Efforts to Restore Florida’s Everglades Gain Momentum with New Budget Proposals
CERP, or the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, is a collaborative effort between state and federal entities focused on revitalizing the Florida Everglades.
JUNO BEACH, Fla.—In a significant move towards enhancing Florida’s natural resources, Governor Ron DeSantis has shared updates on the state’s ongoing initiatives to restore the Everglades. The Governor unveiled key budget recommendations for the 2025-26 fiscal year, emphasizing cooperation with the incoming Trump Administration to expedite critical restoration projects by seeking greater control over the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This strategy aims to streamline processes and reduce taxpayer expenses.
“I’m proud to keep advancing these efforts in Everglades restoration and water quality, which will have lasting benefits to our state for years to come,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I promised to leave Florida better than we found it, and we’re keeping that promise for future generations.”
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert highlighted the state’s deep understanding and commitment to the Everglades, stating, “Floridians understand the Everglades better than anyone else. We live, work and recreate here, and we are committed to the land that sustains this. Florida has the experience, urgency and determination to get the job done. We have proven our ability to manage restoration projects efficiently.”
Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership since 2019, Florida has witnessed unprecedented advancements in Everglades restoration and water management. The state’s water storage capacity has seen a threefold increase, thanks to initiatives like the opening of the C-43 Reservoir, which boosts capacity from 57.1 billion gallons to 176.1 billion gallons. These measures aim to mitigate harmful discharges and pollution, safeguarding drinking water and the Everglades ecosystem.
Major projects such as the Old Tamiami Trail Roadbed have improved water flow by 63%, while the EAA Reservoir, with its capacity to store 240,000 acre-feet of water, promises to deliver clean water to the Everglades. Despite federal delays, Florida continues to lead with state-driven projects that enhance water quality, prevent flooding, and restore natural water flow to Everglades National Park and Florida Bay, which has achieved its salinity goals for the first time in decades.
Striving for increased state authority over CERP projects and restoration initiatives under the Clean Water Act, Florida aims to overcome federal hurdles and fast-track progress. Notwithstanding challenges during the Biden Administration, Florida has successfully completed significant projects ahead of schedule, including doubling water flow into Everglades National Park and building essential stormwater treatment areas at reduced costs compared to federal efforts.
The Governor has proposed an $805 million budget for Everglades restoration in the upcoming fiscal year, with over $670 million dedicated to CERP and an additional $130 million for various projects to enhance Everglades restoration and water quality.
In 2019, Governor DeSantis set a target of $2.5 billion for a four-year investment in Everglades restoration and water quality. Exceeding expectations, over $3.3 billion was secured during his first term. In 2023, he further reiterated his commitment with a historic $3.5 billion proposal, elevating the total investment to $6.5 billion since his tenure began.
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