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 acquisitions, with a total investment of $27.4 million, include properties under the Florida Forever and Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The move aims to enhance the state’s conservation network, support military readiness through Sentinel Landscapes, and preserve family-owned agricultural operations.
“From day one, my administration has recognized the importance of preserving Florida’s environment for future generations,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “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 stated: “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 approved acquisitions include two conservation easements totaling 10,996 acres within Collier and Hendry counties’ Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor. These areas will improve connectivity between major wildlife refuges such as the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge and provide habitat 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 protecting local water quality in key river watersheds.
Other approvals involve a 2,060-acre easement at Tilton Family Farm in Putnam County—supporting local food production—and a 1,059-acre easement at Siboney Ranch in Okeechobee County that maintains productive farmland bordered by recreational ranches.
Governor DeSantis’ proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026–27 includes recommendations for $115 million toward land conservation initiatives under Florida Forever and $200 million to bolster rural agricultural protections.
