Property adjoins Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed
On March 11, Big Waters Land Trust, which is based in Osprey, announced “the permanent conservation of approximately 50 acres of rural open space located on Corkscrew Road near the community of Immokalee in the historic village of Corkscrew,” which is in Collier County.
“This significant conservation achievement protects critical wildlife habitat, preserves the area’s rural character, and safeguards a vital landscape within the Florida Wildlife Corridor,” a news release explains.
The 50 acres comprises two adjoining parcels, creating a permanent buffer for the ecosystem within them, the release adds. “Several species supported by this landscape are identified in Florida’s State Wildlife Action Plan as Species of Greatest Conservation Need, underscoring the ecological importance of this conservation effort,” the release notes.
Moreover, the release points out, these properties adjoin the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW), which contains more than 60,000 acres of conservation landscape spanning Lee and Collier counties. The CREW “plays a critical role” in flood protection, water purification and aquifer recharge, and it provides essential habitat for iconic and endangered wildlife, including the Florida panther, snail kite and wood stork, the release adds.
“The permanent protection of this land ensures that the natural beauty and ecological value of the Corkscrew region will endure for generations,” said Brooke Langston, director of land protection with Big Waters Land Trust, in the release. “By conserving this rural open space, we are strengthening wildlife corridors, protecting water resources and preserving the breathtaking views enjoyed by visitors to the nearby CREW Marsh hiking trails,” with the property “forever protected from encroaching development,” she added in the release.
“Hugh and Judy Starnes have been dedicated stewards of their family’s land in eastern Collier County,” the release continues. “Their generous donation of a conservation easement to Big Waters preserves their legacy forever while allowing them to keep their cattle on their land,” the release points out. The Starnes’ commitment is just one way that landowners can protect the environment — whether they have property that remains in its natural state or whether the land still is being worked, the release adds. The impact of the Starnes’ philanthropy “is immeasurable,” the release says.