How literature was used to save the Everglades

Persuasive Words

The Florida EvergladesWhat are the

Everglades?A series of diverse,

yet interconnected ecosystems covering the southernmost tip of Florida, extending from Lake Okeechobee to the Gulf of Mexico. Today, the Everglades National Park covers 2,354 square miles.

Starting around the 1880’s the Everglades were seen as wasted land. Plans were made to drain the swamps, “reclaiming” the land so humans could use it for farming, recreation, and homesteading.

The native animals of the Everglades were harvested to make fashion accessories. Alligators and birds of all kinds, being highly prized, were especially vulnerable.

Conservation Efforts