NFLT 2023 Annual Report

2023

Annual Report

04 LETTERS FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

22 A LOOK BACK AS NFLT LOOKS FORWARD TO ITS 25TH YEAR

06 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

24 A TRIBUTE TO CHARLIE COMMANDER

08 2023 AT A GLANCE

25 NEW PARTNERSHIPS & GRANTS IN 2023

10 LANDS CONSERVED IN 2023

26 MCQUILKIN SOCIETY

12 IN THE NEWS 2023

Table of Contents

30 NFLT ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM –OUR FIRST YEAR

16 DONOR FEATURES

CHERYL CUMMER

DELORES BARR WEAVER

JOE HIXON

32 NFLT STAFF

33 DONOR BILL OF RIGHTS

LETTERS FROM LEADERSHIP

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Twenty-five years ago, a small group gathered at Bill McQuilkin’s house to discuss an idea—to buy and preserve land to keep it from development. They envisioned a land trust, then an uncommon idea in Florida, and something that sounded vaguely left wing in the day. Bill McQuilkin, David Strickland, Nick Meiszer, and others stepped out and led the way, trusting in property rights, a free market, and seeing over the horizon a deluge of growth that was then almost unforeseeable.

They were giants, and we stand on their shoulders today, just as they stood on the shoulders of Harriett Beecher Stowe and others before them. Could they foresee what we have become, and the daunting challenge we face as Florida’s population passes 23 million this year?

Today we are ready for the last stand in which we find ourselves, a Now or Never moment. What gets protected now, our grandchildren will know as our, and their, legacy. What is not protected will be gone, for good.

Today we have a staff of fifteen and an organizational budget of more than $8.2 million. We have protected more than 36,000 acres of land and developed ambitious programs of restoration, of long leaf pines, gopher tortoise habitat and now, submerged aquatic vegetation. Hang on to your hats, friends, we have only warmed up. We have tens of thousands of acres yet to protect.

We are grateful for those who built upon the foundation of twenty-five years ago, to carry us to this moment. Past NFLT Board Chairs such as Keith Holt, and my predecessor President Jim McCarthy, who carried us to the Now. Most of all, I am grateful to you, to our staff, the NFLT Board, our members and supporters rising to the challenge which is immediately before us. am also grateful to the donors, led by Dolores Barr Weaver, and joined by every single person reading these words, who have endeavored to support our work and mission. Finally, must recognize our legislative partners, especially Speaker Paul Renner who has provided so generously for O2O Wildlife Corridor funding, as well as our federal partners including the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

May God bless us with a never-ending succession of benefactors, of time, talent and treasure, such that in another 25 years those who follow us will say, “Well done.” Indeed.

LETTERS FROM LEADERSHIP

FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

In ten to twenty years’ time, North Floridians will look back at 2023 as a pivotal year in the diligent and passion-filled fight to preserve the wild lands and spaces that truly define our area. An extremely talented staff with a visionary and dynamic leader have launched and vastly expanded many efforts that will fully shape what we leave for generations to come. Whether it be in capturing new Federal funding for day-in and day-out efforts to protect or restore lands to big challenge funding to an unparalleled commitment from the State of Florida to help lock up the O2O Wildlife Corridor to establishing and growing our membership program/base – huge things were initiated in 2023. While all the above is exciting and welcome news, there is a catch! As the old Chinese proverb states – crisis and opportunity are but two sides of the same coin. All of these efforts require something more – much more in many cases – to achieve success. Challenge grants must be met with more donations; in this instance, more than we have ever raised before. Enormous land acquisitions require more time and talent at a staffing level, yet we also need to keep from

overwhelming our committed but small staff. That is where you come in – if you are reading this – you care about the place we all call home and we need your help now more than ever. Please support NFLT at whatever level you can support. To keep North Florida from ending up looking like South Florida we need to be bold and act quickly. NFLT is up to the challenge and we sincerely hope that you are as well. Thanks in advance for your continued support.

MATT RAPP, BOARD CHAIR

ALLISON DEFOOR, PRESIDENT & CEO

2023

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR MATT RAPP PGA TOUR

LISA BARTON

LISA BARTON TEAM PONTE VEDRA BEACH

MELISSA LONG CITY OF JACKSONVILLE

SECRETARY SHAWNA YAZZIE THE NDN COMPANIES INC.

PATRICK CARNEY BUSINESS OWNER

TREASURER

SCOTT KEITH PINNACLE FINANCIAL PARTNERS

TREY CHAUNCEY BRIGADIER GENERAL U.S. ARMY, RETIRED

CONNIE MCDANIEL COCA-COLA, RETIRED

PIERRE ALLAIRE THE GLOBAL GROUP

MIKE BARKER TERRA CAPITAL HOLDINGS, INC.

MEGAN COUGHLIN

JACKSON LEWIS P.C.

RICK HOFFMAN ORION SOLUTIONS LLC

TED MCGOWAN REYNOLDS PARK/ CLAY COUNTY PORT, INC.

CHARLEY MOORE HIGHPOST CAPITAL

DAVID BARTON BANK OF AMERICA

CARLTON JONES THE RENAISSANCE GROUP

SHANE WILLIAMS RENASANT MORTGAGE LENDING

EX OFFICIO

KEITH HOLT STOTT BOLT

2023 At A Glance

NFLT continues to work diligently to increase land holdings and fundraising to conserve North Florida’s irreplaceable natural environment. The importance of land conservation is receiving increased recognition and support from landowners, donors, government officials, and industry executives who want to protect the natural resources we all cherish. Here is our growth by the numbers.

36,700 acres

TOTAL ACRES SAVED/CONSERVED (NFLT LIFETIME)

TOTAL ACRES CONSERVED

712 acres 1,509 acres

TOTAL ACRES ADDED TO O2O

41 partners

TOTAL NUMBER OF PARTNERS

TOTAL VALUE OF DONATED LAND (NFLT LIFETIME)

TOTAL VALUE OF FACILITATED AND OWNED LANDS

TOTAL NUMBER OF PRESERVES OWNED BY NFLT

320 acres $16 million

TOTAL ACRES BURNED THROUGH PRESCRIBED FIRES

TOTAL LONGLEAF PINE SAPLINGS PLANTED

26 preserves 16,242 acres

TOTAL ACRES IN WHICH NFLT HOLDS AN INTEREST

82,500 100% $2.46 million $98.3 million

BOARD AND STAFF GIVING

TOTAL FUNDRAISING

Lands Conserved

In 2023, NFLT conserved more than 1,500 acres and facilitated the conservation of hundreds more. All of these properties play a critical role in the North Florida ecosystem and further our mission of preserving our quality of life by protecting North Florida’s irreplaceable natural environment.

BULL HARCOURT PRESERVE | 219 ACRES DUVAL COUNTY

In February 2023, North Florida Land Trust purchased nearly 219 acres at a bargain price along the Intracoastal Waterway adjacent to NFLT’s River Branch Islands Preserve. The land was sold to NFLT by Atlantic Beach Holding Company, a group of heirs of Harcourt Bull, the first mayor of Atlantic Beach, and his wife, Florence. The family had owned the land since 1949 and decided to sell it at a bargain price with the difference in actual cost considered a donation to NFLT to preserve it forever in its natural state. In April a dedication ceremony was held and the parcel was officially named the Harcourt and Florence Stolbrand Bull Memorial Preserve, also known as the Bull Family Preserve.

LITTLE TIGER ISLAND | 565 ACRES NASSAU COUNTY

North Florida Land Trust helped facilitate the protection of the more than 565 acres of land near Fernandina Beach known as Little Tiger Island. The State officially closed on the property using $965,000 in funds from the Florida Forever program, along with a $1 million grant that NFLT helped secure from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program.

RAYONIER | 230 ACRES BRADFORD COUNTY

In October, NFLT, in partnership with Camp Blanding and the Bradford County School Board (BCSB), facilitated the acquisition of a property that will be the new home of the North Florida Technical College’s commercial vehicle driving school. The 230-acre property, located just outside the Camp Blanding military installation in Bradford County and close to NFLT conservation lands, was purchased from Rayonier Inc. for more than $1.8 million with funds from the Camp Blanding Army Compatible Use Buffer (ACUB) program.

BIG PINE PRESERVE / SWAN SMILEY PRESERVE 470

ACRES MARION COUNTY

In November 2023, North Florida Land Trust facilitated the preservation of 470 acres in Marion County, located within the Ocala to Osceola Wildlife Corridor, and known as Swan-Smiley Big Pine Preserve. The O2O is a vital connector within the State-designated Florida Wildlife Corridor. The acquisition was primarily funded through the Florida Forever program approved by the Governor and Cabinet in May 2023 with additional private support. The preserve was purchased for $4.997 million.

In the News

NFLT made local and national news this year! More recognition, more partnerships, and more collaborations means more impact and more land conserved. Here are some of the highlights from this year.

NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST AND PARTNERS HOSTED O2O EXPEDITION KICK-OFF AND GATEWAY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

North Florida Land Trust joined the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, the Florida Trail Association, Friends of Ravine Gardens, and premiere sponsor Calhoun International for the O2O Expedition Kick-Off and Gateway Community Celebration in February 2023. The nonprofit partners celebrated the designation of Putnam County as a Florida Trail Gateway Community and kicked off the “Ocala to Osceola: Operation Connect, Protect, and Restore” Expedition.

NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST AND CLAY COUNTY HOSTED LAND CONSERVATION PROGRAM WORKSHOPS

NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST’S SMITH LAKE PRESERVE IS NOW PART OF THE FLORIDA NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL

In April 2023, North Florida Land Trust, in collaboration with Clay County, hosted workshops to gather community input on the proposed Clay County Land Conservation Program. The workshops were held to give the community the opportunity to learn more about the proposed Clay County Land Conservation Program and to give feedback to the Clay County Board of County Commissioners on the natural resources that matter most to them.

A portion of the NFLT’s Smith Lake Preserve is now part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. NFLT, the Florida Trail Association and the U.S. Forest Service held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in December 2023 to commemorate the opening of the new 2-mile portion of the trail in Smith Lake Preserve and to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1,500-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.

Photo credit Jenny Alvarado

Cummer’s Call to Conservation: Preserving Florida’s Natural and Historical Tapestry

CHERYL CUMMER

The Cummer Family has been a beacon of philanthropy and environmental stewardship in Florida, a reputation upheld by Cheryl Cummer’s quiet but potent dedication to nature. Her significant land donations and unwavering support of environmental initiatives reflect a commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations.

One of Cheryl’s significant actions was, in 2016, joining the Cummer family members through the Cummer Land Trust in entrusting a 138-acre tract to the North Florida Land Trust (NFLT), creating the Cummer Family Land Trust Preserve. The property is legacy land held by the Cummer Family for several generations and was part of the family’s original purchases when they moved the focus of their timber operations from Michigan to Florida at the end of the 19th century. The property was described by Wellington Cummer, who passed away in 2005, as “the most beautiful property the family owned.”

The preserve, situated along the Withlacoochee Riverine and Lake System in both Citrus and Sumter Counties, is protected under Florida’s environmental laws and serves as a sanctuary for diverse wetland ecosystems. Here, Cheryl’s commitment to the untouched wilderness is exemplified by her opposition to development in such sensitive areas.

“It angers me that developers can go into wetland areas, get laws changed, and pretend they’re restoring the land somehow. You can’t make a wetland; it must be natural and develop on its own just like a forest,” Cheryl said.

Cheryl’s dedication to conservation is also evident through a conservation easement on her property in Mandarin, donated in 2003. Partnering with the nascent NFLT more than 20 years ago, Cheryl sought to protect the land. Her property highlights Florida’s beauty with its venerable Live Oaks and expansive views of the St. Johns River. The site has historical depth as well, encompassing the 19th-century King House directly adjacent the home once occupied by historical figures Calvin and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Cheryl’s foresight preserves its historical and environmental significance for future generations.

Since 2005, Cheryl has hosted small groups of naturalists, garden club members, students, and faculty from UNF’s Schools of Music and Archaeology, the Environmental Institute, the Ogier Garden, as well as other community organizations like Hope at Hand, See the Girl, and Art with a Heart in Medicine. They attend educational tours of the gardens and conduct their individual projects: concerts, artist workshops, archaeological digs on the bluff, canoe launching, and water exercises off the riverbank. She has also held larger fundraising events for the NFLT and the UNF School of Music. Head Gardener Madelaine LeDew, who has directed the evolution of Lanakila Gardens since 2018, describes the property as follows:

“Two and a half acres of organically maintained ecologically mindful gardens of high horticultural merit. The success of these diverse garden spaces lies with the fertile soil, which is sensitively conserved alongside our plant collections, wildlife habitat and majestic live oak canopy.”

“The gardens range in theme from resilient riparian edge plantings to formal parterres under ancient Live Oak canopy. These organic gardens incorporate edibles, ornamentals, towering timber bamboos and tropical fruit trees.”

The name Lanakila is derived from the Hawaiian word for “victory, to prevail, to overcome,” as the many larger-than-life tropical plantings evoke Cheryl’s personal experience of living in Hawaii. In 2021, Lanakila Gardens

participated in The Garden Conservancy’s Open Days Program in partnership with the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The Lanakila Gardens Foundation was established in 2022, and in October of 2023, Lanakila Gardens Inc. achieved a nonprofit status as a 501c3 organization. The recent achievement of nonprofit status for Lanakila Gardens solidifies Cheryl’s commitment to the community. Her partnership with NFLT enhances cultural and environmental conservation efforts.“Aligning with NFLT has strengthened my ability to make my home more than a personal haven, but instead, a horticultural sanctuary for people to enjoy after my death.”

Cheryl has also been an advocate for the 21-acre Ferngully Preserve in Mandarin, which the City of Jacksonville acquired in 2001 through the Preservation Project with funds from the Better Jacksonville Plan. In January of 2023, NFLT and the City announced that 4.5 acres in danger of development in Mandarin were purchased and added to the Preserve. NFLT helped raise $62,500 through community donations, including donations from Cheryl, and the City then matched the donations to reach the purchase price and acquire the property from the landowner.

With her substantial financial contributions over 17 years, coupled with land donations, Cheryl has significantly bolstered NFLT’s mission. Her deepseated family tradition of enriching Jacksonville’s cultural and environmental landscape is reflected in her generosity. Her endeavors serve as an inspiration for collective environmental guardianship and individual commitment to preserving our natural world.

“You can’t make a wetland; it must be natural and develop on its own just like a forest.”

A Legacy of Generosity: The Transformative Impact of Delores Barr Weaver on NFLT

DELORES BARR WEAVER

In the lush landscapes of North Florida, where natural beauty is woven into the very fabric of the community, a tale of extraordinary generosity and unwavering stewardship unfolds. A central figure in this remarkable story is Delores Barr Weaver, a philanthropist whose profound commitment to the community shines brightly in her substantial support of the North Florida Land Trust (NFLT).

Mrs. Weaver’s contributions, through the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund, have been a driving force in preserving and protecting significant places within our community, from the ethereal realms of Bogey Creek to the historical intrigues of the Spanish American War Fort. With a giving spirit that has illuminated the paths of possibility, Mrs. Weaver’s philanthropy has infused $2.1 million over eight years into initiatives that breathe life into the mission of the NFLT.

“Since my earliest involvement, have felt connected to NFLT’s mission of preservation and celebration. Their work is not only centered on safeguarding natural places, but helping people enjoy these areas and hear the stories of the preserved land.”

In a recent remarkable gesture of support, Weaver granted $510,000 to the NFLT. This significant donation is allocated towards two key initiatives that are essential for enhancing the land trust’s conservation efforts and community engagement.

A substantial part of the grant, amounting to $380,000, is designated for the procurement of crucial stewardship equipment such as a track loader and a new fire truck. This investment is pivotal for the NFLT, allowing for improved land management, restoration of natural habitats, and effective implementation of conservation plans.

Additionally, $130,000 of the grant is directed towards the establishment of a new membership program. This strategic initiative is crafted to bolster community participation and support, enabling the trust to build a strong network of contributors and advocates dedicated to conservation efforts in North Florida.

“I’m proud to make this recent investment to support NFLT’s plans for sustainability. It makes sense that they wish to steward the land themselves, achieving cost savings and more control over land management. The membership campaign also focuses on sustainability by creating new sources of support and engagement.”

Mrs. Weaver’s long-standing partnership with NFLT exemplifies a shared vision for a preserved, protected, and cherished natural environment in the region. Her philanthropic vision is a powerful catalyst, inspiring others in the community to join in and contribute towards meaningful conservation causes.

Having recently made a $1 million gift over 10 years for land acquisition, Delores reflected, “The work of NFLT will continue to span generations. Joined by many others, I can play a part in preserving our treasured natural spaces, which enrich our lives in so many ways.”

Her legacy is not just in the substantial financial contributions she has made but also in the lives touched, lands preserved, and the community engagement fostered through her remarkable generosity.

Her continuous support has been instrumental in realizing impactful conservation projects, ensuring that North Florida’s unique environmental heritage is safeguarded and celebrated for future generations.

“Their work is not only centered on safegaurding natural places, but helping people enjoy these areas and hear the stories of the preserved land.”

Low Profile, High Impact: Joe Hixon’s Enduring Legacy

JOE HIXON

From the Guana to the St. Marys, wherever nature whispers, Joe Hixon listens.

A self-described “tree hugger,” Joe champions a hands-on approach and explains why he enjoys working with and supporting the North Florida Land Trust (NFLT): “It’s highly personal. You can go out and see the land before you write the check.” His concern about Florida’s rapid development is palpable: “There are 900 people a day coming into Florida! Developers are circling like hawks over every scrap of land.”

Joe’s involvement in the North Florida preservation scene pre-dates NFLT and has been consistent for decades. His influence reached political spheres, gaining the attention of Gov. Bob Martinez and later Gov. Jeb Bush. This led to the enactment of Preservation 2000 and Florida Forever, protecting over 2.4 million acres statewide. Despite maintaining a low profile, his impact on Florida’s landscape has been profound and far-reaching. NFLT’s President, Allison DeFoor, has stated that few people have had such a “low profile and high impact” on Florida.

“Our grandchildren will know what he did for the state, but he always was very humble about his leadership,” Allison said. “Too many folks in public life are more hat than cattle. Joe was the opposite.”

At the state’s northern edge, along the St. Marys River, lies a testament to Joe’s dedication. Here, he and his wife, Renate, own a swath of land, which Joe lovingly describes as “godawful.” This flood-prone area, once at risk of

development, is now a sanctuary for wildlife. Joe has tirelessly worked to restore it, planting longleaf pines, eradicating invasive species, and managing fire. Rather than making the land suitable for development, he strives to ensure its perpetual protection.

Joe first became involved with NFLT in its earliest days nearly 25 years ago, when it was founded by Bill McQuilkin. Reflecting on these early days, he said, “Bill arrived as a stranger in a new town and said, ‘I’m going to do this.’ And he did — just look at how much it has grown!” Joe’s generosity as a donor has supported NFLT’s work with the Guana River Preserve, Bogey Creek Expansion, and the General and Preservation Funds. His strategic planning and direct actions have significantly bolstered the preservation of critical ecosystems and the promotion of biodiversity. He has also inspired individuals and organizations to partake actively in habitat conservation.

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ Joe Hixon Champion of Conservation Award, established in 2018, reflects the ethos Joe has embodied throughout his conservation journey. This accolade, which NFLT was honored to receive in 2019, serves not only as recognition of Joe’s commitment but also as a symbol of the collective effort in environmental stewardship.

Joe’s deep-seated connection to nature began in his childhood, nurtured by his upbringing in Ortega, near the river. Alongside his brothers, Joe’s early years were a tapestry of outdoor adventures. Their days were filled with fishing in the Ortega River and caring for rescued baby raccoons and wildcats,

embedding a lasting love for the natural world. This affinity for nature is a legacy of his family heritage, rooted in a long line of farmers and outdoorsmen.

While attending both boarding school and college in Connecticut, Joe’s bond with the outdoors remained unbroken. “I was always drawn to the woods; it seems to have stuck with me,” he reflects, seemingly looking back to a familial tradition. His great grandfather, Gideon Hixon, had major timber businesses across the U.S. dating back to 1850 and his great grandmother’s lineage can be traced to Lake City, Florida—where they owned over a million acres of land and operated a timber company—further cemented this connection.

Even amidst the urban landscape of New York City, where he worked after graduating from Yale, Joe found ways to reconnect with his naturalist roots. He engaged with the Campfire Club, a club reputedly founded by Teddy Roosevelt in the late 1890s for hunters, anglers, explorers, naturalists, artists, and likeminded individuals. The club espoused the values of adventure, camaraderie in the great outdoors, and commitment to wildlife conservation—a perfect alignment with Joe’s ethos. Joe’s passion for wildlife conservation and adventure also led him to experience the raw beauty of Africa through multiple safari adventures. He describes these excursions as “inconceivably beautiful.”

After leaving the Northeast and returning to Florida, Joe became actively involved with the Jacksonville Zoo and The Nature Conservancy, and later, NFLT. Reflecting on his experiences, he notes, “The thing about organizations like the North Florida Land Trust is the palpable joy and work ethic you see in their team. There’s a genuine trust in the Land Trust, and trust is not easily earned,” he observes. With a note of encouragement, Joe adds, “I’m heartened by their efforts and would strongly encourage anyone eager to contribute to a better Jacksonville, and thereby, a better world, to get involved now.”

A Look Back as NFLT Looks Forward to Its 25th Year

The North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) has been a steadfast guardian of the region’s natural beauty and ecological integrity for the past 25 years. NFLT has made significant strides in land conservation and environmental stewardship since its humble beginnings and has grown into a powerful force for conservation. NFLT has protected more than 36,000 acres of environmentally

significant land across seven North Florida counties including property at Big Talbot Island, the River Branch Islands Preserve, Pumpkin Hill, Little NaNa Dune, the O2O Wildlife Corridor, and Little Tiger Island, and other treasured natural areas in North Florida.

2016

• Officially launched the Preservation Portfolio to protect more than 110,000 acres spanning St Johns, Clay, Flagler, Putnam, Duval, Nassau and Baker counties

• Acquired 206 acres along Six Mile Creek, the first acquisition inside the Preservation Portfolio

2017

Bogey Creek Preserve becomes a reality – NFLT worked with the Spencer family to protect their land and purchases the property in 2017

2018

1999

A group of passionate conservationists, led by Bill McQuilkin, establish NFLT with a mission to conserve the natural lands of North Florida

2000–2009

• First conservation easement – the 2-acre Cummer family property in Mandarin

• NFLT purchases the 30.5 acre Pescatello Island in Duval County, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and The Trust for Public Land

• Hire first fulltime executive director, Bonnie Barnes

2010

Celebrated 10 years, surpassed 1,100 acres preserved

2014

• Jim McCarthy joined as President with a staff of three people

• Began focusing on strategic conservation planning, GIS mapping, and developing a “Sentinel Landscape” for various government departments

2012

• Received a $5.6 million bequest from Diane Joy Milam Dennis (Robert and Meriel Milam Trust) with the intent to acquire privately-owned land on Big Talbot Island for preservation –this was a launching point for NFLT

• Acquired 442.67 acres in Big Talbot Island Preserve

2015

• Created the Preservation Portfolio, identifying and designating more than 110,000 acres as critical for conservation

• Made the largest land purchase in its 16-year history, closing on 2,551 acres along the Nassau River, the largest piece of unprotected land in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

2013

Received donation of 500 acres in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve from the estate of Noble Enge, Jr.

• Purchased 645-acre property on Big Talbot Island from CSX Corp, financed by the Robert and Meriel Milam Trust, ensuring the entire island is virtually off-limits to development

• Acquired Nassau River Marshes Preserve (2,586.44 acres), of which 1,163.51 acres are within the Pumpkin Hill Project boundary

• Completed a strategic plan changing the mission statement and establishing a vision statement

• Recognized as an official partner of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for conservation work in the O2O through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) a partner- driven, locally led approach to conservation

• Established the McQuilkin Society for distinguished supporters

• Accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission

2019

• Total land preserved: 24,000 acres

• Launched the Amelia Forever campaign to raise funds to protect Little NaNa Dune

• Completed the purchase of Fish Island for $65 million with the State of Florida and the city of St Augustine

2020

• Received a $9.3 million grant through the USDA and the NRCS through their RCPP for O2O land conservation

• O2O Partnership protects more than 4,400 acres in the O2O

• Celebrates 20 years of conservation at the Annual Meeting at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in February

2021

• NFLT purchases and ensures conservation in perpetuity of Little NaNa Dune, located within the historic Black community of American Beach, and connects the 1.55 acres to the 8.5-acre NaNa Dune, the tallest dune in Florida

• NFLT and the Amelia Forever Campaign Committee successfully fundraise the needed dollars in a record 10 months to pay off the $1.305 million loan used to purchase Little NaNa Dune

2022

• Purchased 400 acres of Clay County woodlands using government funds budgeted to buffer military bases (in this case, Camp Blanding) from development

• Received organization’s largest non-government grant to date ($305,000) in support of stewardship from an anonymous funder

• Nassau County voters pass the Land Conservation Bond Referendum with 68% of the vote; NFLT works alongside critical supporters including members from the Amelia Forever Committee, the Amelia Tree Conservancy, and the Trust for Public Land to help pass the referendum

2023

• The State of Florida closes on 565 acres known as Little Tiger Island using $965,000 in funds from the Florida Forever program and a $1 million grant that NFLT helped secure from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program

• Completed Phase 1 and launched Phase 2 of the Clay County Land Conservation Program

• Allison DeFoor named as president & CEO

• Established new membership program

• Debuted a new brand and tagline

The North Florida Land Trust’s history is one of unwavering dedication, strategic partnerships, and a deep love for the land. Entering its 25th year, NFLT’s strategic planning and leadership have laid the foundation for continued growth and significant conservation successes, ensuring the health of North Florida’s ecosystems and safeguarding our long leaf pine forests, coastal salt water marshes, wildlife habitat, and more, for future generations.

A Tribute to Charlie Commander

HONORING CHARLIE COMMANDER’S LEGACY

AUGUST 17, 1940 – NOVEMBER 30, 2023

The North Florida Land Trust community honors the exceptional life of Charles E. Commander III, or Charlie as he was known to many in North Florida and beyond, whose passing marks the loss of a remarkable champion of conservation. Raised on the St. Johns River, Charlie developed a deep connection with Florida’s natural world, a bond that started in childhood and went on to define his lifelong conservation efforts.

Allison Defoor, President and CEO of North Florida Land Trust, reflects on Charlie’s character and contributions, “Charlie was a wonderful, generous man and a true champion for conservation. The relationship between NFLT and Charlie began years ago when he reached out to donate a 716-acre conservation easement in Putnam County, along with a financial donation to help manage the land. Since that time, he supported us regularly, not only with donations, but with his time and fundraising efforts. He was passionate about protecting Florida’s natural spaces. The world needs more people like Charlie in it.”

Charlie was a committed conservationist and avid outdoorsman, who found peace and fulfillment on two family farms and companionship with his bird dogs. A prominent member of NFLT’s McQuilkin Society, Charlie’s contributions to conservation extended beyond land donation. He was a member of the initial Executive Committee of the Jacksonville Zoo when it was successfully privatized, he sat on the national board of the Delta Waterfowl

Foundation, the local board of the Coastal Conservation Association, and the advisory board for the Northeast Florida Trust for Public Lands.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Charlie’s family and friends. His life serves as a testament to the impact one person can have in protecting and preserving our natural world. Charlie’s devotion and efforts will continue to inspire conservation work for years to come.

In honor of Charlie’s memory and lifelong efforts in support of conservation, NFLT will debut a new award at the 2024 Annual Meeting, the Charlie Commander Land Conservation Award. This annual award will recognize landowners like Charlie, dedicated to conservation and protecting the North Florida landscape.

New Partnerships and Grants in 2023

DELORES BARR WEAVER LEGACY FUND

In June 2023, North Florida Land Trust was awarded a $510,000 grant from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida for two important initiatives; the creation and rollout of its new membership program and the purchase of essential stewardship equipment to help maintain the nonprofit’s 26 preserves and future conservation lands.

NFLT will use $380,000 of the grant money to purchase a track loader with a unit head and a new fire truck which are critical pieces of equipment needed to support the nonprofit land conservation organization’s land stewardship and management program. Owning its own equipment means NFLT has more flexibility to recreate lost habitats for endangered species and return the land to its original and natural state. It also means NFLT is not beholden to a third party to provide equipment or services to implement land management plans on the more than 16,000 acres in its portfolio. The addition of these critical pieces of equipment allows NFLT to do more maintenance in-house, thereby reducing costs and maintenance expenses.

The remainder of the grant will be used for NFLT’s new membership program created to help establish a strong base of supporters and build long-term community support for the nonprofit. The $130,000 will fund communications, promotion, outreach, website additions, membership data management, special events and more. Members can join at five levels designed to allow them to share thoughts on NFLT’s conservation efforts and to contribute to program successes and to NFLT’s future plans. The community can join NFLT in preserving land now that can be enjoyed forever. The unrestricted donations generated will also help NFLT act quickly when preservation opportunities arise.

NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE REGIONAL CONSERVATION PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

North Florida Land Trust and its partners have been awarded $15.2 million by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA’s NRCS) through its Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The funding will support the Corridor to Coast (C2C) initiative that extends through the Northeast and Central Florida region to the east coast and includes a critical linkage within the Florida Wildlife Corridor and Ecological Greenways Network (FEGN), the Ocala to Osceola (O2O) Wildlife Corridor. The RCPP will support the conservation of working farms, forests and natural buffer lands that provide ecological benefits to the region. The C2C is an extension of the O2O partnership led by NFLT and includes public and private organizations dedicated to landscape-scale conservation. The C2C is approximately 5,200,000 acres and covers portions of nine counties that include privately owned working lands and forests, freshwater wetlands, natural areas, pastures and public conservation lands.

McQuilkin Society

Established in 2018, the McQuilkin Society recognizes those individuals, families, and foundations who devote themselves to supporting the mission of the North Florida Land Trust. The McQuilkin Society is a distinguishing honor that recognizes new members through an annual pinning ceremony. Membership in the McQuilkin Society offers unique and meaningful opportunities to support and connect with NFLT and our conservation lands. You can join the McQuilkin Society by leaving NFLT in your estate, donating land, or through cumulative giving at the $10,000+ level.

“As a donor to this organization, I know my funds are leveraged in a smart way that makes a tremendous impact on conservation in our state.”

McQuilkin Society Members

WELCOME OUR NEW INDUCTEES FOR 2023

HERITAGE CIRCLE

The Bull Family PRESERVATION CIRCLE

Pierre and Lorraine Allaire

John and Anne Baker

Allison and Randy DeFoor

Thomas Grady

Keith and Ann Holt

Meriel W. Milam Revocable Trust

Kimbrough and Thomas Noonan

Bob Rhodes

The Fig Tree Fund

HERITAGE CIRCLE

Steven Austin

In memory of John Michael Carter

Charles Chupp

Dave Coderre

Cheryl Cummer

Cummer Family Land Trust

Thomas R. Dumas

Noble Enge, Jr. †

Charles and Mary Farr

Buck and Vickie Griffis

Jeffrey and Lauren Hoffman

JLC Suncoast

Phil J. Mays

James † and Lynn McCloskey

James and Paula McGarvey

Rebecca and Paul Nowicki

Eugene Porter

South Pasture LLC

Gary and Laine Silverfield, Christie Atkerson

Eloise Bailey Thompson †

Welaka Woods, LLC

Judy Silva, Michael Wilensky and Robert Wilensky

Ben and Louann Williams

Robert Van Winkel

LEGACY CIRCLE

Anonymous

William L. Berthet

Diane Joy Milam Dennis †

Ashley Dopf

Elizabeth Dougherty †

Chris and Quan McDermott

Phillip and Ellen Petersen

Lynn Roberson

Matt and Stacy Roesch

Drs. Todd Sack and Barbara Sharp

Jeff Schroer

Pamela Telis

PRESERVATION CIRCLE

Alexander Foundation

Amelia Tree Conservancy

Amy E. Lohman Charitable Foundation

Warren Anderson, Jr.

Anonymous (8)

Art and Donna Appel

John and Maureen Ausura

David and Susanna Barton

William and Lisa Barton

Judy Beaubouef

Henry and Leslie Berghoef

Johnetta Betsch Cole and JD Staton

Aimee and Dane Boggs

Wende and Michael Burdick

Penney Burnett

Tim Campbell

Carlos and Davron Cardenas

Cascone Family Foundation

Center for Large Landscape Conservation

Kathi Chalk

Charlie Commander †

Stephen and Betsy Crosby

CSX Foundation

Cheryl Cummer

Margaret Davis and David Kenney

Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund

Herve and Heather Devos

Tom and Jean Dodson

David Donoho

Robin Donoho

Lory Doolittle

Jean Drapeau and Leon Kumpe

Thomas R. Dumas

Eastland Development Group

Sarah Edwards

EJK Foundation

Lila S. Elliott

Bill † and Kristen Ely

Ronald and Sally Evens

Felburn Foundation

Florida League Of Conservation Voters

Education Fund, Inc

Norman and Patricia Foy

Sally Ann Freeman

G. Timothy Pate Legacy Trust

William and JoAnn Gingrich

Morton Glickman

John H. and Patricia Goelz

In memory of Gloria Child Goelz

Tom and Donna Goelz

In memory of Gloria Child Goelz

Bill and Anne Gower

Tommy and Becky Grimes

Melissa Gross-Arnold

Thea and Bob Gude

Hanna Foundation

Pam and Joe Hart

Preston and Joan Haskell

Haskell Foundation

Edward and Sherry Hicks

Joseph M. and Renate Hixon

Corky and Andrea Hoffman

Rick and Faith Hoffman

Wayne and Pat Hogan

David Holt and Carole Reynolds-Holt

Iva and Gene Gray Memorial Endowment

Jaguars Foundation, Inc

Bob and Cindy Kastner

Susan and Stephen Kaye

Matt Kenyon

Lindsay Klecan and Matthew Slaughter

Michel and Heidja Kruse

Jo-Ann and Steve † Leimberg

Marco Family Foundation

MaryEllen Willis Foundation

Connie and Ken McDaniel

Bill and Sue McQuilkin

Wayne and Jean Middleton

Charley and Lindsay Moore

David Moross

Chuck and Diane Newman

Robert and Thelma Nied

Robert Nuss

Sally and Tony Perez

Ron and Janet Pfeffer

Matthew H. Rapp

River Branch Foundation

Genie Rostad

Dr. Sally Ryden

Sibley-Saltonstall Charitable Foundation

Ron Silver

Sandra and Richey † Smith

Jill and Robert Storey

Elizabeth Strawbridge

David and Elaine Strickland

Susan Elizabeth Laird Rev. Living Trust

The Healy Foundation

The Lane Family

The Makowski Trust

THE PLAYERS Championship

The Rayonier Foundation

The Spurlino Foundation

The Walter V. and Judith L. Shipley Family Foundation

Timucuan Parks Foundation

Harold and Nanette Tool

Wells Fargo Foundation

Ben and Louann Williams

† deceased

Photo credit Renee Bodine

NFLT Annual Membership Program – Our First Year

One of our proudest accomplishments in 2023 was the introduction of our annual membership program. Our goal with this new program is to communicate the need for protection and preservation of our natural spaces to more North Florida residents, increasing our reach and the number of conservation advocates in our area. In addition, we want to offer the individuals who make our impactful mission possible exclusive opportunities to see our work firsthand and interact directly with the change makers on staff.

The inaugural year of the annual membership program was wildly successful. We welcomed almost 230 members in 2023, many of whom are brandnew to the work of NFLT. Not only that, we secured more than $130,000 in unrestricted support for the organization, dollars that will allow us to act quickly on pressing land conservation acquisitions and other projects.

During this inaugural year of membership, we hosted three member events, each offering an opportunity for members to mingle and network while also learning about our work. At our kickoff event in the spring, members heard from Ramesh Buch about the land acquisitions process. In the fall, our McQuilkin Society members enjoyed a cocktail reception where they had a chance to hear from NFLT Board Chair Matt Rapp about summer stewardship successes and upcoming projects, among other updates. On the same night, our annual members viewed an exclusive screening of Path of the Panther a Wildpath documentary highlighting the importance of the Florida

Wildlife Corridor to the survival of the endangered Florida panther species. In November we hosted a private tour of NFLT’s Little Rain Lake Preserve in Keystone Heights. Members had a chance to check out the stewardship team’s prescribed burn progress, viewed multiple bird species enjoying the open air, and learned about NFLT’s longleaf pine restoration project, which is now complete. We plan to double the number of member events in 2024, so join today and be a part of these member-only opportunities.

The following page is a roster of our inaugural annual members. Thank you to all of our inaugural members for helping make our first year a huge success!

CHAMPION

Linda Alexander

Pierre and Lorraine Allaire

Rick Anderson

Bill Ashcroft

Mike and Sue Barker

Lisa and Bill Barton

Susan Berg

Aimee and Dane Boggs

Michael Bouchet

Sheila and William Braddock

Penney Burnett

Warren and Clarissa

Chandler

Autumn and Paul Combs

Charles and Meg Commander

Ken and Lucy Conrad

Tom Crook

Steve and Betsy Crosby

Cheryl Cummer

Allison and Randy DeFoor

Herve and Heather Devos

Lory Doolittle

Sarah Edwards

Lila Elliott

Rianna Elliott

Sara and K.M. Eoff

Daniel Flynn

Norman and Patricia Foy

Morton Glickman

Thomas Grady

Melissa Gross-Arnold

Lee and Mindy Hanna

Pam and Joe Hart

Natalie and Andrus Healy

Joe and Renate Hixon

Charlie and Stacey Hogan

David Holt and Carole

Reynolds-Holt

Prudence Hostetter

Jeff Huenink

Tim Jenkins

Carlton and Barbara Jones

Cindy and Bob Kastner

Edward and Barney Lane

Amy Lohman

David Marco

Lynn McCloskey

Jay and Susan Monahan

Leslie and Will Montoya

Terry Mullervy

Chuck and Diane Newman

Kimbrough and Thomas Noonan

Robert Nuss and Ann Harwood-Nuss

Ted and Sandy Pelot

Sally and Tony Perez

Thomas Ryan III

Sally Ryden

Douglas and Suzanne Schiffman

Thomas and Kristina Schnitzer

Ron Silver

Gary and Laine Silverfield

Tad and Eileen Smith

Sandra Smith

Harold and Nanette Tool

John and Karen Tyrrell

Henry and Mary Ulrich

Dr. Christi Warren

ADVOCATE

Ethan Bright

Jamie Buckland

Carlos and Davron Cardenas

Betsy Cox

Claire Craik

Robert Dawkins and Laura Weiss

Eve Dellett

Thomas and Bonnie Dudley

Brenna Durden

Vicki and Robert Freeman

Mark Fuster

Joan and Preston Haskell

Keith and Ann Holt

Edward and Betsy Kuhl

Jo-Ann Leimberg

David and Mary Libby

John and Eleanor Lock

Jennie Malloy

Alison McCallum

Dail Mengelkoch

Marian and Rip Poitevent

Jason and Sarah Provost

Eileen and Brian Seuter

Garrick Skalski and Amy McSwain

Jim and Margaret Stevenson

Sally Surface

Pamela Telis

Gary Thigpen

The Adler Family Foundation PROTECTOR

Ramesh Buch

Agnes Danciger

Bonnie Davis

Juliette C. Gredenhag

Abel Harding

Margaret and John Hartman

Scott Keith

Marsha and Mike Keller

Deborah Lamir

Keith and Suzanne Langenberg

Tom and Janet Larson

Rhonda Lovett

Frank McDonald

Amy Mosher

John and Emily Myers

Margaret Nelson and Donald Fullerton

Ron Owen

Payton and Carol Scheppe

Jeff Schroer

Gordon and Debbie Starratt

Beth Strawbridge

Richard and Helen Tufaro

Blair Woolverton

PARTNER

Nora Anne Anderson

Christine Anderton

David and Susanna

Barton

Jeffrey Bashore

Evan Bills

Dale Brassfield

Vernell and T. R. Britton

Donald Centrone

Rick Cole

Deb Cutting

Gabriele Dempsey

David de Nagy

Carol D’Onofrio

Virginia Foster

Julie Garmendia

Mark and Sara Gravelle

Roney Gutierrez

Kimberly Hall

Paul and Caroline Hamill

Sandra and Matthew Hendricks

Stephen Heuser

Carlton Higginbotham

Tammie Jarrell

Kent Jenkins

Mary and Thomas Kirk

Pam Kleinsasser

Jacalyn Kolk

Victoria Lang

Douglas B. Leatherbury III

Brenda Lynch

William and Carol Mackey

Jerry Macnamara

Kevin Mahony

Connie and Ken McDaniel

Maggie Means

Ann and Roy Millar

Brooke Mills

Elizabeth Misner

Charley and Lindsay Moore

William Natter

Maureen OConnor

Richard Oyler

Michael Pellegrino

Matt Rapp

Shannon Richardson

John and Jennifer Saenz

Jeff Sander

Judy Scurry

Mark Voykovic

Richard and Margo

Werner

First Coast Fly Fishers

FRIEND

Lee Anderson Louy

Maria Atilano

Heather Barnes

Dianne Battle

Tracy Brogan

Barbara Buckman

Williams

Abby Carden

Trey Chauncey

Andrew Clem

Sarah Crooks

Osborne Crosby

James Davenport

James DeFoor

Missy DeFoor

Kate DeLoach

Lisa DeVitto

Christine Doyle

Jeff Graf

Carol Grimes

Diane Hale

Sarah Hande

Kenneth Harp

Whitney Hawkins

Dylan Hewlett

Andrew Krause

Lynn Lamoureux

Lane Langford

Dana Logan

Mark Manning

Anthony Miller

Harry Moore

Melinda Morrison

Annette Negaard

Travis Newton

Mark Nickerson

Leslie Pierpont

Matt Price

Nancy Rawson

David Rogers

Todd Sack

Mitzi Saul

Mac Shoemaker

Anne Shoemaker

Will Shoemaker

Jeannine Smith

Michelle Smith

Ed Stansel

Patricia Teems

Matthew Tiller

Richard Timm

Mark Tomes

David Bender

Rick and Faith Hoffman

Ashlyn Brannan

Kathi Chalk and Bob Richardson

Lyn Pannone and Stephen Nadeau

Vicki and Bill Payne

Christopher Hewlett

Faith Ingalls

NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST STAFF

THE REV. CN. ALLISON DEFOOR PRESIDENT & CEO

KIM HALL CONSERVATION TRANSACTIONS MANAGER

LEE ANDERSON LOUY,

RONEY GUTIERREZ CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

MICHELLE SMITH OPERATIONS AND GRANTS MANAGER

HEATHER BARNES O2O COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR

RIANNA ELLIOTT DIRECTOR OF LAND STEWARDSHIP

RAMESH BUCH DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION ACQUISITIONS

MARK MANNING LAND MANAGER

HEATHER NAGY STRATEGIC CONSERVATION PLANNING COORDINATOR

AARYN TARVER LAND STEWARDSHIP BIOLOGIST

Our staff gives their all to protecting and preserving North Florida’s treasured spaces. Each person is integral to NFLT’s efforts.

Donor Bill of Rights

PHILANTHROPY is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To assure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public, and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the not-for-profit organizations and causes they are asked to support, we declare that all donors have these rights:

I

To be informed of the organization’s mission, of the way the organization intends to use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.

II

To be informed of the identity of those serving on the organization’s governing board, and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.

III

To have access to the organization’s most recent financial statements.

IV

To be assured their gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.

VI

To be assured that information about their donations is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.

VII

To expect that all relationships with individuals representing organizations of interest to the donor will be professional in nature.

VIII

To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers, employees of the organization or hired solicitors.

IX

To have the opportunity for their names to be deleted from mailing lists that an organization may intend to share.

EDD DIRECTOR

OF PHILANTHROPIC

SERVICES

SARAH HANDE COMMUNICATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

ABBY CARDEN MEMBERSHIP AND DATA COORDINATOR

V

To receive appropriate acknowledgement and recognition.

X

To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.

How to Get Involved

If you, like us, believe that the conservation of North Florida is vital, there are many ways you can help. Together we will continue to build our land trust to be as robust and vast as our region’s natural resources. Here’s how you can help:

GIVE

Our mission is to protect land, which often means to buy it. The more funds we have to purchase land, the more land we can protect. Help us say “yes” to more projects by contributing today!

HELP

Opportunities to give with your hands are available throughout the year. We regularly hold cleanup days to remove trash and conduct maintenance on our preserves.

ASK

Much of the funding needed to conserve land in North Florida comes from public sources, like Florida Forever. In order to continue to preserve the parts of Florida that are quickly disappearing, we need our local, state and federal representatives to prioritize the funding of conservation. You can ask your representatives to ensure these sources grow in their commitment to conservation.

JOIN

Every acre of land we protect starts with people like you. When you become a member or make a gift to NFLT, you are making an investment in the health of our community and are safeguarding our communities’ landscapes and natural character.

SHARE

Lastly, as a conservationist and a member of the NFLT family, we hope you’ll share with your network the good work we are accomplishing together. The threat of over-development continues to grow drastically, and with it our need to act quickly. In order to meet our goals, we’ll need our family to grow. Whether you share the mission of NFLT in person or online, you’ll help to spread the word and grow our region’s understanding of the importance of conservation.

843 W MONROE STREET JACKSONVILLE, FL 32202

904.479.1967

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Our Mission

To preserve and enhance our quality of life by protecting North Florida’s irreplaceable natural environment.

Our Vision

North Floridians feel more connected to and have a stronger appreciation for our unique native environment. The North Florida Land Trust implements collaborative approaches for long-term solutions commensurate with rapid growth. By protecting more of North Florida’s farms, forests, and natural areas, we maintain traditions, enhance lives, and sustain our expanding communities.