In 2006 the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 7163, creating an Environmental Resource Program in Northwest Florida. Since being signed into law, rules have been drafted, comments received from public and modifications have been made.

With final rule adoption, the ERP program is now being implemented in the Panhandle by Northwest District of the Florida DEP and Northwest Florida Water Management District. Through a signed Operating Agreement, the responsibilities and duties have been defined. Phase I of the program officially began on October 1, 2007 with the requirement that new stormwater permits meet criteria of ERP rules and statutes.

Press Release