Congressman Connie Mack (FL-14) said today that while Congress, the Administration and the American people are debating proposals for the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget, one priority that all Floridians can and should support is for Washington to once and for all fully fund and support the restoration of the Florida Everglades.

Mack, a member of the House Budget Committee and an ardent supporter of Everglades restoration, said:

“Many Americans have serious concerns with numerous aspects of the budget proposals that are now being debated. I do too. These budget proposals raise legitimate questions about the size and scope of government, and about the long-term fiscal impact this plan will have on the nation.

“At the same time, there are key national priorities that Washington can and should fund. One of those priorities should be to finally make good on Washington’s long-standing promise to truly help restore the Everglades.

“The Everglades aren’t just a Florida treasure; they’re a national and international treasure. It’s an ecosystem in great distress. It’s the backbone of Florida’s environment and economy. It deserves real support from Washington and from all Floridians.

“I’m particularly frustrated that a lawsuit being spearheaded by the Miccosukee Tribe is jeopardizing the entire Everglades Restoration and has created an excuse for Washington to not live up to its obligations. That must change.

“As we debate the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget, I urge my colleagues to provide the funding we need to save and restore the Everglades. And I implore those responsible for this frivolous and irresponsible lawsuit to stop wasting precious time and taxpayer dollars.”

BACKGROUND: THE KEY PROJECT FOR EVERGLADES RESTORATION

According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, no project is more important for Everglades restoration than restoring a more natural water flow to Everglades National Park. The central component of restoring that water flow is to elevate portions of U.S. Highway 41.

As presently configured, U.S. 41 blocks the natural water flow which has had a severe negative impact on the Everglades. For years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has worked with Congress to develop a cost-effective plan that would solve this problem.

As a result, plans are now in place to build a one-mile bridge that is supported by the Interior Department, the Army Corps, the State of Florida and environmental groups. The Miccosukee Tribe’s lawsuit has directly impacted Washington’s funding of, and ability to implement, this vital project.

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