The Lawmakers Behind Florida’s Conservation Gains
Protecting Florida’s natural lands requires long-term commitment and collaboration. In recent years, legislators in both chambers have worked diligently to strengthen conservation funding, advance policy solutions, and ensure Florida continues to invest in its natural resources — and the results are measurable.
The Law That Changed the Framework
The clearest turning point in Florida’s recent conservation history is the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, which created a statewide framework for accelerating land protection within the Corridor. The bill was sponsored by Senator Jason Brodeur and Representative Keith Truenow, who built strong bipartisan support for protecting connected landscapes across the state. Wilton Simpson, then serving as Senate President, guided the legislation through the chamber to passage.
Keeping It Funded After the Vote
Passing a landmark bill is one thing — keeping it funded is another. During their tenures as Senate President and Speaker of the Florida House, Kathleen Passidomo and Paul Renner maintained conservation as a legislative priority and delivered historic funding levels for land protection. Since the Act passed, Florida has directed over $2 billion toward land conservation.
The Programs Doing the Work
Florida’s land conservation funding flows primarily through two state programs that operate independently but toward the same goals.
Florida Forever protects high-priority conservation lands statewide, safeguarding water resources, wildlife habitat, and natural areas that communities and outdoor recreation depend on.
The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program focuses on working farms and ranches. Through voluntary conservation easements, agricultural lands stay productive while open space, water resources, and wildlife habitat are protected alongside them.
Why Continued Leadership Matters
Florida’s rapid population growth puts pressure on both land and water. Sustained legislative commitment helps conservation programs keep pace, protecting the working landscapes that sustain rural communities and the natural areas that benefit everyone.
Want to see how this funding works on the ground? Download the County Conservation Guide.
