LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix is committing $1 million to The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to support two projects in the company’s operating area. The funding will support efforts in Florida and South Carolina to address challenges affecting freshwater systems and forest habitats. Both projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
“At Publix, our sustainability efforts are guided by our mission statement, which calls for us to be responsible citizens in our communities,” said Publix Director of Environmental and Sustainability Programs Paul Osley. “Teaming up with The Nature Conservancy allows us to invest in science-based solutions that help restore the natural resources our communities depend on.”
“The Nature Conservancy brings global expertise to challenges facing rivers, wetlands, lakes and coastal ecosystems,” said Temperince Morgan, Southern U.S. division director for The Nature Conservancy. “We know that lasting results come from strong local action. We are grateful for Publix’s support to advance clean water and thriving forests for future generations.”
Revitalizing Florida’s Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) spans 156 miles along eastern Florida’s coastal barrier islands. It is home to more than 4,300 species, including fish, shellfish, wading birds, endangered manatees and a unique population of bottlenose dolphins found only in the lagoon. The IRL faces ecological threats from excess nutrients in stormwater runoff. These nutrients contribute to harmful algal blooms that block sunlight, leading to substantial losses in seagrass — a critical source of food and shelter for the marine life in the lagoon.
Publix’s donation will support TNC’s “Runoff to Resilience” pilot project. The project will retrofit existing stormwater ponds with smart technology designed to help improve water quality and better manage water flow. These “smart ponds” hold water longer, which helps remove pollutants from runoff before it enters the lagoon. They also release water strategically to reduce local flooding and mimic natural flows to help reduce erosion and improve habitat conditions.
Restoring longleaf pine forests in South Carolina
The second project will support the restoration of South Carolina longleaf pine forests. Data from TNC shows that these forests are among the most biologically rich ecosystems in the world. They are home to many rare, threatened and endangered plant and animal species. Longleaf pine forests once covered about 97 million acres of the Southeastern United States. However, only around 4% of these forests’ original footprint remains due to deforestation, natural disasters and other factors. Longleaf pine ecosystems play an important role in water systems, helping return water to nearby streams, wetlands and aquifers.
Publix’s donation to TNC will support restoring natural conditions across 4,000 acres of longleaf pine habitat through prescribed burns. These controlled burns help reduce competing vegetation that consume large amounts of water. This will allow more rainfall to reach groundwater sources, improving overall forest health and wildlife habitat.
