The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has closed on the purchase of 565 acres to complete a conservation project in Nassau County.

The project includes what are known as Tiger Island and Little Tiger Island. The 565 acres announced Friday were added to nearly 900 acres already bought through the Florida Forever program. The land is west of Fort Clinch State Park in the St. Marys River.

Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet agreed to spend $1.97 million for the land in January. The cost was partially offset by a $1 million grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

"Preservation of this ecologically rich property ensures that natural and cultural resources are protected," DEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton said in a statement Friday. "This acquisition will further safeguard the area against flooding, erosion and storm surge."

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