Land ownership has been a cornerstone of the United States for hundreds of years, so much so that our Founding Fathers enshrined the right to private property in the Constitution. In recent years, this right in the state of Florida has been under increasing threat.
The Florida Landowner Association’s mission is to defend the rights of property owners throughout Florida and to educate the public on the vital role these rights play in supporting both landowners and their communities. We believe that when landowners are empowered to make decisions about their land, communities are stronger, and Florida’s legacy is preserved.
Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet demonstrated forward-looking leadership by approving conservation projects across Osceola, Martin, Hendry, Putnam, Collier, Duval, Okaloosa, Hardee, Okeechobee, Pasco, Hillsborough, and Leon counties. One of these approvals included four acres of waterfront property in Destin. These actions will ensure that thousands of acres are protected, preserved, and made available for public use. Not only is this a win for landowners, but the communities across these counties.
The approvals included conservation and Rural and Family Lands Protection easements and acquisitions. Together, they will expand parks, protect water quality, preserve working lands, and safeguard wildlife corridors. From farmland and ranchland to coastal areas, this package reflects a statewide commitment to protecting Florida’s land and water resources for generations to come.
These recent decisions at the state level show that conservation and property rights can coincide with one another. Florida Landowner Association thanks Governor DeSantis, the Cabinet, and Commissioner Wilton Simpson for their leadership. When landowners are respected, Florida’s natural heritage is protected for generations to come.
As Florida continues to grow, we must stay true to this principle. Conservation that respects landowners strengthens our communities, our environment, and our economy.
Brandon Tucker/Florida Landowner Association
