Publisher Note
The Florida Park Service—one of the nation’s largest park systems, with 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites across more than 815,000 acres of public land—planned to celebrate its 90th anniversary by commercializing conservation land and inviting eager developers to the party. The big media scoop sparked bipartisan outrage and led to protests and political pressure, forcing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to halt the plans last August. The controversy united Floridians in defense of their natural spaces and raised concerns about the future of conservation in the state.
Save Our Parks
In early 2024, Jack Nicklaus, a retired professional golfer and lauded champion, visited Jonathan Dickinson State Park to visualize the potential design for a golf course. The public was wholly unaware of his efforts, and that of others, until documents were leaked by a former Florida Department of Environmental Protection employee. Memos, maps, and other planning documents revealed that the project intended to include hotels, pickleball courts, and other developments across nine state parks, despite obvious threats to protected habitats.
The “behind-the-scenes story of the Florida state park scandal” was widely reported. Arbus Magazine worked with organizations such as the Florida Wildlife Federation, Florida Springs Council,
Audubon Florida, 1000 Friends of Florida, and others to learn more about this controversy. In case you missed what has been going on, we bring you a quick recap starting on page 14.
Audubon Florida
Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Audubon Florida is a cornerstone of the state’s conservation movement. From its roots in combating the plume trade at the turn of the 20th century to its current advocacy for imperiled species and habitats, the organization has consistently championed science-based solutions to Florida’s environmental challenges. Their approach makes them a powerful force for conservation across the diverse landscapes of the Sunshine State (page 28).
Jane Condon
Jane Condon passed away last month and she leaves a remarkable legacy of arts education in our community. She was a great leader and driving force behind the arts in area schools, a supporter of and participant in cultural organizations throughout the city, and a lifelong advocate for the arts.
Put a little spring in your step and enjoy putting a little culture and fun in your life.
Cinda Sherman, Publisher
Enjoy putting a little culture and fun in your life.
There is art around every corner.
Enjoy putting a little culture and fun in your life.
It’s all somewhere on every corner!
