40th Annual Everglades Coalition brings together conservation groups

STUART, Fla. - Feb. 5, 2025 - PRLog -- Nearly 450 advocates representing conservation groups, leaders, scientists, students and supporters attended the 40th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference, held Jan. 30-Feb. 1 at the Miccosukee Casino & Resort in Miami. The three-day annual conference is the largest forum for discussing the restoration of the Everglades, and featured several keynote speakers, educational sessions and awards.

Each year, the Everglades Coalition, an alliance of nearly 60 local, state and national conservation and environmental organizations, hosts its annual conference to educate attendees about the full restoration of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. The 2025 conference, themed Reflections on Progress and Opportunities, featured panelists who highlighted topics including ecological health and economic success, environmental advocacy, art and culture concerning the Everglades, marine ecosystems and the future of Florida's conservation.

"It has become even more evident that we need to continue our work to support America's Everglades, which despite 40 years of efforts still faces challenges to survival," said Mark Perry, co-chair of the Everglades Coalition. "We need to persist in pushing to restore, protect and care for this ecosystem critical to Florida."

Panel topics included community involvement; climate change; indigenous knowledge and perspectives; conservation partnerships; economic impacts; and reflections on progress. Speakers included Michael Grunwald, award-winning journalist and bestselling author of "The Swamp," Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart; Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz; Eric Bush with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Ron Magill, Good Will Ambassador for Zoo Miami; Jennifer Marshall of the office of Environmental Management with the Florida Department of Transportation; and Kirsten Hines, author, photographer, and conservationist.

An annual highlight of the conference includes awards for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to protect and restore the Everglades and mirror the ideals and accomplishments of the award namesake. Six honorees were recognized at the 2025 conference in the following categories:

- Mary Barley and Charles Lee were elected to the Hall of Fame for their substantial, lifetime commitment to Everglades restoration.

- The Public Service Award was given to Chairman Talbert Cyprus with the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida for going above and beyond to advance Everglades restoration.

- The Voice of Conservation Award honored Michael Grunwald for dedication and advocacy to amplify the call for Everglades restoration and protection.

- The Conservationist Award honored Tania Galloni, Bonnie Malloy and Christina Reichert with Earthjustice for passion and ingenuity in the quest to protect and restore the Everglades.

- The Grassroots Activism Award recognized Casey Darling Kniffin with Florida Wildlife Federation for exceptional work to engage and educate the community in the name of Everglades restoration.

To learn more about the Everglades Coalition and the 2025 conference, visit EvergladesCoalition.org/Conference.