Additionally, environmental groups, landowners, American Indian tribes, farmers and industrial companies developed a rare consensus of opinion in supporting the 68 projects that the Corps of Engineers will develop. Proponents hope to push the plan through the House within the next few weeks. Although Florida Republican representatives are trying to schedule a vote, no date has yet been set. While presidential candidates and representatives up for reelection in Florida have much to lose if they fail to adequately support the plan, other members of Congress have little to gain by expediting a vote. But for citizens of South Florida, one of their state's most precious and beautiful regions might be lost if Congress remains inactive.
Environmentalists estimate that half of the Everglades ecosystem has already disappeared.