FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 14, 2003
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2118
State
Acquires 1,166 Acres In Escribano Point
--Acquisition is another success for Florida Forever program--
SANTA ROSA COUNTY-The State of Florida acquired 1,166 acres
of Escribano Point in Santa Rosa County, one of the last
undeveloped waterfront tracts in the county. Acquired through
the State's premier land conservation program Florida Forever,
the purchase preserves wetlands, woodlands, and shoreline along
East Bay, which is a critical component of the environment and
economy of the Panhandle.
"Acquiring this sensitive oceanfront land protects water
quality and wildlife habitats in one of the fastest growing
areas of Florida," said Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP) Secretary David B. Struhs. "Protecting
these natural resources is vital for the economy and quality of
life for Floridians."
The Escribano Point Florida Forever Project is also a buffer
to the Yellow River Marsh Aquatic Preserve and the Eglin
Wildlife Management Area.
"This purchase has far-reaching benefits to
Floridians," said Eva Armstrong, DEP's Director of State
Lands. "East Bay produces oysters and other commercial
seafood, which is an economic generator for the local
economy."
Rare and threatened plant species like the white-top pitcher
plant and sweet pitcher plant, found nowhere else in the world,
grow among the diverse marshes, oak hammock, scrubby pine
flatwoods and wet prairie habitat. The Atlantic sturgeon and
West Indian manatee are among the endangered animal species that
frequent area waters.
The 10-year, $3 billion Florida Forever program established
by Governor Jeb Bush conserves environmentally sensitive land,
restores water resources and preserves important cultural and
historical resources
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Press Office
