Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed a significant investment in environmental projects through the Floridians First Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27, with a focus on the Everglades, water resources, and conservation lands. Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert released a statement supporting the budget’s priorities.
“Since taking office, Governor DeSantis has championed efforts that continue to achieve more now for Florida’s environment, and the Floridians First Budget bolsters that commitment with a historic investment in the natural places that make Florida, Florida. That includes accelerating the completion of projects to restore the Everglades, improve water quality, strengthen our shorelines and protect the land around us,” Lambert said.
“This budget reflects the Governor’s record of following through on environmental promises and investing in projects that matter to Floridians, all while responsibly managing taxpayer resources. I applaud these investments and look forward to working with the Legislature to deliver this budget and leave our state better than we found it for the next generation,” she added.
The proposed budget includes over $1.4 billion for Everglades restoration and water quality improvements. Since Governor DeSantis took office, combined investments in these areas are projected to reach nearly $9.5 billion.
A key part of this funding is $810 million allocated to accelerate Everglades restoration projects by five years ahead of schedule. This includes $681 million specifically for project completion within the Central Everglades Planning Project; $586 million will fully fund remaining state-funded portions focused on cleaning, storing, and conveying water through initiatives like the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir and Blue Shanty Flow-Way.
Additional support outlined in the budget consists of $50 million directed toward Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie estuaries and $79 million for programs protecting Northern Everglades waterways.
Due to reductions in state debt service requirements, $80 million from existing Land Acquisition Trust Fund allocations will be redirected toward long-term maintenance of capital projects managed by South Florida Water Management District Basin.
Further investments include targeted water quality improvements totaling $408 million:
– $250 million is set aside for Water Quality Improvement Grants—prioritizing areas such as Indian River Lagoon and Biscayne Bay.
– The Lower Kissimmee Basin Stormwater Treatment Area Project receives $100 million.
– An additional $50 million is dedicated to accelerating nutrient reduction efforts based on scientific goals.
To address harmful algal blooms like blue-green algae and red tide, there is a proposed allocation of $65 million aimed at improving response capabilities and advancing long-term water quality measures.
Other provisions include:
– $60 million for alternative water supply initiatives,
– $50 million for springs restoration,
– And substantial investments in conservation lands—$150 million overall—with recurring funding restored to Florida Forever after accelerated debt repayment. State park maintenance receives an additional $70 million alongside pay increases for park rangers and personnel.
For shoreline protection efforts vital to both local economies and public safety, there is an extra $75 million recommended for beach nourishment addressing erosion along Florida’s coastline. The Resilient Florida Program would receive an added $208 million—including funds designated for flood prevention projects statewide as well as coral reef protection planning.
More information about these environmental initiatives can be found at ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov.
