Captain Jeff Maggio and City Commission Candidate Charlotte Rodstrom Take on Fort Lauderdale’s Waterway Crisis


In a recent eye-opening trip, Captain Jeff Maggio, a longtime local fisherman and advocate for Fort Lauderdale’s marine ecosystems, took city commission candidate Charlotte Rodstrom out on the water to showcase the alarming state of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. Captain Jeff has spent years fishing these canals, and he’s witnessed firsthand how pollution, poor water management, and urban development have transformed these once-pristine waters. This tour was an effort to emphasize the urgent need for stronger environmental policies and a renewed commitment to protecting the waterways that are the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

A Close-Up Look at Fort Lauderdale’s Water Quality Crisis

Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, often referred to as the “Venice of America,” are an integral part of the city’s culture, economy, and ecosystem. But in recent years, they’ve faced mounting issues. Pollution from stormwater runoff, leaking sewage infrastructure, and careless development practices has led to a dramatic decline in water quality, putting marine life and local businesses at risk.

Captain Jeff guided Charlotte through some of the most affected areas, pointing out visible signs of pollution and explaining the severe implications for local wildlife. Algae blooms clouding the surface, litter clogging up canal edges, and even a noticeable stench in certain areas served as undeniable evidence of a waterway system in crisis. Captain Jeff’s intention was clear: to show the depth of the problem from the perspective of someone who’s on the water nearly every day.

Charlotte Rodstrom: A Candidate Ready for Change

Charlotte Rodstrom is no stranger to Fort Lauderdale’s challenges. A longtime resident and public servant, Rodstrom has seen the city evolve and grow, but she’s also seen how poorly managed growth can strain the environment and infrastructure. Her tour with Captain Jeff was not just an opportunity to hear the issues but to see them up close and personal, something she believes is essential for any policymaker.

Rodstrom has a track record of advocating for responsible growth and community-focused policies. On this trip, she emphasized her dedication to addressing Fort Lauderdale’s water quality issues and restoring its waterways. Rodstrom expressed shock at the extent of the pollution, especially in areas that were once clear and teeming with marine life. Her experience on the water left a lasting impression, driving home the need for more proactive and environmentally conscious leadership.

The Water Quality Problem: Root Causes and Urgent Need for Action

The state of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways didn’t happen overnight. Several factors have converged to create this environmental crisis:

  1. Aging Infrastructure: Fort Lauderdale’s stormwater and sewer systems are outdated, leading to frequent leaks and overflows. The city has experienced significant sewage spills in recent years, sending millions of gallons of raw sewage into the canals and contributing to algae blooms and fish kills.

  2. Stormwater Runoff: With urban expansion, more impermeable surfaces like concrete and asphalt have led to increased stormwater runoff. This runoff carries pollutants, oils, heavy metals, and trash directly into the waterways, degrading water quality and harming marine habitats.

  3. Development Pressure: Fort Lauderdale’s growth has led to extensive development along its waterways. Poorly regulated construction and development can disrupt natural water flow, increase pollution, and destroy habitats.

  4. Lack of Environmental Regulations: Fort Lauderdale’s environmental policies have struggled to keep up with the growing demands on its water systems. Regulations around pollution control, building codes near waterways, and water quality monitoring need to be updated and strengthened to keep the waterways healthy.

Captain Jeff’s Commitment to Protecting Fort Lauderdale’s Marine Life

Captain Jeff, a well-known fishing guide in Fort Lauderdale, has become a passionate advocate for protecting local waterways. For him, this isn’t just about cleaner water; it’s about preserving the lifestyle, biodiversity, and beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s coastal community. He regularly speaks out on the environmental impacts of pollution, and his personal experiences highlight how these issues affect the entire community, from small businesses relying on eco-tourism to families simply wanting clean water for recreation.

As he guided Rodstrom through the waterways, he pointed out several areas where he used to find fish but where marine life has since vanished. The canals are essential habitats for a variety of species, from snook and tarpon to manatees and sea turtles. But as pollution levels rise, fish kills and habitat loss are becoming all too common, making it more challenging for local anglers and negatively impacting Fort Lauderdale’s appeal as a fishing destination.

Charlotte Rodstrom’s Vision for a Cleaner, Greener Fort Lauderdale

Rodstrom has made it clear that if elected, she plans to prioritize environmental policy, starting with improved waterway management. She outlined her intentions to:

  • Modernize Infrastructure: Push for a comprehensive overhaul of Fort Lauderdale’s sewer and stormwater systems to prevent leaks and spills.

  • Increase Water Quality Monitoring: Implement stricter water quality standards and regular testing to keep track of pollution levels and hold violators accountable.

  • Protect Marine Habitats: Promote policies that protect natural habitats from destructive development and encourage the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.

  • Engage the Community: Create more opportunities for residents to participate in conservation efforts, from clean-up events to education on pollution reduction practices.

Rodstrom believes that with proactive measures and community involvement, it’s possible to reverse some of the damage to Fort Lauderdale’s waterways and restore them to a healthy state. Her experience on the tour with Captain Jeff strengthened her resolve to tackle these issues head-on.

A Call to Action for Fort Lauderdale Residents

The collaboration between Captain Jeff and Charlotte Rodstrom serves as a powerful call to action for Fort Lauderdale residents. The city’s waterways are more than just a tourist attraction—they’re an integral part of the community’s identity and livelihood. Everyone has a stake in preserving these waters, from boaters and fishermen to business owners and families.

With the upcoming election, residents have the opportunity to choose leaders who are committed to real change. For those who value clean water, thriving marine life, and a sustainable future for Fort Lauderdale, this is a chance to make a difference. Supporting candidates like Rodstrom, who have seen the issues firsthand and are willing to prioritize environmental health, is essential to restoring and protecting Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.

Conclusion: Fighting for Fort Lauderdale’s Future

Captain Jeff and Charlotte Rodstrom’s tour through Fort Lauderdale’s polluted waterways brought attention to a pressing environmental crisis that can no longer be ignored. With so much at stake, it’s critical for the community to rally behind leaders who will take decisive action to address these issues. Protecting Fort Lauderdale’s waterways isn’t just about environmental policy; it’s about safeguarding the city’s heritage, economy, and the well-being of future generations.

As Fort Lauderdale faces one of the most important elections for its environmental future, let’s remember the importance of clean water and the urgent need for responsible leadership. By voting for change, residents can support the transformation of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways into safe, vibrant habitats that reflect the true beauty of this city.

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#FortLauderdale #CaptainJeff #CleanWaterFL #VoteForChange #CharlotteRodstrom #ProtectOurWaterways #MarineConservation #FloridaFishing #HealthyWaterways

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