The Volusia Forever advisory committee voted unanimously on June 9 to find Riverbend Ranch eligible and place the roughly 1,300‑acre property on the A list for acquisition priority.

Staff said Riverbend Ranch scored 18 out of 21 on the program scoring matrix (the minimum required is 10). The parcel sits within recognized conservation designations, including the Fort Wildlife Corridor, a Blue Shield conservation corridor, and the St. Johns River five‑year acquisition plan overlay. Staff also noted the tract is adjacent to existing county preserves at Deep Creek.

Committee discussion covered potential matching funds. Staff explained Florida Forever budget limitations at the state level, and that the best partnership candidate would likely be the St. Johns River Water Management District rather than DEP at present. Staff said they had visited the property in recent years and described access and management conditions; the private landowner has undertaken timber, wildlife and cattle management and has improved internal roads and fire lines.

After discussion the committee voted to place Riverbend Ranch on the A list for acquisition by unanimous voice vote. Staff will proceed with sorting and ranking and advance the property into the program's acquisition pipeline.