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The Florida Department of Environmental Protection Announces 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative
FDEP Unveils Action Plan to Protect and Enhance Florida's Natural Resources
Governor DeSantis Highlights Record-Breaking Success of Great Outdoors Initiative
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (August 21, 2024) – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced the launch of its 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative, a comprehensive plan to protect and enhance Florida's natural resources.
The initiative, which was developed in collaboration with stakeholders from across the state, includes a wide range of initiatives to address the state's most pressing environmental challenges, including water quality, air quality, and climate change.
Key Features of the 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative
- Invest $50 million in water quality improvement projects
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030
- Create 1,000 new park rangers to protect Florida's natural areas
- Provide $20 million in grants to local governments for environmental education programs
The initiative also includes a number of measures to support Florida's growing outdoor recreation industry, such as:
- Create 50 new state parks and trails
- Provide $10 million in grants to businesses that develop new outdoor recreation products and services
- Host a statewide outdoor recreation conference to attract visitors from around the world
“This initiative is a bold step forward for Florida's environment,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “It will help us protect our natural resources, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all Floridians.”
The 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative is a major step forward in Governor DeSantis's commitment to protecting Florida's environment. The initiative is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the state, while also improving the health and well-being of its residents.
For more information on the 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative, please visit the DEP website at https://www.dep.state.fl.us/greatoutdoors.