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University of Florida’s Program for Resource Efficient Communities mission continues under Center for Land Use Efficiency
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (October 10, 2025) – The University of Florida announced that the longstanding Program for Resource Efficient Communities (PREC) programs transitioned into the Center for Land Use Efficiency (CLUE), as of September 30. PREC’s work and mission will continue through CLUE, which works to protect Florida’s water and natural resources by advancing practical, science-based policies and practices.
For 20 years PREC worked with developers, planners, local governments and homeowners to advance resource-efficient practices in new and existing communities. From encouraging water-conserving landscapes to promoting energy-efficient home design and stormwater management strategies, PREC has helped shape Florida’s neighborhoods into places that better protect natural resources while improving residents’ quality of life.
This transition is part of a multi-year restructuring to align the programs more closely. It ensures that the expertise, data and partnerships cultivated by PREC will remain active within UF/IFAS Extension providing local governments and stakeholders with tools and guidance to continue the work.
“The Program for Resource Efficient Communities has built a strong foundation for sustainable development in Florida,” said Michael Dukes, associate dean for UF/IFAS Extension, founding member of PREC and director of CLUE. “CLUE’s pursuit of PREC’s mission strengthens that foundation and positions us to have an even greater impact. As Florida continues to grow, we will be better able to help communities balance development with conservation.”
Bringing PREC’s core programs under the CLUE umbrella allows for closer integration with broader statewide initiatives on water quality, urban growth and sustainable infrastructure. It also will increase UF/IFAS’ ability to engage the many stakeholders involved in the enterprise of land development. While most of PREC’s core initiatives will remain the same, this integration will allow for reimagining and updating of some existing programs to increase their capacity, resources, and reach.
“Florida is at a critical point where the choices we make about land use and resource efficiency will define our future,” said Andra Johnson, UF/IFAS Dean for Extension. “CLUE is committed to carrying forward PREC’s legacy while creating new opportunities to safeguard natural resources and support resilient, thriving communities.”
CLUE brings together 29 interdisciplinary and affiliated faculty working in diverse topic areas including landscape design, planning, engineering, social science and natural resources to address Florida’s most pressing land use challenges.
