Janet Zimmerman Appointed as First Female Executive Director of the Florida Inland Navigation District
Jupiter, Fla. (March 1, 2024) — The Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) is thrilled to announce the historic appointment of Janet Zimmerman as its new executive director. She is the first woman to hold this prestigious position in the organization’s 97-year history after a unanimous vote by FIND’s board of commissioners. Her tenure commenced on March 1. The prior executive director, Mark Crosley, retired from the district after 25 years of service.
Zimmerman is a distinguished leader, bringing more than 25 years of experience in maritime policy, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure development. She has served in various capacities within the industry, including her recent role as assistant executive director of FIND, a position she has held since 2012. Zimmerman has demonstrated a relentless commitment to enhancing Florida’s waterway systems while prioritizing public access and agency partnerships. One of her outstanding achievements include receiving the prestigious Public Service Award by the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association (FSBPA) in 2023. This accolade recognized her exceptional dedication and contributions toward protecting Florida’s beaches, and promoting effective regional sand management strategies, which are essential for the state’s shoreline conservation and waterway sustainability.
“I am deeply honored to lead the Florida Inland Navigation District as its first female executive director,” said Zimmerman. “Florida’s waterways are an invaluable asset and I am committed to advancing our mission of maintaining and improving these vital resources for the benefit of all Floridians and our environment. Together, along with the talented team at FIND, we will continue to foster partnerships, pursue innovative solutions, and ensure our waterways remain a beacon of excellence.”
Under Zimmerman’s guidance, the Florida Inland Navigation District is poised to embark on a new chapter implementing innovative solutions for the state’s waterway challenges, always with an eye toward environmental stewardship and community benefit. Her vision for FIND focuses on enhancing the navigability, safety, and public access of Florida’s 500 miles of Atlantic inland waterways, which are crucial for the state’s economy, tourism, and coastal resilience.
“Janet embodies the leadership, passion, and expertise necessary to propel FIND forward. Her track record of success, highlighted by her recent Public Service Award, speaks volumes of her dedication and ability to make a significant impact,” said Spencer Crowley, chair of FIND’s board of commissioners. “We are eager to see her lead our efforts to new levels of achievement.”
Janet Zimmerman’s groundbreaking appointment marks a significant milestone in FIND’s history, reflecting the organization’s dedication to leveraging a wide range of perspectives and expertise in fulfilling its mission. Her leadership is expected to not only drive FIND to new successes, but also inspire future generations of maritime and environmental professionals.
For more information about the Florida Inland Navigation District and its initiatives, please visit www.AICW.org.
About the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND)
The Florida Inland Navigation District is a special state taxing district responsible for managing and maintaining the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, a crucial maritime route extending from Miami to the Florida-Georgia border. FIND’s mission is to ensure the waterway’s navigability, safety, and public accessibility for commercial and recreational use, contributing to Florida’s economic growth and coastal resilience.