TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet on Tuesday approved the protection of more than 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural lands across the state, representing a $27.4 million investment through the Florida Forever Program and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.

The approved acquisitions are designed to strengthen Florida’s conservation network, preserve family-owned farms and ranches, protect water resources, and support military readiness through the Sentinel Landscapes initiative. Together, the projects ensure Florida’s natural, rural, and working landscapes remain intact for future generations.

“From day one, my administration has recognized the importance of preserving Florida’s environment for future generations,” DeSantis said. “By protecting the right lands in the right places, we’re securing clean water, supporting military readiness, strengthening rural economies, and preserving the natural heritage that makes Florida a world-class destination.”

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson said the approvals reflect a commitment to keeping agricultural lands in the hands of families who work them.

“Every acre protected through these programs keeps our state a little more rural — and a lot more Florida — while supporting farmers, ranchers, and conservation efforts statewide,” Simpson said.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert said continued support from the governor and Cabinet allows Florida Forever to deliver long-term conservation outcomes that protect ecosystems, water resources, and working lands.

Conservation and Wildlife Connectivity

Two conservation easements totaling 10,996 acres within the Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor in Collier and Hendry counties were approved to enhance connectivity between the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Dinner Island Wildlife Management Area. The lands provide critical habitat for imperiled species, including the Florida panther, while remaining in agricultural use. The properties are located within the Big Cypress Area of Critical State Concern and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

In Escambia County, a 7,437-acre conservation easement within the Coastal Headwaters Longleaf Forest Florida Forever Project will protect water quality and aquifer recharge in the Perdido and Escambia river watersheds. The property also provides a protective buffer for key military installations and lies within the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Support for Family Farms and Rural Lands

The Cabinet also approved a 2,060-acre rural lands protection easement within the Tilton Family Farm Project in Putnam County. Family-owned since 1973, the property supports a cow-calf operation, timber production, row crops, and the production of honey and fresh produce that serves local communities, including food deserts. The land is located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

In Okeechobee County, a 1,059-acre rural lands protection easement was approved for the Siboney Ranch Project. The family-owned ranch operates as a cow-calf operation and is situated between Pine Creek Sporting Club and Quail Creek Sporting Ranch, preserving productive agricultural land and rural heritage. The property lies within the Avon Park Air Force Range Sentinel Landscape and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Future Funding Commitments

As part of his proposed Floridians First Budget for fiscal year 2026–27, DeSantis has recommended $115 million for the Florida Forever Program to support land conservation and conservation easements, including projects within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. The proposed budget also includes $200 million for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program to sustain Florida’s working agricultural lands and family farms.