Parks Group Applauds Approval of River of Grass Land Deal to Restore America's Everglades

“By unanimous approval, the South Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board last night approved a River of Grass land deal in the Everglades Agriculture Area to restore water flow back to Everglades National Park. The board has made a prudent investment in water quality that will make restoration possible.

“The River of Grass deal will acquire 26,800 acres of agricultural land essential to increase storage, improve water quality, and relieve damaging water releases to the Caloosahatchee and St Lucie Rivers. Acquiring this land, from a willing seller, will secure key tracts of land at the lowest possible cost.

“We applaud the South Florida Water Management District’s efforts to overcome a shifting financial climate to protect the natural environment vital to South Florida’s economic growth. This cash acquisition eliminates risks associated with financing while preserving the future option to acquire additional lands from U.S. Sugar in the Everglades Agricultural Area.

“Last week, the United Nations relisted Everglades National Park as an endangered world heritage site, and now Florida has proven it is equally committed to preserving America’s Everglades for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.