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Florida Ranch Preserved for Wildlife and Water
2 Sep
Summary
- A 660-acre working ranch in Florida's Peace River Valley is now protected.
- The conservation easement ensures agricultural use alongside natural habitats.
- Protection benefits wildlife like Florida panthers and improves water quality.
A 660-acre working ranch in Florida's Peace River Valley has been permanently protected, securing a vital landscape for future generations. The Ludwig property in Hardee County, featuring grasslands, forests, and wetlands, now benefits from a conservation easement.
Owner Keith Ludwig, a first-generation rancher and oceanographic engineer, can continue his cow-calf business while ensuring the land remains safe from development. This conservation effort supports the Florida Wildlife Corridor, aiding species like the Florida panther and indigo snake.
The ranch's location is critical, lying within the Brushy Creek basin and Peace River Watershed. Its waterways connect to the Peace River, Charlotte Harbor, and the Gulf, contributing to improved water quality and reduced regional flooding.
Ludwig's decision highlights how private landowners can significantly contribute to conservation. His efforts aim to encourage other landowners to explore similar programs, demonstrating compatibility between agriculture and land protection.
