373.466  Lake Panasoffkee restoration program.--

(1)  The Southwest Florida Water Management District, in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, the Sumter County Commission, and the Lake Panasoffkee Restoration Council, shall review existing restoration proposals to determine which ones are the most environmentally sound and economically feasible methods of improving the fisheries and natural systems of Lake Panasoffkee.

(2)  The Southwest Florida Water Management District, in consultation and by agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection, the Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, and pertinent local governments, shall develop tasks to be undertaken by those entities necessary to initiate the Lake Panasoffkee restoration program recommended by the Lake Panasoffkee Restoration Council. These agencies shall:

(a)  Evaluate different methodologies for removing the extensive tussocks and build-up of organic matter along the shoreline and of the aquatic vegetation in the lake; and

(b)  Conduct any additional studies as recommended by the Lake Panasoffkee Restoration Council.

(3)  Contingent on the Legislature appropriating funds for the Lake Panasoffkee restoration program and in conjunction with financial participation by federal, other state, and local governments, the appropriate agencies shall through competitive bid award contracts to implement the activities of the Lake Panasoffkee restoration program.