The Federation has been the leader in supporting state land conservation efforts since the 1960s. Our present statewide program, Florida Forever, was once the most ambitious such enterprise in the world, and together with its predecessors has saved over 2.6 million acres to date. When the Legislature de-funded this popular program, we supported the successful 2014 Water and Land Legacy Amendment to increase funding. Unfortunately, the Legislature has still not granted the full funding mandated by this amendment.
The History of Land Conservation in Florida
Land Conservation Through the Years
In 1900, Florida had 530,000 residents. We have now reached 23 million and that number grows by almost 1,000 per day. New residents mean new developments and conversion of what was once forest, field or agriculture to pavement, rooftops, and expanding roadways. The pressures of growth highlight the urgent need to prioritize land conservation to balance development with the preservation of our natural heritage. Protecting these spaces ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy the benefits of a rich and diverse ecosystem, while also maintaining the ecological health and resilience of Florida’s landscapes.
With the support of the Federation, the State of Florida has acted to save our natural lands for many years.
1960s
The Land Acquisition Trust Fund (LATF) is established to support the acquisition, conservation, and management of natural lands and resources.
1970s
The Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) program commenced. The EEL program is an initiative designed to protect and conserve critical natural habitats and ecosystems that are at risk of being lost or significantly degraded.
1980s
The Conservation and Recreational Lands (CARL) program was established and designed to protect the state’s natural resources while providing opportunities for public enjoyment and recreation.
The CARL program was replaced by Preservation 2000
1990s
Preservation 2000 created and aimed to acquire and protect significant natural lands across Florida, including wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats.
2000s
Florida Forever program replaces Preservation 2000
Florida Forever uses state funding to purchase, from willing sellers, either the land outright or a perpetual conservation easement to keep the land in private ownership.
2010s
In 2014, Florida voters made a significant commitment to conservation by passing Amendment 1, a constitutional amendment that established a 20-year funding mechanism for the Florida Forever program. This amendment marked a major milestone in the state’s efforts to protect its natural resources.
2020’s
The 2021 Florida Wildlife Corridor Act was created as an enhanced sciene-based layer to the Florida Forever Program. With 1.46 millions acres identified, its purpose is to build upon the network of public and private lands for safe passage and dispersal routes to maintain healthy populations of plants and animals.
Learn more about the Federation’s current land conservation efforts.
