The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is set to present draft materials for the Creek Ranch Wildlife Management Area’s 10-year Land Management Plan. This will take place at a public hearing in Polk County on April 1, at 6 p.m., at the Lake Eva Event Center in Haines City. The public is invited to attend, comment, and ask questions about the plan.
Creek Ranch WMA covers approximately 1,342 acres in Polk County and plays a crucial role in conservation efforts around Lake Hatchineha in central Florida. It borders Deer Lake and connects to the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, which is part of the headwaters of the Kissimmee River-Lake Okeechobee-Everglades hydrological system. The area supports species such as the Florida panther, Florida black bear, and bald eagle, highlighting its importance to surrounding conservation lands. Recreational activities available include hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding.
“Creek Ranch WMA was purchased to ensure the preservation of fish, wildlife, and other natural and cultural resources for future generations,” said Elizabeth Norregaard, FWC Land Conservation Planner. “This management plan will specify how we intend to accomplish that goal.”
For more information on this event or other upcoming public hearings visit MyFWC.com/Conservation under “Terrestrial Conservation” and “Management.” Note that hunting and fishing regulations are not part of this plan; they are addressed separately.
To get a copy of the draft elements of the management plan for Creek Ranch WMA contact Elizabeth Norregaard at 850-487-9767 or email Ann.Norregaard@MyFWC.com.
According to Chapters 253 and 259 of Florida Statutes, all lands bought with public funds must have a Land Management Plan ensuring consistent property management with purchase purposes.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act provisions anyone needing special accommodations should notify FWC five days before by calling 850-488-6411 or using Florida Relay Service if hearing or speech impaired.
For discrimination concerns or more information contact:
FWC Office of Human Resources
620 S Meridian Street,
Tallahassee FL 32399,
850-488-6411
Or write to:
Office of Diversity Inclusion & Civil Rights
Department of Interior
1849 C Street NW
Washington D.C. 20240
