Nurturing Nature: Protecting Our Wildlife Heritage
The personal well-being and health of human residents is greatly influenced by the health of the natural environment, as well as cultural resources and urban systems. Central Floridians are at ease when they know the region’s ecosystems are healthy and sustainable, and become concerned when they are not. The Central Florida Values and Priorities Survey confirmed this common apprehension about the health of the region’s natural systems, particularly the availability of clean water and the loss of habitat and species to poorly planned growth and development.
Deseret Ranch has a track record of crafting ways to strengthen relationships with and improve stewardship of the animals and natural resources on the Ranch. An unparalleled commitment to wildlife, natural resources, and water supports a far-reaching vision for the future.
Commitment to Wildlife Protection and Habitat Preservation
We are deeply invested in caring for the wildlife that lives on or crosses our property. In fact, land use considerations are made only with a “win-win” expectation as key natural features like wildlife wetland habitats and migration paths are identified for preservation.
Through the years we have collaborated with state agencies to conduct wildlife surveys, collect data, and implement best practices to encourage habitat protection. As the Ranch manages natural resources and grazing rotations in our pastures, decisions are based not only on the well-being of cattle but also on the health and vitality of wildlife that share the same space. That will continue to be Deseret’s practice on land it manages.
Collaborative Efforts for a Thriving Ecosystem
Deseret Ranch has also frequently brought together the experience and expertise of wildlife biologists from throughout Florida, including the state’s leading universities and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Working together, we have created upland buffers around wetlands as part of wildlife management – not as a preserve but as a thriving natural asset within Central Florida.
We're deeply proud of the successes we have achieved. A man-made safe haven for native birds, a rookery on the Ranch has become one of Florida's largest nesting sites for the once-endangered wood stork. Surrounded by a 20-foot-deep water barrier to provide protection from preying raccoons and snakes, this artificial island protects wood stork nests and attracts dozens of other spectacular species.
Like the true Floridians we are, we care deeply for all the wildlife that calls Deseret Ranch home. We continue to work actively to preserve and protect functioning habitats and ecosystems and to create a thriving, sustainable future for the creatures and critters who make their home with us.