The boundaries of Everglades National Park protect only the southern one-fifth of the historic Everglades ecosystem. In its entirety, this massive watershed boasts a multitude of habitats that provide a subtropical refuge to a unique assemblage of wildlife.  

With the passage of time and the growth of human population centers in south Florida, the park serves a new role-- serving as a touchstone against which to guage the impacts of man on the natural world. Scientific study is the key to better understanding, and managing, the resources entrusted to our care and protection.

Follow the links above to explore the natural realm of the Everglades, its many ecosystems, and the environmental factors at work on this dynamic landscape. Follow the link below to visit the South Florida Natural Resources Center for more about the science that continues to guide the management and restoration of Everglades National Park.