The Cypress Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America strongly opposes the proposed rule amendments by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that would permit the development of hotels, golf courses, and pickleball courts within nine Florida state parks. This proposal undermines the fundamental purpose of our state partcs-to preserve and protect Florida’s natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations.

State parks are sanctuaries for wildlife and offer Floridians and visitors the opportunity to experience Florida’s unique eoosystems in their natural state. The proposed developments, such as the construction
of hotels, golf courses, and recreational facilities like pickleball courts, would lead to irreversible environmental impacts, induding habitat destruction, increased pollution, and a decline in the natural
beauty that makes these parks unique.

The plan to potentially develop a golf course at Jonathan Dickinson State Park is particularly concerning. Jonathan Dickinson is home to diverse wildlife, including rare and endangered species, as well as fragile ecosystems that could be severely affected by such development. lntrodudng a goll course would require extensive land alteration, water usage, and the use of fertlllzers and pesticides, which could contaminate water sources and disrupt local flora and fauna.

Moreover, the construction of hotels and other amenities will increase traffic and noise, further disturbing wildlife and detracting from the peaceful, natural experience that visitors seek in our state parks. The unique value of these parks lies not in their ability to cater to commercia interests but in their capacity to provide a refuge for nature and a retreat for people away from urbanization.

We recognize the importance of enhancing public access to Florida’s natural resources, but this must not come at the cost of the environmental integrity of our state parks. Instead, we urge the DEP to focus on sustainable, low impact improvements that enhance visitor experiences without compromising the natural character and ecological health of these parks.

The Cypress Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America stands firm in our commitment to conserving Florida’s natural heritage. We call on the DEP to reconsider these proposed amendments and
prioritize the protection and preservation of our state parks. These natural treasures are a public trust, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they remain unimpaired for future generations to enjoy.