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For Immediate Release : December 1 , 2022 Contact : Governor ’ s Press Office , ( 850 ) 717-9282 , Communications @ eog . myflorida . com
Governor Ron DeSantis Awards Over $ 22 Million for Water Quality Projects to Benefit Biscayne Bay
KEY BISCAYNE , Fla . — Today , Governor Ron DeSantis announced seven awards totaling $ 22.7 million to support water quality improvements and protection of Biscayne Bay . Projects funded through the Biscayne Bay Grant Program include septic to sewer conversions , stormwater management and wetland restoration in areas surrounding Biscayne Bay , Florida ’ s largest estuary with a direct connection to Florida ’ s Coral Reef . The Bay also serves as an important economic driver for the region as it contains the largest passenger port in the world and is an international sailing destination .
“ Protecting our environment has been a priority since the first day I took office ,” said Governor Ron DeSantis . “ These investments to protect Biscayne Bay will improve water quality and help us preserve one of Florida ’ s most important natural resources for generations to come .”
“ In the year since we convened the Biscayne Bay Commission , we have improved coordination among stakeholders to develop a path toward restoration of this treasured resource ,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton . “ The investments we are making under the leadership of Governor DeSantis are an important step forward to improving water quality in Biscayne Bay . I look forward to continuing this momentum through our collaborative work with our local partners .”
34 DITCHMEN • OCTOBER 2022