Letter to the Editor: Regarding RV's at Honeymoon Island State Park

The proposal, promoted by Mr. Donald Forgioni, DEP park service director, to create up to 45 camping spots on 17.5 acres, including some for RV’s, at Honeymoon Island State Park, would be a mistake. In fairness, there may be some parks which, by merit of their size, could accommodate a few RV’s. When it comes to state parks the size of Honeymoon Island (2800 acres), the creation of RV staging areas, dumps stations, and the amenities needed to accommodate them would disrupt the ecosystems and wildlife that defines this park.

Despite the financial gains promised, the state of Florida would not be the main beneficiary of this action. Who would benefit from the income from RV camping fees?  Not the state; the private company would, while the state gets a percentage. How generous of them! Will they pay any rental fees to use the parks?

Oh and by the way, Mr. Forgioni, our parks are not a ”brand“; they are a gift from nature to all of Florida. If you want to package and sell something, go into the retail business, because our parks are not for sale.

I urge all concerned citizens to voice their opposition at the public hearing on July 5th.

Ronald Thuemler
Florida Master Naturalist
Tampa