DuPuis Management Plan
What Is This Plan About?
The DuPuis Management Area General Management Plan is a 10-year strategy developed by the Land Stewardship Section to guide stewardship of 21,971 acres of conservation lands in western Martin and Palm Beach counties. Acquired through the Save Our Rivers program, these lands protect regional water resources, restore native habitats, support imperiled species, and provide the public with nature-based recreation.
Read the Draft DuPuis Management Area Plan
The plan outlines how the District will:
- Restore and manage natural ecosystems and hydrology
- Protect rare and listed species
- Control invasive species
- Preserve cultural and archaeological resources
- Provide compatible public recreation while safeguarding resources
Key Goals
- Restore Natural Hydrology: Restore historic flow patterns and improve hydrologic conditions
- Protect Wildlife: Support imperiled species through habitat restoration and monitoring
- Control Invasive Species: Reduce harmful plants and animals that threaten native ecosystems
- Provide Public Access: Maintain trails, campsites, and hunting areas for safe, nature-based recreation
- Preserve History: Protect cultural and archaeological resources within the management area
Public Benefits
- Over 50 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, including a segment of the Ocean to Lake Trail
- Biking on designated roads
- Primitive, group, and equestrian camping, plus RV/trailer sites available through free Special Use Licenses
- Hunting, fishing areas, birdwatching, and other recreational opportunities
Looking Ahead
- Complete hydrologic restoration (ditch plugs, culvert replacements)
- Enhance wildfire resilience through prescribed fire
- Enhance wildlife habitats and sustain stable red-cockaded woodpecker populations
- Reduce long‑term invasive species impacts through targeted treatment strategies
- Upgrade public facilities (restrooms, signage, fishing pier)
- Continue collaborative management with partners to ensure the DuPuis Management Area remains a thriving natural resource for future generations
Submit Public Comments
The SFWMD is encouraging stakeholders and the public to share their comments on the Draft DuPuis Management Area Plan. The comment period is open from September 29 through October 13, 2026, and all comments must be submitted by Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Please provide comments by email to DupuisMgmtAreaPlan@sfwmd.gov.