The Office of Ecosystem Projects plays a key role in carrying out the largest environmental restoration project in the world — restoring the natural treasure of America’s Everglades. Our office ensures effective implementation of DEP’s policy, programmatic, technical and regulatory responsibilities under the Everglades Forever Act, the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, the Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program, and related efforts including Kissimmee River Restoration, Critical Projects Program, Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation and Modified Water Deliveries to Everglades National Park.
Restoration initiatives are focused on improving water quality and restoring the hydrology and ecology of the Everglades ecosystem — stretching from the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes to Lake Okeechobee, through the remaining Everglades and on to the waters of the Florida Bay — an area covering 18,000 square miles.
Edward Smith oversees Everglades restoration efforts for the state of Florida, which entails planning, permitting and compliance assistance for the restoration efforts, as well as working to ensure resources are available for current and future projects. Prior to his current position, he worked for the Department of Environmental Protection in the Division of Water Facilities Regulation in various roles including NPDES Stormwater Program Administrator, statewide compliance coordinator for wastewater facilities and permit writer in the power plant group.
Everglades Forever Act and Phosphorus Criterion Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP)
Northern Everglades and Lake Okeechobee Kissimmee River Restoration
South Florida Water Management District Restoration Homepage U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Ecosystem Restoration Homepage
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