Partnership between District and Alachua County promotes conservation, expands recreational access at Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area

Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities for the community to enjoy, including a fishing/viewing pier overlooking Lake Lochloosa.

PALATKA, Fla. Aug. 30, 2024 — The St. Johns River Water Management District and Alachua County are pleased to announce the expansion of the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area (LWCA).

The District, a key steward of nearly 40,000 acres in Alachua County, has joined forces with Alachua County to acquire 156 acres adjacent to LWCA. This new addition, located within the Ocklawaha River Strategic Planning Basin, will enhance the District’s ability to manage and protect our water resources, including Lochloosa Lake — a designated “Outstanding Florida Water” known for its ecological significance.

“By partnering with Alachua County, we are not only enhancing the protection of vital habitats but also increasing recreational opportunities for the public,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Mike Register. “This collaboration emphasizes our shared dedication to preserving Florida’s natural resources for future generations while enriching the quality of life for our community.”

The acquisition, valued at approximately $1.98 million, will be supported by a joint participation agreement, with Alachua County contributing 80% ($1,162,647) of the purchase price, using Wild Spaces and Public Places surtax funding, and the District contributing up to 20% ($290,700). This expansion will not only broaden recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing, but also fortify habitat protections for 18 listed species, including the Florida black bear and sandhill crane.

John and Lessie Rimes fell in love with the natural beauty of the property when they first saw it in 1969. Since then, they, along with their children and grandchildren, have worked tirelessly to preserve its landscape. “We believe it is vital to continue protecting this land so that future generations can experience the same sense of peace and connection to ‘old Florida’ that our family has treasured for decades. By conserving this family property, we are not only safeguarding its natural beauty but also honoring the legacy of our family who has been its devoted steward for over 50 years,” they said.

“Alachua County staff are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such positive and forward-thinking landowners as the Rimes Family, and with strong partners at the District,” shared County Program Manager Andi Christman. “A family of multi-generational farmers and University of Florida Agricultural graduate, the Rimes’ understand the significance of preserving the beauty that surrounds Lochloosa and Cross Creek. Their commitment to this land reflects a deep respect for the environment and a desire to share its tranquility and charm with others.”

The additional acres will be integrated into the current conservation area managed and maintained by the District and included in the LWCA Land Management Plan. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of partnerships in land conservation and water resource management and reinforces our dedication to preserving Florida’s natural heritage and enhancing the quality of life for our community.

For further information on the LWCA and the District’s conservation efforts, please visit www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/lochloosa.

This is Alachua County’s sixth conservation land acquisition of 2024. To learn more about Alachua County Forever, visit: https://alachuacounty.us/depts/landconservation/pages/landconservation.aspx.