The former Turtle Creek Golf Course in Rockledge, Florida is slated for residential development — but this land is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including river otters, federally protected Bald Eagles, wood storks, turtles, herons, and other native species.

We call on HOLIDAY BUILDERS and the CITY OF ROCKLEDGE to set aside portions of the former Turtle Creek property as conservation easements or public open spaces before development moves forward.

This is not just about wildlife — it’s about preserving the natural character and property values of our community. Once these green spaces are gone, they’re gone forever. There has been so much change and development in Rockledge, and indeed all of Brevard County, in the past few years. While growth can be a positive thing, it must be achieved sustainably, and with thoughtful intent. The continued loss of green space will only serve to harm our natural environment, threaten biodiversity, and ultimately result in Rockledge becoming yet another bland, characterless suburb.

Why It Matters:

🦅 Wildlife habitat: Protected and native species rely on this land and water to survive.
🌿 Environmental balance: Open spaces help manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and improve air quality.
🏘️ Community value: Preserving nature benefits residents, keeps Rockledge beautiful, and maintains home values.
🕰️ Urgency: Development plans are moving forward now — we must act quickly to make conservation a part of the plan.

We urge the City of Rockledge Planning Commission, the City Council, and Holiday Builders to designate  meaningful portions of land as conservation easement or public parkland. Rockledge only has close to 300 acres of public use land, compared to Viera, which currently has more than 5,000 acres, with almost 400 more acres planned. Turtle Creek is one of the few remaining wild spaces in the area — let’s make sure Rockledge grows responsibly, with respect for its natural heritage.

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photo credit: Deborah Ferrin