The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that Walt Disney World has purchased 3,000 acres of land called Mira Lago to add to the Disney Nature Preserve. The land had been considered for development which would have had an impact on wildlife accessing the preserve. In exchange for the conservation of this land, Disney is hoping that they will be allowed to develop on 350 acres of Walt Disney World property that are currently home to wetlands. While Disney’s proposal has not be approved as of yet, they went ahead with the land purchase in order to lock in the price.
Previously, Disney established the 12,000 reserve in 1992 in exchange for the ability to destroy 600 acres of wetlands which was used to develop Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Celebration. While Disney does not have firm plans for what they would do with new development rights, they are looking for flexibility for Walt Disney World’s future development.