Gov. Rick Scott drew praise from environmentalists for his proposal to include $40 million for Florida Everglades restoration in the proposed 2012-13 budget released Wednesday.
“Audubon is encouraged to see Governor Scott make a commitment to Florida Forever and Everglades restoration in his 2012-2013 budget recommendation,” Julie Wraithmell, director of wildlife conservation with Florida Audubon, stated in a release.
“As the Florida legislative session unfolds early next year, it is our hope that the House and Senate leadership will use these amounts as a starting point that leads to increased funding for these critical programs. As always, Audubon is eager to work with state officials in crafting the best plan for protecting the places that make Florida special.”
The Everglades funding would top the $17 million designated for the Everglades in the current year.
Scott also proposed $15 million for the Florida Forever land-buying program. The program received no money for the current year’s budget.
On Tuesday, Kristina Janolo, Miss Florida 2011, a University of Central Florida marketing major and Kissimmee resident, told Scott and members of the Florida Cabinet that she will continue to push for Everglades restoration if she takes the national title in January.