MIAMI – President Trump released his budget for FY2021, recommending $250 million for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Program to implement Everglades restoration.

“This is a defining moment for Everglades restoration. Thanks to the bipartisan work of our Florida Delegation, Governor DeSantis, and our strong advocate base in Florida, this Administration is charting a path forward to raise the bar for Everglades restoration and put in place the funding we need bring back the crystal clear waters and birds that make South Florida so special,” said Audubon Florida Director of Everglades Policy, Celeste De Palma.

Last year, Congress approved H.R. 1865, containing $200 million for Everglades restoration for FY2020. President Trump is now proposing an increase of $50 million over last fiscal year’s levels, making his $250 million request a record-breaking federal budget for Everglades restoration.

Since stopping the plume trade, Audubon has defended America’s Everglades against many human threats. Audubon continues to provide critical science and leads state and national advocacy to restore balanced water and wildlife to the Greater Everglades Ecosystem.

“We are grateful for the attention of the Administration to South Florida’s water crisis. We urge the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to use this extra funding to expedite the implementation of the Central Everglades Project that is pivotal to sending more freshwater to Florida Bay,” added De Palma. “Let’s make this the decade of America’s Everglades by completing projects that rehydrate the River of Grass, reduce harm to our coastal estuaries, protect South Florida’s communities, and bring back our birds,” she concluded.

Audubon protects the places birds need, today and in the future.