The Great Green Swamp is critical to the surface and groundwater hydrology of Central Florida, as well as providing vital water to the Hillsborough River. It was therefore a surprise to many when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection listed a portion of this land, the Hilochee Wildlife Management Area, for sale. In the wake of criticism, the DEP has reduced the area for sale and conditioned the sale that the land not be developed. Nevertheless, the River Board, at its December 10, 2013 regular meeting, recognized the importance of this are to the health of the Hillsborough River and voted unanimously to oppose its sale.