Surplus Lands Assessment

The objectives of the project are to identify lands that no longer meet the original acquisition purpose, or do not provide water resource benefits, such as flood control, recharge, water storage, water management, conservation and protection of water resources, water resource and water supply development, or preservation of wetlands, streams and lakes. For example, a landowner may have been unwilling to divide a property offered for sale, so the District purchased the entire parcel recognizing that some portions may have little conservation value. Those portions would be considered for surplusing. Another example are acquisitions for specific projects, where once the project was completed, land was left unused.

Mission Statement

Review the SWFWMD’s land holdings to ensure their support of the water supply, flood protection, water quality and natural systems areas of responsibility thereby ensuring the diligent and efficient stewardship of both land and financial resources for the citizens of Florida. The review process will confirm the original acquisition purpose and current water management benefits within the four areas of responsibility, facilitate a transparent public decision-making process and, if appropriate, consider a full range of potential surplus options.

The Assessment Process

The Governing Board has appointed a Surplus Lands Subcommittee, made up of five Governing Board members, to provide guidance to staff and to review future staff recommendations.

Staff is looking at a number of criteria to draft a process for identifying potential surplus parcels. The assessment will begin by looking at lands that are solely owned and managed by the District. View map of lands owned and managed by the District.

The Surplus Lands Subcommittee will review the staff recommendations and then make its recommendations to the Governing Board. Ultimately, it will be up to the Governing Board to make the final decisions.

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The District would like your opinion about the assessment process. Please submit your comments by clicking on the link below.

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