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Florida has not yet saved all its last wild places!
As Florida's essential land conservation program, Florida Forever, approaches the end of its lifetime, conservationists across the state are calling for a successor program, to finish Florida Forever's uncompleted work, providing for the preservation of Florida's last remaining wild places.
At the same time, the Department of Environmental Protection is bringing a discussion before the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) this Friday. This body oversees state-owned land management and Florida Forever acquisitions. DEP's contention is that ARC should cap the Florida Forever acquisition list, in anticipation of the sunset of the Florida Forever program.
However, the current Florida Forever list does not include all of the remaining areas important for acquisition for the conservation of our natural resources. A cap would leave deserving, but as-yet unlisted, properties out in the cold, and give a false impression that the State's land conservation needs are nearly complete.
DEP staff director for ARC Mark Glisson said Tuesday in the Tallahassee Democrat: "Do we focus the last remaining resources on the select few excellent projects, or do we continue to add projects to the list to demonstrate the need for another program expansion?"
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HOW YOU CAN HELP
Use our easy email function to respond to DEP-- tell them the choice is obvious, that the need for a successor program to Florida Forever could not be more real. Capping the state's acquisition list would do a great disservice to the conservation momentum and legacy built by Florida Forever and this administration. For greatest effect, tailor the subject line and email content with your own thoughts on the issue! |
| Sample Letter for Campaign |
Subject: Don't Limit Spending for Florida Forever
Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,
With regard to the Department of Environmental Protection's pending proposal to limit the Florida Forever list--please don't.
There are millions of acres of high quality habitat still in need of protection. Instead of limiting the list, increase the funding and encourage partnerships with local governments and landowners.
Surely the Legislature and Governor understand the importance of saving the places that make Florida special.
Sincerely,
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Campaign Launched:
October 11, 2006
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