Florida’s natural beauty is unmatched: from the mangrove forests and freshwater springs to longleaf pine forests and sandy beaches, our state is home to some of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in the country. Now, these remarkable landscapes are about to get a major boost in conservation efforts, thanks to a new partnership between the Florida Wildlife Federation (FWF) and the Partnership for Gulf Coast Land Conservation (Gulf Partnership).
FWF announced that it will invest $150,000 annually over the next three years, totaling $450,000, to support land and easement acquisitions across Florida. This funding will be directed to the Gulf Partnership’s Project Assistance Fund (PAF) — a resource designed to cover critical expenses that often stand in the way of successful conservation projects.
Breaking Down Financial Barriers to Conservation
Despite increased state and federal funding for conservation, many projects in Florida have faced frustrating delays due to administrative hurdles, mismatched grant cycles, and lack of upfront capital. That’s where the PAF comes in.
The fund provides small but essential grants — up to $35,000 per project — to cover the nitty-gritty details that make or break a land deal like appraisals, title searches, legal reviews, and environmental assessments.
By easing these financial burdens, the PAF empowers land trusts to secure larger matching funds from major conservation programs like Florida Forever, Rural and Family Lands, and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.
“Conserving Florida’s natural landscapes protects wildlife habitat, improves water quality, and preserves the state’s environmental legacy for future generations,” said Sarah Gledhill, President and CEO of the Florida Wildlife Federation. “Through this collaboration with the Gulf Partnership, we are ensuring that Florida’s land trusts have the resources they need to navigate complex conservation transactions and secure lasting protections for our state’s most important wildlife habitats.”
Big Impact for Florida’s Wild Spaces
Florida’s ecosystems are under increasing pressure from population growth and climate change. With 86% of the Gulf Coast under private ownership, securing conservation easements and protected lands is critical to preserving Florida’s biodiversity and natural resilience.
FWF’s $450,000 investment is expected to support at least 12 conservation projects, protect approximately 4,000 acres of land, and leverage upwards of $45 million in additional public and private funding.
“With this funding from the Florida Wildlife Federation, we are empowering land trusts to act quickly and effectively in securing high-priority conservation lands,” said Vance Crain, Executive Director at Gulf Partnership. “This is a win for conservation, a win for Florida’s communities, and a win for future generations.”
Protecting Florida’s Future—Together
Florida’s wild spaces are part of what makes this state so special. This powerful investment and targeted strategy allow conservationists to gain the tools and resources they need to ensure these natural treasures remain protected for generations to come.
Florida’s wild spaces are part of what makes this state so special. This powerful investment and targeted strategy allow conservationists to gain the tools and resources they need to ensure these natural treasures remain protected for generations to come.
This collaboration with the Gulf Partnership is just one of the ways we are safeguarding wild places through our land conservation initiatives. Thank you for your support to keep Florida wild!
