The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) rescheduled a series of public meetings regarding a proposal for state parks. Originally set for August 27, the meetings will now take place during the week of September 2.
The DEP is seeking new venues to accommodate public participation, stating, “We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.”
“Due to the overwhelming interest with the 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative, DEP is looking for new venues to accommodate the public. We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Public input is vital to DEP decision-making…New meeting dates will be announced soon, with meetings expected the week of Sept. 2, 2024,” DEP indicated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The “Great Outdoors Initiative” proposal aims to improve public access and recreational opportunities at nine state parks across Florida. The plans include adding lodges with up to 350 rooms, pickleball courts, disc golf courses, and golf courses. Affected parks include Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Walton County, among others.
This initiative has faced opposition from environmental groups. According to an article published by News 4 Jax, Robert Hendrick, a visitor to Anastasia State Park, shared his perspective: “It is perfect the way it is. It has the campground for however many sites. You have the beach. You have the parking. I don’t think you need all of that other stuff to make it more crowded.”
Sarah Gledhill, president of the Florida Wildlife Federation conservation group, also emphasized the parks’ historical and conservation value. She stated, “Our state parks, especially with Anastasia, is built on its historical and conservation value. We come here to recreate in a passive way. These are our public lands. They are not here for private enterprises to come in and exploit and make profits off of.”
