Bush, brother sign Everglades agreement

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2002

President Bush and his brother, Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (R), on Wednesday signed a $7.8 billion, 30-year agreement over the restoration of the Everglades, promising to work with local and tribal governments.

The agreement focuses on the use of water that flows through the Everglades. It calls for using the water to restore the ecosystem.

An agreement signed by a president and a state governor is unusual. Congress directed the setup years ago.

Secretary of Interior Gale Norton and National Park Service Director Fran Mainella attended the signing, which was held at the White House. Norton has been criticize for closing an Everglades office, a move not entirely unwelcome by tribes who have sparred with the department over management issues.

Get the Story:
Bushes Ink Everglades Restoration Agreement (The Washington Post 1/10)
Bush brothers agree: Ecosystem comes first (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 1/10)

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