Eligible Florida Landowners Can Get Paid to Keep Their Land Natural

Photo byJude InfantinionUnsplash

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering landowners a unique opportunity to get paid for preserving natural habitats that are crucial for the survival of the endangered Florida panther. Through the new Florida panther Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) pilot program, eligible landowners can receive payments for maintaining or improving panther-friendly conditions on their properties.

Funded by a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, with support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the program aims to boost conservation efforts for the Florida panther by encouraging private landowners to contribute to the species’ habitat and overall landscape connectivity.

“This program will also advance the sustainability of ranching’s contribution to Florida panthers and the Florida Wildlife Corridor being created to ensure the long-distance movement and genetic health of panthers, Florida black bears, and other fauna and flora,” said Andrew Walker, President and CEO of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.

Jennifer Goff, Deputy Director of the FWC’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation, added, “Private lands play a critical role in providing quality habitat for this endangered species. The FWC is excited to partner with private landowners in making the Florida panther a conservation success story found throughout our landscapes for years to come.”

Eligible landowners can receive financial and professional support to help manage their land in ways that benefit both the Florida panther and the environment. Payments are based on the location, size, and quality of the habitat offered. Annual payments will be provided over a three-year period, with the possibility of earning bonus payments for enhancing habitat quality.

To qualify, properties must meet specific criteria, including being located in certain counties and offering appropriate panther habitat. Interested landowners can apply from Sept. 19 to Oct. 19, 2024, by visiting MyFWC.com/PESpanther or contacting program staff at PES@MyFWC.com.

With the PES program, Florida landowners have a chance to play a key role in conservation efforts while being compensated for preserving natural spaces that are essential to the survival of one of Florida’s most iconic endangered species.