This website serves as a compilation of resources to defend against the imminent threat of industrial oil development in Big Cypress National Preserve.
Cypress trees and endangered flora mowed down by oil trucks inside Big Cypress National Preserve. Video obtained by Freedom of Information Act request by NRDC.
View the images below for more details about the potential damaging impacts this oil development could have on Big Cypress.
(Updated October 2022) Based on publicly available records, Burnett Oil Company continues to pursue permits from the National Park Service (NPS), Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP),* the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that would authorize the company to develop two entirely new industrial oil developments within the boundaries of Big Cypress National Preserve. One of their proposed development sites is within eligible wilderness of the National Preserve and the other is within sight of a Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida reservation. A Seminole Tribe of Florida reservation also abuts Big Cypress National Preserve.
*Note regarding FDEP application: this application has been rescinded; Burnett Oil Company indicated they could reapply in the future
