Dr. James Holmes, Naples Green Canal clearing South Florida
Water Management District (SFWMD) is in the process of strip-
clearing Green Canal in Golden Gate. SFWMD is cutting every last
bit of foliage along the banks of the canals with the mistaken
belief flood control will be enhanced. Strip-clearing results in
increased erosion and filling of the canals with dirt, debris
and pollutants through runoff; thus negatively impacting water-
carrying capacity of the canal system. Trees along the canals
slow water entry into the canals, allowing for greater natural
ground absorption of water. Trees channel the water flow and
slow the downstream flow. Strip-clearing natural growth allows
more water to enter the canal system more quickly, and lack of
trees results in faster downstream water flow, causing water to
accumulate more rapidly in flood-prone areas. The best way to
lessen flooding potential is to dredge the canals, thereby
removing accumulated silt buildup and pollutants. Dredging will
increase the carrying ca