This cooperative research/extension program was established at Buck Island Ranch, a 10,300 acre cattle ranch and citrus grove in southcentral Florida. This full-scale working enterprise was obtained from the John D. and Katherine T. MacArthur Foundation by Archbold Biological station in 1988 for the purpose of conducting long-term research on the relationships among cattle ranching, citrus production, and the native ecological systems of central Florida. The Station's role in this endeavor is to provide logistic support for research activities on the ranch and use funds generated by the ranching and citrus operations to purchase needed capital equipment. The role of the South Florida Water Management District is to provide program leadership through project funding, formulation of water management priorities, and incorporation of research results into regional policies and practices. The role of IFAS is to develop research and extension programs that focus on the interface between natural resources management and agricultural systems, and to develop additional funding in support of these programs.

The program at Buck Island Ranch provides a unique opportunity to study these issues, using an integrated team approach, and to develop the databases needed to make informed management and regulatory decisions. Dissemination of research findings to agricultural producers, natural resource managers, regulatory agencies, and the general public also is an essential component of this initiative. Cooperative extension faculty will facilitate the transfer of much needed information to these clientele groups by developing appropriate in-service training workshops, demonstration areas, and educational events.