If we want a future in which the Everglades thrive, we must take the next step — acquiring land in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) to restore the natural flow of clean, freshwater south.
That point was made clear at last week’s Everglades Coalition Conference — a gathering of more than 400 policymakers, advocates and enthusiasts on Miccosukee tribal lands — where experts put a spotlight on what’s at stake for this one-of-a-kind ecosystem and all who depend on it.
Dr. Thomas Van Lent of Friends of the Everglades put it simply: “It just keeps coming down to the same answer — the future of South Florida depends on what happens to the EAA.” Without more land to store and clean water, the Everglades will continue to degrade, and our estuaries will suffer from harmful discharges. Climate change and development pressures only heighten the urgency.
We have to finish the job that was started 25 years ago when the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan was signed into law.
That’s why Friends of the Everglades introduced our Rescue the River of Grass campaign — to push for the land acquisition we need to truly restore the Everglades. We’re at a pivotal moment, and your support can help ensure that Everglades restoration doesn’t stall short of the finish line.
Watch the video above to understand why this fight matters. Then help us gather the petition signatures necessary to show broad public support.
Together, we can secure a future where the Everglades is resilient and South Florida remains livable. Let’s make it happen.
