Released by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission …
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Executive Director Eric Sutton has applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for approving the budget for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. The budget will fund high priority conservation items like red tide research and coral reef disease response and restoration.
“This year’s budget solidifies Governor DeSantis’ commitment to environmental conservation initiatives,” Sutton said. “We appreciate his bold leadership in supporting these efforts and maintaining safe, healthy ecosystems for fish and wildlife as well as residents and visitors.”
The budget also supports marine fisheries disaster recovery and continued management of invasive species, and funds were provided for 13 more sworn law enforcement positions to provide enhanced patrol and public safety. The budget includes the transfer of the Environmental Crimes Enforcement Unit from FWC to the Department of Environmental Protection, as called by Governor DeSantis in Executive Order 19-12.
Budget Highlights:
Center for Red Tide Research – $4.2M
Coral Reef Disease Response and Restoration – $397k
Hurricane Irma Marine Fisheries Disaster Recovery – $23.8M
Management of Invasive Species – $1M
Enhanced Law Enforcement – $1.8M