NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- The St. Johns River Water Management District has voted today to purchase 1,402 acres for $3.9 million, approximately three miles north of the Brevard County border, the agency said in a press release.
the property is part of the Indian River Lagoon Blueway Florida Forever Project adjacent to the District's Turnbull Hammock Conservation Area. The property includes 1,213 acres of contiguous land and 189 acres of non-contiguous lots to the southeast.
Volusia County, through its Small Lot Acquisition Program, has previously accumulated 177 acres within the area. The long-term goal of the District and Volusia County is to consolidate a large contiguous area of conservation ownership. The $3.9 million purchase price will be funded using Florida Department of Transportation mitigation funds.
"The District and Volusia County have a history of working together in creating this conservation corridor," said Governing Board member Ann Moore, of Bunnell, after the Dec. 9 acquisition was announced. "This acquisition will enhance the protection of the Indian River Lagoon's northern reaches."
The Palatka-based district is responsible for protecting wetlands, waterways and drinking water supplies in all or part of Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Lake, Marion, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Putnam, St. Johns, Seminole and Volusia counties.