SWFL.io - Local NewsReporter: Eric Lovelace
•6/26/2026
COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Environmental groups and members of the Miccosukee Tribe gathered across from Alligator Alcatraz following Gov. Ron DeSantis' announcement that the facility will wind down operations.
Opponents of the facility said they remain cautious and will stay focused until everything on-site is removed. They have been fighting against Alligator Alcatraz since it opened last July.
Environmental advocates, the Miccosukee Tribe and protesters lined the shoulders of the road, calling for the facility to be shut down. Their concerns included environmental issues and human rights violations.
During a press conference, DeSantis said Alligator Alcatraz served its purpose. Betty Osceola, a member of the Miccosukee Tribe, said the fight has been long and she remains worried about the tribe's burial grounds near the facility.
"My concern with all seeing all the bulldozers and all the equipment go in is that our ancestors that are out there are sacred sites that are out there have been disturbed. And as soon as we're able to go, I would like to see, you know, my tribe, be able to get out there and make sure that none of these sites were destroyed in all this activity. And that's been one of my concerns all along," Osceola said.
Opponents discussed what should be done with the land after the facility is cleared. They proposed several ideas but emphasized the importance of protecting the land.
DeSantis said winding down the facility will take about two weeks. The site will return to being a pilot training facility.