Florida State Park feeding frenzy

This question just blew me away. Florida doesn't make any money off the "interest" from your credit card reservation. Check with ReserveAMerican to find out more about that. Does anybody realize what Florida State Parks have been going through for the past few years? The Governor wants to them to not only be self-supporting but also to make money for the General Fund. He visualizes "resorts" and/or leasing of park lands for agriculture and/or industry. The long time head of the park system (who came up from ranks as a Ranger), was suddenly demoted before Christmas. A former accountant for DEP was appointed in his place but she abruptly resigned last week. The starting salary for a park ranger is less than $25,000 per year and they have not had a raise in nearly 10 years. The parks operate on the dedication of their staff and volunteers, lots of volunteers. They have managed to dodge the "resort" bullet through the support of local communities and conservation advocacy groups. If you like Florida State Parks please do no fail to complete the surveys available at every park. lizzie