The Environmental Lands Program is focused on the conservation of Manatee County’s environmental heritage to benefit today's and future generations. Staff works with the Environmental Land Management and Acquisition Committee (ELMAC) to advise the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) on environmental land acquisition, management, and recreational programming. The BCC decides which properties can be purchased. Only properties whose owners are willing to have their land considered for conservation acquisition are assessed by the program.
The program provides for both fee simple and conservation easement acquisition. A fee simple purchase transfers full ownership of the property to another party. A conservation easement, also known as “less-than-fee” purchase, acquires only the property rights needed for the conservation goal (i.e., development and land use conversion rights). More on conservation easements and their benefits can be found at this link.
A grassroots effort, led by individuals and organizations throughout the region, resulted in a successful 2020 Referendum to finance the acquisition, improvement, and management of conservation lands. The Conservation and Parks Projects Referendum calls for a 0.15 mill ad valorem tax and up to $50,000,000 in general obligation bonds. While the referendum provides a dedicated funding source, partnerships with many other organizations result in additional funds and resources that support the success of the program.
There are sixteen preserves in Manatee County that have been established through a combination of land donations, land purchases, grants from other organizations, and partnerships with Land Trusts. Habitat restoration, ongoing resource management, and providing access for hiking, biking, running, swimming, paddling, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, camping and picnics are rewarding challenges for Manatee County staff. Many Recreational and Outdoor Education opportunities are provided.
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