Volusia Forever
Protecting our quality of life.
Photo: Lake George Park
Volusia Forever
From inviting coastal beaches to rivers, lakes, springs and lagoon, Volusia County is home to a unique and diverse environment where native plants and wildlife find refuge, and where people enjoy the beauty of nature. Volusia Forever is an award-winning, citizen-led measure that protects our special places by buying and taking care of lands in Volusia County. In 2000, Volusia County voters overwhelmingly approved Volusia Forever. It is on the ballot for reauthorization in 2020.
Volusia Forever has purchased and improved more than 38,000 acres of environmentally sensitive land, outdoor recreation lands, and lands that protect water resources, including our drinking water supplies. All Volusia Forever lands are open to the public for recreation like hiking, biking, paddling, horseback riding or other family activities. Many of the land purchases are within the Volusia Conservation Corridor, which runs through the center of the county and provides habitat for black bear, deer, migrating birds and many rare species of plants and animals. More than 70 miles of trails provide a unique visitor experience. There are still lands to be acquired in order to complete the Volusia Conservation Corridor, Spruce Creek Preserve, and the Indian River Lagoon Blueway. These are all Florida Forever Projects that would qualify for matching funds from the state..
Brown Bear
Over the past two decades, Volusia Forever has raised more than $95 million. Partnering agencies have provided an additional $43 million. The average homeowner pays about $25 a year for this conservation initiative, which is on the November ballot for reauthorization.
Volusia Forever has received national and state recognition, for its “visionary leadership” including awards from the Trust for Public Land, 1000 Friends of Florida, and the National Association of Counties.
Some of the lands purchased through Volusia Forever include:
Volusia Conservation Corridor
Lake George Forest and Wildlife Management Area
Deep Creek Preserve
Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve
Hickory Bluff Preserve
Longleaf Pine Preserve
Scrub Oak Preserve
Wiregrass Prairie Preserve