Connie Mack: “I rise today to celebrate one of the Nation's greatest treasures and to express my continued support for this important…”

“I rise today to celebrate one of the Nation's greatest treasures and to express my continued support for this important resolution introduced by my colleague from Florida which recognizes the 60th anniversary of Everglades National Park. It is our responsibility to ensure that a healthy and vibrant Everglades is there for future generations. In addition to being an international center for business, tourism, and agriculture, the Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and is home to numerous rare and endangered species. Growing up in southwest Florida and so close to the Everglades, I was able to experience all the Everglades has to offer. This resolution recognizes the continuing impact the Everglades has made on individuals throughout the world with the inception of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, CERP. The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan is one of the most extensive ecosystem restoration efforts ever created which will restore and protect one of our Nation's greatest natural resources. CERP's main goal is to capture fresh water that now flows to the ocean and the Gulf of Mexico and redirect it to the areas that need it most. The majority of water will be devoted to environmental restoration, and the rest will enhance water supplies in south Florida. Make no mistake: the Everglades and Florida's unique environment are vital to our quality of life.”