Florida Governor Rick Scott announced his budget proposal of more than$1.7 billion for environmental protection. The amount will be part of his proposed state budget for fiscal  2018 to 2019.

According to the governor,  his budget recommendation for Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DPE) is $220 million more than the current year.

Gov. Scott wants to ensure Florida remains beautiful for future generations

In a statement, Gov. Scott said, “People from across the world come to Florida because of our state’s beautiful natural treasures." He emphasized that he wants to ensure that the State remains beautiful for future generations.”

According to Gov. Scott, the proposed DEP funding is for the protection and preservation of Florida's environment. Over the past seven years, the state made significant steps and investments to protect its lands and beaches

Additionally, the governor said, “Our natural treasures are so important to Florida’s economy and tourism industry. He added that many families depend on the State’s natural resources.

Furthermore, he said, “This funding includes historic investments in our iconic springs, world-renowned Everglades, award-winning state parks and beautiful beaches.” He explained that the investment are especially important" because of the  impacts of Hurricane Irma.

The Everglades National Park is located in South Florida. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

In addition, the  Everglades is a World Heritage Site. It is also a Wetland of International National Importance and an International Biosphere Reserve. The Everglades is one of the only three places in the planet that has the three designations.

Gov. Scott said, “I look forward to working with the Legislature during the upcoming session on these strategic investments to help preserve our environment…”

In a separate statement, DPE Secretary Noah Valenstein said, “This budget proposal will allow us to continue to make real progress safeguarding our environment through partnerships and projects

Detail of the budget proposal

Based on the governor’s announcement, his budget proposal for environmental protection includes the following:

• $55 million investment in Florida’s iconic springs
• 100 million investment for the State’s beaches
• $355 million funding for Everglades restoration
• $50 million funding for State parks
• $50 million investment for Florida Forever to help preserve and protect the State’s natural lands.

Moreover,  Gov. Scott will include additional funding for environmental protection in his proposed State budget for fiscal 2018 to 2019.