USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Chief Dave White joined 
several others near Kissimmee Tuesday to announce a key land purchase that is expected to help Florida panthers expand into new areas north of the Caloosahatchee River. The purchase of the riverfront 1,278 acre tract near Labelle involved several public and private organizations, the setting up of conservation easements, and a private rancher who will continue beef cattle ranching on the property.
A few moments listening to the interviews in this post will fill you in on many details, and will likely offer valuable background for Florida farmers and ranchers who should expect to hear more about similar efforts in the future. Near the end of his exclusive interview with Southeast AgNet, NRCS Chief White shares a special, thought provoking Congressional memory that is worth a listen.
NRCS Chief Dave White explains the role of NRCS in this land purchase, and intentions for retaining agriculture viability in future preservation efforts:
In this interview, Florida Cattlemens’ Association Executive Jim Handley comments on this and other programs to involve ranchers in ongoing conservation efforts, and points out the importance of also preserving private property rights in the process. Photo left: FCA’s Handley talks with USDA/NRCS Florida State Conservationist Carlos Suarez at Tuesday’s press conference.
Dennis David is the Regional Director for the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, based in Ocala, Florida. He has some very pointed comments in this interview about a new wave of conservation efforts designed to save money while keeping farmers and ranchers viable and profitable on their land. Dennis does a good job explaining the responsibilities of government to gain the trust of agricultural landowners who remain on the front lines of environmental stewardship.