A federal judge slammed the Environmental Protection Agency and the state of Florida for failing to protect the Everglades from pollution.

The Miccosukee Tribe and Friends of the Everglades sued to block a state law that postponed a new phosphorus standard for the Everglades. The EPA approved the state's plan to delay the stricter rule.

Judge Alan Gold said the EPA turned a "blind eye" to the state's actions. "EPA has once again avoided its duty to protect the Everglades," the judge said.

Gold also said the state violated its duty to protect the Everglades. Lawmakers delayed the phosphorus standard after lobbying from the powerful sugar industry.

Get the Story:
Judge: Glades cleanup ignored (The Miami Herald 7/30)
Federal judge blasts EPA, Florida for not reducing Everglades phosphorus levels (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 7/30)