Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
May 27, 2015 10:00 a.m.
Marc Hudson, North Florida Land Trust Land Protection Director, provided the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) with a presentation regarding the preservation of natural areas and special places through the acquisitions of land and conservation easements during a workshop held on May 19, 2015. His goals were two-fold:
- Establish a sense for the monetary value of natural and cultural resources in Fernandina Beach, and
- Help commissioners understand the different land preservation tools that can facilitate the city’s mission, enhance the community and secure the natural and cultural legacy for future generations.
Hudson explained that his organization is the fiscal sponsor for the Amelia Island Tree Conservancy. He explained the types of assistance he can offer to communities with respect to identifying ways to fund land purchases.
He also explained the importance of trees in stormwater abatement as well as increasing the aesthetic and economic value of the properties on which they grow. He said that through progressive ordinances, cities can help keep and maintain their heritage.
Hudson went into detail on the various sources of public funding potentially available to help cities acquire lands for preservation. He also talked about the value of conservation easements to both the donor and the city.
Hudson encouraged commissioners and city staff to contact him with any questions or to help strategize a land purchase or easement. The North Florida Land Trust is located at 2038 Gilmore Street in Jacksonville, FL 32204. Their website provides additional information: http://www.northfloridalandtrust.org.