FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 5, 2014
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION HOSTS WORKSHOP FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY REALTORS®
~DEP's Southeast District provides free educational seminar~
VERO BEACH –The Florida Department of Environmental Protection Southeast
District conducted a free seminar for members of the REALTORS® Association of
Indian River County, Inc. today. Department staff educated 35 realtors on environmental issues related to waterfront properties.
The Department reached out to realtors to provide this type of training because they are the first
line in educating new residents on the State rules and regulations regarding
waterfront properties. The Department chose this timing because many realtors and real estate agents do seasonal work in South Florida.
”The
Southeast District has successfully raised compliance rates by making staff
accessible to the community through outreach events," said Southeast District Director Jill Creech. "We expect our compliance rates to continue to
rise as a result of these outreach efforts and we appreciate our audience's interest in environmental issues.”
Realtors often
are the first person a potential property owner will call with questions, therefore having informed realtors helps disseminate accurate information. This in turn, can prevent unintentional harm to waterfront and coastal land from new owners who may not be familiar with
Florida rules and regulations. Realtors
also assist clients in researching what permits have been issued to a
particular property and if there have been any non-compliance issues in the
past.
“This is a great opportunity to educate
realtors with first-hand knowledge,” said Troy Greenawalt, Education
Coordinator for the REALTORS® Association of Indian River County. “And, in
turn, they are better prepared to serve clients regarding properties on or near
the water.”
The program in Indian River County included information on:
- What the Department regulates
-
What requires a permit and the
permitting process
- What are mangroves and why they are uniquely vital
to Florida's environment
-
Wetlands and Aquatic Preserves
- Docks and Boatlifts
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