This week Gov. Rick Scott visited FAU’s Pine Jog Environmental Education Center in West Palm Beach for the ceremonial signing of Legacy Florida. The bill creates dedicated funding to protect Florida’s environment, including up to $200 million for Everglades restoration.

A majority of FAU’s service area lies within the Greater Everglades Ecosystem, so its conservation is extremely important to our university. In fact, the health of the Everglades is highlighted in our strategic plan as an area of focus, and FAU is working with the Everglades Foundation on several educational projects. One notable project, Florida’s first K-12 Everglades curriculum, was launched at Pine Jog. The curriculum teaches students “Everglades Literacy” and encourages environmental stewardship.

I applaud Gov. Scott and the Florida Legislature for making our environment a top priority. Legacy Florida will go a long way in ensuring the future health of the Everglades and our state’s other natural treasures.