Posted on January 5, 2026
Twenty-five years after Congress approved an ambitious plan to restore the Florida Everglades, the effort has grown into one of the largest ecosystem restoration projects in the world, one increasingly shaped by climate change and rising seas.
The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), signed into law in 2000, was designed to repair decades of damage caused by canals and drainage systems that redirected freshwater away from the Everglades and out to sea. The goal was to restore more natural water flow while also securing a reliable freshwater supply for South Florida’s growing population.
Over time, the mission has expanded. As climate change accelerates, restoration projects are now seen as essential not only for environmental recovery but also for regional resilience. Wetlands help buffer storm surge, slow saltwater intrusion, and reduce flooding — challenges increasingly felt across coastal communities.
The restoration effort spans roughly 18,000 square miles and includes large reservoirs, stormwater treatment areas, and infrastructure designed to capture, store, and clean freshwater before it moves south through the Everglades.
Officials say these projects have helped reduce harmful freshwater discharges to coastal estuaries while improving habitat for wildlife.
The price tag for Everglades restoration exceeds $27 billion, with funding shared between the federal government and the state of Florida. While progress has been uneven and slower than originally envisioned, supporters say recent momentum has delivered tangible improvements and laid groundwork for future resilience.
Scientists note that more than 70 threatened and endangered species depend on the Everglades ecosystem, and that restoration benefits extend well beyond wildlife. A healthier Everglades supports drinking water supplies, protects coastal communities, and strengthens South Florida’s ability to adapt to climate change.
As the project marks its 25th anniversary, policymakers and environmental advocates say the work is far from finished. With sea levels rising and storms growing stronger, Everglades restoration is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone of South Florida’s long-term survival.
