Martinez Applauds Public-Private Partnership Responsible for Broadmoor Marsh Restoration Project

MARTINEZ APPLAUDS PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP RESPONSIBLE FOR BROADMOOR MARSH RESTORATION PROJECT

-U.S. Senator Mel Martinez today called the Broadmoor Marsh restoration project a true success story and an example of what could be done with successful public-private partnerships.

Martinez made remarks at an Earth Day event today at Broadmoor Marsh to draw attention to the value of wetland restoration. The USDA, together with St. John's River Water Management District and private groups like Ducks Unlimited and the Florida Nature Conservancy worked together to restore Broadmoor Marsh to close to its original habitat.

Martinez said:

"This team effort by the federal and state government, along with private entities is a perfect example of what environmental success we can have in our state if we work together.

"Just under 10 years ago, Broadmoor Marsh was virtually non-existent. Now there are nearly 2,400 acres of freshwater marsh in Brevard County. The return of wildlife has been fanstastic. It is a true success story.

"Additionally, the water management and restoration project has improved the quality of head waters and provides a potential long-term alternate source of drinking water, additional flood capacity and access to recreational activities.

"I am proud to be a part of this project and will continue to be a strong advocate for wetlands restoration and water management projects. In the Senate, I am working with the Senate Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations to secure funding for the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NWACA).

"Through the funding and support granted by the NWACA, more wetlands in Florida -- and in all 50 states -- will potentially be restored.

"I look forward to our work together in doing more to restore Florida's wetlands."

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