The National Aeronautical and Space Administration is proposing the development of a commercial space launch facility. NASA consultants identified two 200 alternatives, one is on the southwest shoreline of Mosquito Lagoon.

"We have strong objections to both proposed alternatives. The Mosquito Lagoon and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge areas are premier destinations in Florida's six billion dollar saltwater recreational fishery. Florida's recreational fishery is one of the major economic engines driving Florida's tourist economy," said Ted Forsgren, CCA Florida Executive Director. "Essential habitat and critical estuarine areas should not be destroyed when other existing and abandoned launch sites exist in the area. We oppose both alternative 1 and alternative 2 and urge NASA and the U.S. Air Force to work cooperatively to use existing and abandoned launch sites."

U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, Congressman Tom Feeney and State Representative Andy Gardiner have also sent letters and press releases opposing the proposed sites and urging NASA to work with the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the use of their abandoned launch facilities.

To see detailed comments and recommendations plus area maps and statewide editorials please go to CCA Florida's website at www.ccaflorida.org and go to Advocacy Positions.