ABOVE: Gary Brielmayer and Joseph Griffin, Good-Mayer LLC

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 our state’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:

•Charles Livingston of Gadsden County with Crossbow Land Company LLC

•Steve and Susan Roeser of Holmes County with The Woodland Springs Farm

•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

•Brett Wilson and Family of Walton County with Limestone Creek Farms

•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. The commendable practices of this group are many, and include 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. 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. Additionally, members of this group have accolades that extend beyond the FWC, as it includes recipients of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Stewardship Forest Certification and the National Wild Turkey Federation Wild Turkey Woodlands Recognition Program.

The FWC’s Landowner Assistance Program offers a written management plan to guide landowners interested in working toward meeting the requirements for the Wildlife Habitat Recognition Program. Interested landowners of 20 acres or more can apply online. For more information, visit MyFWC.com/LAP and click on “Landowner Recognition Programs.”

FWC Landowner Assistance Program biologists provide technical assistance to private landowners, helping them develop property management plans that maximize benefits to wildlife and people. These biologists can also assist with finding financial assistance to complete important habitat restoration projects on private lands. To learn more about this program or to find help and resources for managing wildlife on your property, check out our “Wildlife and Habitat Assistance” section online at MyFWC.com/LAP or call your FWC Regional Office and ask to speak to a LAP biologist.