The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has been carefully monitoring the evolving issue of proposed intensification and commercialization for numerous Florida State Parks. Let your voice be heard by filling out the Public Input Survey made by FDEP.
In case you missed it, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is proposing to add incompatible uses, such as disc golf courses and pickleball courts, to a number of state parks. For more information on this issue, please take a look at Florida Wildlife Federation’s webpage.
Opposition across the state has been swift and decisive. We especially want to thank Senator Kathleen Passidomo for her statement on X from August 22, where she stated:
“We have worked hard to improve our state parks with the goal of protecting and preserving natural habitats, and enhancing access to passive recreational activities like hiking, biking, or canoeing. Our vision did not contemplate the addition of golf courses and hotels, which in my view are not in-line with the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of nature. I am open to other ideas, but from what I know at this time, the proposal should not move forward in its current form.”
Senator Kathleen Passidomo
The Conservancy agrees with Senator Passidomo that the current proposal should not move forward and that any proposal for additions to state parks should protect and preserve natural habitats and enhance passive recreation. Thank you, Senator Passidomo, for speaking out to protect our wild places!