Florida Protects 21,500+ Acres of Conservation and Agricultural Land in $27.4M Investment
Florida has taken another major step toward preserving its natural environment and rural heritage. Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet recently approved the protection of more than 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural land, representing a $27.4 million investment through the Florida Forever Program and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.
These strategic land acquisitions are designed to strengthen Florida’s conservation network, safeguard working agricultural lands, support military readiness, and ensure that the state’s natural landscapes remain protected for future generations.
A Strategic Approach to Land Conservation
Florida’s land protection strategy focuses on preserving the right lands in the right places. By prioritizing properties that protect water resources, wildlife corridors, military operations, and rural economies, the state is balancing environmental stewardship with economic and agricultural sustainability.
Governor DeSantis emphasized that protecting land today helps secure clean water, preserve Florida’s natural heritage, and support industries that rely on open and working landscapes.
Key Conservation and Agricultural Projects Approved
The approved projects span multiple regions across Florida and serve a variety of environmental, agricultural, and strategic purposes:
Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor
Two conservation easements totaling 10,996 acres in Collier and Hendry counties will enhance connectivity between the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Dinner Island Wildlife Management Area. These lands provide critical habitat for imperiled species, including the Florida panther, while continuing agricultural operations. The properties are located within both the Florida Wildlife Corridor and an Area of Critical State Concern.
Coastal Headwaters Longleaf Forest Project
A 7,437-acre conservation easement in Escambia County will protect water quality and aquifer recharge within the Perdido and Escambia river watersheds. The project also provides an important buffer for nearby military installations and lies within the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape, supporting national defense readiness alongside environmental conservation.
Tilton Family Farm Project
A 2,060-acre rural lands protection easement in Putnam County will preserve a family-owned farm that has operated since 1973. The property supports livestock, timber, row crops, honey production, and fresh produce distribution, helping address local food deserts while maintaining Florida’s agricultural economy.
Siboney Ranch Project
A 1,059-acre easement in Okeechobee County protects productive ranchland that has been family-owned since 2003. The property supports cattle operations and lies within the Avon Park Air Force Range Sentinel Landscape, balancing agricultural use with military and conservation priorities.
Why This Matters for Florida Communities
Land conservation initiatives like these play a vital role in Florida’s long-term planning and development. Protecting conservation and agricultural lands helps:
Preserve water quality and natural ecosystems
Support family farms and rural economies
Reduce development pressure in environmentally sensitive areas
Maintain compatibility with military training and operations
Stabilize land use planning and zoning frameworks
For property owners, municipalities, and developers, conservation easements and protected lands can also influence future land values, infrastructure planning, and regulatory considerations.
Looking Ahead: Continued Investment in Land Protection
As part of the proposed Floridians First Budget for Fiscal Year 2026–27, Governor DeSantis has recommended:
$115 million for the Florida Forever Program
$200 million for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program
These investments signal Florida’s continued commitment to conserving natural resources while supporting agriculture and responsible growth.
More info here: https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/press/2025/governor-ron-desantis-and-florida-cabinet-approve-strategic-conservation-and?