In case you have not heard, the University of Florida is proposing to clear-cut an entire forest on its campus, and the Sierra Club Suwannee-St. Johns Group is asking community members to help protect this important ecosystem.

Graham Woods is a 7.5-acre forest home to more than 1,000 trees — including 67 heritage-sized trees — along with 4.2 acres of wetlands, an endangered plant species, and abundant wildlife habitat.

Now is the time to speak up.

Here Are Three Ways You Can Help

1. Sign the petition and share it with your friends, neighbors, and community networks.
2. Email the UF Board of Trustees at ufbot@ufl.edu asking them to stop the destruction of Graham Woods (Project UF-708), and/or request to speak in opposition at one of their upcoming meetings.
3. Submit comments in opposition to permits currently under review by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
   On the project pages, click the “Comments” button on the right-hand side to submit your concerns. There are currently two pending applications:
   • the main SJRWMD application
   • an additional exemption request

Please oppose both applications if you are able, and request to be notified if permits are issued.

Key Concerns About the Project

• Destruction of 4.2 acres of wetlands and approximately 1,000 mature trees, including 67 heritage trees
• Loss of habitat for the endangered Florida Milkvine plant and many other species
• Presence of at least one known archaeological site within the area
• Viable alternatives exist to manage stormwater while preserving natural habitat
• Lack of transparency and limitations on meaningful public participation
• Estimated taxpayer costs exceeding $10 million, plus an additional $455,500 in tree mitigation costs and further wetland mitigation expenses
• UF has already removed more than 150 trees adjacent to the site during recent dormitory demolitions
• Conservation areas like Graham Woods should be protected — not converted into artificial stormwater infrastructure

If you would like to assist the campaign in other ways, including scientific or engineering analysis, public outreach, media support, or social media organizing, please reach out and get involved.

Thank you for caring about Florida’s environment and helping protect Graham Woods for future generations.