Triangle Ranch
/For several years the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast worked to save Triangle Ranch from future development by bringing together private philanthropic foundations, a government agency, and a private philanthropist. This 1,143-acre ranch protects the Myakka wetlands, the Myakka River's water quality, and provides flood protection. More than 120 species of birds and numerous animals from the endangered Florida panther to the threatened crested caracara call Triangle Ranch their home. In protecting the land and waters of Triangle Ranch, it assures that our natural areas, from prairie hammocks and woodlands downstream to Charlotte Harbor, stay inviting to people and wildlife.
In 2016 the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast added the Triangle Ranch to their many accomplishments by creating permanent protection for the beautiful 1,143-acre property, with three miles of Myakka River flowing through it.
Elizabeth Moore: I am passionate about being the new steward of this incredibly special place. Over three miles of the Myakka River flows through the ranch, and it is home to much wildlife. It is a collaborative victory for nature, our waterways, and our community.
We arrived at Triangle Ranch on a beautiful sunny day, then joined Jason, the ranch manager, Cavin Peoples, filmmaker and Lee from the Conservation Foundation for a tour around the property. When we arrived at small creek that flows into the Myakka Clyde requested a stop so he could photograph.
For those of you who are wondering why the water is red, it is because of the tannin in the water. Tannins are a natural organic material that are the byproducts of nature’s fermentation process. It’s created as water passes through peaty soil and decaying vegetation.
We had a beautiful day exploring the ranch, and even though the light wasn't exactly what Clyde had hoped for, he managed to capture some good photographs. It was a joy spending the day with people who love nature and see the need to save it for future generations.
"We are thankful for the foundations and the government agency that invests in our region's natural resources. We are especially thankful for Elizabeth Moore – our conservation angel - for giving so generously to conserve our region's heritage, natural beauty, and water resources for future generations," noted Christine Johnson, president of Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. "This conservation project epitomizes the type of projects Conservation Foundation facilitates: landscape-scale projects that enhance water quality and benefit plants, animals, and people. We are enormously grateful to The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, The Morton and Spapperi Family Foundation, Southwest Florida Water Management District, and Elizabeth Moore for their funding to ensure the Myakka River and surrounding 1,100+ acres are protected forever." We are thankful too, as we all should be. Thank you, Conservation Foundation, for saving this property.
The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is working to conserve several ranches that help protect the Myakka River. Their goal is to connect and expand the 110,000 acres of conservation lands buffering the river. These working ranchlands contain significant natural areas that are home to abundant wildlife, including the gopher tortoise and the roseate spoonbill. It also provides an opportunity for the survival of the Florida panther.
About Conservation Foundation
Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast saves land, forever preserving those unique natural lands that make our region extraordinary. Working with you, landowners, businesses, and government, they protect the character and natural integrity of the bays, beaches, barrier islands, and watersheds on Florida's Gulf Coast. A nationally accredited land trust, the Foundation purchases natural areas, holds land preservation agreements and educates for responsible land and water stewardship in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee Counties. To learn more about the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast CLICK HERE.