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Florida's State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP)

Two limpkins, one adult and one juvenile.

Florida’s State Wildlife Action Plan is a comprehensive, statewide plan for conserving our wildlife and natural areas for future generations. The plan highlights Florida’s native wildlife and habitats in need, explains the reasons for their conservation need, and outlines specific conservation actions to protect them. The strategies outlined in the plan direct the use of State Wildlife Grant funding and other FWC resources. Florida’s Action Plan is part of a nationwide effort by all 50 states and 5 U.S. territories to develop action plans and qualify for federal funding through the State Wildlife Grants Program.

History of Florida's State Wildlife Action Plan

Pineland Eco

Historically, the primary support and focus for wildlife conservation and management within the United States has come from state hunting and fishing interests and the Endangered Species Act. To encourage a new conservation model of working towards managing species before they become imperiled, the U.S. Congress created the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program in 2000. This is the only federal program with the explicit goal of preventing endangered species listings. This program is dedicated to a holistic approach that includes all species but is centered on the conservation of species not targeted by historical efforts.

Eastern indigo snake

As a requirement of participating in the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program, Florida joined the other 49 states and 5 U.S. territories by developing a State Wildlife Action Plan. Thousands of experts and stakeholders provided input for development and implementation of the Action Plan. These partners included representatives from other state and federal agencies, organizations, businesses, and individuals who are integral to meeting the conservation needs of Florida.

State Wildlife Action Plans Goals and Objectives

The SWAP Implementation Goals direct the use of FWC resources, including State Wildlife Grants, and provide opportunities for partners to coordinate on conservation priorities.  The following Implementation Goals and objectives will be achieved through five State Wildlife Grant funding cycles, with projects beginning in 2019.

Research & Monitoring

Marine & Estuarine Enhancement

Terrestrial Habitat Integrity

Aquatic Habitat Resiliency

Implementation of State Wildlife Action Plan

Underwater photo of coral with fish swimming behind

FWC’s on the ground implementation of the Action Plan occurs through the development of partnerships with scientists, businesses, landowners and volunteers that possess the necessary expertise to address implementation goals and objectives. The ultimate goal is for Florida's broader conservation community to share ownership of the Action Plan, by implementing SWAP conservation actions and pooling financial resources to leverage cooperative conservation efforts. We encourage you to contact your regional FWC biologist to discuss how the SWAP’s conservation actions and goals align with yours or those of your organization.