County Land Conservation and Management Program Offering Limited Hunting Opportunities on Some County Preserves

​​The Alachua County Land Conservation and Management Program seeks proposals from qualified individuals or entities for hunting services contracts on several county preserves.

These contracts will allow limited hunting opportunities in exchange for caretaking, maintenance, security and any other services at several Alachua County preserves. These contracts will be for a five-year term at the following locations:

• Barr Hammock Preserve – Non-public Use Area
• Balu Forest
• Carr-McNabb Tract
• Phifer Flatwoods Preserve - Lochloosa Creek Tract
• Santa Fe River Headwaters Preserve
• Watermelon Pond – Sheffield and Ferran Tracts
• Watermelon Pond – King and Warney Tracts

View detailed information on the available hunting contracts or apply online.

On Jan. 22, 2013, the county adopted the Alachua County Hunting Business Plan. The plan’s intent is to establish principles to guide the appropriate management of recreational hunting on Alachua County Forever program managed lands. Hunting is a traditional land management tool that can be important to wildlife population management and the health of the natural communities. For many county residents, hunting is a traditional recreation and a supplementary means of obtaining food. It is enjoyed in many forms and hunters greatly value their outdoor experiences.

Alachua County preserves are actively managed through the Alachua County Forever Program, funded by the voter-approved Wild Spaces Public Places surtax.

Learn more about Alachua County Forever.

For more information, contact Alachua County Senior Environmental Specialist Mike Nelson at 352-213-0235.