Some Environmentalists Encouraged by Governor Scott's Budget Plan
Monday, February 4, 2013
By: Tom Parkinson

February 4, 2013 | WMFE - When Gov. Scott released his budget proposal last week, some environmentalists were disappointed to see that overall spending on conservation programs is down. But taking a closer look, some groups like the Florida Everglades Foundation, see encouraging signs.

According to the governor’s office, what comes out to about a $225 million dollar reduction in the environmental budget is due to a variety of factors such as a reduction in debt.

But Gov. Scott’s plan also includes a number of increases, like a $30 million dollar bump for Everglades restoration.

Eric Eikenberg with the Everglades Foundation says that money will be put to good use.

“We have to continue the conservation agenda to continue the restoration of America’s Everglades.” Eikenberg says. “Even in tough economic times, we have to have a sustainable water supply and the governor’s recommendation continues us on that approach.”

Under the governor’s plan, the Florida Forever fund would also see an increase of more than $66 million dollars, as well as an increase in funding for beach restoration.