Politics
Florida Wildlife Federation honors Gayle Harrell, John Snyder for State Park Preservation Act
The lawmakers championed legislation in response to a short-lived attempt to build golf courses, resorts at some state parks.
The Florida Wildlife Federation (FWF) is recognizing Sen. Gayle Harrell and Rep. John Snyder for their leadership in efforts to protect state lands from inappropriate development.
The two lawmakers have earned the 2025 State Parks Champion Award in Palm Beach in recognition for their leadership on the State Park Preservation Act, which passed the Legislature unanimously last Session and was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis May 22. The FWF honored Harrell and Snyder on on Oct. 21.
The legislation was introduced following public concern over proposed golf courses and “resort-style developments” within nine state parks. The law safeguards 175 Florida state parks against incompatible uses and guarantees public participation in any future management changes.
“This victory reflects what Floridians can achieve when we work together to protect what we love,” FWF President and CEO Sarah Gledhill said in a statement. “Our state parks are part of who we are.”
Snyder, who shepherded the bill through the House, said the legislation protecting parts “transcends politics.”
Floridians… made their voices heard, and together we acted to keep our parks wild,” he said.
Harrell, the bill’s Senate champion, said Florida state parks are “treasures that belong to all of us.”
“I’m proud of how quickly we came together to keep these special places unspoiled and accessible,” she said.
FWF Board Member Bobbie Lindsay and Douglas Buck hosted the reception. While celebrating the victory, Gledhill noted the organization’s advocacy continues as it prepares for the 2026 Legislative Session.
The FWF is a statewide non-profit dedicated to safeguarding Florida’s water, wildlife and wild spaces. Learn more at floridawildlifefederation.org.
