Why did the State have to build an immigrant detention facility (aka Alligator Alcatraz) in the Big Cypress National Preserve, which is a unique ecosystem in the Everglades? The LWV Environmental Affairs Committee has been asking this question since construction of the detention center was first announced in late June. Last week, US District Judge Kathleen Williams asked the same question.
The Environmental Affairs Committee’s (EAC) mission includes the important work of supporting the restoration of the Everglades. Members of the EAC have been actively involved in the Everglades Coalition for two decades. The committee is very concerned about the environmental impact of the detention center on the delicate Everglades ecosystem.
The Everglades detention facility has been built at the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport which is located in Collier County but was deeded to Miami-Dade County in the 1960s to use as a jetport. The Big Cypress National Preserve borders Everglades National Park. It’s an important watershed for the park and the Miami aquifer. The jetport plan was abandoned because the environmental impact assessment by the US Geological Service, conducted at that time, concluded that the development would destroy the south Florida ecosystem and the Everglades National Park.
The EAC is concerned about the location and operation of this Center for numerous reasons. The area is home to two local native American tribes and the facility has been built on their sacred lands. Since 2019, the state and federal governments have spent $10 Billion to implement the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project in this area.
The Big Cypress Nature Preserve is populated by endangered species including our state animal, the panther, the bonneted bat, countless wading birds, and other unique wildlife. The area is officially recognized and designated as a Dark Skies location; one of the best places to see the Milky Way. The industrial level lighting that has been installed surrounding the camp can be seen for 18 miles in all directions; most of the wild inhabitants move around at night to feed.
Friends of the Everglades, and The Center for Biological Diversity, on June 27, 2025, sued the Federal and State government because the plan has not had an environmental review as required by federal law. Arguments were heard last week and a decision is expected soon.
On July 25,2025, our partner, WGCU, aired a very informative report on the detention center which is available on YouTube.
Please note, this report is being provided for the education of our members. The Florida League of Women Voters and the Collier League of Women Voters have not taken on position on this issue. Members of our League are encouraged to contact elected officials as individuals to express your concerns. The EAC is following developments closely and welcomes your questions.