Annual Environmental Audit Validates Progress in Everglades Restoration

Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has received high praise in its latest internal audit, released by the Office of Inspector General (OIG), for its performance in environmental stewardship across the state. The 2025 audit highlights measurable gains in Everglades restoration, hazardous waste cleanup, land management, and interagency coordination — affirming the department’s role as a national model for sustainable environmental governance.

Everglades Restoration Progress Gains Momentum

A cornerstone of the audit is DEP’s oversight of Everglades restoration — a multibillion-dollar project spanning decades. The OIG cited major improvements in water quality monitoring, ecosystem resilience, and project timelines tied to the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). The plan aims to restore natural water flow, protect biodiversity, and improve the health of one of the world’s most fragile wetland ecosystems.

DEP’s partnership with the South Florida Water Management District and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was noted for its strong collaboration and on-time completion of restoration phases such as the Kissimmee River Restoration Project and the Central Everglades Planning Project.

Strong Oversight in Waste and Land Programs

The audit also commended DEP for effective waste management and remediation practices. Cleanup efforts at formerly contaminated sites were completed on schedule, with contractors held accountable for safety, compliance, and transparency. The audit highlighted successful mitigation in areas impacted by industrial waste and noted reductions in pollutants reaching sensitive waterways.

On land conservation and acquisition, the audit confirmed that DEP adhered to public trust standards, responsibly managing grant funds and preserving ecologically important tracts through the Florida Forever program.

Enhancing Internal Controls and Public Trust

DEP’s procurement, budgeting, and contract evaluation processes were also examined. The audit acknowledged increased transparency in vendor selection, improved tracking of expenditures, and tighter controls over large-scale infrastructure contracts. Several minor recommendations were made, including refining documentation procedures and increasing frequency of contractor audits.

DEP officials have already begun implementing improvements based on audit recommendations. In a statement, Secretary Shawn Hamilton said, “This audit reinforces our commitment to the people of Florida — to protect our natural resources and to do so with integrity, efficiency, and accountability.”

Lawmakers and environmental advocacy groups praised the results as a sign that Florida is staying ahead of both regulatory demands and ecological risks. With challenges such as sea-level rise and climate change looming large, DEP’s successful audit sends a clear message: Florida is investing in environmental resilience with results that matter.