FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 12, 1999

CONTACT: Ray Krauze (202) 225-7931

DEUTSCH APPLAUDS LANDS LEGACY INITIATIVE
Expanded Program Will Benefit the Everglades & Florida Keys

     Washington, DC -- Congressman Peter Deutsch (D-FL, 20th) applauded an announcement today by President Clinton and Vice President Gore that will augment efforts to preserve South Florida's ecosystem. Speaking today at the National Arboretum in Washington, DC, Clinton and Gore announced a $1 billion Lands Legacy Initiative -- a 125 percent increase in federal land acquisition programs nationwide. The plan -- which includes $900 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) -- marks the first time in history any Administration has requested full funding from the LWCF.

     "The Lands Legacy Initiative is an unprecedented investment in America's natural heritage," said Deutsch. "In Florida, the initiative will substantially increase funding for programs protecting the Everglades and the Florida Keys."

     In addition to providing new land acquisition funds, the Lands Legacy Initiative will increase funding for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and help protect Florida's coastal resources. The initiative proposes $29 million to for the nation's 12 Marine Sanctuaries -- a 107 percent increase over last year's funding. The Legacy program also proposes $10.3 million to protect coral reefs from pollution and other threats. Finally, the initiative calls for $90 million to help states implement Critical Coastal Area Management and Restoration Plans. Matching grants would be used to acquire lands or to undertake other efforts to protect wildlife habitat, protect life and property from coastal hazards, and revitalize ports and urban waterfronts.

     "Everyone who values South Florida's threatened ecosystem shares a compelling interest in the Lands Legacy Initiative," said Deutsch. "I will work to see this initiative's successful passage through Congress."

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