Florida farmers and ranchers have a new opportunity to protect working agricultural lands as the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program (RFLPP) opens its latest application cycle. Applications are now being accepted through January 23, 2026, offering landowners a chance to partner with the state to preserve agricultural operations that are increasingly threatened by urban development.
Administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the program works through rural lands protection easements that allow farms and ranches to remain in production while limiting future development. These easements help ensure long-term agricultural viability while supporting Florida’s economy, natural resources, and rural communities.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson emphasized the importance of preserving these working lands, saying, “Florida’s working agricultural lands are not just undeveloped fields and pastures — they sustain our economy, support our wildlife, nourish our communities, and protect our natural resources. Our working agricultural lands are increasingly threatened by development, and the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program partners with our farmers and ranchers to ensure these lands are protected and remain productive for generations to come. I encourage landowners to apply and join us in safeguarding Florida’s agricultural future.”
Since its inception, the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program has played a significant role in conserving agricultural land across the state. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the program has “successfully preserved approximately 224,000 acres of working agricultural land, with approximately 158,000 acres preserved during Commissioner Simpson’s administration.” The department also noted that “Since 2022, Commissioner Simpson has helped to secure more than $700 million in state funding for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, including $250 million in the 2025/2026 state budget.”
The program’s continued investment reflects Florida’s commitment to balancing growth with the protection of its agricultural heritage. By preserving working lands, the state helps ensure food production, environmental stewardship, and economic stability for future generations.
Eligible landowners interested in participating can submit their applications online through FDACS. Applications will be accepted until January 23, 2026, at FDAC.gov/RFLPP. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to review program requirements early and take advantage of this opportunity to help safeguard Florida’s agricultural future.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.