Gov. Ron DeSantis opens this year's Python Challenge from SW Miami-Dade
MIAMI - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was in Southwest Miami-Dade Thursday to announce the start of registration for Python Challenge 2022.
DeSantis was joined by officials with FWC and the South Florida Water Management District to make the announcement.
Since taking office, DeSantis has budgeted $3.3 billion for Everglades Restoration Project.
Thursday, he announced that his administration has launched 48 projects related to Everglades restoration, some of which are completed.
DeSantis also said he has allocated $3 million in funding for python removal.
"One of the things we have to do is look at the toll these Burmese pythons have on the everglades. It's just unbelievable what they will ravage," said DeSantis.
In the past, hundreds have participated in the annual challenge.
DeSantis said people can win prizes and that cash awards would be given for the longest python and most pythons caught.
"The Python Challenge allows the public to engage, direct, hands-on with Everglades restoration. You can win prizes, and of course you'll be doing a public service," said DeSantis.
Officials with the South Florida Water Management District say the competition helps educate the public on the invasive species.
Last year, about 600 people participated in the competition.
"We have removed tens of thousands of snakes out of this environment. The snakes are destroying the natural food chain and you can't have a healthy environment without a healthy food chain," said "Alligator" Ron Bergeron, Board member of the South Florida Water Management District.
The ten-day competition will run from August 5th – August 14th.
Visit FLPythonChallenge.org to register for the competition
Here is what Gov. Desantis had to say: