I understand the frustration expressed in The Post's May 30 editorial "Recover the momentum on Indian River Lagoon." I assure The Post's Editorial Board, however, that I am fully committed to Everglades restoration and that my staff is working hard to obtain all the information needed to make a final recommendation on the lagoon plan to the assistant secretary of the Army (for civil works) for review within the administration and submission to Congress. We do not have it yet. To make that recommendation, we first must be assured that the benefits of this project will be realized and will justify the costs. Then, we must identify and understand the complex interrelations and dependencies between the overall Everglades restoration program and the Indian River Lagoon Plan. Because it is the first Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan project and will set many precedents, we need to establish the proper procedures and evaluation criteria to guide us through the many years and projects ahead. While this will take additional time, we must ensure that this project meets all requirements before it moves forward. I know that this delay is disappointing for the many who have worked on the project over the years, but I believe that the time invested in this first report will help resolve future concerns and lead to more efficient implementation of future CERP projects. LT. GEN. ROBERT
FLOWERS, commanding general |
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