Engaging the Community in Biodiversity Conservation The 2024 DeLuca BioBlitz in Osceola County was nothing short of amazing, with an astounding 3,311 observations of 674 species by 43 observers. The collaborative spirit of the event led ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, Recreation
It was called Destiny, named for the incredible development opportunity of 27,000 acres of rural property at the intersection of three major thoroughfares in Central Florida. Just 30 minutes south of the Orlando metropolitan area, it appeared ... READ MORE
Category: , Conservation, UF/IFAS
Nearly 100 nature lovers flocked to the DeLuca Preserve to scout the property for animals and plants that live on the expanse. Visitors documented 1,600 sightings, and within those, observed 345 species. The “BioBlitz,” as it’s called, ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Forests, Invasive Species, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Research, UF/IFAS Teaching, Wildlife
A team of UF/IFAS researchers plans to characterize the soil, water, and microbiome features of the DeLuca Preserve, a roughly 27,000-acre parcel of land in Florida’s southern Osceola County. The property, donated to UF in November 2020, includes ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Research, Water