Florida's Natural Treasures Under Threat
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has recently unveiled a controversial proposal that threatens to destroy the pristine beauty of our state's cherished parks.
This plan outlines ambitious developments, including the addition of golf courses, hotels, pickle-ball and other recreational amenities within several state parks. As Floridians, we must stand united to oppose this misguided initiative and safeguard our natural heritage!
Some of the parks in the proposal:
Anastasia State Park:
Proposed Development: Disc golf course and a new hotel.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park:
Proposed Development: Golf course and accompanying hotel.
Honeymoon Island State Park:
Proposed Development: Additional campsites, cabins, and a pickleball court.
Oleta River State Park:
Proposed Development: New hotel and other amenities.
and 5 other state parks ...
The Devastating Consequences
The proposed developments pose a significant threat to the delicate ecosystems of our state parks. Clearing land, constructing buildings, and increasing human activity will inevitably disrupt the natural balance and biodiversity of these protected areas. Golf courses, in particular, require extensive maintenance, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides that can contaminate waterways and harm wildlife.
Moreover, the addition of hotels and other amenities would increase tourism and traffic, leading to further environmental degradation. The increased influx of visitors could strain park resources and put a greater burden on fragile ecosystems.
A Violation of Our Values
Florida's state parks are a testament to our commitment to conservation and environmental protection. These pristine areas are invaluable resources that provide recreational opportunities, support biodiversity, and contribute to our state's unique character. The proposed developments contradict the very principles that led to the creation of our state park system.
Taking Action
As Floridians, we have a responsibility to protect our state parks for future generations. Here's what you can do:
Contact Your Representatives: Reach out to the office of Ron DeSantis to express your strong opposition to the proposed developments. Tell him to him to stop the proposed amendments for development in Florida State Parks.
Phone: (850)-717-9337
Sign Petitions: Many online petitions are circulating to oppose the proposed developments -- Here is the most inclusive petition we have found to date: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-great-outdoors-initiative-save-florida-s-state-parks-from-harmful-developments
Spread Awareness: Share this information with your friends, family, and social media networks. The more people who are aware of this issue, the greater our collective voice will be.
Here is a link to a google drive folder containing the plans and additional information (thanks go Benji Studt of PBC ERM) https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LbZqusObGby4NXD4_hJKeKLbaPlriEkj?usp=sharing
Attend Public Meetings: Participate in public meetings and hearings to voice your concerns and advocate for the preservation of our state parks. As of August 27, 2024, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has postponed public meetings regarding its "Great Outdoors Initiative," which proposes developments in nine state parks.
The delay, likely pushing the meetings to the week of September 2, follows widespread public backlash from environmentalists and bipartisan political figures concerned about the potential impact on the state's protected lands.
Recent Developments
There have been recent developments in the fight to protect Florida's state parks:
Fold of Honor's Statement: While Fold of Honor, the non profit organization behind the JD Park plans has announced that they will no longer pursue a golf course development at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the overall threat to state parks remains as the FDEP has made NO FORMAL STATEMENT THAT THE PLANS IN JD PARK ARE CANCELLED...
Public Pressure: The growing public outcry against the proposed developments has forced the FDEP to reconsider their plans.
The Fight Continues
The battle to protect Florida's state parks is far from over. It is crucial that we remain vigilant and continue to advocate for the preservation of these natural treasures. By working together, we can ensure that our state parks remain pristine havens for future generations to enjoy.
Say NO to Florida state parks development plan.
At Plunge Waterwear, we’re passionate about protecting our oceans and land. As a small, family-run company, we’re committed to providing high-quality UPF 50+ dive suits for women and kids. We’re deeply connected to Florida’s natural beauty and understand the importance of preserving our state’s precious parks. We hope this blog post inspires you to take action and join us in the fight to protect these invaluable ecosystems. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds, and let’s work together to safeguard Florida’s natural heritage.
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