Florida Expands Protected Lands
One of the largest conservation areas in the eastern United States has been created by the Florida Cabinet by approving the acquisition of 37,358 acres within the Tate’s Hell/Carrabelle Tract Florida Forever project. One percent of the project remains for the state to acquire.
by the Florida Cabinet approved the acquisition of 37,358 acres within the Tate’s Hell/Carrabelle Tract Florida Forever project. One percent of the project remains for the state to acquire.
“This project has multiple benefits, both environmental and economic,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David Struhs. “It protects wildlife habitat and the water filtering into one of the most productive estuaries in the Northern Hemisphere.”
The 200,000 acre project is surrounded by three other conservation areas – Apalachicola National Forest to the north, Apalachicola Wildlife and Environmental Area to the east, and the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve to the south.
The state’s largest population of Florida black bears, and other wildlife, can now roam freely throughout the entire unpopulated habitat that is vital for their survival. Expanses of wetlands act as filters for water entering the Apalachicola Bay, one of the richest shellfish harvesting areas in the world.
“We are privileged to have the opportunity to observe rare and magnificent wildlife in Florida,” said Eva Armstrong, director of DEP’s Division of State Lands. “By protecting the land and water resources, we ensure future generations will enjoy that same opportunity.”
The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Division of Forestry will manage the property as a state forest. Recreational opportunities include fishing, hunting, canoeing, and wildlife observation.
Provided by theEnvironmental News Service.
