Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
so developers are targeting the Panhandle and central Florida. Projections for the next 50
years show unrelenting urban sprawl up and down both coasts and across Central Florida.
Then there's the rising seas due to global warming. Here, the low-lying Florida Keys are
a 'canary in a coalmine', being watched worldwide for impacts. In another century, some
quip, South Florida's coastline could be a modern-day Atlantis, with its most expensive
real estate underwater.
A KINDER, GENTLER WILDERNESS ENCOUNTER
While yesterday's glass-bottom boats and alligator wrestling have evolved into today's
swamp-buggy rides and manatee encounters, the question remains: just because you
can do something, does that mean you should? In Florida, everyone can be involved in
protecting nature just by considering the best ways to experience it without harming it in
the process.
For most activities, there isn't a single right answer; specific impacts are often debated.
However, here are a few guidelines:
Airboats and swamp buggies
While airboats have a much lighter 'footprint' than big-
wheeled buggies, both are motorized (and loud) and have far larger impacts than canoes
for exploring wetlands. As a rule, nonmotorized activities are least damaging.
Dolphin encounters
Captive dolphins are, for better or worse, usually already ac-
climated to humans. However, when encountering wild dolphins in the ocean, it is illegal
by federal law to feed, pursue or touch them. Keep in mind that habituating any wild an-
imal to humans can lead to the animal's death, since approaching humans often results in
conflict and accidents (as with boats).
Manatee swims
When swimming near manatees, a federally protected endangered spe-
cies, look but don't touch. 'Passive observation' is the standard. Harassment is a rampant
problem that may lead to stricter 'no touch' legislation.
Feeding wild animals
In a word, don't. Friendly animals like deer and manatees may
come to rely on human food (to their detriment), while feeding bears and alligators just
encourages them to…hunt you.
Sea-turtle nesting sites
It's a federal crime to approach nesting sea turtles or hatchling
runs. Most nesting beaches have warning signs and a nighttime 'lights out' policy. If you
do encounter turtles on the beach, keep your distance and don't take flash photos.
Coral-reef etiquette
Coral polyps are living organisms and touching or breaking coral
creates openings for infection and disease. To prevent reef damage, never touch the cor-
al. It's that simple.
