Ecosystem restoration partners have come to three important conclusions:

» On its present course South Florida is not sustainable.

» The natural system and the built environment are inextricably linked.

» Fixing South Florida ecosystem problems will take decades of commitment.

These conclusions have led to an emerging vision of South Florida as

a landscape whose health, integrity, and beauty are restored and nurtured by its interrelationships with South Florida’s human communities.

This vision can be attained by reaching three long-term goals.

Figure 1: (click to enlarge)

Goal 1: Get the Water Right

Getting the water right means restoring a more natural flow of water through the region while also providing adequate water supplies, water quality, and flood control. This involves addressing the quantity, quality, timing, and distribution of water throughout the system. The goal is to deliver the right amount and quality of water to the right places at the right time.

Goal 2: Restore and Enhance the Natural System

Restoring and enhancing the natural system means protecting South Florida’s natural habitats and reestablishing healthy populations of now threatened and endangered species. Restoring habitats will involve optimizing the spatial extent of wetlands and other habitats through land acquisition and changes in current land use and land and water management. It also will involve reestablishing the physical and biological connections between different parts of the natural system.

These changes, combined with other wildlife management actions such as monitoring and reintroducing species, will play critical roles in maintaining and enhancing species diversity. Reducing and reversing the rampant spread of invasive exotic species also will be important. Finally, halting the stormwater discharge into coastal areas will be vital in restoring the health of estuaries and sensitive coral reef systems.

Goal 3: Transform the Built Environment

Transforming the built environment means developing lifestyles and economies that do not degrade the natural environment or reduce the quality of life in built areas. This will entail rebuilding or revitalizing urban core areas to curtail the outward sprawl of suburbs and development. It also will involve making urban areas more livable by creating green spaces, improving transit systems, and providing jobs and affordable housing. Balancing human needs and those of the natural system will require a review of how resources should be used. A sustainable built environment also will require a diverse and balanced economy.

At the southern tip of Florida lies the nation’s only living coral reef next to the continent. The shallow waters near shore also harbor many other habitats, such as fringing mangroves, seagrass meadows, and patch reefs. This complex marine ecosystem forms the foundation of the South Florida commercial and recreational fisheries and the tourism industry.

A Word from the Task Force

Purpose of this Report

The South Florida Ecosystem

Fixing the Problem

Progress Made

The Future

The Governor's Commission for a Sustainable South Florida

The South Florida Ecosystem Working Group

More Information