The Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the opening of an application cycle for landowners to apply to the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The program, which partners with farmers and ranchers through conservation easements, aims to safeguard working agricultural operations that contribute significantly to Florida’s economy and the production of food and fiber. Landowners can now submit their application online to the department through July 27, 2023.
“Food security is national security, and Florida’s agricultural lands are the backbone of our economy and the foundation of our food and fiber production. The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program plays a crucial role in preserving these vital resources for future generations,” said Simpson. “I am proud to announce the opening of the program’s application cycle, which provides an opportunity for landowners to partner with us in conserving and protecting our working agricultural operations. Together, we will continue to support our farmers, ranchers, and producers in their efforts to safeguard Florida’s natural resources and sustain our agricultural heritage.”
Established in 2001 with the passage of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Act, the program has successfully acquired conservation easements on nearly 69,000 acres of working agricultural land to date. Agricultural lands are being increasingly threatened by urban development. To counter this trend, the rural lands program coordinates with farmers and ranchers to ensure sustainable production practices while protecting natural resources.
Before becoming Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Simpson was still heavily active in land conservation issues. As Senate President, Simpson has worked on legislation and budget issues to protect our precious natural resources. For the 2022-2023 fiscal year, Simpson secured more than $300 million for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.
Source: FDACS Press Release
