Since colonial times, Americans have depended on the coastal areas for commerce, transportation, food supply, recreation and scenic beauty. By the late 1960s, more than half the nation's population was located near the coasts. User groups competed for access to the nation's coastal resources and conflicts increased dramatically. Recreational fishermen competed with commercial fishermen. Resorts and residential developments limited the access previously enjoyed by local residents. Declining coastal water quality led to closings of shellfish beds and swimming beaches.
The Florida State Clearinghouse (SCH) administers the intergovernmental coordination and review process of certain federal activities within the state of Florida that involve federal financial assistance and/or direct federal activity. The clearinghouse also reviews all programs that federal agencies have indicated are eligible for inclusion under Presidential Executive Order 12372.
Section 403.061(42), F.S., identifies the SCH as the state single point of contact for coordinating the states review of these activities.
The purpose of this manual is to provide assistance to the state agencies, regional planning councils, water management districts, and local governments which participate in the intergovernmental review process coordinated by the Florida State Clearinghouse (Clearinghouse). The manual may also be useful to applicants seeking federal funding or submitting other projects requiring Clearinghouse review.
Table of Contents
Office of Intergovernmental Programs
Kae Craig, Government Consultant, 850-717-9045
State Clearinghouse Project Review and Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
Chris Stahl, Clearinghouse Coordinator, 850-717-9076
Clearinghouse projects should be sent to State.Clearinghouse@FloridaDEP.gov
Comprehensive Plan Review
Lindsay Weaver, Environmental Specialist, 850-717-9037
The Office of Intergovernmental Programs coordinates the department’s review of amendments to local government comprehensive plans.
The Florida State Clearinghouse (SCH) administers the intergovernmental coordination and review process of certain state and federal activities within the state of Florida which involve federal financial assistance and/or direct federal activity. The clearinghouse reviews all programs which federal agencies have indicated are eligible for inclusion under Presidential Executive Order 12372.
Under its Clearinghouse Program, the Office of Intergovernmental Programs (OIP):
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