Tallahassee, Fla. – The Everglades Trust (Trust) today released the following statement, attributed to its CEO Anna Upton, regarding Governor Ron DeSantis signing a budget that includes $665 million for Everglades restoration, including the funding needed to complete the state’s portion of the EAA Reservoir, the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Everglades restoration.
“Governor Ron DeSantis today signed the fiscal year 2026-27 budget that includes $665 million for protecting and restoring the Everglades. It fully funds the state’s portion of the EAA Reservoir – one of the most critical parts of restoration. This budget also includes $38.6 million for the Lower Kissimmee Basin Stormwater Treatment Area north of Lake Okeechobee to clean water before it enters the lake.
“With the signing of this budget, Governor DeSantis has secured nearly $9.5 billion for environmental efforts during his two terms. He made a funding pledge at the start of each of his terms and exceeded both.
“This budget continues to move Everglades restoration forward so that Floridians – and those that visit our great state – can realize the ultimate benefits ahead of schedule. Restoring the natural flow of water south through the Everglades and decreasing harmful discharges from Lake Okeechobee will mean that Florida’s economy, which relies on clean water, will continue to thrive.
“The accelerated advancement of Everglades restoration would not have been possible without the leadership of Governor DeSantis, as he has made more progress on Everglades restoration projects than any other governor in Florida’s history.
“We’re already seeing the benefits of restoration, the process of healing America’s Everglades is taking place, and with this budget, Florida will be able to continue the accelerated headway we’ve made toward fully restoring the great Everglades.”