April 30, 2008

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — “The Florida Coalition for Responsible Preservation of Public Land (RPPL) and Associated Industries applaud the work of Florida legislators in their efforts to continue protecting the state’s precious natural resources.  We support today’s action to extend the successful initiatives of the Florida Forever program and encourage Governor Crist to sign this worthy legislation into law.  Our Coalition is deeply committed to protecting Florida’s pristine lands, wildlife and waterways, and the work by legislators demonstrates their shared commitment as well.

“Our elected leaders, with the leadership of bill sponsors Senator Burt Saunders (R-Naples) and Representative Will Kendrick (R-Carrabelle), have shown great wisdom in recognizing that Florida’s natural beauty is uniquely connected to our economy and overall quality of life.  Each year, millions of Floridians and thousands of tourists enjoy our state’s award-winning beaches, our wonderful climate and the abundance of parks and other outdoor recreational venues.  The legislation protects the state’s pristine lands while also recognizing the need for the responsible use of water supply programs, public access to water areas, imperiled species habitats and working waterfronts.

“Florida’s pristine environment can be preserved, while also providing reasonable access for the recreational enjoyment of boaters, bird watchers, hunters and other avid outdoorsmen.  The enhanced Florida Forever program will provide for the environmentally-sound use of certain lands to responsibly keep pace with the state’s growing population and economic needs for generations to come.”

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Florida RPPL Coalition Members
American Waterworks Association Association of Florida Community Developers Associated Industries of Florida Ben Hill Griffin, Inc. Boat U.S. Citizens for Florida's Waterways Duda & Sons Florida Agriculture Association Florida Airboat Association Florida Association of Realtors Florida Cattlemen’s Association Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group	Florida Farm Bureau Florida Forestry Association Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association Florida Home Builders Association Florida Marine Contractors Association Marine Industries Association of Florida Marine Industries Association of South Florida Marine Industries Association of Southwest Florida National Marine Manufacturers Association Organized Fishermen of Florida USA Water Ski