This project would acquire properties containing uplands around Dickerson, Levy, and Ochlockonee Bays in the area known as Bluffs of St. Teresa. The uplands are an intricate mosaic of lakes, depression marshes, mesic flatwoods, scrubby flatwoods, and scrub habitats that are connected to the Gulf by numerous tidal creeks, salt flats, and salt marshes. These habitats adjoin similar communities in St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge to the north and west. The site includes dunes used by shorebirds and twelve archaeological sites are known to exist on the property. The acquisition will benefit habitats used by rare species such as wood storks, Sherman’s fox squirrel, gopher tortoise, as well as loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles.
PROJECT COST: $82,362,000
LEAD ORGANIZATION: Florida Department of Environmental Protection
PARTNERS: Franklin and Wakulla Counties
Additional Benefits:
- Acres Available for Recreation: 19,610
- Socially Vulnerable Population Benefiting: 4,500
- Critical Facilities in Vicinity: 5
