Statement by Governor Charlie Crist Regarding Secretary Mimi Drew’s Appointment to the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force  

“I applaud the President’s appointment of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Mimi Drew as Florida’s representative for the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force. DEP has been the lead state agency for responding to impacts from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in Florida, and I am confident that Secretary Drew will offer invaluable insight on issues surrounding the Sunshine State’s environment, economy and quality of life following the oil spill.

“I am pleased that the first meeting of the task force is taking place in Pensacola today. As Florida transitions from response to restoration following the oil spill, the coordinated effort of the task force and federal, state and local entities throughout the Gulf region is an important first step toward restoring the Gulf of Mexico and helping our citizens regain their livelihood.”

 -30-