The Everglades once stretched uninterrupted from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay. Today,
only about half of that original ecosystem remains intact. Canals, levees, and development
projects have redirected water that once flowed naturally through the wetlands — and those
changes are now driving serious environmental risks.
The Root of the Problem
For decades, the Everglades served as Florida’s natural water filter and storm buffer. But
human-engineered changes to control flooding and provide water for cities and farms have
come at a cost.
These are some of the most pressing issues identified by researchers: – Disrupted water flow:
Man-made canals prevent the steady, shallow movement of water the ecosystem depends
on. – Nutrient overload: Runoff from agriculture introduces excess nitrogen and phosphorus,
fueling algae blooms. – Habitat loss: Drier conditions in parts of the Everglades have led to the
decline of sawgrass and the spread of invasive plants. – Saltwater intrusion: Rising sea levels
are pushing saltwater inland, threatening freshwater habitats.
The Everglades Impact Study tracks each of these problems, using data to show how
interconnected they really are.
Why It’s a Statewide Concern
What happens in the Everglades doesn’t stay in the Everglades. The ecosystem plays a direct
role in South Florida’s drinking water, agriculture, and tourism. When it’s out of balance, the
effects ripple across the state.
Reduced freshwater flow increases the risk of saltwater contamination in coastal aquifers.
Poor water quality can harm fisheries and marine life in Florida Bay. And less natural flood
protection means more vulnerability to hurricanes and storm surges.
What Restoration Looks Like in Practice
The good news is that real progress is being made. Restoration projects, backed by years of
research from the Everglades Impact Study, are starting to show results. These efforts
include: – Removing barriers: Reestablishing natural flow by removing levees and filling old
canals. – Wetland rehydration: Restoring water levels to mimic natural patterns. – Nutrient
reduction: Working with farmers to manage fertilizer use and improve runoff controls. –
Invasive species control: Coordinated efforts to manage species like Burmese pythons and
melaleuca.
Each project is designed around measurable outcomes — from improved water clarity to
revived plant communities.
The Role of Science and Policy
Data from the Impact Study guides decision-making at every level, from local water districts to
federal agencies. The challenge is aligning policy with long-term science. Sustainable
progress requires stable funding, collaboration between agencies, and community
involvement.
A Path Forward
The Everglades will never return to what it was a hundred years ago. But it can still function as
a healthy, resilient ecosystem — if restoration efforts continue.
Every study, report, and restoration project adds another piece to the puzzle. Together,
they’re helping rebuild the natural systems that protect Florida’s environment and economy.
Call to Action: Follow updates at EvergladesImpactStudy.com