TALLAHASSEE – During an awards presentation for State Employees Florida Governor Rick Scott today announced $55 million in funding for restoration and protection of Florida’s springs
“Today, I’m pleased to announce that in order to continue our dedication to protect and restore springs throughout the Sunshine State, the “It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget” includes $55 million specifically dedicated to springs protection efforts. This investment will enable state and local partners to protect the quality and quantity of water that flows from our springs. These springs are important not only to animal and plant life, but also add to Florida’s ever-expanding tourism industry.”, Governor Scott said.
$25 million in funding for water quantity and quality protection is the top priority earmarked for funding in this years budget proposal.
DEP Secretary Herschel T. Vinyard, Jr. said that Governor Scott's announcement was exciting for Florida.
“Governor Scott has already surpassed all previous administrations when it comes to funding to improve our springs, and this year’s budget do even more. The $55 million in proposed funding for springs protection and restoration will allow Florida to keep the momentum going on this administration’s unprecedented efforts to return one of our state’s most precious resources to health.”, he said.
With the Florida Legislature, the Scott Administration has worked to set aside twice as much funding dedicated exclusively to springs protection than in any other three-year period since 2001. Since 2011, $18.7 million has been specifically directed to springs protection.
