Patrick Leahy: “included in the farm bill that the Senate will consider today is a provision for $200 million to be used by the…”

“included in the farm bill that the Senate will consider today is a provision for $200 million to be used by the Secretary of the Department of the Interior to move forward with restoration of the Everglades ecosystem. Some of my colleagues may wonder why the farm bill contains such a provision, and I would like to take a few minutes to explain the importance of restoring this unique ecosystem. The Everglades is one of the most unique wetland ecosystems in the world. It is a national treasure that is in peril and deserves the immediate attention of Congress. Prior to the 1940's the Everglades ecosystem covered most of south Florida, from its headwaters in the Kissimmee River basin to the coral reefs of Florida Bay. Because of man's alterations, the once 'river of grass' is now fragmented and deteriorating, threatening not only the wildlife of the esosystem, but also the water supplies, economy and quality of life for the people who live in Florida.”