“After working with several Florida lawmakers during the 2012 session, we are thrilled by today’s decision to establish an annual Everglades Day, which underscores the state’s acknowledgement and dependence on the importance of a healthy Everglades ecosystem for a clean water supply and a strong economy. For years to come, this special observance will take place on April 7th, in honor of Everglades’ activist Marjory Stoneman Douglas’s birthday.  The state’s support for an official Everglades Day will ensure that the Everglades ecosystem remains a top priority for elected officials and all Floridians while honoring Douglas’s legacy for protecting the “River of Grass.”

“Today’s exciting commitment by the state to recognize an annual Everglades Day will elevate awareness and urge our elected officials to pass legislation to restore historic funding levels and protect America’s Everglades for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.  We look forward to Governor Scott’s final approval of this important effort.

“Each time we turn dirt on an Everglades restoration project, we are protecting our drinking water supply, creating jobs and fulfilling a promise to protect our national parks, wildlife, and family memories.

“Congratulations to the many members of the Everglades Coalition who worked side by side to make this designation a reality.  We also thank Senator David Simmons (Altamonte Springs) and Representative Steve Perman (Boca Raton) and the many cosponsors, including Florida Representatives Lori Berman, Matt Caldwell, Daphne Campbell, Bill Hager, Mark Pafford, Patrick Rooney, Darren Soto, Richard Steinberg, Barbara Watson and Florida Senators Gwen Margolis, Nan Rich, Ellyn Bogdanoff, and Jack Latvala for their bipartisan leadership and support of America’s Everglades.”

 

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