![Mosaic phosphate mining](https://cdn.wmnf.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/IMG_1947-e1471294453481.jpg)
We look at phosphate mining in Florida: what it’s used for, how it’s mined and its effects on the environment, water and public health.
Listen to the full show here:
The first half of the show is a presentation by Andy Mele. He’s vice chair of the Manatee-Sarasota Sierra Club group and spoke last week at the Ale and the Witch in St. Petersburg as part of a lecture series called Ales and Wild Tails.
![Mosaic phosphate](https://s3.amazonaws.com/wmnf/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/IMG_1949-300x225.jpg)
He spoke about effects of phosphate mining in Ft. Meade, Riverview, Mulberry and Progress Village, near Tampa.
Mele also spoke critically about the phosphate company Mosaic Fertilizer. I invited Mosaic on the show today but Richard Ghent, the phosphates media contact for Mosaic, wrote, “We respectfully decline your invitation.”
The Manatee County Planning Commission is holding a work session this Thursday morning and Mosaic Fertilizer has items on the agenda related to its Wingate East Mine.
Video 1 of phosphate lecture:
Video 2 of phosphate lecture: