What does it mean to conserve the Everglades?

It means protecting wildlife and the places it lives. It means understanding how water moves through the landscape. It also means recognizing that this ecosystem holds a rich human history and remains an important part of Florida’s identity.

Conservation begins when we understand what is at stake—and continues through the decisions we make together.

Protecting the Connections That Sustain Life

The Everglades includes freshwater wetlands, forests, coastal habitats, and marine environments. Each supports different communities of plants and animals.

These habitats are dynamic. Water, fire, storms, invasive species, and climate all influence how they function and change.

Conservation must account for those relationships. Protecting an individual species is more effective when the habitat and natural processes supporting it are protected as well.

Restoration Starts With Water

Everglades restoration involves more than adding water to a dry landscape.

The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan addresses four closely related needs: the quantity, quality, timing, and distribution of water. How much water arrives, how clean it is, when it arrives, and where it flows all matter.

Restoration efforts include increasing water storage, addressing barriers to flow, and managing water delivery to better reflect natural cycles. These projects require scientific research, careful planning, and cooperation across organizations.

Addressing Invasive Species

Water is one part of the conservation challenge. Invasive plants and animals create another.

Some introduced species compete with native wildlife for resources, prey on native animals, or change habitats. Once established, they can be difficult and expensive to manage.

Prevention is an important part of the response. Never release pets, aquarium animals, or unwanted plants into natural areas. Cleaning boats and outdoor equipment can also help reduce the spread of unwanted organisms.

Keeping Human Stories in View

Conservation education also provides an opportunity to explore the people whose lives and histories are connected to the Everglades.

The museum’s vision includes learning about Native Americans, Gladesmen, early settlers, cowboys, and pioneers. Exploring these histories alongside the landscape can help visitors understand how people have experienced, used, and valued the Everglades over time.

Make Learning Part of Your Contribution

You do not need to be a scientist to take an interest in the Everglades’ future.

Learn about restoration efforts. Visit natural areas responsibly. Participate in educational programs and appropriate volunteer opportunities. Share reliable information with your family and community.

Individual actions support a broader culture of stewardship, while sustained restoration requires coordinated work at the ecosystem level.

The Alligator Ron Bergeron Everglades Museum is being developed to help people understand the significance of the Everglades and inspire a lasting commitment to safeguarding it.

Explore ways to get involved and help bring the museum’s educational mission to life.