Statement from Governor Charlie Crist & DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole Regarding the Picayune Strand Restoration Project
 

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST REGARDING THE PICAYUNE STRAND RESTORATION PROJECT

?We commend the United State Army Corps of Engineers on their reaffirmed commitment to the restoration partnership, and eagerly await the groundbreaking of this crucial component of restoration. We look forward to continuing to work to restore America?s treasured Everglades for future generations.?

STATEMENT FROM DEP SECRETARY MICHAEL W. SOLE REGARDING THE PICAYUNE STRAND RESTORATION PROJECT

?The state of Florida is elated that our federal partner in Everglades restoration, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, has awarded the initial contract for construction of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project. This project is a key component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) and the first federally funded construction project under the CERP partnership. The Corps? announcement represents a tremendous step forward in Everglades restoration.

?The construction of the Picayune Strand Project, which is anticipated to begin in January, will restore a more natural flow of water across more than 85 square miles of vital wetlands in western Collier County, improving habitat for many native species, including the endangered Florida panther.?