DeSantis Proposes Golf Courses and Hotels in Florida’s State Parks

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked controversy with his recent proposal to develop golf courses and hotels within the state's park system. Announced on August 22, 2024, this initiative aims to boost tourism and generate additional revenue for the state. However, environmentalists and conservation groups are raising alarms about the potential ecological impact of such developments.

DeSantis argues that the addition of these amenities will not only enhance the recreational offerings within the parks but also attract more visitors, thereby stimulating the local economy. He emphasized that the developments would be strategically placed to minimize environmental disruption, although specific plans and locations have yet to be detailed.

Critics, including the Florida Wildlife Federation and the Sierra Club, have expressed strong opposition. They argue that introducing commercial developments into natural reserves could lead to habitat destruction and increased pollution, undermining the very essence of what state parks represent. These groups are calling for public hearings and environmental impact assessments before any action is taken.

The proposal has ignited a broader debate about balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. While some Floridians see the potential for job creation and increased tourism as a positive, others are concerned about the long-term consequences for Florida's natural landscapes and biodiversity.

As the discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen how DeSantis will navigate these conflicting interests and whether he can find a compromise that satisfies both economic and environmental stakeholders.

• Florida
• Ron DeSantis
• State Parks

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DeSantis wants to build golf courses and hotels in Florida’s state parks

8 months ago

- floridaphoenix