DeSantis Approves Millions to Protect 62,000 Acres of Florida Farms from Development

Photo from Ron DeSantis' Facebook

In a landmark decision, the Governor and Cabinet approved the largest preservation effort in Florida’s history under the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, safeguarding over 62,000 acres of working farms and ranches. The approval includes $206 million in rural lands protection easements, ensuring these lands remain dedicated to agriculture while contributing to Florida’s economy, food security, and natural resource conservation.

The 13 projects span diverse agricultural operations, including cattle ranches, citrus groves, and timberlands, many located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. These properties are essential to supporting wildlife habitats, water quality, and food production.

Among the highlights:

• Bull Hammock Ranch: A Martin County cattle ranch facing intense development pressure, preserved for $51.1 million.
• Hendrie Ranch: A Highlands County family-run operation for over 65 years, valued at $12.9 million.
• Trailhead Blue Springs: A Levy County pine plantation and cattle operation critical to connecting conservation areas, preserved for $22.3 million.

The initiative adds a 50% boost to the program’s inventory, bringing the total protected acreage to over 196,000 since its creation in 2001.
This effort is part of ongoing state investments in conservation, including the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act and a $300 million appropriation for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program during Commissioner Simpson’s tenure as Senate President.
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For a full list of properties and interactive maps, visit FDACS.gov/RFLPPMap.