Florida's Ancient Islands Home Ancient Islands Shifting Sands Why Save Species? Working Together: Human Activity What Shapes the Ridge? From Scrub to Creek: The Lake Wales Ridge Ecosystem Working Group How You Can Help Protect the Ridge Whom to Call PeopleProfile Acknowledgements How You Can Help Protect the Lake Wales Ridge
Pine Flatwoods

    To the Private Landowner:

  • Conservation easements, selling only portions of rights to property, can save you taxes and protect native habitat for future generations;
  • Government is a competitive buyer and works with willing sellers.

    To the Developer:

  • Incorporating native habitat will increase property values; leaving native habitat improves quality of life.

    To the Public:

  • Knowledge, understanding and action play a vital role in preserving the Lake Wales Ridge Ecosystem.

    To the Legislator:

  • Leading local initiatives can avoid state and federal regulations;
  • In a 1998 Kitchens Group opinion poll of Floridians, 94 percent of the respondents said they thought we owe it to future generations to protect beaches, rivers, and open space that make Florida unique.
Some of the ways you can help protect the Ridge include:

    CITIZEN ACTION

  • Tell community leaders how important Florida's natural heritage is to you. Be informed about action in the legislature and local government.

    EDUCATION

  • Learn to identify rare plants and animals and understand the fascinating relationships. Attend educational lectures, workshops, or special events.

    GO NATIVE

  • Remove invasive exotic plants and animals on your property. Landscape your home with the appropriate native plants for your site. Create backyard habitats for wildlife.

    JOIN

  • Become a member of an organization that works to protect the Lake Wales Ridge Ecosystem.

    RECREATION

  • Experience the outdoors with family and friends at different times and seasons. The Lake Wales Ridge is one of the most subtle natural landscapes on Earth. To understand this fact, you need to be close to it. Many conservation areas are open to the public. Contact the managing agency about access and recreational opportunities.

    VOLUNTEER

  • Help construct trails, conduct rare plant inventories, or remove invasive exotic plants. If you prefer indoor work, there are many opportunities to assist with data entry, research, or writing.