This is the twelfth installment of 12 Things to Experience on an Everglades Airboat Tour which can also be downloaded as a free eBook.
Because of its unique landscape, and the plant and animal species native only to this region, the Everglades remains the only wetland of its kind on the continent. Although the natural resources in the Everglades have been exploited over the years, there have been recent attempts to restore this region.
We at Captain Jack’s hope this is indicative of an era of conservation, where the limits of these resources are recognized, and our focus is on the revitalization of the natural environment. The world continues to watch the Everglades Restoration Project, to see just how much damage a hundred years of forced controls have inflicted, and how far the public will extend itself towards remediation.
With that being said, let’s take a look at how a century of development has impacted the Everglades…
Everglades Restoration Project
The Everglades Restoration Project marks the first time a major public initiative has been reversed for ecological reasons, so it is a project that has gained worldwide recognition. The goal of the project is to work towards sustainability of both the Ecosystem and the Water Flow of the Everglades.
The Everglades has very unique land and water characteristics. Because of this, the plant and animal life are extremely specialized to the region, and there is great diversity among the species. In the past, the Everglades was plagued with low nutrient levels in the water and soil. It also has had fluctuating water patterns, which required it to obtain most of its nutrients from variable rainfall. However, the ecosystem, has adapted to these characteristics with species that thrive on little nutrients and only seasonal water supplies.
Cultural and economic influences play an important role in the outcome of this project. Some of these factors include:
- Who is responsible for past damages
- Who can initiate restoration plans without compromising the integrity of the ecosystem
- Support of future water management schemes (both financially and philosophically)
This project is significant progress for the environmental movement, as well as the effort to restore the public trust in governmental controls. Positive public perception and support is crucial to this type of undertaking. The Everglades restoration project often encounters struggles in legislation which, unfortunately, have yet to be completely resolved. This project continues to be a work in progress, and the final accomplishments are years ahead. Therefore, the impact on other ecosystems worldwide still remain to be see
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To really understand the magnificence of the Everglades, you have to see it in person. Bring your friends and family on an exciting adventure and learning experience, as you glide on an airboat through this amazing ecosystem. You will not only gain a great appreciation for this valuable resource and the wildlife that depends on it…but, you’ll also have a ton of FUN!
Ready to book your trip? Contact us online or call us toll free at 1-800-282-9194, and be sure to connect with Captain Jack’s on Facebook!
– Captain Jack