The federal government is investing more than $1.4 billion in restoring the Florida Everglades. In coordination with the State of Florida, programs will focus on improving water quality and protecting habitat. One project already planned is the restoration of 1215 ha (3000 ac) of floodplain along the Kissimmee River. In addition, 24,300 ha (60,000 ac) of wetland treatment systems or stormwater management areas are currently built or in construction, and 2630 ha (6500 ac) are planned. The state will also install flow equalization basins to store and slowly release water to the wetlands.

These projects are part of a recent agreement primarily between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the South Florida Water Management District to reduce and monitor phosphorus discharges into the Everglades. Read More.