Conservation Florida Announces Spring 2025 Public Opening of Volusia County Nature Preserve
All photos & videos by Anna Crocitto
476-acre D Ranch Preserve to offer natural refuge to exponentially growing county
ORLANDO, Fla. (September 10, 2024) — Conservation Florida, a dynamic leader in land conservation, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated public opening of D Ranch Preserve coming Spring 2025.
Located in Volusia County off Reed Ellis Road and SR 415, the preserve spans more than 475 acres of diverse landscapes, offering visitors a chance to connect with the wild beauty of Florida and appreciate native species like the Florida black bear and pine lily.
Volusia County’s population is growing rapidly, with forecasts projecting nearly 700,000 residents by 2070. With this growth comes the risk of increased development and the loss of wildlands critical to climate resiliency. D Ranch Preserve stands as a vital sanctuary, safeguarding essential ecosystems and offering a natural refuge amid the county’s exponential growth.
A Legacy of Conservation
Permanently protected in 2019 by Conservation Florida through a generous donation from an anonymous donor, D Ranch Preserve not only offers the opportunity for residents to connect with native habitats and wildlife but also enhances the quality of life for the surrounding community. Wildlands like these play a crucial role in protecting the region’s water supply, acting as flood barriers and preventing pollution from entering the St. Johns watershed, and improving water quality for all Florida residents.
"We are beyond excited for all of Florida to experience the magic that is D Ranch Preserve,” said Traci Deen, CEO of Conservation Florida. “This vital green space will serve as a safe haven where wildlife can thrive and residents can reconnect with the land. We are proud to offer this natural sanctuary to the public and to contribute to the long-term health and resilience of our communities."
Recreation Opportunities
Once open for recreation, visitors will be granted access to 3.5 miles of trails designed for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The trails are suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all fitness levels and interests and wind through a variety of habitats, including pine flatwoods, wetlands, and oak hammocks.
Maps will be available both online and at the preserve. These maps will guide visitors through the trails, highlighting points of interest, scenic overlooks, and areas rich in wildlife. In addition to the peaceful outdoor experience, visitors will encounter immersive educational opportunities, uncovering the significance of land conservation in the Sunshine State.
A Rich History and a Bright Future
D Ranch Preserve was once a working cattle farm, a testament to Florida’s rich agricultural heritage. Since acquiring the land, Conservation Florida has responsibly stewarded it using methods like prescribed burning and invasive species management, ensuring that the preserve remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
As part of the ongoing preparation for the public opening, Conservation Florida invites community members to participate in volunteer opportunities throughout 2024. These efforts will focus on trail building, habitat enhancement, and other essential tasks to ready the preserve for its debut.
The public opening of D Ranch Preserve is made possible through the generous support of Florida Power & Light Company, through its charitable arm the NextEra Energy Foundation. Their commitment to conservation and community engagement has been instrumental in transforming this former cattle ranch into a haven for wildlife and a cherished public resource.
For more information, contact:
Sarah Shepard, Communications Director
About Conservation Florida
Conservation Florida is an accredited, nonprofit land conservancy dedicated to conserving the Sunshine State’s water, wildlife, wild places, and connecting a functional Florida Wildlife Corridor. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has saved more than 35,000 acres, serving all 67 counties in Florida, by prioritizing strategic and evidence-based land protection, education, and advocacy.
For more information, visit www.conservationfla.org and follow us on social media @conservationflorida.