Groundbreaking Events Unite for the Restoration of America's Everglades

The Everglades Foundation recently led a series of significant events in Washington, D.C. that brought attention to the immense value and urgent need for restoration of America's Everglades. Throughout this pivotal week, the Foundation unveiled crucial economic data illustrating that this national treasure is worth an astonishing $1 trillion. This news led to increased advocacy efforts, displaying a unique coalition of stakeholders dedicated to the restoration of this vital ecosystem.

America's Everglades Summit: A Gathering of Leaders

On June 10, the Everglades Foundation hosted the highly anticipated America's Everglades Summit at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. This occasion saw over 300 participants, including members of Congress, officials from the Trump Administration, scientists, and business leaders, all coming together to show bipartisan support for Everglades restoration. The event marked the 25th anniversary of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), celebrating significant strides in restoration efforts over the years.

The summit kicked off with an inspiring speech by the Foundation's Co-Founder Paul Tudor Jones, who emphasized the economic significance of the Everglades to Florida's economy. It was followed by keynote remarks from U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, illustrating how restoration has driven economic growth. Other influential figures, such as U.S. Representatives Brian Mast and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, also presented compelling arguments for continued investment in restoration projects.

The discussions highlighted the strong economic return generated by restoration efforts. Leaders from various sectors articulated the benefits—including real estate, tourism, and outdoor recreation—that the Everglades provide. Notable voices included representatives from companies such as The Orvis Company and NextEra Energy, who outlined the financial returns linked to ecological health.

Hill Day: Engaging Lawmakers

On June 11, the Everglades Foundation organized Everglades Hill Day, gathering over 150 stakeholders to advocate for significant congressional backing of the record $446 million budget proposal for Everglades restoration set forth by President Trump for FY26. This marks the largest allocation in the history of the restoration program, underscoring the urgency and importance of these efforts.

Participants included a diverse array of organizations such as Audubon, the Everglades Law Center, and the National Wildlife Federation. Together, they represented a wide-reaching coalition of clean water advocates, real estate entities, and outdoor recreation advocates, all pushing for a unified voice to secure necessary funding.

Economic Study: The Everglades as a $1 Trillion Asset

At the heart of these events was the release of a landmark economic study completed by the Everglades Foundation in collaboration with Earth Economics. Titled 'Thriving Everglades, Thriving Economy Nature's Value in the Everglades,' this report provides the first comprehensive economic valuation of the ecosystem, estimating its worth at a remarkable $1 trillion in ecosystem service value over the next 50 years, with an annual return of $31.5 billion.

These savings arise from benefits like drinking water supply, tourism, outdoor recreation, and even protection against extreme weather. Such financial data reinforce the argument that investment in the Everglades is not merely an environmental imperative but also a sound economic strategy.

A Path for the Future

As restoration projects move into a critical phase of completion, the Everglades Foundation aims to maintain the momentum generated during this significant week. “We witnessed a powerful display of unity from business leaders, scientists, Tribal representatives, and bipartisan legislators alike,” remarked Eric Eikenberg, CEO of The Everglades Foundation. “The resounding message is clear: restoring America’s Everglades is not only feasible, but also essential.”

The coalition built during this week in the nation’s capital symbolizes a growing recognition of the vital importance of Everglades restoration and the necessity of continued investment to ensure its future. The voices raised in advocacy during this momentous week reflect a commitment to preserving this national treasure for generations to come.

To learn more about the initiatives and advocacy led by the Everglades Foundation, visit their website at EvergladesFoundation.org.