Florida Forever Secures New Conservation Easement

1,668-acre working lands protected through state program

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:02am

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A highly textured, abstract painting in soft, earthy tones of green, brown, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and precise botanical spirals that conceptually represent the interconnected natural systems and working landscapes preserved through Florida's conservation efforts.The Florida Forever program's latest conservation easement protects vital working lands and natural habitats across the state.Today in Orlando

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has secured a 1,668-acre conservation easement over private working lands in the state, continuing the efforts of the Florida Forever program to protect natural resources and habitats.

Why it matters

Florida Forever is the state's premier conservation and recreation lands acquisition program, working to safeguard sensitive ecosystems, wildlife corridors, and working lands that provide economic and environmental benefits. This latest easement helps advance the program's goals of preserving Florida's natural heritage.

The details

The new conservation easement covers private working lands, ensuring the property remains in agricultural use while also protecting important natural resources. The easement was acquired through the Florida Forever program, which has protected over 880,000 acres of land since its inception in 2001.

  • The conservation easement was secured by the Florida DEP in April 2026.

The players

Florida Forever

Florida's premier conservation and recreation lands acquisition program, working to protect sensitive ecosystems, wildlife corridors, and working lands across the state.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

The state agency that oversees the Florida Forever program and secured the latest 1,668-acre conservation easement.

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What’s next

The Florida Forever program will continue to identify and protect additional conservation lands across the state through partnerships with private landowners and other stakeholders.

The takeaway

This latest conservation easement demonstrates Florida's ongoing commitment to preserving its natural resources and working landscapes through the successful Florida Forever program.