Manatee County awarded $5 million for conservation purchase

Manatee County received a $5 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help fund its Crooked River Ranch purchase.

Over 70% of voters agreed to tax themselves in 2020 so the county could buy conservation lands. Crooked River Ranch was the first property paid for by those funds. 

A press release issued by Manatee County said that the grant was part of a recommendation by NOAA to invest $75 million into coastal habitat restoration and conservation across 16 states. Manatee County was the only grant awarded in the state of Florida.

With 68 acres, Crooked River Ranch is one of the last large, undeveloped properties along the Manatee River. The press release said that the purchase will enhance “climate resilience and water quality in an area under intense pressure from development.” 

“This award is not only a national recognition of the unique environmental values found at Crooked River Preserve but an affirmation of skills within our County’s environmental team to write for a grant of national significance,” said Manatee County Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker. “This results in a return of federal tax dollars for environmental conservation here at home."