Apalachee Ecological Conservancy

Founded in 2000, the Apalachee Ecological Conservancy (APECO) is headquartered at Alligator Point in Franklin County. Roy DuVerger, the group's president, explains that APECO seeks to maintain a balance between responsible growth and protection of the environment in northwest Florida.

"We are working with 1000 Friends to help inform citizens about proposed development activities in their area and how they can play a more active role in their local planning process," says DuVerger.

APECO monitors proposed coastal development projects and attends local planning, zoning and commission meetings in Franklin and Wakulla counties. It is working on a community visioning project in Franklin County to help maintain the area's rural community lifestyle.

"With the help of 1000 Friends, we intend to expand our monitoring activities to other Panhandle counties, and develop visioning plans with residents in Wakulla and Gulf counties," according to DuVerger.

Pattison explains that APECO and 1000 Friends are partnering on developing and disseminating information on smart growth principles, and sharing with local government and business leaders materials on best management practices, conservation easements, and other strategies to promote environmentally-sensitive and fiscally responsible new development.

"Traditionally rural Florida Panhandle counties such as Wakulla and Franklin are facing explosive growth," says Pattison. "We are working with APECO to protect this region's special character as it continues to grow."

To find out more about APECO, visit its web site at www.apeco.org.