1(1) Applicants who intend to mine high-quality peat may elect to use the provisions of this chapter. In accordance with Section 22373.414(6)(e), F.S., 24this chapter provides additional permitting and alternative wetland mitigation requirements for processing wetland resource permits and environmental resource permits, in accordance with Part IV of Chapter 373, F.S., for the extraction of high-quality peat from certain herbaceous freshwater wetlands for use in the state’s horticultural industry. The requirements of this chapter are in addition to and not in lieu of the requirements of Chapters 62-330 and 62-345, F.A.C., for environmental resource permits, with the exception of the alternative wetland mitigation requirements for the extraction of high-quality peat.
111(2) Florida’s horticultural industry contributes to the economic strength of the state. High-quality peat is an important component of horticultural production in Florida. Obtaining high-quality peat typically and uniquely requires the mining of wetlands and other surface waters. Since high-quality peat is a limited resource, the use of recycled and renewable material to replace or reduce the use of natural peat is necessary for the future of the state’s horticultural industry. This chapter shall be applied to the mining of peat from certain herbaceous freshwater wetlands, where no less than 80 percent of the extracted peat will be high-quality peat, and no less than 80 percent of the high-quality peat will be used in Florida by the horticultural industry in products that incorporate other renewable or recycled materials to replace or reduce the use of natural peat. Persons applying for use of this rule shall provide certification of the intended use of the resource by submitting Form 26862-348.900(1), 269“Horticultural Use Certification for High-Quality Peat, [8-18-10.],” incorporated by reference herein. A copy of Form 28562-348.900(1)286may be obtained from the internet site of the Department or from any local district or branch office of the Department, or by writing to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Mail Station 3577, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.
