By Betty Parker
Ft. Myers News-Press
04/16/08

Criticism from Florida Democrats in Congress that the state isn't doing its fair share toward Everglades restoration prompted a news conference by state legislative environmental leaders to refute the claims Tuesday.

State Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples, and State Rep. Stan Mayfield, R-Vero Beach, said their event was instigated by a release by U.S. Rep. Tim Mahoney, D-Palm Beach Gardens, that said legislative support is lacking for Everglades restoration. But Saunders said Florida has put $2.4 billion toward what he called the largest such restoration project in the world, while the federal government has put in about $365 million.

"It's unfortunate we're dealing with partners in this restoration who are not so knowledgeable about what we've done," Mayfield said. "When the federal government gets to even half what we've done, they can criticize, but right now they don't have a leg to stand on."

Although Mahoney praised Congress for passing a comprehensive water bill that provides for Everglades restoration, Saunders and Mayfield said that bill just authorizes the work, and does not supply funding.

"Congressman Mahoney needs to show us the money," Saunders said.

Funding from the state, however, seem to be headed toward lower levels. So far, the Senate budget has about $100 million for restoration in the northern Everglades, and $300 million for Florida Forever, the state land-buying program for environmentally valuable land.

The House has not given either program any money, but Mayfield said budget negotiations are far from over, and he's confident both programs will receive something in the final budget.

The South Florida Water Management, however, has about $229 million set aside this year for Everglades work, so even if the Legislature did nothing - which he does not anticipate - Saunders said the state would still be ahead of the federal government.
 

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