July 20, 2015 -- Last week, Florida Governor Rick Scott visited the Pineland Marina in Lee County, Florida, to highlight funding to protect the state's environment included in this year's "KEEP FLORIDA WORKING" budget. The budget invests $2.4 million to support local environmental and agricultural projects in Lee County, with more than $1.7 million invested in projects that will help protect and improve water resources within the county.
"Florida's natural resources are some of the most unique and beautiful in the entire world and also help provide a foundation for our growing economy and record-breaking tourism industry," said Scott. "From our hundreds of miles of coastline, pristine waterways and our award-winning state parks, we will continue to invest in our natural resources so our future generations can enjoy our beautiful state."
The KEEP FLORIDA WORKING budget invests $3.5 billion in funding for natural and agricultural resources. This includes more than $500 million for projects to improve water quality and quantity -- including $106 million for Everglades restoration and a record $45 million for springs protection.
"I want to thank Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature for recognizing the importance of protecting and restoring our natural resources," said DEP Secretary Jon Steverson said. "The KEEP FLORIDA WORKING budget includes funding for a number of projects, including the C-43 reservoir, that is crucial to protecting our water quality, ensuring our communities have a clean and safe supply of water, and making sure our state stays the most beautiful in the nation."
Mitch Hutchcraft, governing board member of the South Florida Water Management District, added, "Support for water projects in Lee County enhances our work to improve the entire Caloosahatchee Watershed. With his KEEP FLORIDA WORKING budget, Governor Scott continues to demonstrate his commitment to Florida's natural resources.”
See also:
"FL DEP implements nine Land and Water Conservation Fund contracts totaling $1.8M"
"Florida DEP honors Key West WWTP with 2014 Plant Operations Excellence Award"
###
