Florida’s Suncoast is home to some of the most extraordinary ecosystems in the world—from the sprawling River of Grass in the Everglades to the mangrove-lined estuaries and coral reefs off the Gulf. These are not only natural wonders but also life-support systems for millions of Floridians and countless species. Yet these fragile treasures are on the brink, pressured by climate change, invasive species, habitat loss, and development. At the 5th Annual Florida Climate & Biodiversity Forecast Conference, Dr. Pam Soltis will present on Florida’s Ecosystems on the Brink, revealing how climate change is reshaping the Everglades, coral reefs, mangroves, and iconic species like the manatee and Florida panther.
Stories from the Front Lines of Change
Recent events underscore just how vulnerable these ecosystems are:
- Manatees: A comeback story with new threats. Florida’s manatee population has rebounded from near-collapse to more than 8,350. But warming waters and seagrass die-offs led to an Unusual Mortality Event that killed more than 1,200 manatees between 2020 and 2022. Although the crisis has eased, manatees remain threatened. (News 13)
- The Everglades: Still endangered. Despite decades of work, the Everglades remains on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in Danger, plagued by invasive species, pollution, and habitat fragmentation. Efforts like the Rescue the River of Grass campaign are working to restore 100,000 acres of wetlands. (WUSF)
- Restoration ROI. Major restoration projects, such as raising parts of the Tamiami Trail to restore water flow, are starting to show results. With $3.9 billion in costs, the effort is projected to generate $4 in benefits for every $1 invested, improving water quality, wildlife habitat, and flood resilience. (AP News)
Why It Matters
Florida’s ecosystems are not just beautiful—they are functional, protective, and irreplaceable. Mangroves defend coasts from storm surge. Coral reefs support fisheries and tourism. The Everglades filters drinking water for millions. And iconic wildlife like manatees and panthers embody Florida’s natural heritage.
When these systems falter, so does the economy, the culture, and the way of life Floridians cherish. Protecting them is not just an environmental goal—it’s a community imperative.
Be Part of the Solution
This presentation at the 5th Annual Florida Climate & Biodiversity Forecast Conference will highlight the urgent need for science-based action and offer pathways for resilience and recovery. Dr. Pam Soltis will provide a deep dive into how climate change is reshaping Florida’s ecosystems—and what solutions are already underway.
Join us at the 5th Annual Florida Climate & Biodiversity Forecast Conference! Learn, connect, and help chart the future of Florida’s natural treasures. Get your tickets here: https://theclimateadaptationcenter.networkforgood.com/events/85027-5th-annual-florida-climate-forecast-conference-climate-and-biodiversity