Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wants the incoming Trump administration to allow Florida to have the power to control Everglades restoration and projects that will benefit the Everglades National Park.
Some items include the EAA Reservoir and others that have already been given the green light. Everglades supporters, along with the Governor’s office, said things have been moving at a slow pace as several of the projects have been in “court limbo” during the Biden administration.
“We are going to hopefully enter a period where we have really strong federalism where states are able to lead on these things, send us the funds, give us the authority, and let us get to work,” DeSantis said.
The Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg says he welcomes the conversation, especially if it moves up the process of Everglades infrastructure and other projects to be accomplished in a timely manner.
“I think the idea of having the federal government allow the state of Florida to build the reservoir south of Lake Okeechobee, can be built quicker and cheaper and it will protect the fishing industry, the boating industry, the real estate industry, all of the sectors that really make this economy thrive,” said Eikenberg.
Since 2018, Everglades Foundation and Gov. DeSantis have partnered with each other. Eikenberg has said under DeSantis’ leadership, the joint venture has paid off for the state, and Everglades restoration witnessing projects moving at a quicker pace than before.
The Everglades Foundation also enjoys bi-partisan praise from both sides under the Biden and Trump administrations.
Other good news for Everglades restoration was just announced as Gov. DeSantis says he will include in his upcoming budget, a record amount of funding in the tune of $805 million for upcoming projects.
“We are thrilled that Governor Ron DeSantis announcing his budget recommendations for Florida’s one-of-a-kind environment and his intent to partner with the federal government to expedite Everglades restoration projects,” said Anna Upton with the Everglades Trust.
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