Hey folks! This is a unique call to action to let your voice be heard about the new proposed developments (golf courses, resorts, etc.) inside of our state parks. Listen to the episode and read the article below to learn more about what is being proposed, as well as how to make your voice heard and be involved.
Tampa Bay Times article: https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2024/08/20/are-changes-coming-floridas-state-park-system/
Numbers to call:
- Governor's office: 850 717 9337
All meetings are Tuesday, August 27th from 3-4pm ET. Locations and emails are listed below:
Hillsborough River State Park
Honeymoon Island State Park
Oleta River State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Anastasia State Park, First Coast Technical College
Camp Helen State Park
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park
Florida Wildlife Federation info sheet and email template here
To email the governor: https://www.flgov.com/email-the-governor/
Example email:
Subject:
Concern Regarding Development of Golf Courses and Resorts on Environmentally Sensitive Land
Body
Dear Governor DeSantis,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed development of golf courses and resorts on environmentally sensitive land within our state parks. Florida's state parks are home to some of the most unique and delicate ecosystems in the world, providing critical habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species. These hard fought areas are not only essential for biodiversity but also serve as natural buffers against our harsh climate and hurricanes and attract millions of tourists seeking natural settings away from Florida’s bustling roadways and entertainment opportunities.
Developing these lands for commercial purposes threatens to not only disrupt these ecosystems, potentially leading to the loss of endangered species, degradation of water quality, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters, but also the economics that will continue
Moreover, preserving these natural areas is vital for maintaining the ecological balance that supports our state's tourism industry, which relies heavily on the beauty and accessibility of our natural landscapes. While golf courses and resorts may attract short-term economic gains, the long-term environmental costs could far outweigh these benefits. I urge you to consider the lasting impact that such development would have on our state's natural heritage and to seek alternative locations for these projects that do not compromise the integrity of our state parks. Protecting our environment should be a top priority, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and benefit from Florida's natural beauty. In Florida, the environment is the economy.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]
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