FWC recognizes landowners across the Panhandle for wildlife conservation efforts

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is recognizing several

individuals for their outstanding wildlife habitat management in northwest Florida.

To show appreciation for the work done by landowners to conserve Florida’s wildlife

habitat, the FWC’s Landowner Assistance Program (LAP) created the Wildlife Habitat

Recognition Program to formally honor landowners by awarding them with a sign to

display on their property and a certificate recognizing their conservation efforts.

The FWC is recognizing the following landowners for implementing a variety of

conservation practices to restore and enhance wildlife habitat on their property for both

game and non-game wildlife species:

• Steve and Susan Roeser of Holmes County with The Woodland Springs Farm
• Charles Livingston of Gadsden County with Crossbow Land Company LLC
• Brett Wilson and Family of Walton County with Limestone Creek Farms
• Gary Breilmayer and Family of Okaloosa County with Good-Mayer LLC
• Calvin Robinson of Okaloosa County with The Fleming Creek Farm
• Edwin Henry of Okaloosa County with the Welannee Plantation
• Gary Johnson and Family of Walton County with Square-J Farm

“We’re recognizing these landowners for their enduring commitment to the ecosystem

and its wildlife, plants and animals,” said Ed O’Daniels, FWC Private Lands Regional

Coordinator. “Through their stewardship and dedication, they have helped preserve

these natural resources not only for themselves, but for future generations to enjoy and

benefit from them. Recognizing and supporting responsible landowners is essential, as

their commitment to stewardship helps protect biodiversity, strengthen ecosystem

health, and preserve the natural heritage we leave to future generations.”

The aforementioned landowners range in their experience, as some have a few years of

land stewardship and others, several decades. FWC commended the landowners for their conservation practices, citing longleaf pine replanting, prescribed burning, hardwood tree management, the establishment of a family tree farm, the introduction of pollinator-friendly plants, and the development of wildlife openings. According to the agency, the combined efforts of these varied land management initiatives have significantly benefited a wide range of local species, including bobwhite quail, turkeys, gopher tortoises, white-tailed deer and fox squirrels. 

FWC also noted that those recognized have accolades that extend beyond the agency, including recognition through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Stewardship Forest Certification and the National Wild Turkey Federation Wild Turkey Woodlands Recognition Program.