In the heart of Florida, a contentious debate is unfolding. Rep. Randy Fine's proposed bill, the Path to Florida Springs National Park Act, aims to designate Ocala National Forest and surrounding springs as a national park. This 2,800 square mile area, spanning south of Jacksonville, north of Orlando, and east of Gainesville, would encompass Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, among other preservation areas.
The bill's proponent, Rep. Fine, draws a parallel between Florida's natural springs and Yellowstone National Park, citing the state's unique claim to the largest concentration of natural springs in the world. He argues that these springs deserve national recognition. However, not everyone is convinced. Locals, economists, and conservationists are weighing in with mixed feedback.
Megan Lawson, an economist at Headwaters Economics, suggests that national park designation could indeed boost tourism, as travelers often strive to visit every national park on their lists. Nevertheless, she cautions that surrounding communities will need to adapt to increased visitation, anticipating visitor numbers and finding ways to fund necessary upgrades, such as road improvements and water treatment facilities.
According to WUFT | News and public media for north central Florida, the proposed national park would ← →
A push in Congress to designate Ocala National Forest and the surrounding springs is drawing mixed feedback from locals, economists and ...Looking to read more like this: Check here
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