News
Conservation Florida’s 2022 Legislative Reception a “Wild” Success!
During the 2022 legislative session, Conservation Florida proudly co-hosted our first legislative reception in the Capitol Building. The special event marked the tremendous achievements of Florida’s conservation community. With our partners, friends, and state leaders, we celebrated Florida’s land conservation past, present, and future. It was a celebration of Wild Florida and the role we all play in its protection.
Conservation Florida co-hosted the Wild Florida Reception in Tallahassee to Celebrate Florida’s Conservation Legacy
Tallahassee, Fla. (March 16, 2022) — It was “Wild Florida Day” in the Florida Capitol Building as Conservation Florida co-hosted the inaugural Capitol celebration. The day was highlighted by our first ever Wild Florida Legislative Reception on the 22nd Floor of the Capitol Building. The special event marked the tremendous achievements of Florida’s conservation community. With our partners, friends, and state leaders, we celebrated Florida’s land conservation past, present, and future. It was a celebration of Wild Florida and the role we all play in its protection.
“We were thrilled to celebrate land conservation together in our state’s Capitol building. To those working to protect our wild places, our native species, our wildlife corridor, our ranches and family farms, our natural heritage — this reception was a celebration of you and your work. Together, we’re keeping Florida, Florida.” – Traci Deen, CEO, Conservation Florida
The evening of celebration and fellowship brought together a diverse community that continues to stand united in support for land conservation in Florida. The room filled with laughter, conversation, and fellowship as nonprofits, fellow land trusts, agency partners both state and federal, artists, change makers, philanthropists, landowners, ranchers, journalists, TV show producers, and state leaders gathered to celebrate land conservation in Florida.
The night highlighted a 2021 legislative success, the landmark, bipartisan passage of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act. The newly enacted law provides a vision for Florida’s future where connected and protected lands support thriving populations of wildlife and provide clean drinking water for Florida’s growing human population. Working together, we have a real chance to fulfill the vision of a wildlife corridor that spans the state.
In addition to our CEO Traci Deen, the crowd of over 200 people heard from Representatives Sam Killebrew and Melony Bell, followed by Mallory Dimmitt, and artist Paul Shultz, with keynote remarks from Secretary Shawn Hamilton, who heads the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Artwork by talented Florida artist Paul Schulz was showcased around the room, delighting those in attendance with images of wild Florida species.
The Wild Florida Reception featured Florida Legacy artwork by Florida Artist, Paul Schulz. Proceeds from Paul's original painted images "Florida Legacy" and "Florida Heritage" benefit Conservation Florida’s work.
The evening concluded with a free public screening of 'Saving the Florida Wildlife Corridor' in the Capitol Courtyard, which was co-hosted by the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, the Path of the Panther, and the Department of Environmental Protection. The film showcases Floridians whose livelihoods depend on a healthy, connected ecosystem, and it offers a glimpse into the Florida Wildlife Corridor (one of America's most unique and complex conservation opportunities), and highlights the need to collaborate to ensure its protection.
Because many of you asked… here it is:
A not-so-surprising hit of the evening was the introduction of Conservation Florida’s signature cocktail.
About Conservation Florida:
Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy working to conserve Florida’s water, wildlife, wild places, and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, wildlife corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has prioritized strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat.
Conservation Florida Relocates Headquarters to Orlando
Conservation Florida has moved its headquarters from Gainesville to Orlando. Its new address is 37 N Orange Avenue, Suite 323, Orlando, Florida 32801.
Conservation Florida’s new, centrally located headquarters will strengthen its statewide impact.
Orlando, Fla. (Feb 18, 2022) — Conservation Florida has moved its headquarters from Gainesville to Orlando. Its new address is 37 N Orange Avenue, Suite 323, Orlando, Florida 32801.
The nonprofit land conservancy has a statewide service area that prioritizes the protection of land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Its new headquarters in downtown Orlando will serve as a hub for its growing team to coordinate land protection, stewardship, educational, and philanthropic activities in support of its mission to protect Florida’s incredible landscapes.
Currently, Conservation Florida has team members in Orlando, Winter Haven, Tallahassee, Gainesville, and along the Treasure Coast. It employs an effective network of staff throughout the state to deliver the greatest impact on behalf of its donors and project partners, which include landowners, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations.
The new headquarters will provide a place to gather with partners, landowners, and supporters to continue shaping the future of land conservation in Florida.
Conservation Florida has been working on connecting key segments of the Florida Wildlife Corridor since its founding in 1999 and is actively leading the charge to protect over 100,000 acres from Pensacola to the Florida Keys.
About Conservation Florida:
Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy working to conserve Florida’s water, wildlife, wild places, and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, wildlife corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has prioritized strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat.
Conservation Florida and Duke Energy Team up to Offer a Free Public Bioblitz Series
A new partnership between Conservation Florida and Duke Energy shines a light on Florida’s native plants and animals in a series of educational, interactive events for Floridians of all ages and backgrounds.
A new partnership between Conservation Florida and Duke Energy shines a light on Florida’s native plants and animals in a series of educational, interactive events for Floridians of all ages and backgrounds.
Orlando, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2022) — Conservation Florida, a nonprofit land conservancy, announced that it has received a donation from Duke Energy to provide three opportunities to discover and document Florida’s diverse wildlife at public preserves and parks around the state.
Conservation Florida’s Bioblitzes are immersive events that offer participants guided tours, hands-on activities, and a chance to explore Florida’s one-of-a-kind natural areas.
These events are intended to be fun, relaxing, and educational for people of all ages and backgrounds. While prior knowledge of Florida’s natural habitats is not required, participants will be asked to observe and help record all the living things they can find in a specific area.
A bioblitz is an important scientific tool of discovery that brings together communities for a common purpose. The data gathered during bioblitz events helps conservationists understand the biodiversity in an area. This knowledge is used to help protect at-risk species, manage the land and other natural resources, and monitor changes over time.
Thanks to Conservation Florida’s annual Bioblitz events, more than 10,500 participants have made 119,610 observations of over 8,000 species. These findings help inform conservation decisions and highlight the importance of land conservation in the preservation of species.
“Conservation Florida’s Bioblitz programming provides Floridians of all ages and backgrounds an opportunity to engage with wild Florida and share their findings. It is creating a larger community around the protection and appreciation of Florida’s extraordinary biodiversity, and we are grateful to Duke Energy for helping us connect even more people to nature,” said Traci Deen, CEO of Conservation Florida.
From its power plants to sites across the whole state, Duke Energy's commitment to land, water and habitat preservation and restoration runs deep in Florida.
Each year, Duke Energy looks for unique opportunities to collaborate with valued organizations, like Conservation Florida, to engage the community in conservation and exploration efforts that have a direct impact on the communities where people live, work, and play.
By sponsoring not just one Bioblitz event, but numerous events across the state, Duke Energy is able to demonstrate to the communities it serves that the company is about so much more than just keeping the energy flowing. Duke Energy is committed to keeping communities safe, clean and vibrant.
“As we move ahead in pursuit of building a cleaner energy future for our state, Duke Energy recognizes the importance of investing in organizations that protect Florida's natural resources,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “By supporting and participating in events like Conservation Florida's Bioblitz, we help to preserve our state's precious landscapes and ensure people of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to learn about and experience the beauty and benefits of nature in Florida."
Conservation Florida began hosting bioblitzes in 2018 to promote greater understanding and appreciation of Florida’s wild places.
Last year, Conservation Florida hosted participants at its D Ranch Preserve in Volusia County, and, in 2020, the organization worked with its partners to take the event online and allow virtual participation from one’s own backyard.
Conservation Florida’s Bioblitz program is empowering families and natural resource experts alike to take an active role in conservation. The program supports the organization’s mission to protect natural and agricultural lands statewide, with a primary focus on saving land within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
Interested in participating?
Unique event dates and locations have been chosen to accommodate attendees travel time and schedules. Register for one, or all, of our free Bioblitz events here:
FAQ:
What’s a bioblitz?
A bioblitz is an immersive research event where participants find, identify, and record all of the plants, animals, microbes, fungi, and other organisms that live within a specified area. You can learn more by watching this short video.
A bioblitz can provide you with a “snapshot” of the biodiversity found in your area. Using bioblitzes to help us understand the biodiversity in an area helps us protect species at risk, manage resources and land used by living things, and monitor climate change and its effects on biodiversity.
Do I have to attend all three events?
No! With three different event dates and unique locations throughout the state we will highlight Florida’s regional biodiversity. You are welcome to attend all three, but you are free to pick the one that works best for you.
Who should attend?
Come one, come all! We have activities throughout the day designed to be fun and informative for everyone! Families, community groups, and people of all ages and abilities are invited to join us. While a smartphone is required to participate in the species cataloging activities, it is not needed to enjoy learning about and experiencing naturally wild Florida.
How much does it cost?
These events are free to attend. We rely on generous gifts from friends and neighbors like you to successfully continue our efforts to save land. Please consider making a donation today!
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. 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 the event that cell service is not available along your route.
Please bring your cameras, binoculars, and cell phones - you won't want to miss the opportunity to observe some of Florida's most amazing species!
How do I record what I see?
We will be using the iNaturalist app, available on your smartphone. This app allows you to record your observations directly to Conservation Florida's bioblitz project and share your findings with others. Please visit the iNaturalist tutorials for more information and join our iNaturalist project. 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 email you periodically as the event date approaches.
About Conservation Florida:
Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy working to conserve Florida’s water, wildlife, wild places, and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, wildlife corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has prioritized strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat.
About Duke Energy
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns a diverse generation mix of natural gas, coal and renewables, providing about 10,200 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 1.9 million customers in a 13,000-square-mile service area.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 7.9 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 51,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,500 people.
Couple’s Conservation Easement Donation Will Protect Land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor
Working together with Conservation Florida, Dan and Marcia Welch are planning to generously donate a 500-acre conservation easement in Polk County.
Working together with Conservation Florida, Dan and Marcia Welch are generously donating a 500-acre conservation easement in Polk County.
Their property fills in a missing piece of the Florida Wildlife Corridor and protects rare habitat on Lake Wales Ridge, a unique geological feature that is one of the oldest natural scrub communities in Florida. From the gregarious Florida scrub-jay to the shy sand skink, the sandy ridge contains so many unique, threatened plant and wildlife species that it has been labeled a global biodiversity hotspot.
Recognizing the necessity and urgency of preserving this special land, the Welches felt compelled to protect it for future generations. “Our family has witnessed the continual loss of our native woodlands. We hope our partnership with Conservation Florida will further our legacy of protecting our wonderful natural landscape,” said Marcia.
Endangered Florida scrub-jays are special for many reasons. They form tight family groups, and young scrub-jays often help raise their siblings. They are also friendly and curious birds that spend their whole lives in Florida. Photo by Chuck Palmer.
Dan and Marcia Welch
Nestled in the middle of Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, the land is home to more than 40 plants and animals found nowhere else on the planet.
Conservation Florida will hold the conservation easement, which will limit development on the land and protect its natural characteristics forever. Its location on Lake Wales Ridge and within Conservation Florida’s H2O: Headwaters to Okeechobee boundary made it an ideal candidate for protection.
On top of everything else, the donation of this land will also close a gap in the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Like filling in missing pieces of a giant land protection puzzle, Conservation Florida and its land protection partners have been working to protect land within the Florida Wildlife Corridor for decades.
“We have witnessed the continual loss of our native woodlands. We hope our partnership with Conservation Florida will further our legacy of protecting our wonderful natural landscape.”
The Welch property, which borders this highway, will provide a safer way for endangered Florida panthers to move between other protected lands. Photo by Adam Bass.
Why Do Landowners Like the Welches Protect Their Land?
When you think back on all the life experiences your land has brought you, it may seem clear to you why it should be protected forever. You may also be aware of the challenges that threaten the integrity of your land. Many landowners are concerned that their family’s home and way of life will disappear.
Donating a conservation easement can permanently safeguard family land while providing income tax and estate tax benefits. In some cases, donating or selling a conservation easement is the means to keeping a family’s agricultural land in production. In others, it provides the peace of mind of knowing the natural resources of the land will be protected as a legacy for future generations.
Eight Potential Benefits for Landowners
Maintain control and ownership of the property.
Keep the land and get paid the appreciated value caused by development pressures.
Ensure the property is protected for future generations.
Obtain favorable estate tax treatment during transfer of the land.
Continue to receive income from the land.
Gain income tax advantages.
Rest easy that the restriction will travel with the property if sold.
Individually structure the conservation easement to meet your meets.
Intrigued by Conservation Easement Donations?
Conservation Florida would love to talk with you about protecting your land. Please contact us at (352) 376-4770 or info@conserveflorida.org to learn more or get started today.
About Conservation Florida:
Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy working to conserve Florida’s water, wildlife, wild places, and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, wildlife corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has prioritized strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat.
Conservation Florida Brings on New Staff to Save More Land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor
Conservation Florida, a nonprofit land conservancy, is expanding its land protection team and its ability to serve more landowners throughout the state of Florida, with a focus on saving natural and agricultural land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
Orlando, Fla. (January 11, 2022) - Conservation Florida, a nonprofit land conservancy, is expanding its land protection team and its ability to serve more landowners throughout the state of Florida, with a focus on saving natural and agricultural land in the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
In 2021, the Florida legislature passed the landmark Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, which recognizes the value of connecting conservation lands to support healthy and sustainable wildlife populations and water resources. Conservation Florida has prioritized land protection within the boundaries of the Florida Wildlife Corridor for over a decade and is rapidly ramping up its pace.
The land conservancy hired Tanja Hall and Luis Tirado to help manage Conservation Florida’s existing portfolio of land protection projects totaling over 100,000 acres and to add to it as the conservancy strategically targets critical lands to protect across the state.
“Tanja and Luis’ skillset will amplify our ability to save land and overall conservation impact,” said Traci Deen, CEO of Conservation Florida. “We’re thrilled to have them join the team as our conservancy doubles down on its strategic land conservation goals.”
Investing in mission-critical employees is a key step to ensuring the protection of Florida’s wild and agricultural lands.
Tanja Hall, the organization’s real estate coordinator, will administer current land protection projects and assist in the acquisition of new projects. Conservation Florida’s statewide land protection projects protect a variety of habitats and rare and endangered species.
Photo by Vince Brown
Tanja graduated from Florida State University and brings years of experience working for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Office of Ecosystem Projects and the Division of State Land's Title and Records Section. As Conservation Florida’s real estate coordinator, she will use her background to coordinate land transactions and manage the administrative process related to saving land.
Tanja grew up as a military child and had the opportunity to explore many different regions of the world, which is where she gets her love of the outdoors and passion for wildlife conservation. Although not originally from Florida, Tanja has resided in Tallahassee for almost 30 years.
Living in the Big Bend area has given Tanja many opportunities to experience the natural beauty and wonder that Florida has to offer. In her spare time, she and her husband love to explore the wonderful state and local parks, trails, and beaches with their three dogs.
“Florida has one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. I'm honored to work for an organization that recognizes the importance of preserving this beautiful state not only for future generations, but also for the future of our diverse landscapes and wildlife,” said Tanja.
Conservation Florida hired Luis Tirado as its Stewardship & GIS Manager to advance its in-house expertise in scientific and strategic analysis of conservation priorities.
This new position will increase the organization’s ability to strategically add land protection projects to its portfolio and manage and monitor its conservation easements and conservation land holdings. Additionally, Luis will oversee mapping, geographic analysis, and the documentation of ecological, physical, agricultural, and historical features of properties the conservancy is working to protect, bringing needed experience and expertise to the land protection team as its portfolio expands.
Luis is a second-generation Floridian with a master’s degree in wildlife, aquatic, and wildlands science and management. He also has a graduate certificate in geographic information science and technology, and is currently finishing up an associate’s degree in programming and analysis.
Luis is interested in the conservation of all of Florida’s native flora and fauna, but has specialized in reptiles and amphibians. He has worked with several imperiled species, including the frosted flatwoods salamander. He enjoys hiking, kayaking, and traveling.
“As a field biologist, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of Florida’s rare and endemic species. Those interactions, coupled with an appreciation for this state’s unique ecosystems, sparked my interest in conserving Florida for generations to come,” said Luis.
The addition of Tanja and Luis to Conservation Florida’s land protection team will increase the organization’s impact on conservation in Florida, especially within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
About Conservation Florida:
Conservation Florida is a statewide accredited land conservancy working to conserve Florida’s water, wildlife, wild places, and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Our conservation projects support Florida’s native plants and wildlife, fresh water, wildlife corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation. Since its founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has prioritized strategic and evidence-based land protection and has saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat.
Ways to Protect Your Land with a Conservation Easement
Since our founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has led the way in strategic and evidence-based land protection. Our vision for the future is large-scale, and we are 100% committed to conservation in the state of Florida – for nature, for people, forever!
Since our founding in 1999, Conservation Florida has led the way in strategic and evidence-based land protection. To date, we have saved over 30,000 acres of critical habitat through acquisition, facilitation, and incubation of conservation projects.
We are working on tens of thousands of acres more. Our vision for the future is large-scale, and we are 100% committed to conservation in the state of Florida – for nature, for people, forever!
The Benefits of Donating a Conservation Easement
You may wish to protect your land by donating a conservation easement to Conservation Florida. Donating a conservation easement allows you to retain ownership of your land while ensuring its protection in perpetuity.
You may also be eligible to receive a tax deduction for the value of the conservation easement.
In cases where a parcel of land meets our conservation objectives and funding is available, Conservation Florida may offer to purchase your conservation easement. Like when donating, you would retain ownership of your land while ensuring it is protected, permanently.
There are additional ways to safeguard your land, such as a bargain of sale for a conservation easement as well as donating land for conservation or with a retained life estate. You can also consider selling your land to a conservation buyer or selling a conservation easement to a governmental agency. Please reach out to us to discuss your land protection options.
It’s As Easy As 1-2-3
Each land protection project is unique, but we’ve outlined the traditional conservation easement process below.
Phase 1: Evaluating
We get to know about you and your land protection goals, followed by a visit to your land to inventory its biological features and current conditions. After an analysis of funding sources, if applicable, we will discuss the monitoring needs and the Land Stewardship Fund. If your project meets our conservation goals and selection criteria, we move forward together.
Phase 2: Drafting
After conducting our due diligence, we will negotiate the terms and work with you to develop a conservation management plan. Once the necessary documentation, examination, and paperwork is completed, the conservation easement will be reviewed by all parties.
Phase 3: Accepting
During this stage, our Land Protection Committee will review the terms and make a recommendation to our Board of Directors. Once the conservation easement is considered, signed by all parties, and recorded in public records, Conservation Florida will request a contribution to our Land Stewardship Fund and sign IRS Form 8283. Finally, we will monitor the easement conditions annually.
Meet Adam Bass
Adam Bass, Director of Conservation.
Adam is our director of conservation and leads our statewide efforts to protect Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes for generations to come. A multigenerational Floridian with practical experience in real estate, agriculture, and art, Adam previously managed a 2,000-acre farm and cattle operation in addition to founding a successful wildlife photography business. Adam also served as a corporal in the Marine Corps with two tours in Iraq.
Interested in Protecting Your Land?
Get started by filling out our land protection form and get started.
adam@conserveflorida.org
(352) 376-4770
Protecting Our Land & Water for Future Generations
It has been an incredible year for land conservation. Read about our ongoing work that your support makes possible. From the Panhandle to the Everglades, we are protecting some of the rarest and most biodiverse places on Earth!
Highlighting Some of Conservation Florida’s Recent Land Protection Projects and Initiatives
The H2O: Headwaters to Okeechobee
The Everglades Headwaters Watershed forms the boundary for H2O, a regional protection initiative in the Florida Everglades that’s all about water.
With your support, Conservation Florida is conserving landscapes that span Orange, Osceola, Lake, Highlands, Glades, St. Lucie, Martin, and Polk counties. All are vital for the long-term protection of Florida’s freshwater supply.
Land protection and water protection are intertwined in Florida’s landscapes. At a time when Florida is facing intense development pressures, ranchlands are sought for conversion into large housing developments and planned communities. As a result, Conservation Florida is working with ranchers to protect water, wildlife, and wildlife corridors. Ranchlands in the Northern Everglades remain a top protection priority within H2O: Headwaters to Okeechobee.
Conservation Florida is protecting thousands of acres in the Northern Everglades. The conservation projects that our efforts are targeting in this region help filter surface water flowing from the north before it reaches Lake Okeechobee. In addition to contributing to the clean-drinking water supply for millions of people, the land provides shelter for many species of neotropical birds during their spring and fall migrations. It is also estimated that more than 50% of all habitat used by panthers in the Northern Everglades is on private lands.
Gissy Springs & Rainbow River Ranch
Located within the Rainbow River Corridor, these two privately owned properties span 4,620 feet of undeveloped shoreline and contain at least 13 springs that flow into the Rainbow River. Overuse, septic waste, and pollution pose serious threats to the health of this river, which is one of the longest spring runs in the world.
Read more about Gissy Springs & Rainbow River Ranch here. Photo by James Steele.
While not open to the public, Gissy Springs is located between Rainbow Springs State Park and State Campground. Once protected, it will connect the current northern and southern parcels of the park. The Rainbow River Ranch is located along the park’s southern boundary.
Conserving these parcels offers a rare opportunity to complete a corridor of protected lands along the beautiful Rainbow River. Further, the project will provide potential restoration of altered habitats along the riverbank to support wildlife and maintain water quality.
Eagle Haven
Read more about Eagle Haven here. Photo by Adam Bass.
Eagle Haven is an ecological gem, spanning 2,909 acres that include four miles of Lake Kissimmee shoreline. Formerly named Lost Oak, this area contains six different habitats for roughly 200 species, including the beloved Florida scrub-jay. Meanwhile, 300-year-old live oaks dot the landscape while Eagle Haven’s swamps and marshes work around the clock to purify water for the Kissimmee River. Conservation Florida is currently seeking donations to acquire a conservation easement and ensure the permanent protection of this critical habitat.
Santa Fe River
Read more here. Photo of Santa Fe River by ACT staff.
Thanks to a generous donation and conservation easement by landowners Dale and Helen Lundgren, Alachua County has gained a new 236-acre preserve held by two land trusts. After years of negotiations, Conservation Florida, Alachua Conservation Trust, and Alachua County have been able to make the Lundgrens’ dream of protecting their cherished family land a reality. This remarkable, pristine habitat in the Upper Santa Fe River basin will be enjoyed as a public preserve by many generations to come.
Lake Marion Preserve
Read more here.
In 2021, an anonymous conservation buyer allowed Conservation Florida to quickly outbid a developer to purchase 700+ acres of high-priority property on Lake Marion in Polk County. The significance of this location cannot be overstated. Lake Marion Preserve falls within the boundaries of Conservation Florida’s H2O: Headwaters to Okeechobee and contains federally listed and state-listed plants and animals, including a rare habitat known as Rosemary Scrub. As habitat management is undertaken on the Preserve, experts predict more listed species will return to the area.
Arbuckle Creek Ranch
Read more here. A cowboy rides out on a foggy morning to tend cattle on Arbuckle Creek Ranch. Photo by Carlton Ward, Jr.
Arbuckle Creek Ranch is important to protect and beneficial to the public because it helps filter and replenish drinking water within the Lake Istokpoga watershed, which drains into the Kissimmee River and on to Lake Okeechobee. It also supports local agriculture, aids military readiness at Avon Park Air Force Range, and provides habitat for native plants and wildlife. At 1,250 acres and with over a mile of creek frontage, Arbuckle Creek contributes to the health of the entire Greater Everglades Ecosystem and adds to the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
XL Ranch Lightsey Cove
Read more here. Photo by Adam Bass.
With exceptional habitat, such as wet prairie, scrub, and cutthroat grass, this 537-acre property is a high protection priority. Located on the northwest edge of Lake Istokpoga, the landscape offers a glimpse of prehistoric Florida with ancient oak hammocks and sand pine scrub scattered among vibrant marshes and endangered grasslands.
AP Ranch
Read more about AP Ranch here.
The protection of AP Ranch will add 1,009 acres of critical conservation land to the Florida Wildlife Corridor. In addition to being a working family ranch, this outstanding property contains a mosaic of natural habitats. Towering longleaf pine covers swaths of wire grass and saw palmettos. The area’s dominating flatwoods intertwine with native grasses and rare plant species to create a classic example of Florida’s natural beauty.
D Ranch Preserve
Once a historic cattle ranch, D Ranch Preserve is now a haven for wildlife. Thanks to a generous donation, Conservation Florida owns the 476-acre preserve in Volusia County and has completed a plan for its future and the restoration of its important native habitats. Restoration is underway, and work has begun to prepare the land for a controlled burn, which will help the native plant communities on the property thrive. In addition, our team is working to remove invasive species, plant native plants, and create trails.
D Ranch Preserve is not open to the public, but Conservation Florida regularly hosts guided tours and public events on the property. To receive special event invitations and to be notified of volunteer opportunities at the preserve, visit our website at conserveflorida.org, and sign up for email updates.
Every drop of water and acre saved helps secure Florida’s Conservation Future.
Your support is vital in the mission to keep Florida wildly beautiful. Help Conservation Florida save our state’s natural habitats by donating today! Call (352) 376-4770 for more information, or email info@conserveflorida.org.
Conservation Efforts Unite All Floridians
We know that the time for land protection is now. As Florida grows 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. We know that both our economy and our health are rooted in our environment. It’s why I am a big believer that conservation is for everyone and unifies us as Floridians.
by Traci Deen, CEO
From the sandhills to the swamps, Floridians don’t always agree, but we do find common ground in the actual land we share. It’s a great love of place. It’s part of our ethos, our Floridian ethic. Conservation connects us, and our love for wild Florida unites us. Some of us are hunters, and some are vegans. Some are steadfast Noles fans, and others mumble “Go Gators” in their sleep. Red or Blue, we have proven it time and again: at the ballots, in our choices, and in our shared heritage — Floridians support conservation.
Photo by Linda Wilinski
We swim, eyes open and breath held, in crisp, turquoise Florida springs or in the waters off our coasts. As schoolchildren, we study the Florida panther as a big cat that still roams our most wild places. We paddle and kayak waterways alongside manatees and dolphins. 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 see our coasts battling the tides of a rising sea, and our estuaries suffering from 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.
A Vision for the Future
We know that the time for land protection is now. As Florida grows 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.
We know that both our economy and our health are rooted in our environment. It’s why I am a big believer that conservation is for everyone and unifies us as Floridians. Don’t believe me? Talk to your neighbors, family, and friends. I’m willing to bet that not one says, “Conservation? Yuck. I hate the environment!”
No, instead, we take pride in our home. In 2014, 75% of Florida voters passed the Florida Water and Land Conservation Initiative, intended to restore funding for land protection, including wetlands and forests, recreational lands, beaches and shores, and working farms and ranches.
In late 2020, three Florida counties resoundingly passed ballot initiatives that would cost voters a little more in taxes per year for one united goal: save more land. Floridians don’t view conservation as a partisan issue, because it’s not.
Conservation is the sensible, deliberate protection of lands that are necessary to keep our state, its people, and its’ wildlife healthy and thriving. Land conservation is a no-brainer. Floridians understand that water is the life blood of our state and that conservation lands protect our life-sustaining and economy-sustaining rivers, lakes, beaches, and aquifers.
The economic benefits of conservation alone make conscientious land acquisition fiscally responsible.
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 thriving agricultural operations, is a double or triple win.
Whether you’re an endangered species advocate or guardian of our strong economy, land conservation is the horse to ride for long-term success.
Photo by Anthony Sleiman
The Time for Action Is Now
Our shared vision accommodates future population growth while striving to protect Florida’s rich, natural heritage. Florida’s land and water should be defended with unyielding boldness, and Florida’s biodiversity cherished. We have work to do to protect Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes — to preserve wild, wonderful Florida.
If you agree with me, and I know in my Floridian heart that an overwhelming majority of you do regardless of your age, gender, race, background, and political beliefs, then join us by making a donation today! Join the team and fund land conservation like the future of Florida depends on it, because it does.
Let’s continue to link arms, Florida, to conserve our common home and our common ground, for the love of Florida, and for her future.
Celebrating a Win for the Florida Wildlife Corridor – and Florida’s Conservation Future
Currently, Conservation Florida is the only Florida land trust working statewide to protect land within the Florida Wildlife Corridor by developing strategies, exploring funding sources and purchasing or accepting donations of land and conservation easements.
From the Florida Panhandle to the Florida Keys, Conservation Florida’s ongoing efforts are successfully shaping our state’s future and preserving some of the rarest habitats and species in the world.
In July 2021, we celebrated a major milestone when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act into law. A vital and vibrant part of Florida’s ecological landscape, the Corridor forms a greenway across the state that connects the Florida Everglades to the Panhandle and encompasses a mosaic of natural habitats.
Florida Wildlife Corridor map by: Archbold Biological Station. By A. Meeks
Currently, Conservation Florida is the only Florida land conservancy working statewide to protect land within the Corridor by developing strategies, exploring funding sources and purchasing or accepting donations of land and conservation easements. “The signing marks a big win for land conservation in Florida and sparks both excitement and inspiration for Florida’s conservation future,” said Traci Deen, Conservation Florida’s CEO.
“The Florida Wildlife Corridor provides a vision for Florida as a whole that protects the places we all love, offers habitat and room to roam for our native species, cleans and stores water, provides ample outdoor recreational opportunity, and supports Florida’s family farms and ranches, all while accounting for Florida’s future growth,” she added.
Conservation Florida has been working on connecting key segments of the Florida Wildlife Corridor since its founding in 1999. Together with its incredible partners and supporters, Conservation Florida is now actively leading the charge to protect over 100,000 acres. We look forward to working with the State of Florida to achieve continued success within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
The Florida Wildlife Corridor Act includes many ambitious conservation goals.
Maintain wildlife access to the habitats for migration and genetic exchange amongst regional wildlife populations.
Prevent fragmentation of wildlife habitats.
Protect the headwaters of major watersheds, including the Everglades and the St. Johns River.
Provide ecological connectivity of lands needed for large-scale ecosystem functions, such as water and prescribed burns that are essential for land management and restoration.
Preserve and protect land and waters that are not only vital to wildlife, but also critical to the state’s groundwater recharge and serve as watersheds that provide drinking water to most Floridians as well as help maintain the health of downstream coastal estuaries.
Provide crossings for the protection and safety of wildlife and the traveling public.
Help to sustain Florida’s working ranches, farms, and forests that provide compatible wildlife habitat while sustaining rural prosperity and agricultural production.
Photo by Larry Richardson.
The scrub-jay and Florida panther, two local protected species. Photo by Adam Bass.
Cowboys on a ranch farm herding cattle. Photo by Adam Bass.
Where the Wild Things Grow
Protecting wild places is our mission, but people and communities will always remain at the heart of what we do. We establish relationships and partnerships based on a reputation of trust, results, and excellence.
by Sarah M. Collins, Director of Philanthropy
Thanks to the support and vision of so many, Conservation Florida is a dynamic driver of land and water conservation in Florida. We who love Florida have a limited window of opportunity to protect the future of our state for the benefit of all—people and wildlife alike.
Protecting wild places is our mission, but people and communities will always remain at the heart of what we do. We establish relationships and partnerships based on a reputation of trust, results, and excellence.
The demand and urgency to protect Florida’s irreplaceable conservation lands is growing and the pace is ramping up, as Florida has become one of the fastest growing states in the nation.
Conservation Florida is focused on meeting these challenges collaboratively and strategically, and we feel a great urgency to increase our efforts. We are leading conservation projects on thousands of acres across Florida – from the Panhandle to the Everglades – protecting wild and working landscapes. Conservation Florida is working diligently on your behalf to save Florida’s natural and agricultural landscapes for future generations.
So, this is it – the last great push for land conservation in our State – and we are on the frontlines. When an incredible land opportunity arises, we have to act fast. We need to show up at the table ready to make a deal. Your donation goes directly toward protecting land that supports native plants and wildlife, fresh water, conservation corridors, family farms and ranches, the economy, and nature-based recreation.
Your support allows us to act swiftly to save more Florida land. Together, let’s give our great-great-grandchildren a gift from us — a future for Florida that’s bright.
Thank you for joining us as we protect the places we cannot afford to lose.
Photo by Sarah M. Collins.
PERSONAL PHILANTHROPY
With your support, through annual giving or a multi-year pledge, you can donate with a credit card online, by mailing a check, or even with a stock transfer.
VOLUNTEERISM
Your team can lend a hand at D Ranch Preserve through meaningful, team-building service, ideal for those who enjoy working outside and leaving a place better than they found it.
CORPORATE GIVING
Corporate commitment, partnership, and financial support not only deepens our land conservation impact, but also provides meaningful marketing, sales, promotional, and philanthropic value.
IRA CHARITABLE ROLLOVER
Taxpayers aged 70 ½ or older can make tax-free gifts up to $100,000 annually from individual retirement accounts to charity, called a “Qualified Charitable Distribution.”
IN-KIND SUPPORT
Your company’s services or products can make a significant difference in our work. From technology, to apparel, to outdoor tools, to food and beverage, your company has an opportunity to provide vital support that helps protect places that are important to people and places across the state.
LEAVE A LEGACY
Planned gifts are deeply personal decisions, and we will walk with you through the process. Options include your 401k, real estate, retirement and savings accounts, and estate planning.
CORPORATE MATCHING
Double or even triple your giving through corporate match opportunities aimed at charitable contributions.
EVENT SPONSORSHIP
Many of our partners support our signature events with a corporate sponsorship, corporate table, or in-kind contributions to have a lasting impact and benefit Floridians for generations to come.
REAL ESTATE
By donating all or part of your home, vacation home, commercial building, or investment property, you may be able to reduce your capital gains tax, receive an income tax deduction, and/or receive an income for life – you may even be able to continue to use or live on the property.
This Brand Saves Land is a corporate cause-marketing partnership that allows businesses to directly impact the quality of life for present and future generations of Floridians. It also directly informs your clients, consumers, or customers that YOUR brand saves land and gives charitably.
DONATE STOCKS + BONDS + MUTUAL FUNDS
By making a gift of appreciated securities, you have the opportunity to avoid capital gains tax, diversify your portfolio, and/or secure a stream of income. Provide your broker with the below information, including your name and contact information.
Broker: Fidelity Management Trust Company
Address: PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, Ohio 45277-0037
Phone: (800) 952-4438 (Fidelity Charitable)
Account Name: Conservation Florida, Inc.
Account Number: Z50688312
DCT Number: 0226
For more information about specific giving opportunities, please contact Sarah.
Sarah M. Collins
Director of Philanthropy
sarah@conserveflorida.org
(352) 376-4770
Champions for Conservation: David and Peggy Carr
David and Peggy Carr have a passion for conservation that runs deep. In fact, David co-founded Conservation Florida, and Peggy was instrumental in creating the Florida Ecological Greenways Network map, which is the science and mapping foundation that makes up the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Conservation Florida caught up with them at their family’s cabin in Micanopy, Florida.
David and Peggy Carr with their furry companions at the historic Carr Cabin in Micanopy.
David and Peggy Carr have a passion for conservation that runs deep. In fact, David co-founded Conservation Florida, and Peggy was instrumental in creating the Florida Ecological Greenways Network map, which is the science and mapping foundation that makes up the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
In addition to being long-time conservationists, David and Peggy Carr are twenty-year owners of Pearl Country Store and Barbecue in Micanopy. David grew up in Micanopy on his family’s farm and has always had a fondness for the community. After the high school sweethearts married, they both went on to graduate school and began their careers, each with a conservation orientation.
David worked as a staff member on the Florida House of Representatives’ Natural Resources Committee, for Florida Defenders of the Environment’s Environmental Service Center, and as the first Executive Director for the Sea Turtle Conservancy (nee Caribbean Conservation Corporation.)
Peggy, a landscape architect, worked for park systems in Florida, North Carolina, and Costa Rica before becoming a professor at the University of Florida. There she worked with colleagues on the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, the Florida Greenways Network, early versions of the Florida Ecological Network and 1000 Friends of Florida’s Florida 2060 and Florida 2070 reports.
They were both heavily influenced by David’s famous parents, Archie and Marjorie Carr. Archie was a charismatic teacher (and a gifted writer and naturalist) bringing his love for and knowledge about nature and people to life through his numerous books. He received many accolades, and on his death, he became the first recipient of the Ecological Society of America’s Eminent Ecologist Award. Marjorie founded Florida Defenders of the Environment, a group of scientists that successfully stopped the Cross Florida Barge Canal.
Conservation Florida staff met with the couple at their family’s historic cabin in Micanopy to learn more about their longstanding support of Conservation Florida’s mission.
WHY DID YOU GIVE?
David: It takes money to run an organization. We hope more land can be protected, and it’s a long, slow process. It’s accomplished in bits and pieces. This parcel, then that parcel. Over time, it starts to come together.
Peggy: Another reason is that Florida is not a lost cause. There have been so many land conservation successes in Florida. We have a framework to build upon. There’s reason to be hopeful.
WHAT ACTION WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO TAKE TO SUPPORT CONSERVATION IN OUR STATE?
Peggy: Give! I would also encourage you to support politicians with a conservation ethic. Vote for ballot initiatives that fund land conservation. And, most importantly, enjoy it! Enjoy all that Florida nature offers.
David: I’d like to share a quote from my father’s book, A Naturalist in Florida: A Celebration of Eden. “In listing some reasons for optimism over the state of nature and man in Florida, one favorable development outweighs all the rest. It is not another species on the mend, or a new park or preserve or sanctuary established. It is rather a change in the heart of the people. … The rise of this new stewardship gives heart to opponents of ecologic ruin everywhere and brings promise of better times for man and nature in Florida.”
David’s parents purchased their historic farm in Micanopy in 1950, where they lived until Archie’s death in 1987. Since, David and his siblings and their offspring continue to take great pleasure in the place, most recently celebrating Thanksgiving there all together.
David and Peggy continue to work to see the farm and its environs permanently protected through Florida Forever and Alachua County Forever.
Feeling inspired by David and Peggy Carr?
Make an Impact with Monthly Donations
Anyone can become a champion for conservation by choosing to make a donation to Conservation Florida. While there are many ways to give, from conservation easements to one-time gifts, donors often find the simplicity of monthly giving to be most ideal. Many, including the Carrs, prefer to make recurring donations each month because it spreads the financial impact of giving across the entire year. It also helps Conservation Florida facilitate better long-term planning and map out future preservation efforts. Any amount makes a difference. Even $5 can support land conservation by purchasing native plants for habitat restoration. For more information about monthly recurring gifts, as well as additional opportunities to give, please contact Sarah Collins at sarah@conserveflorida.org or (352) 376-4770.
Progress at Conservation Florida’s D Ranch Preserve
Once a historic cattle ranch, D Ranch Preserve is now a haven for wildlife. Thanks to a generous donation, Conservation Florida owns the 476-acre preserve in Volusia County and has completed a plan for its future and the restoration of its important native habitats.
Once a historic cattle ranch, D Ranch Preserve is now a haven for wildlife. Thanks to a generous donation, Conservation Florida owns the 476-acre preserve in Volusia County. Learn more about D Ranch Preserve here.
Management Plan Complete
Forever is a mighty long time! That’s why land conservancies like Conservation Florida make management plans for properties that we are responsible for protecting in perpetuity. Making sure our preserves are appropriately taken care of is known as stewardship and “includes working to maintain or improve the ecological processes and functions of the landscape,” according to the Land Trust Alliance.
Conservation Florida’s land protection team developed a plan to restore native habitat at D Ranch Preserve while allowing for limited public use of the land.
The management plan ensures that permitted activities are compatible with the conservation goals, stewardship policies, and mission of Conservation Florida as required for national accreditation by the Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission. The plan outlines the ways in which Conservation Florida will restore D Ranch to its natural state and eventually open it up to the public for hiking, horseback riding, and academic research.
Lillian Dinkins, Conservation Florida’s land protection fellow, helped catalog species, and assess the habitats in need of restoration. Over 60 species of native plants have been documented at D Ranch, including rare pine lilies and orchids. Conservation Florida is restoring critical Florida scrub habitat and scrubby flatwoods for the benefit of many Florida species such as Florida Scrub Jays, sand skinks, eastern indigo snakes, wood storks, and burrowing owls.
Restoration Underway
Work has begun to prepare the land for a controlled burn, which will help the native plant communities on the property thrive. In addition, our team is working to remove invasive species, plant native plants, and create trails.
The property served as a cow/calf operation for decades and protects the Lake Monroe Watershed. Its protection created a connected corridor of conservation lands that will protect wildlife habitat and water feeding into both Lake Monroe and the St. John’s River!
Get Involved
D Ranch Preserve is not open to the public, but we regularly host guided tours and public events on the property. From logging biodiversity at our annual bioblitz to leading bird watching hikes and volunteer clean-up events with partnering organizations, we invite you to join us at D Ranch Preserve soon.
Sign up for our email news alerts to receive invitations to special events and to be notified of volunteer opportunities at the preserve.