flow of fresh water into the Peace River and could affect the fragile estuary system of Charlotte Harbor, the cradle for so many species of highly prized game fish in the area.

 The good news is, there's a chance for the judge's decision to be appealed. Meale's findings and recommendations can be accepted, rejected or modified by the head of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, according to the article. The bad news: the DEP's decision could then be challenged at a state appeals court. 

In the 2003 Charlotte County Annual report, the county outlined its objections to phosphate mining: Phosphate mining in the Peace River Basin causes enduring impacts to the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor. To reach the phosphate rock, 

mining companies first scrape off the top 30 or more feet of land, and this strip mining reduces the quantity  and quality of water flowing off the land into the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor.  Reduction in water flow is particularly troubling because the Peace River is one of Charlotte County’s most important sources of drinking water. Mining closer to Charlotte Harbor will also increase the threat of accidental releases of mining wastes into the lower Peace River and Charlotte Harbor estuary.

 Ona Mine - The Ona Mine near Horse Creek, is a major new mine that will significantly expand phosphate mining into the southern Peace River Basin. It will cover 20,675 acres or approximately 32 square miles. (The concession made by the company reduced that amount to 4,200 acres.) Mining on the Ona Mine property will also destroy or displace fish and wildlife including numerous threatened or endangered species.