DeSantis’ Proposal for Golf in Protected Nature Reserves Draws Criticism
By Jake Beardslee ·
August 25, 2024
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis's administration has proposed a controversial plan to develop state parks, sparking widespread opposition.
The "Great Outdoors Initiative" aims to construct hotels, golf courses, and other recreational facilities in protected areas known for their unspoiled natural beauty. Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America / Wikimedia
The plan includes building three golf courses at Jonathan Dickinson State Park and new lodges at Anastasia State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve.
The Department of Environmental Protection claims these changes will "take the visitor experience to the next level" while minimizing environmental impact. Ebyabe / Wikimedia
However, the proposal has faced significant backlash. Over 94,000 people signed a petition against the development of Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Even members of DeSantis's own party have expressed reservations. Ebyabe / Wikimedia
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson cautioned, "Public lands should be enjoyed and protected, but we have to be really careful when we talk about building infrastructure on state parks." Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services / Wikimedia
State Senate President Kathleen Passidomo stated that the plan contradicts the purpose of state parks, which is to "protect and preserve natural habitats while allowing passive access." Lal2wx / Wikimedia
The DeSantis administration defended the initiative, with spokesman Jeremy Redfern saying, "No administration has done more than we have to conserve Florida's natural resources, grow conservation lands, and keep our environment pristine. But it's high time we made public lands more accessible to the public." Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America / Wikimedia
Environmentalists strongly oppose the plan, particularly the proposal to build a hotel at Topsail Hill Preserve.
Clay Henderson, an environmental lawyer, called this idea "a dagger in the heart," adding, "It is generally regarded as one of the best beaches in the world. The idea of putting up a 350-unit lodge there is just ridiculous." Skye Marthaler / Wikimedia
The plan must be approved by the Acquisition and Restoration Council, but lawmakers could potentially block it by withdrawing funding.
State Representative Lindsay Cross vowed to fight the proposal, stating, "This just flies in the face of the spirit of public parks. It's not honoring our outdoors at all, and I'm confident that this plan will go down in flames." Alexander Hatley / Wikimedia
As the debate continues, the future of Florida's pristine state parks hangs in the balance, with many questioning whether increased development truly aligns with the parks' mission of preservation and conservation. Alexander Hatley / Wikimedia
