Florida’s freshwater systems

Florida’s freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, rivers, springs, and wetlands, are vital for wildlife, people, and the environment. These ecosystems provide essential habitat for a diverse range of species, including manatees, alligators, wading birds, and countless fish and amphibians. Many endangered species, such as the Florida panther and the snail kite, rely on these water sources for survival.

For humans, freshwater ecosystems are a crucial source of drinking water, irrigation for agriculture, and recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and swimming. The Everglades, one of the world’s most unique wetlands, helps filter pollutants and store water, ensuring clean supplies for millions of residents. Florida’s economy also benefits from ecotourism and fishing industries that depend on healthy freshwater systems.

Environmentally, these ecosystems play a key role in regulating climate and water cycles. Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing excess rainwater and reducing the impacts of floods and droughts. They also store carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. However, pollution, habitat destruction, and water overuse threaten these ecosystems. Protecting Florida’s freshwater resources through conservation efforts and sustainable water management is critical to ensuring they continue to support wildlife, human communities, and the broader environment for generations to come.