March 8, 2024 – The Everglades Foundation today released the following statement, attributable to its CEO Eric Eikenberg, regarding the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget that was passed by the Florida Legislature.
“The Everglades has both environmental and economic importance for the state, underscoring just how imperative Everglades restoration is for the well-being and economy of Florida.
“The budget passed by the Florida Legislature this session continues the momentum the state has made toward restoring the Everglades, investing over $740 million in this one-of-a-kind natural resource.
“Thank you to our legislative leaders – Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner – who have continued the forward progress on restoration with this high level of funding in the budget. They both know how critical the Everglades is to our state and have again provided funding for comprehensive and needed restoration.
“The budget passed by the Legislature fully funds what was outlined in Governor DeSantis’ budget recommendations for Everglades restoration, showing that without committed leaders like these, we would not have seen the continual strong investments in the Everglades and its restoration that we have.
“While there are discharges currently happening from Lake Okeechobee, they have only heightened the urgency of these continued investments, and we’re pleased to see a budget that includes a high amount of funding for Everglades restoration.”