Florida DEP’s 2025 Achievements in Environmental Conservation and Restoration
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has made significant strides in 2025 toward preserving the state’s natural resources. Under the guidance of DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert, the department has implemented progressive policies and strategic investments that benefit both the environment and the economy. Key initiatives include the restoration of the Everglades, enhancement of water quality, and conservation of Florida’s landscapes.
“Florida’s environment is not separate from our economy; it is the foundation of it,” stated DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Under Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has made strategic, forward-thinking investments that protect our air, water and land while ensuring Florida remains a place where both communities and commerce can thrive. I look forward to working with the Governor and the Florida Legislature in the coming year to continue turning Florida’s environmental commitments into measurable results.”
Restoring Natural Florida
Everglades Restoration Milestones
- The state of Florida and the U.S. Department of the Army reached a landmark agreement in July 2025, allowing Florida to lead the construction of key components of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. This agreement accelerates the completion of the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir by five years to 2029.
- Significant projects completed in 2025 include the Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir, the Blue Shanty Flow Way, the Lake Hicpochee Project, and the EAA Reservoir Inflow Pump Station.
Seafloor Mapping and Water Quality Improvements
- DEP completed mapping the entire Florida coastline, funded by a $100 million investment in 2021. This project will yield a digital elevation model for enhanced coastal management and environmental planning.
- Updated 28 nutrient Basin Management Action Plans to reduce pollution across Florida’s water bodies.
Conserving Florida’s Landscapes
Florida Forever Program
- Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Florida Forever program protected over 390,000 acres since 2019, with nearly 107,000 acres conserved in 2025 alone.
- DEP achieved its 200th conservation easement, securing nearly 400,000 acres of working lands.
State Parks and Visitor Engagement
- Florida’s park system, recognized for excellence, attracted over 25 million visitors in 2025. New parks are being developed through the Florida Forever program, including projects in Walton and Polk counties.
- Two state parks were featured on the Beach’s Top 10 Beaches List for 2025.
Protecting Florida’s Natural Resources
Air Quality and Water Supply Initiatives
- Florida maintained its status as the most populous state meeting all National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the fifth year in a row.
- DEP established a framework for potable reuse to enhance drinking water supplies.
Environmental Protection Efforts
- DEP’s Environmental Crimes Unit conducted numerous investigations, making significant arrests and addressing illegal waste operations.
- PFAS removal projects were completed at educational institutions to mitigate contamination risks.
- The Petroleum Restoration Program expanded funding, allowing over 6,000 sites to progress in cleanup efforts.
Read More Here
