Few places on the Earth are as defined by water as Florida. Our rivers, bays, and coasts provide not only drinking water and outstanding outdoor recreation but critical fish and wildlife habitat. The protection of this precious resource is vital for ourselves, our economy, and indeed all life.
Water Programs by the Florida Wildlife Federation
Fresh and Saltwater in Florida
Our state’s water is at risk from a number of factors as the human population rises. Increased water use depletes our aquifers and pollution threatens water integrity. Climate change-inspired rising sea levels is pushing groundwater inland, especially in South Florida where the majority of Floridians reside. Our fabled freshwater springs in North Florida are under pressure from dewatering and land conversion.
Actions on behalf of freshwater, which is only about 4% of all the water on the planet, must include conservation of use and protection of the natural systems that are our supply. We need to buffer our rivers with conservation land, which will also provide wildlife habitat and protect aquatic species.
On our coasts, we must be smart about beachfront construction, especially with hurricanes getting even more severe and destructive.
Saltwater provides a multi-billion economic driver, from tourism to boating, recreational and commercial fishing. Indeed, Florida provides one-third of the nation’s seafood. Coastlines also contain the estuaries that are the nurseries of the sea. To protect this vital resource, FWF was the leader in banning nearshore oil drilling off our shores.
Florida's waters need your help
Florida is blessed with the Everglades, beaches, springs, rivers, forests and wonderful wildlife. Help us keep these natural treasures.
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