Conservation Easement Will Help Protect the Ichetucknee
The Ichetucknee and Santa Fe rivers and springs will enjoy greater protection following the recent purchase of a 6,350-acre conservation easement in Suwannee and Columbia counties by the Suwannee River Water Management District (District).
On December 30, 2009, the District closed on acquisition of the easement from Chinquapin Farm, LLC. The perpetual conservation easement prevents future development or alteration of the land, thereby providing groundwater and recharge protection for the local rivers and springs.
Although most of the property is located in southeastern Suwannee County, approximately one-fourth of the land (1,500 acres) lies within the Ichetucknee Springshed, including a portion in southwestern Columbia County. All 6,350 acres are located in what is considered a high recharge area.
Purchase price for the easement was $100 an acre, for a total $635,000. "That was less than the appraised value," said District Deputy Executive Director Charlie Houder. "We consider this to be a substantial donation to the District and a commitment to resource protection."
Under the purchase agreement, the owner-sellers agree to maintain the lands in an environmentally responsible manner, and will be allowed to continue management of the property as a quail hunting preserve.
