The Shoal River Buffer Florida Forever project is a “fee simple” acquisition of 2,097 acres in eastern Okaloosa County, divided into two parcels east and west of the Shoal River. The acquisition would protect 1,768 acres of rare species habitat, 2,062 acres of ecological greenways, 1,419 acres of surface waters, and 1,443 acres of functional wetlands. Black bears, alligator snapping turtles, sweet pitcher plants and hairy indigo have all been documented on the properties.

The Shoal River is an Outstanding Florida Water. Acquiring this property would help protect the water quality of the Shoal River drainage area, provide long-term benefits to imperiled species, and support outdoor recreation opportunities. The property includes upland hardwood forest, sandhills, mesic/wet flatwoods, floodplain forest, basin swamp, and blackwater streams.

PROJECT COST: $3,841,849
LEAD ORGANIZATION: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
PARTNERS: Okaloosa County, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest Florida Water Management District

Additional Benefits:

  • Socially Vulnerable Population Benefiting: 16,900
  • Acres Supporting Recreation: 2,100
  • Critical Facilities in Vicinity: 25
State, Estuary, and Project Type for this project:
Florida Pensacola Bay Habitat Protection