Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the permanent protection of nearly 375 acres of working Florida agricultural land through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Rural lands protection easements prevent future development and allow agricultural operations to continue contributing to Florida’s economy and the production of food, timber, and other resources vital to Florida's prosperity.
“I’m proud to see another Florida farm permanently protected through a program we have worked hard to strengthen,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “If we want Florida agriculture to remain strong, we have to protect the land that makes it possible. The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program is a smart investment in our farmers, our food supply, and the future of agriculture in Florida.”
Since its inception, the department’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program has permanently preserved more than 251,000 acres of working agricultural land, with nearly 186,000 acres preserved during Commissioner Simpson’s administration.
Walter Farms
Walter Farms, a nearly 375-acre cow/calf operation in Polk County, has been permanently preserved from development through a rural lands protection easement totaling $3,005,000, with $750,000 being provided by Polk County. This site lies on and includes the northern shore of Gator Lake. The western end supports agriculture and nursery plants as well as associated buildings. The central portion includes a forested tract along the lake’s northern and eastern shore, and the eastern end is in improved pasture. Much of the surrounding landscape has been altered for improved pasture or agriculture.
Source : fdacs.gov