St. Johns County Advances Conservation with Expanded LAMP Funding Strategy
Expanded funding approach aligns with community priorities and Strategic Plan
St. Johns County is advancing its long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship through a strategic funding approach that strengthens the Land Acquisition and Management Program (LAMP) while responsibly utilizing existing conservation resources at no extra cost to residents.
During the January 20, 2026, Board of County Commissioners regular meeting, County staff presented funding options identified at the Board’s request to restore LAMP to its previous annual funding level of $2 million — an increase of $1.5 million above the current $500,000 base allocation.
One of those options included the use of Tree Bank Fund dollars for eligible conservation land acquisitions. The Tree Bank Fund is a dedicated fund established in the St. Johns County Land Development Code and is specifically authorized for conservation, natural preserve protection, environmental mitigation, wildlife habitat preservation, and land acquisition when those acquisitions mitigate the loss of treed acreage or wildlife displacement.
This approach aligns directly with the purpose of LAMP, as established by Ordinance 2021-38, to acquire and conserve environmentally sensitive, historic, archaeological, and recreational lands. LAMP prioritizes wildlife habitat, aquifer recharge areas, green space, natural corridors, and passive recreation, which supports multiple St. Johns County Strategic Plan priorities, including Enhanced Conservation and Community Well-Being.
The Board of County Commissioners ultimately voted to approve a one-time budget transfer of $1.5 million from the Tree Bank Fund to LAMP for the acquisition of conservation lands.
“The Board of County Commissioners has consistently shown leadership in conservation, and this strategy is a direct result of their vision and direction,” said County Administrator Joy Andrews. “By aligning existing non–property tax–based financial tools, the Board is strengthening its commitment to protecting environmentally significant lands in a way that is both effective and fiscally responsible. We have found a way to enhance natural preservation without placing an additional burden on our taxpayers—and that is a win for our community.”
The Tree Bank Fund maintained a reserve balance of $2.3 million at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2026. The fund’s historical revenues and expenditures demonstrate its capacity to support conservation land acquisition while continuing to meet other authorized uses, including capital improvements, beautification projects, and environmental mitigation. The Tree Bank Fund may be used independently or in combination with other conservation funding sources, consistent with past County practice and existing law. Each potential acquisition is subject to environmental evaluation and must meet the legal standards set forth in the Land Development Code to ensure a clear public and environmental benefit.
The adopted funding strategy reflects St. Johns County’s proactive approach to preserving environmentally significant lands while maintaining fiscal responsibility and honoring the intent of existing conservation programs.
St. Johns County remains committed to protecting natural resources, preserving wildlife habitat, and investing in conservation efforts that reflect community priorities.
For additional information about LAMP or conservation initiatives, visit the LAMP web page.
Stay informed of more St. Johns County news by subscribing to our e-newsletters and learn how we’re shaping our community’s future by advancing the SJC Strategic Plan through the Office of Public Affairs.
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