Everglades: Why restoration and resilience matter now

The Everglades is one of the planet’s most distinctive and fragile wetland systems, a slow-moving “river of grass” that supports a rich mix of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, coastal estuaries, and tropical hardwood hammocks. Its health is vital not only for the plants and animals that call it home—like the iconic American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee—but also for millions of people who depend on its freshwater, fisheries, and storm protection.

Restoration focus: reconnecting water and land
Decades of drainage, canals, and roadways have altered the natural flow of water through the Everglades. Restoration efforts prioritize getting freshwater moving more naturally from inland ridges down through the marshes to the coastal estuaries. Restoring sheet flow improves water quality, replenishes aquifers, and helps maintain the delicate balance between freshwater and saltwater that coastal habitats need to thrive. Major projects include removing or modifying barriers, capturing stormwater for treatment and storage, and enhancing natural filtering areas such as wetlands and flowways.

Water quality and agriculture
Nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff has changed the plant communities in many parts of the Everglades, favoring invasive plants over native sawgrass. Efforts to reduce phosphorus and other pollutants through best-management practices on farms and wetlands-based treatment systems are central to improving ecosystem resilience. Cleaner water supports healthier fish and bird populations and reduces algal blooms that can harm wildlife and recreation.

Climate change and saltwater intrusion
Rising seas and changing rainfall patterns intensify pressure on the Everglades. Saltwater intrusion threatens freshwater marshes and groundwater supplies, while more intense storms can reshape coastlines and mangrove zones. Restoration strategies increasingly incorporate resilience planning: allowing wetlands to migrate inland where possible, protecting coastal buffers, and prioritizing projects that enhance both ecological and community flood protection.

Invasive species: a persistent challenge

Non-native species remain a major management issue. Burmese pythons have reshaped mammal populations in parts of the Everglades, and invasive plants like melaleuca and Brazilian pepper can overrun native habitats. Targeted removal, public reporting, and research into biological controls help keep invasives in check, but long-term success depends on sustained funding and community participation.

Wildlife and ecotourism
The Everglades offers unique wildlife viewing, paddling, birdwatching, and backcountry camping opportunities. Responsible tourism supports conservation by funding park services and educating visitors about fragile habitats. Simple practices—staying on designated trails, not feeding wildlife, and choosing low-impact outfitters—help preserve the experience for future visitors and reduce stress on wildlife.

How you can help
Individual actions make a difference.

Supporting local conservation organizations, reducing nutrient runoff from home landscaping, participating in cleanups, and advocating for science-based water policy all contribute to a healthier Everglades.

When visiting, choose eco-conscious tour operators and follow Leave No Trace principles.

The path forward
Protecting the Everglades requires coordinated action between federal, state, local, Tribal, and private partners. Progress comes from combining engineering solutions with natural system restoration and community engagement.

As pressures from development and climate shift continue, balancing the needs of people and nature will determine whether the Everglades endures as a living landscape—or becomes a lost legacy. Preserving its flows, improving water quality, and strengthening resilience are the pillars of keeping this remarkable ecosystem thriving.