Despite the continuing federal government shutdown, officials from Florida have been showcasing that state parks and facilities remain open across the Sunshine State.
On Wednesday, Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner noted that museums, libraries and other facilities under his departments umbrella remain open.
While politicians in Washington, D.C., sort out the budget crisis, the Florida Department of State employees continue to offer quality customer care to the public at our facilities, said Detzner before pointing to attractions in Tallahassee. The Florida State Library, State Archives, Mission San Luis and the Museum of Florida History remain open. If you have not visited these locations before or recently, I invite you to do so. Offering both historical and cultural learning experiences, there is something for every Floridian and visitor to enjoy.
Detzner was not the only state official reminding Floridians and guests to the Sunshine State that some public facilities remain open despite the continued federal government shutdown. On Tuesday, the Florida Park Service stressed that state parks across the Sunshine State remain open.
"While the national parks are being shut down because of instability in Washington, Florida's award-winning parks, greenways and trails are available for all to enjoy," said DEP Secretary Herschel Vinyard on Tuesday. "Because of Governor Scott's leadership in Florida, DEP's Florida Park Service welcomes all residents and visitors."
There are 161 state parks and 10 state trails in Florida, covering almost 800,000 acres and covering 100 miles of beaches.
Also on Tuesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminded hunters, fishers, hikers, campers and others that the federal shutdown could change their plans.
The federal government shutdown may impact peoples outdoor recreation plans in Florida if they are destined for federal parks and wildlife refuges, the FWC noted in a message sent out on Tuesday. The shutdown may close hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing on federal refuges, preserves and federal parks. Boat ramps may also be closed, which impacts access to common areas shared between the U.S. government and Florida. Closures may include visitor centers and gates on all access points.To be sure, consult federal park websites.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)-managed lands will remain open, the FWC added. FWC officers will still be on duty throughout the state, and the FWCs Wildlife Hotline Alert is always available at 888-404-3922.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinDerbySSN.
