Established in 1990, the program is funded by voter approved tax dollars.
The program leverages its funding with partners from federal, state and local agencies.
The lands are then "managed to preserve native habitats and the plants and animals that live there.
The award recognizes "excellence and achievement in managing the natural resources of reserves, parks, wilderness, and other protected areas".
[1] The Thousand Islands in Cocoa Beach were one area considered for acquisition in 2008.