Regarding ''Politics and the Everglades'' (editorial, Aug. 17): 

Dear Editor:

Florida has never wavered in its commitment to restoring a more natural flow of water to America's Everglades or cleaning the water entering the ''river of grass.'' Both projects are on budget and on schedule for completion.

Since 2000, the State of Florida has committed more than $2 billion to restore the quantity of water in the Everglades and has invested another $600 million to improve the water quality.

Restoring the Everglades is a monumental task requiring strong working relationships among several state and federal agencies.

In 2001, we formed an equal partnership with the federal government to ensure that we achieve our Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan and protect this national treasure for future generations.

With financial and logistics help from our federal partner, Florida continues to honor its commitment to Everglades restoration.