Conservation Florida Welcomes New Board Members

As Conservation Florida celebrates its 20th anniversary year, we are excited to welcome four new members to our board of directors — Neil Asma, Adam Strang Bass, Mike Forrester, and Margaret Hankison Spontak.

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Neil Asma 

Neil is a third generation Floridian from Winter Garden, where his family was once involved in the citrus industry. Neil received a B.A. in English from Washington & Lee University and a master’s degree in business administration from Rollins College. He’s now the vice president of Toole’s Ace Hardware, managing 10 local stores and serving as vice president of the Central Florida Ace Dealer’s organization. 

Neil learned to love nature, backpacking, and camping with the Boy Scouts of America, reaching the rank of Eagle Scout. He enjoys hiking and hopes to hike the entire Florida Trail. He spends summers on the waterways of Chassahowitzka and wishes to pass his love of Florida’s nature down to his daughter. 

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Mike Forrester 

Mike was born in Orlando and grew up in Osceola County. His great-grandfather was a steamboat captain on the Kissimmee River in the late 1800's. His grandfather introduced him to the history of Florida, while he and his dad visited many of the natural wonders of the state. Professionally, Mike was hired by Amtrak to work on its Florida service trains, eventually supervising their operation. Mike left Amtrak in 1995 to start a video production company, moving to Atlanta as a contractor and tropical system cameraman for CNN and The Weather Channel for the next decade.

During this time, Mike’s company opened a television studio which provided live shot capabilities, a green screen studio, editing suites and production services for National Geographic, Bloomberg, CNBC, Discovery and other network and corporate clients. In 2015, Mike sold his Atlanta company so he and his family could return to Florida. In 2017, he opened Orlando Corporate Media. 

Returning to Central Florida has allowed Mike the opportunity to reconnect with his roots. He enjoys visiting parks, refuges, and preserves and has become endeared to the Florida Scrub-Jay. His concern for the loss of Florida's wildlife corridors and natural habitats led him to Conservation Florida, which he supports through advocacy and financial contributions. Mike also serves as board vice president of the Central Florida Railway Historical Society, which preserves the history of railroading in the region and volunteers with the Osceola County Historical Society, filming the oral history of longtime residents. 

Mike, his wife, Jeanine, and 13-year-old daughter, Siena, reside in Winter Garden. 

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Margaret Hankinson Spontak 

Margaret most recently managed philanthropy for the Duke Energy Foundation. The Foundation awards approximately $3 million in charitable contributions in Florida. Through the Foundation’s volunteer engagement program, employees have restored scrub habitat, removed exotic plants, cleaned Florida’s waterways and enhanced Florida State Parks. Project Park Power volunteer projects this year included Highlands Hammock State Park and Crystal River Preserve State Park. 

Her past conservation experience includes director of development for Audubon Florida, director of policy and planning for St. Johns River Water Management District, promotions manager for Silver Springs and Weeki Wachee and co-author of Protecting Paradise. Her environmental communications work includes branding and communication for Marion County “Pennies for Parks,” a $20 million county land referendum, and the Silver River Society, the organization that advocated for purchase of lands now comprising Silver River State Park. She has facilitated numerous river planning projects over the years such as the St. Johns River Summit, American Heritage River designation public meetings, St. Mary's River Management Plan and Palatka Water Works design charrette. She is currently facilitating a coalition of 32 organizations focused on the restoration of the Ocklawaha River.

Margaret has a B.S. in communications from Florida State University and a master’s degree in business administration from Nova Southeastern. She is married to Vince Spontak and has a grown son Michael Spontak, who conducted GIS mapping and modeling on panther and bear habitat for the Florida Ecological Greenways Network. 

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Thanks to the addition of our new members, we are starting the year 2020 with an abundance of enthusiasm on our Board of Directors that will further our mission to protect Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes for future generations. Our organization relies on volunteers, such as these passionate board members, to support our work throughout the state. We invite you to donate, volunteer, or join our efforts to protect more of Florida’s special places. Email info@conserveflorida.org to get involved.

Conservation Florida protects 476 acres in Volusia County

Land in Deltona bordering the Lake Monroe Conservation Area is now permanently protected. 

Photo of tarflower (Bejaria racemosa) at D Ranch by CFL team member.

Orlando, Fla., Jan. 15, 2020 — Conservation Florida, a leader in statewide conservation, announced today that it now owns 476 acres in Volusia County thanks to a generous donation by D Ranch, Ltd.  

Located in Deltona and just miles from downtown Sanford, the area is under immense development pressure. D Ranch, Ltd. chose to protect the property by working with Conservation Florida to see it preserved.  A spokesperson for D Ranch Ltd. expressed “appreciation for Conservation Florida undertaking the preservation of not only ecosystems but some of Florida’s cultural heritage in the process.” 

Conservation Florida prioritizes conservation projects that provide habitat for the survival of Florida’s iconic species, recharge drinking water or benefit other hydrologic functions, offer outdoor recreation, or benefit the community — protecting this property does all of the above.  

The D Ranch Preserve, formerly known as D Ranch, served as a ranch and cow/calf operation for decades. The property is located across the street from the Beck Ranch Park on Reed Ellis Road and SR-415. It also borders the 7,487-acre Lake Monroe Conservation Area, which is managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District. 

Conservation Florida will consider opening the property for passive public uses, such as hiking, horseback riding, and academic research. 

In addition to buffering public conservation lands, the D Ranch Preserve further protects the Lake Monroe watershed. More, a freshwater stream on the preserve flows through Lake Monroe Conservation Area wetlands and into Lake Bethel, which feeds both Lake Monroe and the St. John’s River.  

The preserve contains 149 acres of critical Florida scrub habitat and 60 acres of scrubby flatwoods. Many Florida species require this habitat for their survival, including Florida Scrub-Jays, sand skinks, eastern indigo snakes, wood storks, burrowing owls, and Florida black bears.  

To date, the Conservation Florida team has identified 43 species of native plants and spotted an American river otter swimming on-site.  

“This property is what conservation is all about, and we’re grateful to D Ranch, Ltd. for wanting to see it protected for future generations of Floridians,” said Traci Deen, Conservation Florida’s executive director and CEO. “This property, located in an area under serious development pressure, protects rare ecosystems, provides habitat for Florida’s wildlife, builds on current conservation areas, and helps protect Florida’s freshwater. We’re so proud to preserve this property and hope that one day Floridians will be able to come out and experience it firsthand.” 

Conservation Florida will consider a cattle grazing lease on certain portions of the land to serve as a near-term management tool of the improved pasture areas. However, the organization plans to restore the property to a natural state as part of a long-term management plan for the preserve. 

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About Conservation Florida 

Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy with a mission to save Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes for future generations. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, conservation corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy and nature-based recreation. Since our founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has led the way in strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat through acquisition, facilitation and incubation of conservation projects.   

We save land by developing conservation strategies, exploring funding sources and purchasing or accepting donations of land and conservation easements. Our other services include providing expertise to guide landowners through the land protection process, serving as a trusted community partner to support statewide land conservation and promoting land conservation through effective education and advocacy. Our vision is large-scale, and we are 100% committed to conservation in the state of Florida – for nature, for people, forever! 

Thank you for 20 amazing years of land protection!

Happy anniversary, friends!

As Conservation Florida turns 20, please join us in honoring everyone who has supported this organization and its important mission over the last two decades. Thank you to all our past, present, and future partners, board members, advisory board members, staff, volunteers, and donors!

Conservation Florida started with the bold vision of our passionate founder. David Carr saw the need for a statewide land conservation group and took it upon himself to start one. Like so many good ideas, his vision took shape during discussions among friends around a kitchen table.

At the turn of the millennium, our founders gathered in the small town of Micanopy to launch a new nonprofit dedicated to protecting Florida’s magnificent landscapes, rural farmlands, and life-sustaining ecosystems for future generations.

Florida’s conservation future is uncertain, but in the face of what may seem like impossible challenges, we see opportunities. This milestone anniversary brings with it new energy to make the last great push for meaningful and lasting conservation in Florida.

You are a part of our success. You are part of our conservation community, and you are cordially invited to join us in celebrating Conservation Florida’s 20th anniversary!

Florida’s Nature Coast is a glimpse into our natural past. Photo by Greg Anderson.

Saving land to protect water

With your support, Conservation Florida is working to conserve landscapes that will provide long-term protection for Florida’s Springs. Below, we share two examples of how your support is saving land to protect water.

Manatees in a clear Florida spring. Photo by Mac Stone.

A diver explores Meeting House, a cavern located in the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone. Photo by Andreas Hagberg.

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Wakulla Springs

Because of you, Wakulla Caves is now a part of the Wakulla Springs State Park.

Wakulla Caves forms a critical link between other protected lands in the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone.

Wakulla Caves has been a high priority on the State’s land protection list for over two decades. Thanks to you, strong partnerships, a generous landowner, and funding from Florida Forever and the U.S. Forest Legacy Program, this special property will now be protected forever.

Conservation Florida successfully negotiated the acquisition, secured a purchase agreement, worked with partners to obtain funding, and advocated for its protection before the Florida Cabinet. In July, Cabinet members voted unanimously to approve funding to complete the purchase. On November 22, the property became permanently protected!

The 717-acre property is essential to the health of Wakulla Springs. It has at least 13 karst sinks, which store water and feed the springs. Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. In addition to providing essential water quality benefits to Wakulla Springs and the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve along St. Mark’s shores in the Apalachee Bay, the sinks provide entry into a vast underground cave and tunnel network that has long been a destination for cave divers. The site also harbors several rare animals, including three crustaceans that live in the aquatic caves, and a historic cemetery.

Our work in the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone isn’t done! Other parcels are vulnerable to development. Your support enables us to continue our work to protect land above the underground conduits that are essential to the long-term preservation of Wakulla Springs.

“After more than 20 years of working with state agencies, Conservation Florida brought a renewed sense of optimism and understanding to negotiations that finally resulted in a deal. I couldn’t be happier for the legacy of my family than to have the amazing water resources of this property in public ownership.”

— John Ferrell

Silver Springs

Your sustained support is making a big difference for this Florida gem.

With your help over the last five years, Conservation Florida has successfully built a land protection buffer zone for Silver Springs in Marion County. Our latest project is located within the Heather Island/Ocklawaha River Florida Forever Project boundary.

Your ongoing support makes this type of multi-year, multi-phase project possible. This is your support in action!

Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area

Your 2015 Conservation Success

Your support helped us lead efforts to protect the 4,900-acre Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area. To save Silver Springs Forest, we entered into a contract with Rayonier and coordinated with the St. Johns River Water Management District to buy the property. We then raised $488,000 to close a funding gap, save the land, and leverage $11 million in state and federal funds for the purchase. Funding partners included the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Forest Legacy Program, the Felburn Foundation, the Moskovitz Foundation, and individual donors like you.

Silver Springs Sandhill

Your 2017 Conservation Success

Thanks again to you, Conservation Florida facilitated its second project within the Silver Springs Protection Zone. Known as Silver Springs Sandhill, the 365-acre property was bought by the state with funding from the Florida Forever program, and it is being managed by Marion County Parks and Recreation. Conservation Florida conducted the negotiations and signed a purchase option with multiple owners of the property, which was slated to be developed with 1600 housing units. 

Rainey Pasture is a critical link in Conservation Florida’s Silver Springs Protection Zone project.

Rainey Pasture

Your Support in Action Now

Your ongoing support is helping us close in on the protection of Rainey Pasture. This is the most important “missing piece” in Conservation Florida’s Silver Springs Protection Zone plan. Once protected, a continuous link will be formed between the Indian Lake State Forest, Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area, the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, Silver Springs State Park, and the Ocala National Forest! See illustration 4 on the opposite page.

Protection of this 5,200-acre property will also provide a buffer from development on the west side of the Ocklawaha River. Our partners include the Florida DEP, the Florida Forest Service, and the U.S. Forest Legacy Program.

Conservation Florida’s 2019 Bioblitz: A perfect day for citizen science

Love for Florida’s environment and curiosity about our natural world brought dozens of people — children, families, scientists, teachers, and college students — to Rock Springs Run State Reserve on Oct. 12 to take part in Conservation Florida’s annual bioblitz.

Participants ranged in age from 18-months to 85-years old. They traveled from places as far away as High Springs and Palm Beach Gardens to explore the Reserve, which is a 14,000-acre wild area approximately 30 miles north of Orlando.

The Reserve provides a critical connection between the Wekiwa Springs State Park and the Seminole State Forest. Together, these protected lands form the southernmost boundary of the Wekiva to Ocala Corridor.

Leading the Way

Participants of Conservation Florida’s 2019 Bioblitz scan the horizon for signs of wildlife.

Birders Robert Emond and Gigi DelPizzo kicked off the morning by leading participants on a search for birds. No one spotted the beloved and endangered Florida Scrub-Jay, but volunteer conservationists documented red tail hawks, vultures, cardinals, yellow warblers, and three kinds of woodpeckers!

Scanning the skies and searching the forest floor, participants ventured into the woods with herpetologist Dr. Marc Behrendt, to look for frogs, snakes, turtles, and other reptiles and amphibians.

Next, plant expert Allegra Buyer led participants through the pine flatwoods to look for and document numerous plant species including wire grass, hairy indigo, goldenrod, shiny blueberry, longleaf pine, and loblolly bay.

Our last tour was led by biologist Jess Rodriguez. She shared her experience in imperiled species conservation and management during the final hike of the day.

Making Science Fun and Accessible

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As early as 2007, people have volunteered their time to take part in bioblitzes across the world. National Geographic defines a bioblitz as “an event that focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a specific area over a short period of time.”

Bioblitzes, whether in small communities or in large preserves, have become a popular and easy way to engage in citizen science — a way for anybody to interact with nature, get outside, and observe the precious biodiversity we strive to protect with each of our land protection projects.

Learn how to host a bioblitz in your community or school, by visiting nationalgeographic.org/projects/bioblitz. Email info@conserveflorida.org to participate in our 2020 bioblitz.

To learn more about the species documented during our Rock Springs Run State Reserve bioblitz event, please check out our project on iNaturalist!

No bigger than a dime, this pinewoods treefrog (Hyla femoralis) blends in well with a weathered post.. Photo by Jessica Modriskey.

Special Thanks

Thank you to the volunteers and everyone who helped make the bioblitz a success!

Volunteer guides, like Allegra Buyer (far right), were on-hand to answer questions about many of the species observed during the bioblitz. Photo by Jessica Modriskey.

Dr. Marc Behrendt

Allegra Buyer

Gigi DelPizzo

Robert Emond

Rebecca Harbour

Connie Modriskey

Leah Norris

Jess Rodriguez

Brian Scheick

For the Love of Florida

Aerial photo of Central Florida’s Everglades Headwaters by Adam Strang Bass.

Article written by Traci Deen

Traci Deen, Conservation Florida’s Executive Director and CEO

We’re Floridians. We swim, eyes open and breath held, in crisp, turquoise Florida springs. As school children, we study the Florida panther as a big cat that still roams our most wild places. We dive off the coast and find coral reef systems bustling. We paddle and kayak waterways alongside the manatee and dolphin. We enjoy an endless variety of recreational activities on the best public lands in the nation. We eat Florida-grown, Florida-raised food. We love it here. Who wouldn’t? This is home, and it’s iconic. It’s Florida.

But we also watch as our coasts battle the tides of a rising sea and as our estuaries experience algal blooms that destroy entire ecosystems. We ache as panther after panther is struck down on our roads. We lament the loss of green space as another piece of paradise is paved, another ranch lost to rooftops, and we see what’s coming: more of us, more roads, more rooftops.

Protecting Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes has never been more important than it is today as we face a growing population, an extraordinary rate of habitat loss and fragmentation, and reduced funding for land conservation.

The Last Great Push for Conservation

Florida is the third-most populous state in the nation, growing by nearly 1,000 newcomers each day. We’re projected to exceed 30 million residents by 2060. With this comes a greater demand for water and the development of rural and natural lands for urban use. How we manage our natural resources over the next 10 to 20 years – what we save and what we pave – will undoubtedly determine Florida’s conservation future, and the future of Florida as a whole.

So, this is it: This is the last great push for land conservation in our State.

Fragmentation & Loss of Habitat

As Florida’s population booms, new roads, housing developments, and shopping centers fragment natural ecosystems. Poorly planned expansion of cities cut off natural wildlife corridors. The importance of maintaining landscape connectivity to ensure the survival of wide-ranging wildlife species, like the black bear and panther, has been documented for nearly 30 years. Yet, there is still no coordinated, statewide effort to protect natural corridors that provide wildlife with access to safe passageways between conservation areas. Instead, we plan for three new toll roads that will slice through some of Florida’s most pristine natural and green spaces and vital wildlife corridors.

Earlier this year, Florida’s lawmakers passed a bill that begins the planning process for the toll roads that are intended for mostly rural, natural areas. Conservation Florida’s position is this: our state’s transportation infrastructure is important, but so is our state’s green infrastructure. Far too often it is overlooked and at great risk of being decimated if we don’t think and plan judiciously. As we contemplate growth and development, the protection of wildlife corridors and vulnerable natural systems must be contemporaneously addressed and designed.

Reduced Funding for Land Conservation

Florida was once a bold leader in land conservation. Created in 1999 under Governor Jeb Bush, our state “Florida Forever” land acquisition program was funded at about $300 million a year for a decade. In 2009, funding was slashed, and it has languished ever since.

In 2014, 75% of Florida voters passed the Florida Water and Land Conservation Initiative, commonly called “Amendment 1.” That was a moment to celebrate, for certain, as is our five-year anniversary of its passing—but there is significant work to be done. Intended to restore funding for land protection, including wetlands and forests, recreational lands, beaches and shores, and working farms and ranches, voters overwhelmingly approved the constitutional amendment that would divert 33% of revenue from a tax on real estate documentary stamps to the Land Acquisition Trust Fund (LATF).

Today, the LATF could be used to restore funding to historically successful land conservation programs like Florida Forever, the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, and Florida Communities Trust. However, despite public demand, adequate, meaningful, and consistent funding for critical land protection programs remains unseen.

We can do better. We must.

Photo of ferns and cypress trees at the Headwaters of the Everglades in Central Florida by Adam Strang Bass.

Conservation Florida will be your partner as we protect critical lands, advocate for meaningful and consistent conservation funding, and serve as a steady voice for the long-term prioritization of Florida’s wild and working landscapes.

Finding Common Ground

There is hope, however. From the sandhills to the swamps, Floridians don’t always agree, but leave it to Floridians to find our common ground in the actual land we share. 

Conservation connects us. It’s part of our ethos, our Floridian ethic. In it, there is hope for Florida’s conservation future.

Conservation promotes the sensible, deliberate protection of lands that are necessary to keep our state, its people, and its wildlife healthy and thriving. And we tend to agree on it. Land conservation is a no-brainer, and Floridians just get it.

Conservation lands protect our life-sustaining and economy-sustaining water, and water is the lifeblood of our State. The economic benefits of conservation alone make conscientious land acquisition fiscally responsible. Responsible before we even consider the economic benefits of clean water and air, for example, that conserved lands provide. Land conservation deals in forever—and forever protects the future generations of Floridians.

Land conservation is a tool that, if used well, can also keep Florida’s family farms and ranches in business while simultaneously protecting the conservation value of the land. Maintaining green landscapes, wildlife corridors, and open space, while safeguarding food security and the rural communities that are dependent on the economic viability of agricultural operations is a double, or triple win. Imagine a ranching operation, thousands of open, beautiful Florida acres—and then imagine that land being protected from pavement forever while also continuing to produce. Conservation is the way!

You Make a Difference

Conservation Florida has permanently conserved over 25,000 acres of land over the last 20 years. But we must do more, and soon.

We know that Florida’s land and water should be defended with unyielding boldness and Florida’s biodiversity cherished. We’re working for and with you to protect Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes—to preserve wild, wonderful Florida.

I invite you to join us as we continue to make strides toward our conservation goals, for the love of Florida, and for her future.

Support our work with a meaningful gift, volunteer as we explore and document wild Florida, or call your state lawmakers and tell them that conservation matters to you—just know that we will be here alongside you as together, we save land, for nature, for people, forever.

Every Gift Has a Story. What’s yours?

Why KC & Marybeth give to Conservation Florida

I am a native Floridian, and I have seen a lot of changes in my state over the last 67 years. As the population has swelled from 3 million to over 20 million, I have gained a greater appreciation for our magnificent and wonderful native species. I admire our wildlife from the perspective of a wildlife veterinarian, a founder and former director of a wildlife rescue group, and an outdoorsman and fisherman. Florida’s environment, natural beauty, and natural resources are in peril, and it is important that we conserve and protect them.

Article by KC Nayfiled.

As soon as we had the means to do so, my wife Marybeth and I wanted to invest in land conservation. We considered our purchase of a 136-acre tract just north of White Springs to be an investment in our values – an investment in Florida’s future. We named our property Nayfield Acres and worked with Conservation Florida to place a conservation easement on the land.

Now, a decade later, I am a proud member of Conservation Florida’s board of directors. I see firsthand the good work that this organization is doing and the integrity and passion of its staff and my fellow board members.

I ask you to please consider joining me in making an investment in Florida’s conservation future by supporting Conservation Florida. Together, let’s save Florida, for nature, for people, forever.

A Gift is Your Love for Wild Florida in Action

At Conservation Florida, we put your gift to work. You believe land conservation is important enough to invest in, and we take that seriously. Thanks to you, last year we helped two families protect 2,172 acres of ranchlands and wildlife habitat through Florida’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Your generosity turned an investment of $358k into a conservation impact of over $2.2 million dollars. In other words, every gift of $200 protected over an acre of land!

The year before, your giving was leveraged to protect 5,120 acres with a market value of $16,213,000, yielding a whopping 67:1 ROI. You can continue to expect a high return on your investment, as we strive for measurable results that leverage public and private funding sources.

Conservation Florida, your ally in statewide land conservation, has saved over 25,000 acres over the course of its 20-year history.

Please help us keep the momentum going. Think about this: Even with all the growth Florida has had, we still have a chance to create a corridor of protected lands that reaches from the Everglades to the Panhandle. But development is closing in fast.

There are many ways to give. You can make a donation, volunteer with us, or call your state lawmakers to tell them that conservation matters to you — just know that we will be here alongside you as, together, we work to save Florida.

Please chip in right now to save more of the Florida you love!

A gift of $200.00 or more today can protect an acre of land in Florida for generations to come. As you see Florida’s growth all around you, remember, you are the driving force behind the last great push to save land in Florida. For Nature. For People. Forever.

717-Acre Wakulla Caves is officially protected

Conservation Florida and its partners announce the protection of this special 717-acre property near Tallahassee.

Tallahassee, Fla., Nov. 22, 2019 — One of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, Wakulla Spring, gained added protections today thanks to joint efforts by the Florida Forest Service, U.S. Forest Service, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and Conservation Florida. The 717-acre property known as Wakulla Caves is now a part of the Wakulla Springs State Park.

“With the thoughtful stewardship of the Ferrell family, who has owned the parcel since the 1870’s, the tract has remained in a largely natural state and is a perfect complement to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park,” said DEP Division of State Lands Director Callie DeHaven.

“After more than 20 years of working with state agencies, Conservation Florida brought a renewed sense of optimism and understanding to negotiations that finally resulted in a deal,” said owner John Ferrell. “I couldn’t be happier for the legacy of my family than to have the amazing water resources of this property in public ownership.”

Conservation Florida successfully negotiated the acquisition of Wakulla Caves, secured a purchase agreement, worked with partners to obtain funding, advocated for its protection before the Florida Cabinet, and is thrilled to announce its permanent protection.

“This is a big win for Florida and Wakulla Springs,” said Traci Deen, Conservation Florida’s executive director and CEO. “Wakulla Caves is a North Florida gem that protects freshwater resources, offers world-class scuba diving and recreational opportunities, and solidifies a conservation corridor with key habitat for native plants and wildlife. We’re proud to have worked with our partners to protect it.”

The protection of the Wakulla Caves property helps create a landscape-scale conservation corridor between Apalachicola National Forest and Wakulla Springs State Park.

The acquisition of Wakulla Caves is a part of a larger strategy to save land within the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone Florida Forever project.

The total purchase price of the property was $4.2 million, with $2.54 million committed toward its acquisition by the USDA Forest Service through the Forest Legacy Program, which ranked the Wakulla Caves property at #6 in the nation for funding during its 2018 fiscal year. To complete the acquisition, the remaining funds were provided by the State’s Florida Forever program, as approved by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet in July.

“After more than 20 years of working with state agencies, Conservation Florida brought a renewed sense of optimism and understanding to negotiations that finally resulted in a deal. I couldn’t be happier for the legacy of my family than to have the amazing water resources of this property in public ownership.”

— Landowner, John Ferrell

“I am extremely proud of our team and their efforts to secure over $2.5 million to protect the Wakulla Caves property, one of the top ranked projects in the nation,” said Jim Karels, State Forester and Director of the Florida Forest Service. “It is through the Forest Legacy Program and with strong partnerships that we can continue to prioritize the protection of Florida’s unique natural spaces.”

“The Wakulla Caves Forest project is an opportunity for the Forest Legacy Program to help protect an important underground water resource with a unique recreational use of cave diving. There is no other Forest Legacy project quite like this one in the nation,” said Michael Murphy, Forest Legacy Program manager for the Southeast, “and this USDA Forest Service Program conserves over 2.7 million acres of environmentally important forests”.

Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The land supplies essential aquifer recharge benefits to the Wakulla Springs springshed and the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve.

Aerial view of Wakulla Springs courtesy of Friends of Wakulla Springs.

Acquisition of Wakulla Caves protects at least 13 karst sinks found on the property. The sinks provide entry into a vast underground cave and tunnel network accessible only from the Wakulla Caves property, making it a world-class cave diving destination. 

The protection of this property is key to creating a landscape-scale conservation corridor between Apalachicola National Forest and Wakulla Springs State Park. It is located two miles north of Wakulla Springs State Park, and it will significantly benefit the spring headwaters. 

In addition to its rare water features, Wakulla Caves has habitat for species found only in the region, including the Woodville Karst cave crayfish. It is also home to longleaf pine ecosystem species such as the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and Southeastern fox squirrel.   

Divers exploring Meetinghouse Cavern, one of nine karst sinks located on the property. Photo by: Andreas Hagberg

The Woodville Karst cave crayfish are only found in the Wakulla-Leon Sinks Cave System.

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Our work in the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone isn’t done! Other parcels are vulnerable to development. Your support enables us to continue our work to protect land above the underground conduits that are essential to the long-term preservation of Wakulla Springs.

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Check out the video below of Meeting House cavern, which is one of over 13 karst sinks found on the Wakulla Caves property.

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Meet Our Bioblitz Experts 🌱 Spoiler Alert: They're Awesome!

This Saturday, October 12, from 8-1pm! Fun in Florida! Join us for our annual bioblitz for the opportunity to hike with experts, experience wild Florida, and learn about our conservation work.

The early bird gets the *walk*

Join our experts, Robert Emond and Gigi DelPizzo, from 8:30 to 9:30 for an exciting bird walk! On this walk, you will learn about some of Florida’s most interesting birds located in the heart of Rock Springs Run State Reserve. You might even encounter Florida’s only endemic bird, the Florida Scrub-Jay! 

Robert Emond retired from the Air Force in 2013 and turned to birding for his next major challenge.  Robert volunteers with the Lake City and the Cumberland Island Christmas Bird Counts, and just recently volunteered with the 2019 Florida Scrub-Jay Watch. He also helps the North American Butterfly Association Hairstreak Chapter with their Butterfly Counts in Tallahassee and Big Bend.  Robert and his friends set a monthly goal of spotting and identifying 100 birds. He has submitted over 1,100 eBirdchecklists, with a life list of 377 birds across Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and Texas. In September 2019, Birdwatching Magazine published two of Robert’s photos featuring a Loggerhead Shrike and a rare Red-legged Thrush. Robert considers himself an amateur nature photographer, field naturalist, and birder.

Gigi DelPizzo is a Freshwater Fisheries Biologist for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. An avid birder since 2012, she participates in research on Florida Scrub-Jay, North America Breeding Bird Survey, Bluebird Nesting Box surveys, June Challenges, Eagle Watch, Quarterly Bird and Butterfly Surveys in Lake County, numerous Christmas Bird Counts, Hawk Watch Counts, and occasionally helps at the Lake Lotus Bird Banding Station. She enjoys extensive traveling and birding around the United States and abroad.

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Toad-ally terrific herp walk

Explore Rock Springs Run State Reserve from 9:30-10:30, and you might get to see gopher tortoises, Eastern Indigo snakes, or a variety of frogs/toads. Keep an eye out for gopher tortoise burrows, which can provide habitat for over 350 other species!

Dr. Marc Behrendt’s first love is herpetology, which inspired him to move to central Florida in 2017 to become involved with the region’s reptiles and amphibians. Marc is a certified naturalist, a birder, an expert fisherman, and an avid nature photographer. Marc grew up and lived in Ohio, starting off as a medical laboratory scientist before earning his PhD in Curriculum and Instruction. He then began teaching anatomy and physiology at Ohio University, and briefly, teaching entomology at Wilmington College. Never able to acquire his dream job of working with wildlife, Marc was a long-time active volunteer with the Ohio Division of Wildlife (DOW). It was there he began performing frog and wetland breeding bird population surveys, assisting with electroshock fish surveys, teaching in the education programs, and representing the DOW at the Ohio State Fair natural resources area. Presently, Marc is teaching anatomy at Celebration High School. He is a volunteer biologist with Archbold Biological Station, assisting with gopher tortoise research. Marc recently became a volunteer with the Everglades National Park Invasive Species Python Removal program. During his free time, Marc enjoys spending time outdoors, experiencing and learning Florida’s wild side.

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Unbe-leaf-able plant walk

Join our plant expert, Allegra Buyer, from 10:30 to 11:30 on Saturday for a wild plant walk! Venture through Rock Springs Run State Reserve to observe and learn about some of Florida’s most important plant species. Witness the towering sand pine scrub and pine flatwoods that central Florida’s iconic species call home.

Allegra Buyer is a biologist for the Florida Park Service. After graduating from New College of Florida with a degree in biology, she started her career working with invasive plants at Ravine Gardens State Park. From there she worked seasonal jobs in Alaska and Texas, and then came back to Florida for her current position as a biologist in Apopka. She assists with invasive plant removal at 33 parks and trails, and also works on restoration, prescribed fire and listed species management. She recently finished her MS in Ecological Restoration through UF, and loves continuing to learn about and conserving the unique ecology of Florida.

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A *pine* and dandy conservation walk!

Take a walk on the wild side from 11:30-12:30! On this walk, you will learn about Florida’s incredible biodiversity. Experience the habitat that is home to some of Florida’s most loved species, like the Florida black bear!

Jess Rodriguez has worked as a biologist with Florida’s native wildlife and their associated habitats since receiving her Master of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology from the University of Georgia in 2006. Her experience includes, imperiled species conservation and management, habitat management and restoration, human-wildlife conflict management, international wildlife issues, and public outreach and education. Jess started her employment with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in December 2012. Prior to that, she worked as an endangered species biologist on a military installation, managed a small research center in South Africa focusing on ecological studies, and participated on Red-cockaded woodpecker projects throughout the southeast. In her current role as Conservation Biologist for the Northeast region she focuses on imperiled and other locally important species conservation on the FWC Wildlife Management Area system. Whether in the field for work or recreation, Jess is inspired by the diversity of natural communities and the wildlife species that occupy these communities found in wild Florida.

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FAQ:

WHAT'S A BIOBLITZ?

Participants come together to find, count, and identify as many species of plants, animals, microbes, fungi, and other organisms as they can spot!

WHERE IS THIS EVENT TAKING PLACE?

Our bioblitz will be hosted at Rock Springs Run State Reserve in Central Florida.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Everyone! We will have activities throughout the day that are designed to be fun and informative for families, community groups, and people of all ages and abilities. A smartphone is required to participate in the species cataloging activities but not needed to enjoy learning about and experiencing natural Florida.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The event is free, but park entry fees may apply. If you would like to make a donation to Conservation Florida to help support our exciting work to protect natural lands in Florida, we'd love the partnership!

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

Plan as you would for any daylong adventure in the great outdoors. Some of the activities are guided hikes that require a considerable amount of walking on trails that might be difficult to navigate. Some activities occur near the water. You may encounter a variety of wildlife, including: snakes, mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, tortoises, birds, and butterflies. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, bug spray, protective clothing, and water. You will also want to check the weather and download a map to your location ahead of time in case cell service is not available along your route.

HOW DO I RECORD WHAT I SEE?

If you haven't already done so, please download the iNaturalist app to your smartphone. This app allows you to record your observations directly to Conserve Florida's bioblitz project. Please visit the iNaturalist tutorials for more information and join our iNaturalist project here. Select the location where you plan to participate and record your findings on the day of the event! You can also share your experience on social media using #flbioblitz.

WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

We're here for you. Reach out to us at info@conserveflorida.org. We will also call you and email you periodically as the event date approaches.

Cabinet approves Florida Forever funding for Wakulla Caves

The 717-acre property can now move toward closing and becoming an addition to the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park.

Divers exploring Meetinghouse Cavern, one of nine karst sinks located on the property. Photo by: Andreas Hagberg

Tallahassee, Fla., July 25, 2019 — Today, Conservation Florida (CFL), a leader in statewide land conservation, and its partners, received the Cabinet’s approval to fund the Wakulla Caves land and springs protection project.

Thanks to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet in its role as the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, funding will be allocated from the Florida Forever program to complete the purchase of this 717-acre parcel of global significance in Wakulla County. It has been on the state’s land protection list for over 20 years and will now be permanently protected as an addition to the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, located about seven miles south of Tallahassee. 

The total purchase price of the property is $4.2 million, with $2.54 million committed toward its acquisition by the USDA Forest Service through the Forest Legacy Program, which ranked the Wakulla Caves property at #6 in the nation for funding during its 2018 fiscal year.

“The Wakulla Caves Forest project is an opportunity for the Forest Legacy Program to help protect an important underground water resource with a unique recreational use of cave diving. There is no other Forest Legacy project quite like this one in the nation”, said Michael Murphy, Forest Legacy Program manager for the Southeast, “and this USDA Forest Service Program conserves over 2.7 million acres of environmentally important forests”.

Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The land also provides essential aquifer recharge benefits to the Wakulla Springs springshed and the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve.

“DEP is committed to the protection and restoration of Florida’s world-renowned springs,” said Division Director of State Lands Callie DeHaven. “Through science, planning and strong community partnerships, we can preserve this cherished natural resource for future generations.” 

“It’s a privilege to work with DEP, Florida Forest Service, and U.S. Forest Service to protect the Wakulla Caves property and its water resources that have been a priority to protecting Wakulla Springs for many years. There is power in partnership and the protection of Wakulla Caves is a great example of that,” said Traci Deen, CFL’s executive director.   

Acquisition of Wakulla Caves also protects 13 karst sinks located on the property. The sinks provide entry into a vast underground cave and tunnel network accessible only from the Wakulla Caves property, making it a world-class cave diving destination. 

“I am extremely proud of our team and their efforts to secure over $2.5 million to protect the Wakulla Caves property, one of the top ranked projects in the nation,” said Jim Karels, State Forester and Director of the Florida Forest Service. “It is through the Forest Legacy Program and with strong partnerships that we can continue to prioritize the protection of Florida’s unique natural spaces.”

The protection of this property is key to creating a landscape-scale conservation corridor between Apalachicola National Forest and Wakulla Springs State Park. It is located two miles north of Wakulla Springs State Park, and it will significantly benefit the springs’ headwaters. 

The Woodville Karst cave crayfish are only found in the Wakulla-Leon Sinks Cave System.

“This is an incredible win for Florida,” said Deen. “Wakulla Caves is a North Florida gem that protects fresh water resources on top of offering world-class scuba diving and recreational opportunities, and it is located in a conservation corridor with key habitat for native plants and wildlife.” 

In addition to its rare water features, Wakulla Caves contains habitat for species found only in the region, including the Woodville Karst cave crayfish. It is also home to longleaf pine ecosystem species such as the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and Southeastern fox squirrel.   

“After more than 20 years of working with state agencies, Conservation Florida brought a renewed sense of optimism and understanding to negotiations that finally resulted in a deal,” said owner John Ferrell. “I couldn’t be happier for the legacy of my family than to have the amazing water resources of this property in public ownership.”

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Check out the video below of Meeting House cavern, which is one of over 13 karst sinks found on the Wakulla Caves property.

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“After more than 20 years of working with state agencies, Conservation Florida brought a renewed sense of optimism and understanding to negotiations that finally resulted in a deal,” said owner John Ferrell. “I couldn’t be happier for the legacy of my family than to have the amazing water resources of this property in public ownership.”

— Landowner, John Ferrell

Major Progress for Wakulla Caves Protection

We have reached a milestone in our efforts to protect a 717-acre property of global significance in Wakulla County!

Divers exploring Meetinghouse Cavern, one of nine karst sinks located on the property. Photo by: Andreas Hagberg

Conservation Florida is excited to announce that we have reached a milestone in our efforts to protect a 717-acre property of global significance in Wakulla County.

With its partners, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Forest Service, and the U.S. Forest Service, Conservation Florida has made serious progress toward the protection of the property.

We have successfully negotiated with the landowner, John Ferrell, to reach an acceptable purchase price, made an offer, and now have the property under an assignable option contract! With this signed agreement in place between Conservation Florida and the landowner, the project can now advance to the next phase of protection – funding. 

We have already secured a commitment from the U.S. Forest Service through its Forest Legacy program for $2.54 million toward the protection of the “Wakulla Caves” property, ranked #6 nationally for federal fiscal year 2018.

Aerial view of Meetinghouse Cavern.

Next, on July 25, the project will be presented to the Florida Cabinet. The Cabinet will decide whether to accept the contract and fund the acquisition through the state’s Florida Forever land acquisition program. If approved, the option agreement to purchase the property will be assigned to the State for closing. 

Our director, Traci Deen, will have the opportunity speak to the Cabinet during the meeting to further advocate for protection of this incredible project.

If the State opts to acquire the property, it will be managed by DEP’s Division of Recreation and Parks as an addition to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. 

The Wakulla Caves property is located within the Wakulla Springs Protection Zone Florida Forever project boundary. Its protection is key to creating a landscape-scale conservation corridor between Apalachicola National Forest and Wakulla Springs State Park. Because of its location two miles north of the State Park, Wakulla Caves’ protection will also protect the springshed of Wakulla Springs. 

Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The land also provides essential aquifer recharge benefits to the Wakulla Springs springshed and the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve along St. Mark’s shores in the Apalachee Bay.

The Woodville Karst cave crayfish are only found in the Wakulla-Leon Sinks Cave System.

Acquisition of Wakulla Caves by the State via its Florida Forever program would also permanently protect at least 13 karst sinks located on the property. The sinks provide entry into a vast underground cave and tunnel network, making it a world-class cave diving destination. 

In addition to its rare water features, Wakulla Caves contains habitat for species found only in the region, including the Woodville Karst cave crayfish. It is also home to longleaf pine ecosystem species such as the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and Southeastern fox squirrel.   

Conservation Florida working to protect 717 acres near Wakulla Springs

Divers exploring Meetinghouse Cavern, one of karst sinks located on the property. Photo by: Andreas Hagberg

Conservation Florida is actively working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Florida Forest Service, the U.S. Forest Legacy Program, and landowners to acquire 717 acres in the Florida Forever Wakulla Springs Protection Zone. The protection of this property is the last opportunity to create a landscape-scale conservation corridor between Apalachicola National Forest and Wakulla Springs State Park.

The property known as “Wakulla Caves” is located within Wakulla County two miles north of Wakulla Springs State Park and seven miles from Tallahassee. Protection of Wakulla Caves will significantly benefit the springs’ headwaters. Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark and one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The land also provides essential aquifer recharge benefits to the Wakulla Springs springshed and the Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve.

Aerial view of Meetinghouse Cavern.

Acquisition of Wakulla Caves by the State’s Florida Forever program would permanently protect at least 13 karst sinks providing direct access to the Wakulla-Leon Sinks Cave System. Greyhound, Meeting House Cavern, and Ferrell Sink are all located on the property and are considered world class cave diving sites. The vast underground cave and tunnel network accessible from the Wakulla Caves property is of global significance and a truly premiere cave diving destination. The sinks are hundreds of feet deep and connect for miles, attracting cave divers from around the world to experience the magnificence of the system. 

The Woodville Karst cave crayfish are only found in the Wakulla-Leon Sinks Cave System.

In addition to public recreational values, Wakulla Caves contains habitat for species found only in the region, including the Woodville Karst cave crayfish. It is also home to longleaf pine ecosystem species such as the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and Southeastern fox squirrel.    

The protection of the property has additional national significance, ranking 7th in the nation for U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Legacy Program. Conservation Florida submitted the project for U.S. Forest Legacy funding and $2.5 million has been committed toward its acquisition. 

“Conservation Florida is thrilled to work in partnership with the landowners, DEP, the Florida Forest Service, and the U.S. Forest Legacy Program to acquire and protect Wakulla Caves forever,” said Traci Deen, Conservation Florida’s executive director. “This property is a North Florida gem, and we’re proud to be working to preserve it for future generations.”