Agenda 09/24/2024 Item # 4A (Proclamation designating October 11, 2024, as Big Cypress National Preserve Day)PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, on October 11, 1974, Congress passed Public Law 93-440 authorizing the establishment of
Big Cypress National Preserve as a unit of the National Park Service; and
WHEREAS, be it recognized that for fifty years Big Cypress National Preserve has been protecting the
Big Cypress Watershed (critical to the survival of the greater Everglades ecosystem), the
largest forest of dwarf cypress trees in North America, and the largest old-growth South
Florida slash pine in the state; and
WHEREAS, let it be further known that since the inception of the Big Cypress National Preserve,
employees of the National Park Service have dutifully served to protect vital habitat for
state and federal threatened and endangered plants and animal species, including the
Florida panther, the red-cockaded woodpecker, and the ghost orchid; and
WHEREAS, Big Cypress National Preserve provides opportunities for the public to enjoy outdoor
recreation. The Preserve offers adventure, solitude, and dark skies. Ranger-led programs
introduce visitors to the wonders of the natural world, facilitate connections with past and
present cultures, and a chance to inspire stewardship of our Nation’s public lands; and
WHEREAS, Big Cypress National Preserve has become a destination for visitors far and wide
encompassing 729,000 acres, with more than three-quarters of the Preserve lying within
Collier County;
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed that in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of
Big Cypress National Preserve, the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County,
Florida, designates October 11, 2024, as
BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE DAY
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 24th Day of September 2024.
Board of County Commissioners
Collier County, Florida
Chris Hall, Chairman
Page 358 of 4908