The South Florida Environmental Report highlights another banner year of progress for Everglades restoration and water quality across Central and Southern Florida.  

From historic progress on key restoration projects, to improved wading bird nesting, to record hydration in the Everglades, the annual report documents the continued momentum and success of Everglades projects throughout the South Florida Water Management District’s 16-county region.

The South Florida Water Management District restores and protects natural ecosystems that provide important habitat for native wildlife species. Did you know Florida’s native birds and wildlife are a key indicator for the success of Everglades restoration?

In recognition of World Wildlife Day, we are giving thanks to SFWMD's wildlife biologists, land managers and other staff who work year-round to protect South Florida’s native wildlife, including the gopher tortoise, the Eastern Indigo snake, Black-necked stilts and Florida burrowing owls.

Burmese pythons, Melaleuca, Brazilian pepper trees, and other harmful invasive species can damage critical habitat, harm native wildlife and alter the ecology of our natural systems. Did you know the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is taking aggressive action to protect nearly 1.5 million acres of public land, natural areas, canals and levees from these persistent pests?

A new Executive Order signed by Governor Ron DeSantis builds on the momentum for environmental protection in Florida and brings additional resources to accelerate Everglades restoration and water quality projects.

From flood protection and water quality, to wildlife habitat and outdoor recreational opportunities, wetlands provide numerous benefits for people and the environment.

Did you know the South Florida Water Management District works year-round to protect and restore thousands of acres of wetlands throughout our 16-county region? In fact, the largest wetland restoration efforts in the world are located right here in South Florida.

As part of our flood control mission, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) operates and maintains more than 2,175 miles of canals from Orlando to the Florida Keys. Keeping these canals clear of debris and vegetation, especially on their banks, ensures the regional flood control system works to protect our neighborhoods and communities.

Did you know the South Florida Water Management District maintains an extensive online library of mapping and spatial data, including the most up-to-date restoration projects map, historic maps and water quality monitoring maps? The District makes it easy for the public to explore these resources by providing one-stop access through our online database.  

Get started with these tools!

Computer models are important and powerful tools used by scientists to monitor, evaluate, study, and protect South Florida’s precious water resources and ecosystems. Rooted in mathematics, physics and hydrology, these comprehensive models allow scientists to simulate complex systems and answer complex questions.

Increased state investments and historic momentum are making a difference to protect Florida’s precious natural resources and improve water quality. At the South Florida Water Management District, we are committed to accelerating ecosystem restoration and water quality projects for the people and the environment of South Florida.

From snail kites and bald eagles to burrowing owls and scrub-jays, birds serve an important role in the comprehensive effort to protect and restore America’s Everglades.

As we soar into the new year, we are highlighting how birds help demonstrate the success of Everglades restoration projects across South Florida. 

Did you know the South Florida Water Management District monitors and tracks birds to better understand our unique ecosystems?