Preserving Emerald Coast: Protecting Walton County’s Future Together
United to Protect Walton County from Harmful Development
At Scrap the Track in DeFuniak, Walton County Citizens for Responsible Growth, our mission goes beyond stopping the proposed Emerald Coast Motor Club (ECMC) private racetrack. We believe that preserving Emerald Coast means standing together against any large-scale development that threatens our environment, health, and quality of life.
Right now, two other major projects in Walton County deserve your attention and support: the asphalt plant proposed for Freeport, FL and the Azland/MVM landfill in the Red Bay area. Both projects carry long-term risks for our communities, and the Protect Emerald Coast Alliance (PECA) is working hard to stop them.
This page connects our fight against the DeFuniak racetrack with these two urgent battles — because united, we can protect all of Walton County.
Why These Projects Matter
While the Emerald Coast Motor Club private racetrack, the Freeport asphalt plant, and the Azland landfill are very different projects, they share the same core threats:
- Environmental damage to wetlands, waterways, and natural habitats
- Air and water quality concerns that can harm health
- Noise, odor, and visual pollution affecting daily life
- Heavy traffic and infrastructure strain on rural and residential roads
- Loss of community character in some of Walton County’s most treasured areas
Our goal in preserving Emerald Coast is simple — protect the places we call home, keep our air and water clean, and ensure future growth in Walton County is responsible, sustainable, and respectful of the people who live here.
Asphalt Plant – Freeport, FL
The proposed asphalt plant in Freeport would be located near homes, schools, and businesses — bringing heavy truck traffic, industrial noise, and air emissions to a community that values its clean air and small-town character.
Major Concerns:
- Air quality risks from asphalt production emissions
- Traffic hazards from increased heavy truck routes
- Odor and noise impacting neighborhoods
- Property value declines in surrounding areas
The Protect Emerald Coast Alliance is leading the effort to stop this project and protect Freeport’s residents.
Azland/MVM Landfill – Red Bay, FL
The Azland/MVM landfill proposal threatens the Red Bay area with long-term environmental harm. Landfills of this scale risk contaminating groundwater, attract pests, and permanently change the rural character of the surrounding area.
Major Concerns:
- Groundwater contamination from leachate and runoff
- Odor and pest problems affecting nearby homes and farms
- Heavy truck traffic on rural roads
- Loss of rural character and property value impacts
PECA is working to ensure this landfill does not move forward and to protect Red Bay’s clean water and quiet way of life.
How This Connects to Scrap the Track DFS
Stopping the proposed DeFuniak racetrack is part of the same broader mission — Emerald protect. The private racetrack in DeFuniak, like the asphalt plant and landfill, would bring lasting environmental, noise, and traffic impacts to our county.
By joining forces with groups like PECA, we send a strong message: Walton County citizens expect responsible growth that safeguards our environment, preserves property values, and respects community input.
How You Can Help Preserve the Emerald Coast
- Stay informed — Follow updates from Scrap the Track and PECA.
- Sign petitions opposing all three projects — see our Take Action page.
- Attend public hearings and planning commission meetings.
- Share information on social media using #PreservingEmeraldCoast, #StopFreeportAsphaltPlant, and #StopEmeraldCoastMotorClub.
Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to support local advocacy groups.