Ronnie Stephenson – 2024 Florida Land Steward of the Year Property Tour – May 2

Congratulations to Ronnie Stephenson, Jackson County, our 2024 Florida Land Steward of the Year! Habitat for northern bobwhite quail and wild turkey are priority objectives at his properties and he has worked with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Landowner Assistance Program (LAP) and other partners to improve habitat for both of these species and many others. The work has focused on opening dense stands of hardwoods, treating invasive species, planting longleaf pine, and prescribed burning. He has also done extensive work producing fruit trees, like pear and persimmon, for wildlife use.

Join us for a tour to meet this exemplary land steward; gain some valuable, hands-on information about wildlife habitat management; and network with professionals and other landowners who share your interests.  This will be a walking tour of reasonable length. Wear appropriate clothing for the field and bring a water bottle.

We will meet at the Stephenson property (1611 Justic Road near Cottondale FL) at 9:00 AM CDT for the tour. Lunch will be served after the tour, at the Campbellton Community Center (2236 Hwy 2 East Campbellton, FL). Contact Chris Demers for more information, cdemers@ufl.edu, (352) 846-2375