UF Center for Landscape Conservation Planning
The Center conducts applied research on conservation, land use, and green infrastructure while provi
One of the highlights of the #corridorconnect conference was celebrating our own Isabella Guttuso Browne. Isabella was selected to be one of the opening speakers for the grand event, and she won the Sabal Award for Emerging Leaders in the field of landscape conservation. Way to go, Isabella!!! We are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished! 👏🏼 Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation Live Wildly UF College of Design, Construction and Planning #floridawildlifecorridor
Last week, Center staff had a fantastic time at the Corridor Connect conference at Disney World – from inside the *last green thread* of north-south connectivity! The experience included tabling, multiple presentations by our staff and many others, films, storytelling, a VIP behind-the-scenes night at Epcot, a ride on Soarin’, and fireworks. If you missed it, you’ll want to register for the next round! Kudos to @AlexFreeze and the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation for a job well done! (Details about Center presentations to follow!) Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, Live Wildly, UF College of Design, Construction and Planning #floridawildlifecorridor
We are honored to announce that the Ecological Society of America has awarded our Director, Tom Hoctor, the Sustainability Science Award. Congratulations, Tom!!!
From the news release:
This award recognizes the authors of the scholarly work that makes the greatest contribution to the emerging science of ecosystem and regional sustainability through the integration of ecological and social sciences. This year’s award is given to the authors of “Marshaling science to advance large landscape conservation," published in Conservation Science and Practice Aug. 27, 2024, for their groundbreaking contribution to sustainability science.
This research team has demonstrated the transformative power of actionable science in preserving the 18-million-acre Florida Wildlife Corridor, one of the world’s most ambitious habitat connectivity projects. By combining rigorous research with innovative tools like the Florida Circuit Model and by fostering partnerships with landowners, government agencies, corporations and nongovernmental organizations, their work has contributed to the permanent protection of over 191,000 acres and the allocation of $2.3 billion in state funding. Their efforts serve as a model for co-produced science that inspires impactful conservation outcomes.
The article highlights a trifecta of critical approaches to conservation action: “Documenting the Development Threat,” “Prioritizing the Corridor” and “Communicating and Convening Science.” The team has lifted conservation prioritization to a new level, enabling local governments and nongovernmental organizations to make land-use decisions backed by data. This model has been instrumental for organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation for their planning of conservation areas and promoting innovative development practices. Moreover, the team’s dedication to effective science communication and collaboration has ensured the practical application of their findings. Their cross-organizational cartographic standards, educational outreach and workshops have united stakeholders under a shared vision of sustainability.
Archbold Biological Station Florida Natural Areas Inventory