Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet announced the approval of over 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural lands across four areas of the state for a total investment of $27.4 million this week.
Part of the acquisitions also includes the Florida Forever and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, the governor's office added.
“From day one, my administration has recognized the importance of preserving Florida’s environment for future generations,” DeSantis said in a release. “By protecting the right lands in the right places, we’re securing clean water, supporting military readiness, strengthening rural economies, and preserving the natural heritage that makes Florida a world-class destination.”
According to the governor's office, the approval will benefit the state's conservation network, boost military readiness through Sentinel Landscapes, including protecting family-owned agricultural property, and help secure the state's natural and rural environment for years to come.
The land acquisitions include the following:
- Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor in Collier and Henry counties (10,996 acres).
It includes the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve and Dinner Island Wildlife Management Area, and will help support the habitat of the Florida Panther and agricultural operations.
- Coastal Headwaters Longleaf Forest Florida Forever Project in Escambia County (7,437-acres).
The acquisitions will support military installations and preserve water quality and aquifer recharge in the Perdido and Escambia river watersheds.
- Tilton Family Farm Project in Putnam County (2,060-acres)
Family-owned since 1973, the farm produces honey and produce while supporting local food deserts with the surrounding community. Moreover, it includes a cow/calf grazing area, timber stands, and row crops.
- Siboney Ranch Project in Okeechobee County (1,059-acres)
The property also includes a cow/calf operation while preserving agricultural land and rural heritage. It has been family-operated since 2003.
The Florida Cabinet includes Attorney General James Uthmeier, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, and Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson.
“Protecting Florida’s agricultural and conservation lands means keeping it in the hands of the families who work them,” Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said. “I was proud to approve the protection of these lands today alongside the Governor and my fellow Cabinet members. Every acre protected through these programs keeps our state a little more rural – and a lot more Florida – while supporting farmers, ranchers, and conservation efforts statewide.”
