Florida Wildlife Corridor Conservation Update

May 2023 Board of Trustees Cabinet Meeting

Digital Media Toolkit

The Florida Governor and Cabinet approved funding for the permanent conservation of 39,345 acres within and adjacent to the Florida Wildlife Corridor during the May 23, 2023 Cabinet meeting.

Please use this digital media toolkit to share this exciting news with your audience.

A message for our partners, colleagues, and friends in Florida: The protected lands of the Florida Wildlife Corridor are a place where our collective missions intersect. Land conservation successes contributing to the Corridor help ensure the long-term survival of many species, provide life support systems for Florida’s cities, improve the health of our waters, and protect natural Florida for future generations. As Florida grows, continued investment in conservation lands is critical to ensure that our wild lands will provide benefits to all Floridians.

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Press Release

Media Requirements

Please reach out to Kendra Parson at (850) 418-1126 with any media inquiries.

Overview: Examples of the Thirteen Properties Approved for Protection

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02 Overview-Grubb Ranch-GM
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property full acquistion by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
05 Overview-Keen Ranch-CW
Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
08 Overview-Avalon-KB
Doyle Carlton III's famyly cattle ranch in Bassinger, on the Kissimmee River north of Okeechobee, recently purchased from the Clemons family, had belonged to Oscar Clemons under management of his son Pete Clemons. Doyle Carlton's family comes from deep ranching heritage in Hardee County. Photograph by Carlton Ward Jr / Carlton Ward Photography / www.CarltonWard.com
10 State Overview - May 23 Properties-AM
Download Carousel Images and Map

Photos 1, 5, 9 by Carlton Ward Jr., Photo 2 by George McKenzie Jr. / Wildpath, Photos 3, 6, and 7 by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath, Photos 4 and 8 by Katie Bryden / Wildpath, Map by Angeline Meeks / Archbold Biological Station

Download Overview Video and Reel

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On May 23, the Florida Governor and Cabinet approved funding for the permanent conservation of  39,345 acres across thirteen properties, twelve of which are within the Florida Wildlife Corridor. The properties are Fisheating Creek Ecosystem (Photo 1), Grubb Ranch (Photo 2), Ryals Citrus and Cattle (Photo 3), Cow Creek – Phase II (Photo 4), Keen Ranch (Photo 5), Bluefield to Cow Creek (Photo 6), Charlie Creek Cattle Company – Phase III (Photo 7), Avalon (Photo 8), The River Property (Photo 9), Sandy Gully – Phase II, Longleaf Pine Ecosystem, G-3 Ranch, and Natural Bridge Creek. 

Fisheating Creek Ecosystem, Bluefield to Cow Creek, Avalon, and Longleaf Pine Ecosystem properties were funded through the Florida Forever program at Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The other properties were funded through Rural and Family Lands at Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Twelve of the properties are to be protected by conservation easements, where the land will continue to be privately owned and managed. Longleaf Pine Ecosystem property is to be purchased by the State of Florida to expand existing public land. 

Thank you to the leadership of the landowners, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Conservation Group, North Florida Land Trust, Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Forest Legacy Program, Saunders Real Estate and other partners for coming together to make these opportunities possible. 

Instagram tags: @fl.dep, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, @nflandtrust, Florida Conservation Group, Photos by @leyoho, @ktbryden, @georgemckenziejr, and @carltonward, @wildpath, Maps by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, @Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, @ConserveFlorida, @North Florida Land Trust, Photos by Lauren Yoho, @ktbryden, George McKenzie Jr., and @CarltonWard, @Wildpath, Maps by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Fisheating Creek Ecosystem

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Lykes Ranch, Longleaf pines, part of the Igrahams Crossing conservation eaement proposed for approval to the Flordia governor and cabinet 5/23/23. Photo by Carlton Ward Jr / Wildpath.
Camera trap photo of the Lykes Ranch Ingraham's Crossing area, a priority for conservation by Florida Forever and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The trail in this photo is through rare cutthroat grass lonleaf pine habitat. Photo may not be used without written permission from Lykes Bros. Inc. Photo by Carlton Ward Jr. / Florida Wild / Path of the Panther project.
Lykes Ranch. Photo by Carlton Ward Jr. Do not publish without written consent of Lykes Ranch and Carlton Ward Photography, LLC.
Fisheating Creek Ecosystem/ Fisheating Creek Ecosystem property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 10,464 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
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40 - Fisheating Creek Ecosystem
Download Fisheating Creek Ecosystem Images and MapDownload Fisheating Creek Ecosystem Reel

Photos and Videos by Carlton Ward Jr., Photo 5 by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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At the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governer and Cabinet, 10,464 acres within the Fisheating Creek Ecosystem in Glades County were approved for a conservation easement through the Florida Forever Program. Fisheating Creek is the only undammed tributary to Lake Okeechobee, and the surrounding prairie and flatwood landscape provide connectivity and high-quality habitat for species like the swallow-tailed kite and Florida panther. Female panthers are returning to Fisheating Creek for the first time in decades, making this landscape especially important for the northward recovery of the species. . 

Thank you to the leadership of landowners Lykes Bros. Inc. and the Department of Environmental Protection for coming together to make this opportunity possible. 

Instagram tags: @fl.dep, Photos by @carltonward, Photo 5 by @leyoho / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Photos by @Carlton Ward, Photo 5 by Lauren Yoho / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Avalon

Avalon Plantation / Avalon property full acquistion by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 6,929 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
Avalon Plantation / Avalon Plantation Property full aquisition by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 6,929 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
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29 - Avalon
Download Avalon Images and MapDownload Avalon Reel

Photos and Videos by Katie Bryden/Wildpath

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Within the Red Hills Region of Jefferson County, two properties totaling 6,929 acres were approved for conservation easements through Florida Forever at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. These easements, which are in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Avalon project area, will protect high-quality habitats for rare and imperiled species like the gopher tortoise, as well as habitat and connectivity for species like the Florida black bear and the bald eagle. These properties are also part of the Northwest Florida Sentinel Landscape. 

Thank you to the leadership of the landowners, the Department of Environmental Protection, and Saunders Real Estate for coming together to make this opportunity possible. 

Instagram tags: @fl.dep, Photos by @ktbryden / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Photos by @ktbryden / @Wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

G-3 Ranch

G-3 Ranch /Polk County Florida 3,634 Acres Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath" and provide tags to @georgemckenziejr and @wildpath
G-3 Ranch /Polk County Florida 3,634 Acres Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by George McKenie Jr/Wildpath" and provide tags to @georgemckenziejr and @wildpath
G-3 Ranch /Polk County Florida 3,634 Acres Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath" and provide tags to @georgemckenziejr and @wildpath
G-3 Ranch /Polk County Florida 3,634 Acres Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath" and provide tags to @georgemckenziejr and @wildpath
31 - G-3 Ranch
Download G-3 Ranch Images and Map

Photos by George McKenzie, Jr./Wildpath

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In Polk County, 3,634 acres of working lands have been approved for a conservation easement with the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. The G-3 Ranch is a cattle ranch that, in addition to improved pasture, has cypress domes, pine flatwoods, and instances of scrub. With encroaching development on two sides, this conservation easement will help to ensure wildlife connectivity and habitat for native and rare Florida species. 

Thank you to the landowner, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Saunders Real Estate for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Photos by @georgemckenziejr / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Photos by George McKenzie Jr. / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Cow Creek – Phase II

Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property conservaiton easement by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath. by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II / Cow Creek Ranch property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,496 acres. Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Katie Bryden / Wildpath" and provide tags to @ktbryden and @wildpath.
37 - Cow Creek Ranch - Phase II
Download Cow Creek - Phase II Images and Map

Photos by Katie Bryden/Wildpath

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2,846 acres within the Florida Wildlife Corridor at Cow Creek, St. Lucie County, have been approved for a conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. The property is a mix of working pasturelands, woodlands, and wetlands and provides habitat and connectivity for species like the bald eagle, eastern diamondback rattlesnake, and gopher tortoise. Approved for protection as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, this property will remain a working cattle operation. 

Thank you to the landowner, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Natural Resources Conservation Service for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,  Photos by @ktbryden / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services,  Photos by @ktbryden / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Bluefield to Cow Creek

Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Bluefield to Cow Creek / Bluefield to Cow Creek property conservation easemant by FLDEP, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 3,176 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
38 - Bluefield to Cow Creek
Download Bluefield to Cow Creek Images and MapDownload Bluefield to Cow Creek Reel

Photos and Videos by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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3,176 acres in south Florida’s St. Lucie County were approved for conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. Located within the Bluefield to Cow Creek Florida Forever project area, this easement will help to maintain the rural landscape, natural wetlands, and water resources of the region. In addition to providing habitat and landscape connectivity for rare and native species, the Bluefield to Cow Creek project critically helps to protect water quality in the St. Lucie River Estuary and the Indian River Lagoon. 

Thank you to the leadership of the landowners, the Department of Environmental Protection, and Saunders Real Estate for coming together to make this opportunity possible. 

Instagram tags: @fl.dep, @wildpath_, Photos by @leyoho / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Photos by Lauren Yoho / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

The River Property

Doyle Carlton III's famyly cattle ranch in Bassinger, on the Kissimmee River north of Okeechobee, purchased from the Clemons family, had belonged to Oscar Clemons under management of his son Pete Clemons. Doyle Carlton's family comes from deep ranching heritage in Hardee County. Photograph by Carlton Ward Jr / Carlton Ward Photography / www.CarltonWard.com
Doyle Carlton III's famyly cattle ranch in Bassinger, on the Kissimmee River north of Okeechobee, recently purchased from the Clemons family, had belonged to Oscar Clemons under management of his son Pete Clemons. Doyle Carlton's family comes from deep ranching heritage in Hardee County. Photograph by Carlton Ward Jr / Carlton Ward Photography / www.CarltonWard.com
Doyle Carlton III's famyly cattle ranch in Bassinger, on the Kissimmee River north of Okeechobee, recently purchased from the Clemons family, had belonged to Oscar Clemons under management of his son Pete Clemons. Doyle Carlton's family comes from deep ranching heritage in Hardee County. Photograph by Carlton Ward Jr / Carlton Ward Photography / www.CarltonWard.com
36 - The River Property
Download The River Property Images and Map

Photos by Carlton Ward Jr./Wildpath

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The 3,063-acre River Property, located on the banks of the Kissimmee River in Highlands County, was recently approved for a conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. This working ranch, which supports a cow-calf operation on improved pastures and has over 300 acres of wetlands, was protected as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program and will remain in operation. 

Thank you to the landowner, The Florida Conservation Group, and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Conservation Group, Photos by @carltonward / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, @floridaconserve, Photos by @Carlton Ward / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Ryals Citrus and Cattle

Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Ryals Citrus and Cattle / Ryals Citrus and Cattle property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 2,846 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
39 - Ryals Cirtrus and Cattle
Download Ryals Citrus and Cattle Images and MapDownload Ryals Citrus and Cattle Reel

Photos and Videos by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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In Charlotte County, 2,846 acres of working lands at Ryals Citrus and Cattle were approved for a conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. This property is an important wildlife and habitat connect between Babcock Ranch and Myakka River State Park. As part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, this property will remain working lands. 

Thank you to the landowners, The Florida Conservation Group, and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Conservation Group, Photos by @leyoho / @Wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, @floridaconserve, Photos by Lauren Yoho / @Wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Natural Bridge Creek

Natural Bridge Creek / Natural Bridge Creek property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,945 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Natural Bridge Creek / Natural Bridge Creek property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,945 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Natural Bridge Creek / Natural Bridge Creek property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,945 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Natural Bridge Creek / Natural Bridge Creek property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,945 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Natural Bridge Creek / Natural Bridge Creek property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,945 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Download Natural Bridge Creek Images

Photos by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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1,945 acres around Natural Bridge Creek in Walton County were approved for conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. Owned by the Hester family since the 1940s, the property has an intact longleaf pine habitat that has been carefully managed by the family to promote natural regeneration. In addition, a portion of Natural Bridge Creek, a sand-bottomed seepage stream, runs through the property.  

Thank you to the Hester Family, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the USDA Forest Legacy Program for coming together to protect this property as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Photos by @leyoho / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Photos by Lauren Yoho / @Wildpath

Keen Family Ranch

01 Keen Ranch-CW
02 Keen Ranch-CW
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35 - Keen Family Ranch
Download Keen Family Ranch Images and Map

Photos by Carlton Ward/Wildpath

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In DeSoto County, 1,107 acres of working lands in the Peace River watershed have been approved for a conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. The Keen Family Ranch was one of the first settlements along Horse Creek, which is a major tributary to the Peace River. It has been a working ranch since the 1940s, and will continue to be so, with this conservation easement helping the area retain its rural character. 

Thank you to the landowners, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Florida Conservation Group for coming together to protect this property as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Conservation Group, Photos by @carltonward / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, @floridaconserve, Photos by @carltonward / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Charlie Creek Cattle Company – Phase III

Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III / Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III property conservation easemant by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 1,027 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
32 - Charlie Creek Cattle Co. Phase III
Download Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III Images and MapDownload Charlie Creek Cattle Company - Phase III Reel

Photos and Videos by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

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At the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet, 1,027 acres of working lands at Charlie Creek Cattle in Hardee County were approved for conservation easement. Charlie Creek Cattle is situated along Charlie Creek, a tributary of the Peace River, and is a mix of pasture, wetlands, open marsh, and bottomland hardwoods. This 90-year-old ranch property is part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, and will remain a working cattle operation as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. 

Thank you to the landowner, Florida Conservation Group, and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Conservation Group, Photos by @leyoho / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, @floridaconserve, Photos by Lauren Yoho / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Sandy Gully – Phase II

Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
Sandy Gully - Phase II / Sandy Gully property conservation easement by FDACS, presented to the Governor and cabinet on May 23, 2023 to protect 643 acres. Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by Lauren Yoho / Wildpath" and provide tags to @leyoho and @wildpath.
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Download Sandy Gully - Phase II Images and MapDownload Sandy Gully - Phase II Reel

Photos and Videos by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath

Suggested Post:

643 acres of working lands in Highlands County was approved for protection by conservation easement at the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet. The property, called Sandy Gully, is adjacent to Highlands Hammock State Park and Highlands County Preserve. Located on the western slope of the Lake Wales Ridge, Sandy Gully provides connectivity and habitat to many native and rare species, including the Florida black bear, Florida panther, and Sherman’s fox squirrel. The conservation easement is part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, and Sandy Gully will remain a working ranch. 

Thank you to the landowner, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Saunders Real Estate for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Photos by @leyoho / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services,  Photos by Lauren Yoho / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Grubb Ranch

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Grubb Ranch /Hardee County Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Photo by George McKenzie Jr/Wildpath. Learn more at Wildpath.com/progress. When using in media or social media, please credit "Photo by George McKenie Jr/Wildpaht" and provide tags to @georgemckenziejr and @wildpath
34 - Grubb Ranch
Download Grubb Ranch Images and Map

Photos by George McKenzie, Jr./Wildpath

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At the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet, 549 acres of working lands in Hardee County were approved for conservation easement as part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Grubb Ranch is a working cattle operation with improved pasture and 100 acres of wetlands, along with a portion of Little Charlie Creek. Located a mile from the Lake Wales Ridge, this property is within the Florida black bear’s range and its easement will maintain the open nature of these rural lands. 

Thank you to the landowner, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Saunders Real Estate for coming together to protect this property. 

Instagram tags: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Photos by @georgemckenziejr / @wildpath

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Photos by George Mckenzie Jr. / @wildpath

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Longleaf Pine Ecosystem

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Download Longleaf Pine Ecosystem Images and Map

Photos courtesy of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

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At the May 23, 2023 meeting of the Governor and Cabinet, 497 acres within the Longleaf Pine Ecosystem of Marion County were approved for acquisition. The Longleaf Pine Ecosystem is home to increasingly rare stands of old-growth longleaf pine sandhills, which once dominated the Florida uplands region. This acquisition is a part of the Longleaf Pine Ecosystem Florida Forever project, whose acquired properties will become state forest, providing public access for hunting, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and nature appreciation. 

Thank you to the leadership of the landowners, North Florida Land Trust, and  the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for coming together to make this opportunity possible.

Instagram tags: @fl.dep, @nflandtrust, Photos courtesy of @fl.dep

Facebook tags: @Florida Department of Environmental Protection, @North Florida Land Trust, Photos courtesy of Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Map Instagram tags: Map by @angeline.maps, @archboldstation

Map Facebook tags: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station

Suggested Hastags

#KeepFLWild #ConnectTheCorridor #FloridaWildlifeCorridor

#WildlifeCorridors #ProtectWildPlaces #LandConservation #WildFlorida

Usage Rights

Visuals by Lauren Yoho, Katie Bryden, George McKenzie Jr., Carlton Ward Jr., and Angeline Meeks provided for one-time use for coverage or promotion of Florida Wildlife Corridor-related news from the May 23 Board of Trustees meeting, dated May 2023. Copying, sublicensing, sale, distribution, and archiving are prohibited.

Mandatory Social Media Usage Requirements

For images, include the photo credit tag as listed:

  • Instagram: @Wildpath, Photo by @leyoho, @ktbryden @georgemckenziejr, or @carltonward (reference photo grids for credit guidance)
  • Facebook: @Wildpath, Photo by Lauren Yoho, @ktbryden, George McKenzie Jr., or @CarltonWard (reference photo grids for credit guidance)
  • Twitter: Photo by Lauren Yoho, Katie Bryden, George McKenzie Jr., or @CarltonWard (reference photo grids for credit guidance)

For maps, include the map photo credits:

  • Instagram: Map by @angeline.maps and @archboldstation
  • Facebook: Map by Angeline Meeks, @Archbold Biological Station
  • Twitter: @AngelineMeeks and @ArchboldStation

Mandatory Online/Print Usage Requirements for Multimedia

Include the photo/map credit:

Photos:

  • Lauren Yoho/Wildpath
  • Katie Bryden/Wildpath
  • George McKenzie, Jr./Wildpath
  • Carlton Ward Jr./Wildpath

Map: Angeline Meeks, Archbold Biological Station

Mandatory On-Air Usage Requirements for Multimedia

For on-air usage, include credit with each photo, map, or video used:

Photos:

  • Katie Bryden/Wildpath
  • Lauren Yoho/Wildpath
  • George McKenzie, Jr./Wildpath
  • Carlton Ward Jr./Wildpath

Map: Angeline Meeks, Archbold Biological Station