Loss of Florida Agricultural Land

What’s at Stake

Florida agriculture is a major contributor to the nation’s food supply and economy.  

Florida farmers and ranchers grow a diverse array of commodities–from citrus and cattle to fruits and vegetables and ornamental plants. These 300+ commodities generate more than 10 billion dollars in agricultural  products each year and support thousands of jobs. 

According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Florida lost 2,887 farms and 30,331 acres of farmland over the past 5 years.   

Florida’s booming population has made the state a highly sought-after place to live. On average, around 1,000 people move to Florida each year, ranking the Sunshine State the third largest state in population. This rapid growth puts increased pressure on agricultural lands and rural communities.  

If current trends continue, Florida could lose roughly 45,000 acres of farmland per year (totaling 2 million acres by 2070) to residential and commercial development.  This land loss means less farmland available for food production, wildlife habitat, groundwater recharge, and open spaces. 

Florida Farm Bureau actively works to preserve agricultural land and support farm families. Our advocacy efforts focus on public policy, education, and programs that help keep land in production. 

These programs demonstrate that strategic conservation works—but it requires participation from all Floridians. Farmers and ranchers cannot protect Florida’s agricultural heritage alone. They need public support for policies that maintain local food production, protect natural resources, and sustain rural communities. 

The future of Florida farms and ranches is up to all of us. Join us in a shared commitment to preserve farmland and support conservations programs that ensure that Florida agriculture thrives today and for generations to come.  

Facts

• In 2023, Florida ranked #1 in floriculture, Valencia oranges, sugarcane, watermelons, and sweet corn.
• Roughly 20% of Florida’s 36 million acres is devoted to agriculture based on 2020 data
• The direct economic contributions of the agriculture, natural resource, and food industries in 2019 included $106 billion in sales and 1,279,638 jobs.
• Florida is projected to lose 120 acres of agriculture land a day – or almost 45,000 acres a year – between now and 2070.
• If population and development trends continue Florida could lose 400,000 acres of agricultural lands by 2040 and 2 million acres by 2070.
• About 2% — 856,000 acres — is “protected” agriculture, meaning this land is off limits to development.

Listen to the Rural Recharge and Dr. Nathan Palardy to learn more about Conservation Easements!