APALACHICOLA, Fla. (WTXL) -- Governor Rick Scott announced this week that Florida is receiving $6.3 million in disaster assistance funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce to provide help in the restoration of the Apalachicola Bay
"This $6.3 million in assistance funding will help to provide immediate assistance to strengthen both Franklin County and the entire Apalachicola Region," Governor Scott said.
A lack of fresh water flowing into the bay has taken its toll on the bay, contributing to the depletion of the health of the oyster beds - and impacting oystermen whose livelihoods rely on the bay. State statistics say the Apalachicola Bay is the source for 90% of the state's oyster supply and 10% of the nation's oyster supply.
"The thousands of oystermen hurt by this disaster will finally get some much-needed help," said U.S Senator Bill Nelson. "It's not enough, but it's a good start."
Nelson's counterpart, Republican Senator Marco Rubio also weighed in, saying "Today's announcement will bring much-needed relief to the small business owners and families in the Apalachicola community whose way of life depends on the health of the oyster fishery."
In October 2013, Florida filed a lawsuit with the U.S. Supreme Court against the State of Georgia over the Peach State's consumption of freshwater in a river system that flows into the Apalachicola Bay.
The dispute has been on going for more than two decades.
Last year, federal officials declared a fishery disaster for oystermen in the Gulf Coast. Oysters need a mix of both fresh and salt water in order to thrive.
Deal's office released a statement shortly after the filing calling the lawsuit "frivolous" adding that Georgia has "reiterated that it will vigorously defend its state's water rights. "
