This legislation, known as the Path to Florida Springs National Park Act, directs the Secretary of the Interior to undertake a comprehensive special resource study. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the suitability and feasibility of designating an approximately 2,800 square-mile area in Central and North Florida as the Florida Springs National Park . This study area, located south of Jacksonville, north of Orlando, and east of Gainesville, encompasses numerous existing protected lands, including national forests, wilderness management areas, conservation areas, and state parks. In conducting the study, the Secretary must assess the area's national significance and consider alternatives for its preservation, protection, and interpretation by various governmental and private entities. The process mandates consultation with interested federal agencies, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Furthermore, the study requires identifying detailed cost estimates for any federal acquisition, development, interpretation, operation, and maintenance associated with the proposed alternatives. A final report detailing the study's results, conclusions, and recommendations must be submitted to Congress within three years of funding availability.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Public Lands and Natural Resources
Path to Florida Springs National Park Act
USA119th CongressHR-4656| House
| Updated: 7/23/2025
This legislation, known as the Path to Florida Springs National Park Act, directs the Secretary of the Interior to undertake a comprehensive special resource study. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the suitability and feasibility of designating an approximately 2,800 square-mile area in Central and North Florida as the Florida Springs National Park . This study area, located south of Jacksonville, north of Orlando, and east of Gainesville, encompasses numerous existing protected lands, including national forests, wilderness management areas, conservation areas, and state parks. In conducting the study, the Secretary must assess the area's national significance and consider alternatives for its preservation, protection, and interpretation by various governmental and private entities. The process mandates consultation with interested federal agencies, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Furthermore, the study requires identifying detailed cost estimates for any federal acquisition, development, interpretation, operation, and maintenance associated with the proposed alternatives. A final report detailing the study's results, conclusions, and recommendations must be submitted to Congress within three years of funding availability.