Environmental Protection
Land Acquisition Strategies
Alachua County Forever
About one-third of the counties in Florida have passed referenda creating and funding local land acquisition programs for the purpose of open space, recreation, and environmentally sensitive land purchases. Some of these funds area used to match state program grants or private land conservation efforts.
On November 7, 2000, Alachua County joined their ranks when voters approved a property tax to fund up to $29 million for land acquisition and management through Alachua County Forever (ACF). The purpose of the program is to acquire and manage environmentally significant lands that contribute to the quality of life and enjoyment of our citizens. These lands will provide opportunities for both existing residents and future generations to enjoy wild and scenic areas.
ACF is a voluntary program. Landowners can decide whether or not to participate. If the owner wants to preserve their property, but does not want to sell, there are other options. For example, conservation easements prevent development, construction, or other activities that would disturb the environment while allowing property owners to reside on the property. They do not have to allow public access to the property. Land acquisition is only the first step. Without management, many of the lands could lose the ecological characteristics that make them so important to protect in the first place.
For more information, visit the the Environmental Protection Department's Land Conservation Program.
