Wild species coexist in the Everglades, like this American alligator and foraging White Ibis. The Everglades is one of the most critical ecosystems in the world, providing unique habitat for wildlife, protecting the water supply for millions of Floridians and safeguarding our coastal communities and economies. However, this precious resource remains imperiled due to a lack of water storage and treatment. More land is needed to store and clean water from Lake Okeechobee so it can flow into the Everglades and eliminate harmful discharges to the northern estuaries. This new year marks a turning point. As we count the hours until 2025, we’re gearing up to  advance Everglades restoration for the next generation. You are the most [...]

Deep water swamp walk during the Swamp Celebration at Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery on October 19, 2024, in Big Cypress National Preserve. What do you see when you imagine the Everglades? Perhaps it’s the iconic sawgrass marshes stretching to the horizon, the rustle of wind through cypress trees, or still waters broken by an alligator slipping beneath the surface. These moments define the Everglades — and their future depends on us. Now imagine the Everglades in 2050. What will it look like? Will clean water flow freely, sustaining vibrant wildlife and human health? Will we still witness breathtaking sunsets over vast swaths of undeveloped land? By supporting Friends of the Everglades today, you can help ensure [...]

https://youtu.be/M67Am5A_Fbo?si=hNv6W4DTR3CPEgnN As we reflect on the final days of 2024, Friends of the Everglades executive director Eve Samples brings you your Voice of the Everglades update: Friends, There’s a pocket of green space near my house where things are always changing. The muhly grass bloomed last month; the spider lilies are popping now. Bromeliads burst with color then go dormant. The osprey and pileated woodpecker are making a beautiful racket lately. If someone tells you Florida doesn’t have seasons, they aren’t paying close attention. This holiday season, I hope you can get out and enjoy the restorative gifts of our tropical and subtropical landscape. Our Friends of the Everglades team will be doing the same — and fortifying ourselves for [...]

“There are no other Everglades in the world.” And there is no better advocate for its continued existence than you. This shimmering, slow-moving River of Grass is renowned for its biodiversity — offering sanctuary to creatures both fierce and fragile. The elusive panther, the ancient calm of the sunning alligator, and the quiet grace of a wading heron are all unique scenes from the nation’s largest subtropical wilderness.  In the Everglades, life abounds. But so do the perils that threaten its continued existence. Donors like you are the force behind real, lasting change. Make Friends of the Everglades your trusted partner to keep our home safe. Your tax-deductible contribution this Giving Tuesday will go directly toward safeguarding South Florida’s [...]