This week, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis released his environmental budget with significant increases for Everglades restoration and the protection of other Florida waters. Additional details of his budget proposal were released today.

Jessie Ritter, Director, Water Resources and Coastal Policy of the National Wildlife Federation:

“Clean water is the lifeblood of Florida’s economy and way of life. The Governor’s budget takes great strides towards ensuring the sustainability of this precious resource. It dramatically increases funding for Everglades restoration, protects springs, and addresses toxic algae outbreaks. Hopefully, this will inspire Congress to keep up its side of the bargain and match these funding levels to restore America’s Everglades.”

Preston Robertson, President and CEO of the Florida Wildlife Federation:

“This is what real leadership on the Everglades and water quality looks like. The next step for the Governor is to honor the will of 75% of voters and use 2014’s Amendment 1 funds for land conservation through Florida Forever and other avenues. This will help protect vital groundwater recharge. Proactive protection of these lands is a lot less expensive than having to come back and fix water problems later.”

Resources:

• Full budget proposal
• Breakdown of the environmental budget