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DeSantis puts controversial plans to develop a state park on hold after fierce reactions


DeSantis puts controversial plans to develop a state park on hold after fierce reactions

Photo: Florida DEP Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has put on hold a proposal to introduce large-scale developments, including golf courses, pickleball courts and 350-room hotels, in state parks after widespread public and political opposition. The governor announced the decision at a news conference on Wednesday, his first public remarks since his administration’s proposals were leaked […]

Citizens protest against planned development in Honeymoon Island State Park


Citizens protest against planned development in Honeymoon Island State Park

In the city of Dunedin in Pinellas County, dozens of people demonstrated at the entrance to Honeymoon Island State Park on Tuesday in 35-degree heat against plans by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to build lodges, golf courses, pickleball courts and disc golf facilities in nine state parks. While many speakers praised the barrier […]

DEP plan for 350-unit lodge in Anastasia State Park faces growing opposition on First Coast


DEP plan for 350-unit lodge in Anastasia State Park faces growing opposition on First Coast

A Ministry of Environmental Protection (DEP) Plan to support the construction of extensive new facilities in state parks faces resistance on the First Coast. Anastasia State Park in tourist-rich St. Johns County is one of the eight parks included in the state’s plan. Anastasia State Park website emphasizes the natural and open appeal of the […]

Mixed reactions to Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposed state park expansions


Mixed reactions to Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposed state park expansions

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Conservationists from north central Florida and across the state are pushing back against a plan by Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection called the Great Outdoors Initiative. Nine state parks in Florida are the target of controversial projects as part of the initiative. Anastasia State Park in […]

Growing opposition to plans for golf course in state park


Growing opposition to plans for golf course in state park

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – An effort to get the Sunshine State to change course on a new initiative for Florida’s state parks is causing controversy. Several state legislators and conservation groups are concerned about the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Great Outdoors Initiative. The initiative calls for the installation of amenities such as golf courses, […]

How the DEP Great Outdoors Initiative impacts local state parks


How the DEP Great Outdoors Initiative impacts local state parks

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced Monday the launch of the 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative, which will impact many local state parks. The goal of the initiative is to expand public access by increasing outdoor activities and providing shelter while maintaining conservation at the state level, according to […]

Florida State Parks initiative could bring golf courses to Jonathan Dickinson State Park


Florida State Parks initiative could bring golf courses to Jonathan Dickinson State Park

HOBE SOUND, Fla. (CBS12) — Some changes may be coming to the largest state park in southeast Florida. Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound is part of the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Great Outdoors Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to expand public access, increase outdoor recreation opportunities and provide new overnight […]