1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the nine amendments to existing unit management plans for the following State Parks: Jonathan Dickinson State Park (Martin County) Anastasia State Park (St. Johns County) Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (Walton County) Camp Helen State Park (Bay County) Grayton Beach State Park (Walton County) Hillsborough River State Park (Hillsborough County) Honeymoon Island State Park (Pinellas County) Dr. Von Mizell – Eula Johnson State Park (Broward County) Oleta River State Park (Miami-Dade County) These proposed changes to the state parks that I visit and enjoy throughout Florida would tarnish the natural landscape that is increasingly rare in our state. As someone working in natural resources, I know the “Real Florida” is not golf courses, resorts, and pickleball courts. The state parks are, in some places, the only remaining vestiges of Florida's unique and varied ecosystems. Development already encroaches on habitats at an alarming pace across Florida. Having these slivers of accessible nature with appropriate recreation opportunities like camping and hiking, is essential for our culture, our ecology, and for connecting our new residents to the reasons why Florida is so wonderful. I am requesting that these proposed amendments to the unit management plans be completely removed from consideration because they are incompatible with the very reason I, and most Floridians, cherish our state parks.