The closing bell of the recent special legislative session rang a dismal warning to those who love natural Florida and what is left of it.  Responding to economic forecasts, the Legislature reduced this year’s Florida Forever (land conservation) appropriation from $300 million to $31.5 million, sinking approved land conservation deals.  The good news, Governor Crist listened to the Florida Trail Association and other members of the Florida Forever Coalition and vetoed the budget cut - Florida Forever survived a few more months.

The bad news, the Florida Legislature is back in session and, as the saying goes, your spouse, kids, house and family dog are at risk.  That includes funding Florida Forever, the Nation’s premier land conservation program.  The hopeful news…Governor Crist recommended full funding of Florida Forever for next year.  Does that mean anything in the Legislature?  Probably not, unless Floridians speak up and educate our state Senators and Representatives about the importance of acquiring land now, when the price is right.

Check out the Florida Coalition webpage at www.supportfloridaforever.com

You can keep up with and participate in the latest news and action alerts!  You can contact your legislator to express your opinion!