Report: Environment gives Florida big economic boost

The tremendous financial benefits Florida receives from its natural habitats and protected conservation lands are documented and compiled in a new report released by The Nature Conservancy.

The report — titled "Economic Benefits of Land Conservation: A Case for Florida Forever" — makes clear the economic rewards of Florida Forever and of the state's commitment to protecting conservation land.

The Florida state park system, for example, had an overall direct economic impact of more than $1 billion on local economies throughout the state, according to fiscal year 2007-2008 data. More than $70 million was contributed to general revenues in the form of state sales taxes and 20,100 jobs were generated as a result of the state parks' operations.

Fishing and hunting accounted for a robust industry of more than $8 billion in 2006 and helped support almost 85,300 jobs. This industry requires healthy freshwater, forest and marine ecosystems to sustain the state's fisheries and wildlife populations.

"By investing in Florida Forever and ensuring that our ecosystems remain healthy and functioning, Florida's policymakers can ensure that future generations inherit the 'life support systems' that are the foundation of Florida's quality of life and economic prosperity," said Jeff Danter, The Nature Conservancy's Florida director. The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. Access the report on the Conservancy's nature.org Web site.

"Tourism, hunting and wildlife viewing generate significant tax revenues and jobs, and connect millions of people to Florida's natural heritage. These activities are a real treasure and a bargain for Florida," said Rob Southwick, of Southwick Associates Inc., a firm that specializes in measuring and analyzing the economics of outdoor recreation. "Florida Forever and other programs are imperative if our kids are to have the same outdoor opportunities we do."

The report documents the values of Florida's natural amenities and will be used to urge the Florida Legislature to fully fund Florida Forever in the 2009 Regular Session of the Legislature, which begins this week.

The Nature Conservancy produced "Economic Benefits of Land Conservation: A Case for Florida Forever" in conjunction with the six other member organizations of the Florida Forever Coalition (www.supportfloridaforever.org) and other experts in the field of conservation economics.