DeSantis Administration to Invest $56 Million; Protect 20,000 Acres of FL Land

All throughout the Sunshine State, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) and his administration has designated over $56 million for 20,000 acres for natural conservation. More than 98% of the land is within Florida’s Wildlife Corridor, which is a series of lands that are interworking and are integral to the sustainability of the state’s ecosystem.

“Acquiring lands for conservation and recreation is a top priority for my administration,” said Governor DeSantis. “Conservation of these key properties will forever benefit water quality, rare wildlife habitats and corridor linkages, as well as support Florida’s ever-growing economy.”

Republicans historically have been chastised for their lack of attention to the environment and their intention to put businesses and the economy first, but it appears DeSantis is attempting to acknowledge both Florida’s economy and ecosystem.

“We are grateful to Governor DeSantis and the Cabinet for supporting these acquisitions,” said Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Shawn Hamilton. “These projects will provide protection to imperiled species and connectivity for recreational and wildlife corridors and will support the preservation of Florida’s natural landscapes for future generations. We also appreciate our many agency and community partners who helped to make these projects possible.”

The acquisitions include: 768 acres inside Wolfe Creek in Santa Rosa County, a 376-acre property inside the St. Joe Timberland Florida Forever Project in Franklin County, a massive, almost 12,000-acre conservation inside Horse Creek Ranch in DeSoto and Hardee County, 3,634 and 615 acres within the Kisssimmee-St. Johns River Connector which will “create habitat and hydrological connections in Okeechobee County,” 1,882 acres within the Fisheating Creek Ecosystem Florida Forever Project in Highlands County, and 663 acres included in the Lake Wales Ridge Florida Forever Project in Highlands County.

The protection of these lands will serve as ways to protect endangered species, ensure water quality, and shield Florida’s beauty from human interaction.