The Everglades ecological system contributes to south Florida' water supply, flood control, and recreation, and serves as the habitat for an incredibly diverse variety of animal and plant life. It is unique in the world and one of the nation's great ecological treasures. But today this complex ecological system is endangered as a result of adverse changes in water quality, and in the quantity, distribution, and timing of flows, and, therefore, must be restored and protected.
State, federal and local governments are already pursuing this goal (read more about this below), and every individual can help. To understand the Everglades today, and the impact we have individually and collectively on it, it helps to look back, and forward in time.
The Long Term Plan
Substantial progress towards reducing phosphorus levels discharged into the Everglades Protection Area (EPA) has been made by the State of Florida and other stakeholders. The combined performance of the regulatory program in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) and the stormwater treatment areas of the Everglades Construction Project, both mandated by Florida's Everglades Forever Act (EFA), has exceeded expectations. In addition, some source control measures have been implemented in urban and other tributary basins included in the Everglades Stormwater Program. Nonetheless, additional measures are necessary to ensure that all discharges to the EPA meet water quality standards and the goals established in the EFA, including compliance with the phosphorus criterion established in Rule 62-302.540, F.A.C.
The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) is the framework and guide for the restoration, protection and preservation of the South Florida ecosystem. The goal of the CERP is to restore the quantity, quality, timing and distribution of water to the Everglades ecosystem. The Plan also provides for other water-related needs of the region such as water supply and flood protection. It includes over fifty projects that involve either structural or operational changes to modify the Central and Southern Florida Project to achieve the goal. The plan received federal authorization in Section 601 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-541).
Everglades Expedited Projects (formerly Acceler8) is a major boost for Everglades restoration led by the SFWMD, and includes eight critical, fast-tracked restoration projects that will step up the pace of restoration.
Have you ever wanted to participate in making important decisions affecting the Everglades restoration? Help us by getting involved in the restoration process!
Yesterday & Today
Everglades Tomorrow
