This landmark investment of $97 million to protect 38,848 acres of land from development throughout Florida marks an impressive step in environmental conservation. Impressive deals have been made with twelve individual landowners, maintaining their right to operate the land but providing them with compensation they can use to benefit sustainable projects. An SVN/Saunders Ralston Dantzler of Lakeland broker brokered the sale of properties located around the state, with 18,427 acres hearing a collective total of $45 million. The acreages in Charlotte and Polk counties feeling $8.6 million and $10.7 million respectively. This agreement between climate activists and developers highlights the importance of preserving Florida’s delicate ecosystem, while still under being cognizant of developments for the future of property owners.
Protecting 38,848 Acres in Florida
The state of Florida is proud to announce that twelve land owners have made the commitment to protect 38,848 acres from development. An impressive $97 million was paid as part of the deal which will help preserve Florida’s delicate ecosystem. This monumental agreement includes acreage in both Charlotte and Polk counties, and is a major step forward in environmental conservation.
The state has announced a deal with landowners, whereby they will receive compensation for selling their development rights while still being granted the privilege of owning and operating their land. The aim of this is to safeguard the land, wildlife, and agricultural industry in perpetuity. SVN/Saunders Ralston Dantzler of Lakeland was responsible for brokering the sale of 18,427 acres for a total sum of $45 million, from properties located around the entire state, including two in Charlotte and Polk counties. The Charlotte acreage was sold for $8.6 million, and the Polk acreage fetched a healthy $10.7 million.
Critics of this approach contend that it could be detrimental to the future of property owners who seek to capitalize on their land, but Saunders believes strongly that the state must maintain a balance between development and conservation.
He proudly declares that conservation easements are an effective tool to protect land from development and preserve important habitats, wetlands and wildlife.
This monumental agreement paves the way for growth and conservation when managed appropriately. Florida is showing just how effective partnerships between private landowners and the state government can be in ensuring environmentally conscious development. Additional agreements would help to further safeguard the future of responsible management of land, wildlife and agricultural commodities. This explicit protection of fragile ecological systems will assist in allowing the prosperity of all stakeholders involved while preserving the environmental resources that Florida relies upon.
