Water

Everglades Ecosystem

The Bottom Line

Conservation impact on 7.7 million acres; improved outcomes for six priority bird species.


As the only conservation organization working throughout the ecosystem, Audubon’s goal for the Everglades is to reestablish colonies of wading birds that have been displaced by drainage, development, and dirty water. Science, grassroots reach, sophisticated policy work, and partnerships with landowners, businesses, and other stakeholders all drive Audubon’s success.

Important Bird Areas are central to this effort. One of the first victories in our new Atlantic Flyway IBA strategy was the formation of the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area. This 150,000-acre refuge supports priority birds like Grasshopper Sparrows and many migratory species. Focusing on getting the right amounts of freshwater flowing into the remnants of the Everglades, Audubon has shaped federal and state policies and secured funding for projects that store, treat, and deliver clean water to the natural system. Audubon Florida and the state’s 44 chapters collaborate with other partners and local, state, and federal decision makers to marshal much-needed support for the ambitious Everglades restoration project, the nation’s largest ecosystem project. Among recent successes are measures to reduce pollution in Lake Okeechobee, improve freshwater flow to Everglades National Park, and restore 20 miles of the Kissimmee River.

Theory of Victory: Audubon will harness its full network to restore natural hydrological processes, reduce pollution, and advance sound land management practices that support the health of the full Everglades system.

Related News

From Audubon Magazine

See One of the World’s Coolest, Most Specialized Raptors in Action

By Mac Stone and Alisa Opar
March 27, 2017 — Snail Kite numbers in Florida dipped to a worrying low a decade ago. Since then, an influx of exotic snails has helped the endangered birds rebound.
Audubon in Action

After a Two-Year Absence, Wood Storks Are Nesting at Corkscrew Swamp Again

By Purbita Saha
January 13, 2017 — Perfect water conditions drew the birds to their usual Everglades digs. But will they stay for the season?
Snail Kite with apple snail | Andy Morffew/Flickr CC (BY-ND 2.0)
Audubon Advisory

National Wildlife Refuge in Florida at Risk Over State-Federal Dispute

By Audubon Policy Office
October 14, 2016
Conservation

Wild Flamingos Return to Florida

By Amy Kraft
June 01, 2015 — After a century-long absence, the elegant pink waders are back in the Everglades. But where did they come from?
Climate Solutions

Obama: Don’t Delay Action on Climate Change

By Eric Draper
April 24, 2015 — Speaking from the Everglades on Earth Day, President Obama committed to acting on climate change. Audubon Florida’s Executive Director explains why that’s necessary.

Explore More Conservation Projects

Osprey_Bob_Howdeshell_Great_Backyard_Birdcount_participant
Creating Bird-Friendly Communities

Avian Architecture

Purpose-built structures such as nest boxes, burrows, platforms, or roosting towers can help bird populations rebound