LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL


 BUREAU OF GEOLOGY
 TALLAHASSEE
 July 1986


Governor Bob Graham, Chairman
Florida Department of Natural Resources
Tallahassee, Florida 32301

Dear Governor Graham:

 Florida has an estimated 606 million tons of fuel grade peat and devel-
opment of Florida's peat as a fuel source is becoming increasing attrac-
tive. Additionally, a thriving industry related to the agricultural use of
peat currently exists in the state. Peat, however, occurs almost exclu-
sively in wetlands and is an essential component of shrinking wetland
habitats.

 The Bureau of Geology has designed and executed a study of Florida
peat in order to clarify issues associated with its wise utilization and
conservation. Special Publication No. 27, "An Overview of Peat in Flor-
ida" has been prepared as an account of the results of this study.

 Sincerely,

 Walter Schmidt, Chief
 Bureau of Geology