Virginia Key National Monument

(Artist rendering)

Virginia Key National Monument - why not?
That Virginia Key should be part of the National Park system is a matter of not if, but when. And how?

Lloyd Miller, one of the intrepid community activists who saved Biscayne Bay and its islands from the specter of an oil refinery, massive development and overseas causeways in the 1960's, might have asked himself the same questions. But he and others persevered. Today, residents enjoy the beautiful waters of lower Biscayne Bay and the necklace of emerald islands that is known as Biscayne National Park.

Details of the struggles are documented in his book, "Biscayne National Park: It Almost Wasn't," (LEMDOT Publishing). Miller includes this passage from President Lyndon B. Johnson's remarks at the signing of the Biscayne Monument Bill:

..."Biscayne National Park... is a unique treasure. On these islands grow trees that are unknown anywhere else...These are the last remnants of a vast forest which once covered much of Florida. In these waters are rare tropical animals which now will be assured a haven from destruction.

"The Biscayne National Monument...lies immediately south of the city of Miami, and it is within easy reach of millions of the families who live and visit in that area of the world. As our population expands and as our urban areas grow, it is not easy to preserve these untouched areas or to bring them into the public domain--- such as the islands of Biscayne Bay. First of all it take great courage. It takes great vision and it takes great effort and it takes a lot of toughness and a great deal of ability and a knowledge of the public interest and a dedication to it."

Lloyd Miller, Juanita Greene, James Redford and countless others had that dedication. And they succeeded. Will we?

National Park Service Organic Act

“…the fundemental purpose of said parks, monuments, and reservations, which purpose is to convey the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such means will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” August 25, 1916