The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has purchased 74 acres along Lake Pierce as part of the Catfish Creek Florida Forever Project. This acquisition will expand the Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park and provide new recreational opportunities, such as camping, fishing, hiking, and additional environmental education programs.
DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert stated, “Through Florida Forever, we focus on acquiring properties that deliver the greatest conservation benefit for our state. This addition to Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is exactly the kind of strategic investment that strengthens the Florida Wildlife Corridor and gives residents and visitors the opportunity to experience what makes Florida’s natural landscapes so special.”
The park currently protects more than 8,000 acres of rare habitats and offers six miles of hiking trails. The newly acquired land features over 6,000 feet of lakefront shoreline and existing infrastructure, including The Ridge Environmental Education and Event Center. These resources will help enhance visitor access and expand resource-based recreation.
Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher said, “Every Florida State Park offers something unique, and this new addition makes Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park even more remarkable. The natural lakefront and existing facilities will help us expand recreation and education opportunities while protecting one of Florida’s rarest ecosystems for the millions of people who enjoy our parks each year.”
Florida State Parks have a significant impact on local economies. In the last fiscal year, they attracted more than 28 million visitors, generated over $82 million in revenue, and contributed an estimated $3.6 billion in economic impact statewide.
The property lies within the Florida Wildlife Corridor, supporting long-term habitat conservation for species such as bald eagles, Florida scrub-jays, and gopher tortoises. It also helps protect water quality in the Upper Kissimmee Basin—a crucial headwaters area for regional waterways including Lake Okeechobee.
Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved this acquisition at a previous meeting.
Since 2019, over $1.5 billion has been allocated to the Florida Forever program, with $950 million directed specifically toward the Wildlife Corridor initiative. This funding has allowed DEP to secure more than 390,000 acres for conservation purposes across the state.
For further details about the program visit FloridaForever.org.
