Yesterday, Audubon Florida’s Everglades Team joined Vice President Joe Biden, Senator Bill Nelson, and Congressman Alcee Hastings near Everglades National Park. Vice President Biden took the opportunity to ride in his first airboat and later offered comments on the recent progress toward restoring the Greater Everglades Ecosystem.

In addition to explaining the economic benefits that restoration will provide and celebrating the recent gains, the Vice President also expressed the Obama Administration’s commitment to bridging 6.5 miles on Tamiami Trail.

The first mile of bridging is under construction and set to be completed in 2013, while Audubon has urged for funding to complete the next phase of 5.5 additional miles to truly unite disconnected parts of the ecosystem to improve habitat for wading birds and other wildlife.

This event draws even more national attention to the world’s largest ecosystem restoration project that is one of Audubon’s top conservation priorities.

For additional coverage, please visit:

• "Biden in Everglades, touting restoration projects" - Miami Herald/AP
• "VP Biden Visits Everglades Nat’l Park On S. Fla Stop" - CBS Miami