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Aug 17, 6:30 PM

Save it now, or never

BY LAURILEE THOMPSON
GUEST COLUMNIST

One way to measure the character of a community is to look at what it protects -- we protect what we value.

Our Space Coast population will soon have a chance to show its character and what it values in November regarding the Environmental Lands referendum.

The referendum's tax will provide revenue to enhance the funding needed to continue purchasing and protecting environmentally sensitive "green space" lands throughout Brevard County.

For several generations, my family and many others in the county have depended on a healthy environment to make our living. The economic value of natural lands and unpolluted water through the creation of jobs in the fishing, tourism, recreation and other industries is well documented.

It has been shown time and again that property values increase in direct proportion to their proximity to natural areas. Corporations consistently rank quality of life as a key consideration when relocating.

It was Florida's combination of natural areas and warm climate that sustained wildlife and brought vacationers long before the theme parks and sprawling metroplexes were built.

When viewed merely as an economic asset, natural lands clearly pay their way.

Yet we continue to undervalue the life-enhancing and life-sustaining services these lands provide to us every day.

Natural lands purify our water, moderate our climate, buffer air pollution, support pollination of crops, beautify our community, increase our property values and provide sanctuary for both humans and other species.

The health of our precious Indian River Lagoon and beloved St. Johns River are directly dependent on our land's ability to cleanse the water that feeds them.

Who knows the value of these services? Without adequate conservation lands, how would these needs be met?

In spite of technological advancement, man has not found effective ways to duplicate these processes or recreate habitats once they've been destroyed.

How do we put a price tag on a child's chance to see a nesting sea turtle, whooping crane or manatee instead of just seeing pictures of them on an electronic screen? What is a peaceful walk in the woods with your children or grandchildren worth?

What is the value of that first bird's nest they see or the first fish they catch? How do we put a value on our children learning, before it's too late, that all the Earth's inhabitants are dependent upon each other in some way?

As a child growing up in Brevard County, I was fortunate to be able to dip shrimp from crystal clear waters in the lagoon and ride my horse through endless woodlands. Many of today's children will never get that chance. Who knows what tomorrow's children will miss and how it will affect their quality of life?

The acquisition of conservation lands and green space will not only assure a more vibrant economy for Brevard County, it will guarantee healthier children, adults, and families within our community.

Voting to approve the Environmental Lands referendum will allow us to live in, and pass along, a healthier environment to future generations, instead of a bill to repair it.

Thompson is a member of the Brevard County Tourist Development Council and a Titusville business owner. She lives in Mims.