Message from Our Director

This Present Moment 

Looking back, looking forward and enjoying the now.  

Time moves fast in the Florida Park Service. We do so many different things from day to day that it’s important to look back, reminding ourselves of all we’ve accomplished and mentally preparing for what lies ahead.  

Some of our proudest moments this year were project completions. In May, with support from the Florida State Parks Foundation, the Fort Mose Historical Society and many others, we cut the ribbon and welcomed visitors to the reconstruction of the historic fort at Fort Mose Historic State Park. In August, the Florida State Parks Foundation helped us secure 25 new e-bikes for park rangers to use in their work, and in October we worked with the Foundation and Stihl to acquire nearly 350 battery-powered tools such as chainsaws, mowers and pressure washers for use across the state.  

Another huge accomplishment for us was the reopening of Stump Pass Beach State Park in September as this was the final park to reopen after last year’s hurricane damage. Also, the refurbishing of the “Fishbowl” Underwater Observatory at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park has just finished—go check it out, it’s like seeing through a new pair of glasses! 

Looking forward, the Florida Park Service always starts the new year with First Day Hikes, and 2026 is no exception. If you don’t have time to reflect during the holidays, a peaceful trail on Jan. 1 is the perfect place to start. You can join a ranger for an organized event, or you can plan your own hike on any trail.  

Personally, I’m looking forward to the Resource Manager of the Year Awards in February, where we recognize employees who excel and inspire in land management, a crucial part of how we take care of Florida’s state parks.  

It’s also important to take time to just enjoy this present moment. We’re fortunate in the Park Service to have nature at hand as a perfect place for both reflection and pure enjoyment. I hope you get the opportunity this holiday season to visit a state park near you and enjoy yourself. Most of Florida’s state parks are open 365 days a year, so feel free to get out there in…the Real Florida.

Happy holidays and see you in the parks, 
Chuck Hatcher, Director
Florida State Parks