Florida Protecting Over 21,000 Acres of Land Statewide

Tallahassee, FL -- Governor Ron DeSantis's cabinet has approved 27-point-4 million dollars to protect more than 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural land across Florida. The money will go toward conservation easements on properties throughout the state. Here in Northwest Florida, that includes a 7,400-acre parcel in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. That land will act as a buffer for military installations while protecting water quality in local river watersheds. The protected areas will also provide habitat for endangered species like gopher tortoises and swallow-tailed kites. State officials say the purchases are part of a broader effort to preserve Florida's natural landscapes while supporting military readiness and protecting family farming operations for future generations.