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Largest Florida Forever Easement Safeguards Habitat
28 Sep
Summary
- 61,525 acres protected in Baker and Union counties.
- Permanent habitat connectivity for key species ensured.
- Land remains active working forestland for local economy.
In February 2026, Florida's Department of Environmental Protection finalized the largest conservation easement in the program's 25-year history. This significant agreement permanently protects 61,525 acres of working forestland across Baker and Union counties.
The protected property encompasses vital ecosystems, including forested wetlands, floodplain forests, basin swamps, and headwaters. These features are crucial for maintaining water quality, providing flood protection, and recharging aquifers across three major river basins, especially as regional communities grow.
This conservation easement is within the Florida Wildlife Corridor and ensures permanent habitat connectivity for wide-ranging species. The bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, and eastern indigo snake are among the species benefiting from this initiative.
A key aspect of the agreement is that the land will remain under active forest management. DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert stated this approach strengthens landscape-scale connectivity while simultaneously supporting the local economy.
Florida Forever, a program dedicated to conserving land for environmental, recreational, and preservation benefits, marks its 25th anniversary this year. Governor DeSantis has recommended $115 million for the program for fiscal year 2026-27, aiming to continue protecting Florida's significant lands.
