Dear Friend,
Florida’s environmental agency has unveiled major development proposals for nine state parks, a sweeping initiative that would further threaten sensitive, already imperiled habitat.
You can read more via reporting by the Tampa Bay Times here.
These project proposals would lead to significant habitat loss in Florida’s state parks. They include a golf course at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, which would require removing the Hobe Mountain observation tower and park staff housing.
The DeSantis administration also plans to build 350-room lodges at Anastasia State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve, add up to four pickleball courts at seven state parks, a disc golf course at five parks, and new cabins at three parks.
We’re asking the legislators representing these State Park areas to take a strong position against these terrible proposals and to stand with their communities at the DEP meetings, which were scheduled for August 27th but are now being rescheduled (we’ll keep you posted on those dates when announced).
The Florida Springs Council has developed three pre-written but customizable emails for you to send to lawmakers who represent the areas that these parks encompass. You can send a letter by clicking on each link below.
Protect Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Protect Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Click here to see more details too. Our State Parks belong to all Floridians, so everyone should send all three emails. If you live in the area, or have a special connection to the park, include that in your email.
We will continue to keep you posted on ways you can fight back to protect our state parks.
Onward,
Rep. Anna V. Eskamani