STUART, FLORIDA (BNO NEWS) – Governor Charlie Crist reaffirmed his commitment to restoring the Everglades during his tour through a component of the northern Everglades ecosystem, his office said Thursday.

In Governor Crist’s 2010-11 budget recommendations, he proposed $50 million to ensure that the Everglades projects will continue to restore a more natural water flow for this unique ecosystem and improve water quality for all of South Florida.

Governor Crist toured the St. Lucie River and estuary along with former Senator Ken Pruitt, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Michael W. Sole and several local and environmental leaders.

“The well-being of the St. Lucie River and estuary is of great importance to Florida’s economy and quality of life,” said Governor Crist. “Viewing this amazing habitat further confirms the need to acquire land from U.S. Sugar so that the mosaic of estuaries, freshwater ponds, prairies and forested uplands that compose Florida’s famed River of Grass can be restored and protected for future generations.”

During the past three years, Governor Crist has signed budgets designating $300 million toward Everglades restoration.

Nearly two years ago, Governor Crist had announced the acquisition of land in the Everglades Agricultural Area from U.S. Sugar, which would boost opportunities to restore the Everglades and safeguard the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers and estuaries.

“Part of the solution to improve and protect water quality in the St. Lucie estuary is to construct more water storage and treatment areas in the Everglades Agricultural Area,” said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. “The U.S. Sugar land acquisition will allow for the construction of additional reservoirs and water quality treatment areas, allowing water to be moved south and improving water quality in coastal estuaries.”

In addition, Martin County recently received $4 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to reestablish oyster reefs in the St. Lucie estuary, which will improve water quality and provide a refuge for small fish and other aquatic life.

Florida’s marine industry represents a total economic output of more than $18.4 billion and supports more than 220,000 jobs.

Florida’s Everglades restoration efforts have invested more than $2.4 billion in the 30-year, $10.9 billion Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, which runs in a 50/50 state and federal partnership.