Restoring America’s Everglades: A Lobbyist’s Perspective

Abstract

The Greater Everglades Ecosystem is one of the most ecologically significant wetlands on earth, and is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. It is also an international center for business, agriculture, and tourism, with a rapidly growing population of varied ethnic, economic, and social values – all dependent on a fully functioning Everglades ecosystem for an adequate freshwater supply, a healthy and sustainable economy, and overall quality of life. Due to the combined effects of water mismanagement and urban and agricultural pollution, the Everglades ecosystem is among the most endangered ecosystems in the world. Everglades restoration will repair much of the damage from drainage and development, bringing back the wading birds that once filled the South Florida landscape and restoring hundreds of thousands of acres of wetlands and estuarine habitat. Restoring America’s Everglades is one of Audubon’s highest priorities. Audubon public policy experts are at the forefront of changing political will in favor of restoration of our natural ecosystems.