Senate Passes Water Resources Development Act; Everglades Restoration Moves Forward

Statement by NPCA Everglades Restoration Manager John Adornato:

“Last night, Congress made a vital decision to move forward with Everglades restoration by passing the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)—a critical and welcomed step toward ensuring ecosystem benefits for America’s Everglades.

When Congress passed the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan in 2000, they made a commitment to restore the historic “River of Grass.” Now we have proof that Congress is still on track to help restore the Everglades’ diverse ecosystem. Especially as we are in an historic drought, it is critical to look at the long-term solutions – restoration will keep vital water in the Everglades to help diminish the impact of future droughts. 

Senators Nelson and Martinez are to be commended for their leadership in advancing these critical projects and moving restoration forward. We look forward to this bill moving through conference quickly and being signed by the President. Moving forward, we hope that conference negotiations include additional language about Tamiami Trail modifications to ensure maximum environmental benefits for Everglades National Park and the greater Everglades ecosystem.

Next we’ll need Congress to approve an increase in funding, which, combined with the passage of WRDA, brings us closer to seeing actual results for Everglades restoration. As the Florida delegation continues to lead the way on Everglades restoration, we applaud this federal support to revitalize the plan that will restore the health and natural sheetflow of America’s Everglades.”

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