Gov. DeSantis announces funding for coral reef protection and restoration in the Florida Keys
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MARATHON, Fla. (WFLA) — Gov. Ron DeSantis highlighted funding for Florida’s natural resources at a Wednesday news conference in the Florida Keys.
DeSantis, speaking at Dockside Boot Key Harbor in Marathon, discussed restoring and protecting Florida’s coral reefs, saying Florida put $57 million towards reef restoration last year and the state will do the same thing this year.
The governor added that an additional $5 million of the state’s budget is being put toward artificial reef habitats in the Florida Keys.
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“Florida has the best fishing and boating in the world because we have the greatest natural resources,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “That’s why our state is making record investments in protecting our natural treasures, like our coral reefs.”
DeSantis also highlighted enhancements to the 2024 Lionfish Challenge and 2024 Lobster Mini-Season.
The 2024 recreational spiny lobster mini-season will be Wed., July 24, and Thurs., July 25, with an additional day added for Florida residents on Sun., July 14. The regular commercial and recreational lobster season will begin on Aug. 6, 2024, and end on March 31, 2025, the Governor announced.
The 2024 Lionfish Challenge is running through Sep. 2, 2024.
You can watch the full news conference in the video player above.
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