Florida’s flagship wildlife and land conservation program, Florida Forever, is in serious trouble. With state budget negotiations ongoing, the Florida House has eliminated funding for Florida Forever, while the Senate budget commits a historically meager $100 million. Florida’s wildlife corridor project, endangered species including the Florida panther, and access to open space for outdoor recreation are in jeopardy.
Florida Forever was established in 2001 with an annual budget of $300 million and, along with its predecessor, Preservation 2000, is responsible for conserving more than 2.5 million acres of natural and recreational lands for current and future generations. These conservation lands are crucial for protecting our state’s environment, wildlife, local economies, and critical water resources.
Ironically, in response to widespread public outcry over Gov. DeSantis’ secretive plan to install hotels and golf courses in our state parks, the Legislature unanimously passed the Florida State Park Preservation Act, and it was signed into law just last month. Yet lawmakers are on the brink of abandoning the program most responsible for preserving Florida’s cherished state lands, despite 75% of voters approving a 2014 amendment to ensure programs like Florida Forever remain in place.
Thank you for speaking out to safeguard Florida Forever and ensure Florida’s sensitive natural areas are preserved for the common good and protected from further development.