The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has completed the first round of enrollment for its Florida Panther Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) Pilot Program. The program offers per-acre payments to private landowners who maintain habitat conditions that support the conservation of the endangered Florida panther and help connect key landscapes.
Jennifer Goff, Deputy Director of the FWC’s Division of Habitat and Species Conservation, said, “We’re encouraged by the response from landowners and the quality of the habitat enrolled in this program. Florida’s private landowners are essential for conservation in this state. Private lands provide healthy wildlife habitat and connect conservation lands across the landscape. Our landowners’ willingness to support panthers on their properties makes a tangible difference for this critically endangered species.”
The pilot is funded through grants from organizations including the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation via America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, as well as FWC itself. The aim is to encourage panther conservation on private property, build stronger partnerships with landowners, and improve landscape connectivity needed for panther recovery.
Andrew Walker, President and CEO of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, stated: “This is a model for how we can secure lasting solutions for both wildlife and communities. We’re proud to support such an innovative program demonstrating how conservation and private land stewardship can work hand-in-hand to protect wild Florida and its people.”
During the application period, 69 applications were submitted covering more than 172,000 acres across 14 counties. Of these applicants, 59 met eligibility requirements; FWC staff worked with them to assess their habitats.
After a competitive selection process based on available funding, 15 properties totaling about 40,635 acres were chosen for enrollment. Landowners selected will receive annual payments over three years to maintain or enhance habitats beneficial to panthers. In its first year, $519,012 will be distributed among participating landowners.
Landowners have an option to further assist in monitoring efforts by submitting photos or videos documenting panther presence on their properties as part of the Cameras for Panther Conservation project within PES. About 40% of those enrolled have agreed to host cameras managed by FWC.
FWC plans ongoing outreach with landowners while evaluating results from this initial phase and considering expansion beyond current participants. Public education programs are also planned to highlight PES initiatives and emphasize how working lands contribute significantly to wildlife conservation.
Residents interested in supporting these efforts can purchase a "Protect the Panther" license plate or find more information at MyFWC.com/PESpanther.