During the month of January Governor Ron DeSantis announced funding for several environmental initiatives.
On January 10th the Governor signed Executive Order 23-06 (Even More Now for Florida’s Environment). Key provisions of the order include directing the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to: Secure $3.5 billion over the next four years for Everglades restoration and protection of our water resources, including water quality and water supply. Also, comprehensive initiatives, like stronger Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs), to reduce Nutrient Pollution in our waterways from sources like stormwater, wastewater, and agricultural runoff. A priority on reducing the frequency and severity of harmful algal blooms like red tide and blue-green algae.
Governor DeSantis announced on January 17th that he and his cabinet approved the investment of more than $17.7 million to conserve more than 3,500 acres across the state. The five properties stretch from Nassau County south to Charlotte County and protect or buffer lands within the Florida Wildlife Corridor, a recently designated network of connected lands that is crucial for wildlife habitat.
Lastly on January 19th the Governor announced nearly $20 million to support water quality improvement projects along the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). These projects will help collect stormwater runoff and treat it to reduce the amount of pollutants and nutrients that enter the IRL.
Photo courtesy of Carlton Ward/Wildpath
