FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Karen Forsyth, County Lands
              479-8505

COUNTY RECEIVES $3.2 MILLION FOR
CONSERVATION 20/20 PURCHASE

FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 24, 2003) - The Division of County Lands received a check today from the Florida Communities Trust in the amount of $3,173,824.17!

This represents a 50% match for the reimbursement of the purchase price and related expenses of 1,115 acres of land located in North Fort Myers, now named Conservation 20/20 Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve. 10% of the amount received will be used specifically in the land stewardship of the site. The remaining 90% balance will be used in the purchase of additional lands under the Conservation 20/20 Program, county-wide.

The tract, which cost $6.4 million and was purchased by the county in December 2000, is located on the north side of the Caloosahatchee River just east and west of Interstate 75 and has 3.5 miles of river frontage.

The preserve includes a variety of native forests, several natural creeks and extensive wetland areas that are home to alligators, eagles, herons, egrets, indigo snakes, and gopher tortoises. The extensive vegetated shoreline provides water quality benefits, maintains an important scenic vista, and allows for enhanced recreational opportunities to the public.

Grants of this magnitude take a great deal of time and detailed preparation to successfully meet all of the State's requirements. Special recognition is given to County staff members Lynda Riley (Co. Lands), Anik Smith, and Roger Clark (Parks & Rec) for a job well done!