Comprehensive conservation strategy secures productive lands to ensure future generations continue Florida’s proud tradition of farming and ranching

Tallahassee, Florida – In a decisive move to protect Florida’s agricultural heritage, Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced that the Governor and Cabinet have approved the conservation of nearly 6,500 acres of farmland through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.

This initiative, managed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), ensures that these lands remain dedicated to farming and ranching, preventing future development while supporting the state’s economy and food supply.

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“Today’s approval is a major victory for Florida’s hardworking farmers and ranchers, who are the backbone of our state’s economy and way of life,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson.

“By protecting these nearly 6,500 acres of productive agricultural land, we are ensuring that future generations can continue Florida’s proud tradition of farming and ranching while also safeguarding our natural resources. Florida is growing rapidly, and it is critical that we strike the right balance between responsible growth and preserving the lands that feed our families and fuel our economy.”

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Protecting the backbone of Florida’s economy

The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program has been instrumental in safeguarding Florida’s working lands, permanently preserving over 205,000 acres since its inception. Under Simpson’s leadership, more than 140,000 acres have been protected, reinforcing the state’s commitment to conservation while allowing agricultural operations to thrive.

The three properties approved for protection are located in key ecological areas, either within or near the Florida Wildlife Corridor, a conservation initiative championed by Simpson during his tenure as Senate President. These lands will continue to serve as productive agricultural hubs while also benefiting the environment through water conservation and wildlife habitat protection.

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The lands secured for conservation

Ryals Citrus and Cattle – Charlotte County

Spanning 3,722 acres in north-central Charlotte County, this cow-calf and watermelon farming operation has been in the Ryals family for over a century. The land, located east of Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda, plays a crucial role in protecting Prairie Creek, a headwater of the Peace River. This conservation effort enhances regional water quality and connects existing protected lands, reinforcing a larger ecosystem network.

Acquisition Cost: $13.2 million, with 50% covered by a USDA grant, reducing the state’s share to $6.6 million.

Williams Property – Levy County

A 1,782-acre multi-crop farm, the Williams property supports corn, peanuts, watermelon, and green beans, alongside cattle and timber operations. This land plays a key role in aquifer recharge, flood mitigation, and water quality improvement, making its preservation vital to both agriculture and the environment.

Acquisition Cost: $6.06 million.

Headwaters Ranch – Lake County

This 993-acre cattle ranch serves as an ecological haven, featuring hardwood forests, wetlands, and the headwaters of the Withlacoochee River. The land provides habitat for diverse Florida wildlife, including storks, cranes, bobcats, and black bears, while maintaining sustainable agricultural production.

Acquisition Cost: $6 million, with 53% funded through a partnership with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, lowering the state’s cost to $2.8 million.

A Long-Term Commitment to Conservation

Florida’s agricultural lands face mounting pressure from urban development. The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, established in 2001, is designed to combat this trend by preserving working lands. This year, Simpson secured $100 million in funding for the program, with an additional $100 million annually allocated through SB 1638 to support conservation efforts within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

Long before taking office as Agriculture Commissioner, Simpson played a pivotal role in shaping Florida’s land conservation policies. As Senate President, he led the passage of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, ensuring better protection and connectivity for the state’s natural habitats and agricultural lands. He also secured a $300 million appropriation for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to Florida’s rural communities.

With the approval, Simpson reaffirmed that Florida’s future growth must be balanced with conservation.

“I appreciate the Governor and my fellow Cabinet members for their unwavering commitment to protecting Florida’s rural heritage and securing our state’s agricultural future,” he said.

For more details on the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, visit FDACS.gov.