Florida Secures Conservation Easement to Protect Kenansville Ranch
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has taken a significant step in land conservation by securing a conservation easement on the expansive Kenansville Ranch in Osceola County. This acquisition not only preserves the historic 7,514-acre working cattle ranch but also safeguards vital habitats for a variety of wildlife.
Kenansville Ranch | Photo by Lauren Yoho/Wildpath
Located within the Ranch Reserve Florida Forever Project, Kenansville Ranch is home to approximately 1,600 cattle. It spans across diverse landscapes, including pastures, pine flatwoods, and wetlands nourished by Wolf Creek, Tenmile Creek, and Sixmile Creek. The easement ensures that the land remains productive for agriculture while mandating adherence to best management practices to protect water quality and the environment.
“Conservation easements preserve Florida’s landscapes while keeping working lands productive,” said DEP Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “By supporting agriculture, safeguarding water resources and protecting wildlife, projects like Kenansville Ranch strengthen Florida’s role in the nation’s food security and natural resource conservation.”
The ranch is part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, providing a sanctuary for rare and endangered species such as the bald eagle, eastern indigo snake, Florida burrowing owl, red-cockaded woodpecker, and sandhill crane. It also links with other conserved areas, forming a contiguous landscape for wildlife to thrive. The easement received approval from Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet in a recent meeting.
Florida continues to lead in land protection efforts through the Florida Forever Program, which focuses on conserving land with environmental, recreational, and preservation benefits. This includes ensuring water quality, protecting habitats, and providing outdoor recreation opportunities.
Since 2019, Florida has allocated over $1.4 billion to the Florida Forever Program, with $950 million specifically designated for the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Through this funding, the DEP has been able to conserve over 374,000 acres, with 91% of that land located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
Read More Here
