A 660-acre working ranch in Florida’s Peace River Valley will now remain protected for generations, preserving a landscape where agriculture, water and wildlife exist side by side. The Ludwig property in Hardee County sits along Brushy Creek, west of the Peace River, and contains grasslands, hardwood forests, wetlands and other important natural areas. Its owner, Keith Ludwig, spent years saving to purchase the land before placing it under a conservation easement. A first-generation rancher and lifelong oceanographic engineer, Ludwig can continue operating his cow-calf business while ensuring the property remains protected from future development. According to the Florida Conservation Group, the conservation effort will also help close an important gap in the Florida Wildlife Corridor, benefiting species including the Florida panther, indigo snake and Florida burrowing owl.
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