Miami, FL (February 9, 2016) – Earlier today President Obama released his FY 2017 budget, including funding for Everglades restoration. It requests money for important initiatives like construction and operation of restoration projects, combatting invasive species, and working with landowners to store water and protect habitat.

Statement from Julie Hill-Gabriel, Audubon Florida Director of Everglades Policy:

President Obama’s 2017 budget represents his Administration’s ongoing commitment to Everglades restoration. The birds, wildlife, and economy of South Florida can’t wait any longer to complete projects that better manage the flow of water to the Caloosahatchee, St. Lucie, and Florida Bay estuaries.

The President’s budget request of $190 million for the Everglades will enable progress to continue on important restoration efforts like the C-44 Reservoir and C-111 South Dade project.

Audubon Florida urges Congress to increase funding and pass a Water Resources Development Act that authorizes the Central Everglades Planning Project. Florida's birds and wildlife are depending on additional resources to ensure restoration success in the Everglades.

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