'I love the park': Kids put a voice to state parks issue

WPTV has been relentless in gathering multiple voices and perspectives from people on all sides of the issue surrounding Jonathan Dickinson State Park and a now retracted proposal to clear a portion of the land for golf courses.

Young people have been among those voicing concern at recent protests.

"I'm scared they'll get ripped away and they won't have a home to find because this is their forever home," said a 7-year-old that WPTV spoke with about wildlife at the park.

"I like to come here with my cousins and see the tower and bike through the trees," a boy named Walter Frisby said.

WPTV

Jemma Namath, 13, was seen holding a sign that read "Save the Ancestors."

"I'm scared that our generation is going to lose the value of nature," Namath said.

Casey Lichtig, 16, made a sign that read "Save God's Creation." She told WPTV she's protesting the changes while thinking about all of the state parks across Florida, but especially Jonathan Dickinson State Park.

WPTV

"I love the park," Lichtig said. "When I do come here, I enjoy it every single time. And I'm so appreciative of the natural beauty here."

Read more of WPTV's coverage of the proposal and protests below:

Let's Hear It

LET'S HEAR IT: Share your thoughts at our issue-driven event about state parks

Matt Papaycik

Let's Hear It

'I love the park': Kids put a voice to state parks issue

Ashley Glass

Region Martin County

Withdraw of the J.D. Park plans potentially saved the status of local rare bird

Mike Trim

Region Martin County

Could Jonathan Dickinson State Park qualify for national park status?

Jon Shainman

Palm Beach County

'Let it be what it is': Tequesta Brewing rallies against state park proposals

Romelo Styles

Region Martin County

Locals say 'neigh' in equestrian protest to Jonathan Dickinson State Park revamp

Michael Hoffman

Region Martin County

Meeting for Jonathan Dickinson State Park plan rescheduled, new venue sought

Scott Sutton

Region Martin County

Giving mountain bikers a voice on state park golf course proposal

Mike Trim

Jensen Beach

This coffee bar is uniquely tied to Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Cassandra Garcia

Region Martin County

'SLAP IN THE FACE': Mast, Harrell, Overdorf call out proposed golf courses

Kate Hussey

Region Martin County

How many people are allowed to attend DEP's Jonathan Dickinson Park meeting?

Samantha Roesler

Region Martin County

'WOULD BE AMAZING': What golfers told WPTV about state park proposal

Todd Wilson

Region Martin County

WE HEARD FROM YOU: Nature lovers push back on golf courses at park

Jon Shainman