After understanding what a TMDL is and what the public opinions of water issues are, it is important to see how decision makers take TMDLs and public opinion into consideration when making decisions and forming public policy.
Some questions you can ask to encourage the conversation are:
- What do you think about water quality in Florida?
- How do you think the public views water quality in Florida?
- Do you think water quality is getting worse or getting better? Why?
- Why do the people living in you area believe water quality is getting worse or better?
- How can understanding the science of water quality and quantity as well as public opinion of water issues help guide your decision-making?
- What are the most significant water issues in your county?
- Do you believe water-based recreation activities are important to those living in your area? Why or why not?
- What do you think Florida residents, agriculture, natural resources, and industry are doing to conserve water and protect its quality?
- If water quality decline, how could this influence Florida’s major industries over time?
- How do you think we can maintain the water quality by balancing water uses of cities, agriculture, natural resources, and industry?
- What steps can be taken to protect water quality to ensure Florida’s future?
