Reform the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

There’s a reason public confidence in the Commission is dwindling—its members continue to pass policies with major consequences for Florida’s people, wildlife, and ecosystems.

We are only powerless if we choose to stay silent and do nothing. Our voices and actions have the power to create change!

This film is a powerful reminder of why we must stand up and fight against developers and decision-makers who fail to understand Florida’s diverse ecosystems. If we don’t act now, we risk losing what little remains—forever.

As developers exploit every inch of Florida’s landscape for profit, species like the gopher tortoise—and the more than 365 creatures that depend on them—are being pushed toward extinction. But there’s still time to protect them—and in doing so, safeguard our own future.

Watch the film!

Spread the word. Be the change.

 

“And now, development is zeroing in on uplands—once-vast pine forests that stretched across the Southeast. Today, only about 3% of historic longleaf pine forests remain. We’ve already lost 97%, and what’s left is all we have to fight for.”

 

SUPPORT THE FWC REFORM BILL

The FWC Reform Bill (HJR 1625) is already moving through the Florida Legislature, but we need urgent action.

  • Call your representative ASAP and tell them to support the bill.
  • The more calls Rep. Adam Botana receives, the better—his support is critical to getting the bill to a vote.
  • Use and share the graphics below to help mobilize Floridians!

Send an email to Adam Botana or call his office at 850.717.5080

THE ISSUE

We, the undersigned citizens and advocates for Florida’s natural resources, urgently call on state leaders to reform the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Specifically, we demand that FWC commissioners be appointed based on relevant expertise and remain free from conflicts of interest.

The FWC plays a crucial role in protecting Florida’s ecosystems and wildlife—resources that are vital to our economy, environment, and future generations. However, recent events have exposed serious shortcomings in the commission, particularly regarding the qualifications of its appointed members and the presence of conflicts of interest.

To effectively carry out its mission, the FWC must be led by individuals with a solid background in ecological science, wildlife management, and conservation. Without such expertise, commissioners risk making decisions that could harm Florida’s delicate natural balance.

Moreover, conflicts of interest within the commission erode public trust and threaten the integrity of its decision-making. Commissioners must be free from affiliations or financial interests that could compromise their ability to prioritize the long-term health of Florida’s ecosystems.

We call on the Governor of Florida and the Florida Legislature to take immediate action by:

  • Establishing clear, transparent qualifications for FWC commissioners.
  • Implementing strict safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest.
  • Ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and accountable appointment process.

By enacting these reforms, we can strengthen the FWC’s ability to fulfill its mission—safeguarding Florida’s natural heritage for generations to come.

 

SIGN THE PETITION

Follow @fwc_commissioners to see daily updates !