On the second week of July in 2014, the National Wildlife Refuge Association organized a meeting that included the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director and the Refuge System Chief, along with a number of local groups. The discussion during the meeting included science-based land acquisition within the Florida Everglades. Now, everyone knows that Wild Florida loves the Everglades. Our Everglades airboat rides allow us to show visitors natural Florida at its very best. It seems that many people that attended this meeting share similar efforts as Wild Florida, as many of them are interested in conserving landing in the region.
The purpose of the meeting was to share ideas on how to solve some of the most challenging conservation issues that the Everglades currently face. The meeting was hosted by the one of the biggest proponents of conserving the Everglades, the Adams. The Adams provided their ranch as a centralized meeting spot in order to showcase the important cultural heritage that is being preserved in central Florida’s vast ranchlands.
The Northern Everglades system is so important because it’s one of the largest, most complex natural systems in the world. It extends from the southern border of Orlando to Big Cypress National Park. This ecosystem provides clean water to more than eight million people in South Florida. The way the system acts is like a sponge, which absorbs and cleans water. This reduces the need for billions of dollars in man-made water filtration systems.
Not only do the Northern Everglades provide clean drinking water to so many people, but it also provides a home to several species such as alligators, bald eagles, Florida panthers, and the Everglades snail kite. Ranches that have raised cattle since the 1500s have been able to keep the conservation efforts and natural heritage of the Northern Everglades in tact. If these ranches fall victim to commercial development, it could adversely affect the conservation efforts of the Northern Everglades.
To come experience the beautiful surroundings of the Northern Everglades, come take an Everglades airboat ride with the folks at Wild Florida. Our experienced captains can show the area, as well as give you a lesson on the nature in which you’re surrounded. Learn more about our Everglades airboat rides by visiting our website.
