Habitat Conservation Plan Renewal Seeks Community Input at Upcoming Open House Meetings

• 26 February 2026
• Category: Enhance Conservation Community Trust SJC News Public Meetings

Open houses will take place on March 2 and March 11

St. Johns County invites residents and visitors to participate in two upcoming open house community meetings as part of the County’s Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) renewal process.

The Habitat Conservation Plan helps protect federally listed endangered species — including nesting sea turtles and the Anastasia Island beach mouse — while balancing environmental stewardship with responsible public use and enjoyment of St. Johns County’s beaches. Community feedback plays a critical role in guiding potential updates to beach management practices and conservation strategies.

To expand public engagement opportunities, St. Johns County will host two in-person open house outreach events where attendees can learn about the program and provide feedback directly to County staff.

Unlike a traditional presentation, the open house format will feature multiple informational stations focused on key aspects of the Habitat Conservation Plan renewal. Participants may arrive at any time during the event, move through stations at their own pace, ask questions, and share input.

Community Meeting Dates and Locations

• Monday, March 2, 2026
  Southeast Branch Library, 6670 U.S. 1 N., St. Augustine
  5:30 – 7 p.m.
• Wednesday, March 11, 2026
  Main Branch Library, 1960 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine
  12:30 – 3 p.m.

Public participation ensures that future beach management strategies reflect both environmental protection goals and community values while supporting the County’s Strategic Plan priority to enhance conservation efforts.

For additional information about St. Johns County Habitat Conservation, visit the Habitat Conservation web page.