Stuart’s Battle Over State Parks Heating Up Again
STUART – The debate over what activities are appropriate for Florida’s state parks is back in the spotlight as state lawmakers get ready for the 2025 legislative session. Hot on the heels of last summer’s uproar about potential golf courses, pickleball courts, and lavish lodges sprouting up in state parks, State Sen. Gayle Harrell, a Republican hailing from Stuart, has introduced the State Parks Preservation Act (SB 80). This bill is making waves by prioritizing conservation-focused recreational activities while giving a firm “no thanks” to sports that require a ball field, like golf and tennis.
What’s the Big Deal?
So, what’s the fuss all about? Well, Harrell’s district includes the popular Jonathan Dickinson State Park, which was supposed to get not one, but THREE golf courses under a scheme called the “Great Outdoors Initiative” unveiled last August. That controversial program also aimed to replace a beloved boardwalk and even the famous Hobe Mountain observation tower in the park! People were rightfully upset.
A Quick Look Back
The Great Outdoors Initiative was a bold proposal that soon ruffled feathers across the state. It suggested a 350-room lodge at Topsail Preserve in Santa Rosa County, a disc golf course at Maclay Gardens in Tallahassee, and a pickleball court at Florida Caverns in Marianna. Public outcry was swift; it quickly drew opposition from local city politicians to national figures like U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, who labeled it “absolutely ridiculous.”
In a matter of weeks, this high-profile initiative began to crumble. Harrell’s new bill marks a shift from the earlier Republican stance, which generally favored the executive branch under Governor Ron DeSantis—who, despite the drama, awkwardly distanced himself from the initiative.
What’s in SB 80?
Harrell’s State Parks Preservation Act goes beyond just saying “no” to certain types of activities. It’s about laying down the law for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The proposed legislation requires the DEP to focus on park management that emphasizes conservation, which means activities like fishing, camping, hiking, and canoeing are all in, while those flashy golf courses are out.
Furthermore, the bill requires the DEP to develop 10-year management plans for each of Florida’s 175 state parks. These plans will include detailed descriptions of the parks, covering everything from natural resources to historical features. Harrell is ensuring that these management plans include specific objectives for habitat restoration, public access, and sustainable practices.
Public Involvement is Key
One of the more notable points in this new legislation is the requirement for public input. Any alterations to the management plans must come with a 30-day notice and at least one public hearing, allowing citizens to voice their opinions and concerns. This is a significant shift from previous attempts where decisions felt rushed and one-sided.
A Call Back to Basics
As concerns about overdevelopment in state parks remain hot-button issues, Harrell’s bill serves as a clear signal that lawmakers are listening to their constituents. Residents and visitors have a strong passion for keeping Florida’s state parks a serene escape filled with nature’s beauty rather than a hub for competitive sports and large resorts.
With the legislative session just around the corner, eyes will be glued to how this bill unfolds and whether it will serve as a beacon of hope for conservation efforts in Florida’s treasured state parks.
