Florida Gov. Scott backs reservoir plan for Lake Okeechobee

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Florida Gov. Rick Scott for the first time said that he supports having the state acquire land to build a reservoir system south of Lake Okeechobee to help battle toxic algal blooms.

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The governor also announced Monday that he wants state legislators to set aside $200 million this year to help repair the aging federally-operated dike that surrounds the lake.

Scott's decision to address Lake Okeechobee comes as legislators are considering a bill to deal with the so-called "guacamole" algae that fouled coastal waterways a year ago.

That is a top priority of Senate President Joe Negron, whose plan for the lake is being considered by legislators as the 2017 session ends.

 While Scott said he supports the reservoir system, he does not support having the state take private property.