Community Conservation ~ Protecting the Places We Love, Together

 

At NFLT, conservation is about more than protecting land—it’s about protecting the heart of a community. Our work in community conservation focuses on preserving the places that define our shared identity, support local economies, and sustain a high quality of life for generations to come. That means working closely with counties, cities, and neighborhoods to create thoughtful, lasting conservation solutions grounded in community values.

 

That’s why we partner with local governments and residents to help shape conservation programs that reflect what matters most to each community. We don’t lobby or advocate on behalf of governments. Instead, we serve as a guide—helping counties and cities design their own land conservation programs by listening to their people, identifying local priorities, and laying out a clear, realistic path forward.

 

Using what we call a line-of-sight model, we help communities build a portfolio of protected lands that is ecologically sound, politically supported, and financially sustainable. Every step of the way, our role is to provide expert advice, share best practices, and make sure the final product truly reflects local values.

 

We also work directly with community members to save special places that are at risk of being lost forever. When Little NaNa Dune, a landmark of cultural and ecological importance in the historic American Beach community, was threatened by development, NFLT joined forces with residents, advocates, and donors to raise the funds needed to protect it for good. Ferngully Preserve, an enchanting forest rich with biodiversity, was protected thanks to community support and NFLT’s swift action in partnership with City of Jacksonville to secure its future.

 

These are just two examples of what’s possible when people come together to protect the places they love. Whether we’re working with counties to create smart conservation programs or rallying public support for a single, beloved site, NFLT is here to help communities shape their own conservation story. Together, we’re not just saving land—we’re preserving what makes North Florida special.

 

Interested in seeing what counties have land conservation programs? Check out our map HERE!

 

Are you a local government or county wanting to create a land conservation program? Check out our guide, Common Ground – A Land Conservation Guide for Local Governments.