St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve Expands Through Strategic Conservation Efforts

The St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve (Buffer Preserve) is a hidden gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast that recently expanded by 606 acres. The Buffer Preserve serves as a natural buffer against pollution and provides a haven for wildlife and rare plant species. Visitors can explore its multi-use trail system, perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, kayaking and nature photography.  Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the Buffer Preserve invites adventurers, nature lovers and families to enjoy its scenic beauty while ensuring the protection of this vital coastal landscape for generations to come. This past October, the Buffer Preserve expanded its additional acreage total protected area to 5,810 acres! This major milestone for the Buffer Preserve was long anticipated by staff and the community is excited for what’s to come. 

This exciting land acquisition was made possible by a mitigation plan, a strategic approach used to offset environmental impacts by preserving or restoring natural areas. The process involved identifying conservation priorities, securing funding, obtaining necessary approvals and ensuring long-term sustainability. Mitigation plans are important because they help break the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.  

The effort to expand the Buffer Preserve began in 2005 when the St. Joe Company initiated plans to realign a section of U.S. Highway 98. As part of the project, the company developed a mitigation plan to conserve nearby land, with an agreement to transfer 606 acres to the state. A Mitigation Activity Schedule was created which included pine tree thinning, prescribed burning with constant monitoring, along with other aspects of the project.  

Dylan Shoemaker, manager of the Buffer Preserve, and his staff have worked diligently for 10 years to secure the land and expand restoration efforts for rare and endangered plant species. The passion and dedication of staff at the Buffer Preserve played a crucial role in making the land acquisition and transfer a reality. 

With the addition of 606 acres, the Buffer Preserve is not only expanding its protected land but also strengthening its role as a haven for wildlife, rare plant species and outdoor enthusiasts. This milestone is a testament to the power of persistence, collaboration and strategic conservation planning. After nearly two decades of effort, the successful land acquisition ensures that these natural areas will be preserved as a lasting legacy.