The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Governing Board approved its 2021-2026 Strategic Plan, providing a blueprint for the District to continue advancing Everglades restoration, protect communities from flooding, ensure water for communities, and engage the public and stakeholders over the next five years. Approved unanimously by the SFWMD Governing Board, the plan is based on restoration priorities and significant input from the public and stakeholders.

"Our Strategic Plan will guide us through an exciting and historic time for South Florida," said SFWMD Governing Board Chairman Chauncey Goss. "With support from Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, the South Florida Water Management District is managing our region's important water resources and advancing crucial Everglades restoration projects. The next five years will bring significant new water storage, more infrastructure and restored natural areas -- all of which help restore our Everglades and reduce harmful discharges."

Gov. DeSantis, as soon as he took office, expedited Everglades restoration projects and improved water quality through his Achieving More Now For Florida's Environment Executive Order. The approved Strategic Plan supports the Governor's Executive Order and SFWMD's restoration, flood protection and water supply missions.

The Strategic Plan also guides SFWMD's ongoing efforts to evaluate flood protection infrastructure and water supply infrastructure while ensuring resiliency to address the impacts of a changing climate and sea level rise.