

Environmental Concerns Highlighted

Justifying their appeal, Clearwater Land & Minerals maintains that stringent environmental protections would be put in place if their project advances. However, the DEP’s previous draft permit for drilling was successfully challenged by the environmental group Apalachicola Riverkeeper, which cited overwhelming concerns regarding potential oil spills and their devastating effects on the river and bay ecosystems. Judge Lawrence P. Stevenson recommended denying the permit, linking the drilling site’s location within the 100-year floodplain to heightened environmental risks.

The Apalachicola River Basin is recognized as a fragile ecosystem that has faced its share of struggles, from economic downturns in Franklin County to legal battles—most notably a U.S. Supreme Court case regarding water resource disputes. Despite the issuance of a drilling permit to another company in 2019, drilling never took place at the site, leading many to question the viability of such projects in the area.

Community Voices Against Drilling

Community members—students included—have rallied to express their discontent and fears. Individuals like Xochitl Bervera from Water is Life Oysters emphasize the apparent threats oil drilling poses to clean water and local livelihoods. Parents and students from the Cornerstone Learning Community have voiced their apprehensions at protests, underscoring a collective desire to preserve the purity of drinking water and safeguard local fisheries. State Senator Corey Simon has reiterated these concerns, arguing that the risks to families and the economy should outweigh the benefits of pursuing oil.

The environmental stakes continue to rise as Julie Wraithmell, executive director of Audubon Florida, highlights the Apalachicola Basin’s ecological importance. With reduced water flow impacting endangered species and local industries—such as the tupelo honey economy—the message from advocates is clear: protecting this river basin is not just vital for the environment, but also crucial for the people who depend on its resources.

As Clearwater Land & Minerals moves forward with their appeal, the community watches closely. The outcome of this case could set significant precedents for oil drilling regulations and environmental conservation efforts not just in the Apalachicola region but across Florida. For now, the battle between economic interests and environmental stewardship remains as heated as ever, with residents standing firm in their resolve to safeguard their natural heritage.