Backup Documents 09/24/2024 Item # 4APROCLAMATION
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 post 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 50'h 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 24'h Day of September 2024.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
CL 4 Jk
CHRIS HALL, CHAIRMAN