FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 26, 2004
CONTACT: Leigh Ann Asklar, (850) 245-2112 

Protection Expands for Rare Pitcher Plant

--Governor and Cabinet’s vote protects 100 rare plant species, naval training—

TALLAHASSEE – Rare pitcher plant in Northwest Florida received added protection today with a vote by Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet to acquire nearly 25 acres within the Perdido Pitcher Plant Prairie conservation area in Escambia County. The Florida Forever project connects conservation lands around the Pensacola Naval Air Station and protects water quality in Perdido Bay.

“This unique purchase provides benefits for both the environment and national security,” said Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “Conserving this land protects wildlife habitat and water quality, while supporting the mission of our naval aviators by buffering an important military installation from encroachment.”

Located west of Pensacola, the Perdido Pitcher Plant Prairie supports one of the largest stands of white-top pitcher plants in Florida. The rare and carnivorous white-top pitcher plant is unique to the Gulf Coast and found only between the Apalachicola and Mississippi Rivers.

In partnership with The Nature Conservancy, DEP has acquired more than half of the 7,661-acre conservation project adjacent to the Pensacola Naval Air Station, protecting two and a half miles of Perdido Bay from development and maintaining the viability of naval air training in Pensacola.

The 10-year $3 billion Florida Forever program, established by Governor Bush and the Florida Legislature, conserves environmentally sensitive land, restores waterways and preserves important cultural and historical resources.