Florida Forever

The successful extension of the Florida Forever program by the Florida Legislature in 2008 continues an outstanding tradition of public land preservation—for the benefit of all Floridians and future generations. But, Florida Forever needs your support.

For the first time since 1990, Florida Forever/Preservation 2000 will not receive an annual appropriation to permit issuance of new bonds for Florida Forever.

Gov. Charlie Crist and the Florida Legislature unanimously reauthorized Florida Forever for 10 years just last year.

“While we are disappointed that Florida Forever did not receive new funding for 2009, it is important to acknowledge that the Florida Forever program will continue because of the efforts of the Legislature to ensure that the existing $250 million of bond authority can be issued and spent,” said Jeff Danter, The Nature Conservancy’s Florida director, referring to bonds that had been on hold due to low revenue and will be released for issuance. “Moreover, we are hopeful that the documentary stamp loophole fix in SB 2430 and an improving economy will set the stage for full Florida Forever funding next year.”

The Nature Conservancy recognizes and is thankful for the efforts of the Florida Senate to address the funding of Florida Forever during difficult economic times. The Conservancy particularly thanks the leadership of Senate President Jeff Atwater and the creativity and persistence of Senators J.D. Alexander, Carey Baker, Al Lawson, and Dan Gelber for their efforts to fund Florida Forever through the closure of the Crescent loophole in Senate Bill 2430 and to ensure that current bond authority for the program is protected.

The Conservancy also acknowledges the commitment of Gov. Crist to the Florida Forever program demonstrated by his efforts to fund the program during the regular legislative session and his veto of Florida Forever cuts during the January special session.

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