The Expansion of Catfish Creek Preserve Enhances Florida’s Natural Conservation Efforts
Catfish Creek Florida Forever Project | Photo by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In a significant move towards conservation, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has successfully acquired a 74-acre land parcel along Lake Pierce. This acquisition is a part of the Catfish Creek Florida Forever Project and aims to expand the Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park. The expansion will allow for the introduction of new recreational facilities such as camping, fishing, and hiking, as well as enhanced environmental education initiatives.
“Through Florida Forever, we focus on acquiring properties that deliver the greatest conservation benefit for our state,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “This addition to Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is exactly the kind of strategic investment that strengthens the Florida Wildlife Corridor and gives residents and visitors the opportunity to experience what makes Florida’s natural landscapes so special.”
The Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park, encompassing over 8,000 acres, is known for its rare scrub, sandhill, and flatwoods habitats, featuring six miles of hiking trails. The newly purchased land includes more than 6,000 feet of lakefront shoreline and existing infrastructure like The Ridge Environmental Education and Event Center, further enhancing visitor experiences and recreational activities.
“Every Florida State Park offers something unique, and this new addition makes Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park even more remarkable,” said Florida State Parks Director Chuck Hatcher. “The natural lakefront and existing facilities will help us expand recreation and education opportunities while protecting one of Florida’s rarest ecosystems for the millions of people who enjoy our parks each year.”
Florida State Parks play a crucial economic role in the state, attracting over 28 million visitors in the last fiscal year and generating more than $82 million in revenue, with an estimated $3.6 billion contributing to the statewide economy.
Situated within the Florida Wildlife Corridor, this land acquisition bolsters long-term habitat conservation for species like the bald eagle, Florida scrub-jay, and gopher tortoise. Additionally, it aids in preserving water quality in the Upper Kissimmee Basin, a vital source for the Kissimmee River, Lake Okeechobee, and the Everglades.
This strategic acquisition was approved by Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet in a recent meeting.
Since 2019, the Florida Forever program has seen over $1.5 billion in state commitments, with $950 million directed towards the Florida Wildlife Corridor. This investment has led to the conservation of over 390,000 acres, with 90% of these lands located within the Wildlife Corridor.
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