Department of Environmental Protection

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) focuses on creating strong community partnerships, safeguarding Florida’s natural resources and enhancing its ecosystems. DEP staff, including biologists, chemists, attorneys, engineers, park rangers, geologists and administrative staff, work daily to protect Florida’s air, water and lands. This includes overseeing and implementing dozens of regulatory, resource management and restoration programs. DEP also manages 174 state parks, trails and historic sites as well as 45 coastal and aquatic areas, which provide world-class recreational opportunities to Floridians and visitors.