Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet have approved the protection of more than 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural lands across Florida. The decision involves acquisitions through the Florida Forever and Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, totaling an investment of $27.4 million.
Governor DeSantis stated, “From day one, my administration has recognized the importance of preserving Florida’s environment for future generations. 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.”
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson added, “Protecting Florida’s agricultural and conservation lands means keeping it in the hands of the families who work them. 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.”
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said, “Florida Forever continues to deliver transformative conservation outcomes for our state. The Governor and Cabinet’s ongoing support ensures we can continue safeguarding vital ecosystems, water resources, working lands and the landscapes that define Florida.”
The approvals include two conservation easements covering nearly 11,000 acres within Collier and Hendry counties’ Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor. These areas are expected to improve connectivity between existing wildlife refuges such as the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge and Big Cypress National Preserve while maintaining habitats for endangered species like the Florida panther.
In Escambia County, a 7,437-acre easement within the Coastal Headwaters Longleaf Forest will serve as a buffer for military installations while also helping protect local water quality in key river watersheds.
Additional approvals include a 2,060-acre easement at Tilton Family Farm in Putnam County—supporting local agriculture by producing honey and fresh produce—and a 1,059-acre easement at Siboney Ranch in Okeechobee County that preserves productive ranch land adjacent to recreational properties.
Governor DeSantis has also proposed allocating $115 million to continue funding for land conservation under next year’s budget through programs like Florida Forever as well as $200 million for protecting working agricultural lands.
