Southwest Florida Engages in the Economics of Restoration
- The Everglades Foundation
- 7 minutes ago
- 2 min read
October 23, 2025
Last week, The Everglades Foundation team, including our CEO Eric Eikenberg, Chief Science Officer Dr. Steve Davis, and Chief Economist Dr. Paul Hindsley gathered stakeholders in Southwest Florida to learn why Everglades restoration is worth it.
We convened a community of business leaders and showcased our new economic report demonstrating that America's Everglades has a $1 trillion asset value. These briefings are critical to engaging local communities in Everglades restoration and we will continue to educate throughout the Everglades watershed.
SanCap Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
The Everglades Foundation presented to more than 100 people at the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce about recent restoration accomplishments. This chamber and the community have made water quality and restoration a top priority and continue to engage their members on its importance for their local economy.
Lee County Economic Roundtable
This roundtable discussion included a group of 20 business owners, realtors,
educators, chambers of commerce and sports tourism leaders. The Everglades Foundation presented the economic benefits and positive environmental results of restoration.
Attendees discussed how they have been impacted by Lake Okeechobee discharges, the long-term effects of public perception following these events, and how they can be voices for Everglades restoration.
Collier County Economic Roundtable
Collier County industry leaders, including Arthrex, Naples Comprehensive Health, Barron Collier Companies and Naples Beach Club, met with Foundation staff regarding the value of restoration.
This community is in the business of making memories and has suffered the loss of generational visitors when they are forced to go elsewhere due to poor water quality. Environmental harm has long-term effects on the local economy. Everglades restoration is vital to Collier's economic success.
The Everglades Foundation In Southwest Florida News
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