Paynes Prairie is one of Florida’s most treasured natural ecosystems, offering:  home to bison, wild horses, and hundreds of native species of flora and fauna,  significant water filtration and recharging of our aquifer, and draws more than 300,000 visitors a year to help support our local economy.  The varied habitats provide vital breeding and feeding grounds for a wealth of species including threatened and endangered species such as the: Snail Kite, Florida Sandhill Crane, Gopher Tortoise, and Eastern Indigo Snake.

A sizable proposed housing development right next to this protected National Natural Landmark threatens to destroy critical wildlife habitat, pollute our water, and disrupt the fragile balance of this unique environment.  The impacts of this development would be significant, harmful, and in many cases, irreversible.  Ecological disruption of habitats, significant noise and light pollution, introduction of toxic chemicals into our water system, and loss of ecotourism are all too significant of a price to pay!

We urge local officials to reject this development and preserve the stunning beauty, biodiversity, and natural water filtration Paynes Prairie offers.

A hearing is intended for September, so we need to share this as much as possible.  Please sign this petition and share it to protect this irreplaceable Florida landmark!