East Volusia News

Governor Ron DeSantis has pledged $1.5 billion from the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget towards Everglades restoration and water quality improvements in Florida, bringing the total investment during his tenure to a historic $6.5 billion. "I am proud to continue making these investments in Everglades restoration and water quality that will benefit our state for decades to come," said Governor Ron DeSantis, emphasizing his commitment to leaving Florida in a better environmental state.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton commended Governor DeSantis for fulfilling his promises, stating, "Governor DeSantis continues to deliver on the bold promises he has made to ensure Florida’s environment is protected for generations to come." Dr. Wes Brooks, Florida's Chief Resilience Officer, highlighted the Governor's dedication to environmental stewardship, noting, "Governor DeSantis demonstrates year in and year out that leadership matters for Florida’s environment."

The $1.5 billion investment includes approximately $850 million for Everglades restoration projects, with a significant portion allocated to support the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) and the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir. This marks the largest state investment in a single year since CERP's establishment in 2000. Furthermore, $100 million will be allocated for the second phase of the C-51 Reservoir to address water needs in Palm Beach and Broward counties while reducing freshwater discharges to the Lake Worth Lagoon.

Moreover, the funding encompasses around $530 million for targeted water quality improvement initiatives, including $135 million for the Water Quality Improvement Grant Program aimed at reducing harmful nutrients in waterways. Specifically, $100 million is designated for the Indian River Lagoon, and $45 million will be used for water quality enhancements in Biscayne Bay and the Caloosahatchee Estuary.

This financial commitment supplements the funding allocated in Senate Bill 1638, which directs revenue from the Seminole Gaming Compact towards water quality improvement, infrastructure, and land conservation. The bill earmarks approximately $750 million per year for these purposes, further bolstering Florida's efforts towards environmental conservation and sustainability.