Local opposition is ratcheting up against a proposed land swap that could allow residential development on approximately 600 acres of land adjacent to the Guana River Wildlife Management Area.
A public protest is planned for Saturday, May 17, at the intersection of A1A and Mickler Road from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
“Stand united with your friends and fellow supporters of our natural spaces as we protest the swapping of 600 acres of our pristine beloved park,” an announcement for the gathering states.
The demonstration is being organized by members of the nonprofit Save Guana Now and other local advocates who assert that the swap threatens critical habitat, public access, and long-standing conservation protections.
The land, commonly referred to as “The Outpost,” is proposed to be traded for over 3,000 acres located elsewhere in Florida.
While the developer and state officials argue the deal offers a net conservation benefit, critics say the Guana parcel is uniquely valuable due to its proximity to existing protected lands, its role as a wildlife corridor, and its recreational use by the public.
In addition to the protest, a petition opposing the swap has been launched and is gathering signatures on the Save Guana Now website.
Organizers say the petition reflects growing community concern and serves as a tool to demonstrate opposition to state and county decision-makers.
Some residents also plan to attend the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) meeting in Tallahassee on May 21, where state officials will review the proposal and hear public comment.
Attendees hope to bring local perspectives directly to the council, which plays an influential role in determining the proposal’s fate.
