Florida county pays $7.8m for 625-acre ranch, stopping 52-home development

In a bid to safeguard a crucial ecological area, Collier County has finalized an agreement to buy Wildflowerz Ranch, preventing any residential construction on its expansive 625 acres. Valued at approximately $7.8 million after two years of negotiations, this acquisition underscores the county's dedication to conservation and wildlife protection. Additionally, the ranch's current cattle operations will remain intact under a lease that lasts until the end of 2027.