TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (June 14, 2017) - At today's Florida Cabinet meeting, Governor Rick Scott and the Cabinet approved two important land conservation projects- totaling more than 6,400 acres. Gov. Scott and the Cabinet approved the acquisition of a conservation easement of more than 6,000 acres within the Old Town Creek Watershed Florida Forever project and the purchase of the Blue Springs parcel, a 407-acre property in Gilchrist County. 

“The Blue Springs project in Gilchrist County is a terrific springs protection project with the added benefit of protecting riverine habitat along the Santa Fe River. This acquisition of Old Town Creek Watershed Florida Forever project will help protect the headwaters of important Peace River tributaries, conserve flatwoods and floodplain and protect water resources,” said Eric Draper, executive director of Audubon Florida. "We're looking forward to working with the Department of Environmental Protection  to complete more critical acquisitions and projects and ensure Florida’s natural treasures are protected."                                                             

The Old Town Creek Watershed Florida Forever project will preserve a large landscape and watershed area that is home to several natural communities and plant and animal species that depend on them. This project includes the headwaters of Bee Branch and Old Town Creek that feed into Charlie Creek, which ultimately feeds into the Peace River.

The Blue Springs project encompasses six natural springs and includes approximately one mile of frontage along the Santa Fe River.

Last week, Draper sent a letter to Gov. Rick Scott in support of approving these projects. Click here to read.

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