Florida approves $12.9M easement protecting 5,610-acre Hendrie Ranch from development

A 5,610-acre portion of Hendrie Ranch will stay undeveloped under a $12.9 million conservation easement approved by state officials. The agreement lets the property keep its farming operations while barring future development. The ranch runs cattle and hay production and harvests timber, and it also shelters a variety of wildlife habitats. The easement is part of Florida's Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, which aims to safeguard working agricultural land.