The "State Park Preservation Act" amends various sections of Florida Statutes to improve the management and conservation of state lands and parks. Key provisions include the requirement for public hearings on updated conservation and non-conservation land management plans, with the Division of State Lands mandated to provide electronic copies of these plans to the public. The bill emphasizes the management of parks for "conservation-based recreational uses," prohibits new sporting facility constructions within state park boundaries, and requires the development of individual management plans for parcels within state parks, incorporating input from advisory groups. Additionally, it designates the St. Marks River Preserve State Park as Ney Landrum State Park and establishes a reporting requirement to the Governor and Legislature regarding land management.

The bill also mandates that land management plans be updated every ten years, including specific analyses and measurable objectives for conservation goals. It updates the responsibilities of the Division of Recreation and Parks to assess recreational needs and consult with local governing units on planning and design. New guidelines for granting privileges, leases, and permits for land use in state parks are introduced to ensure public access to natural resources is not compromised. The Department of Environmental Protection is required to submit a report by December 1, 2025, detailing park conditions and budget allocations, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 209 Filed: 253.034, 258.004, 259.032
H 209 c1: 253.034, 258.004
H 209 c2: 253.034, 258.004
H 209 e1: 253.034, 258.004
H 209 er: 253.034, 258.004