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The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida has been fighting for centuries to protect their ancestral home, the Everglades, from the devastating effects of development and climate change. The tribe has seen drastic changes in the water levels, wildlife, and overall health of the wetlands, and they are taking action to heal and preserve what remains.
Under the leadership of a new tribal administration, the Miccosukee people have become more collaborative and proactive in their efforts to protect the Everglades. They have successfully fought against oil exploration and a wilderness designation that would have restricted their access to ancestral lands. They have also taken on projects to control invasive species and reintroduce native animals, while also signing a co-stewardship agreement for South Florida’s natural landscapes.
The tribe has also been actively raising awareness through prayer walks, campaigns, and airboat tours, using these opportunities to educate the public about the importance of the Everglades and the threats it faces. Their efforts have not only helped to preserve their cultural heritage, but also the health of the ecosystem and the surrounding communities.
The co-stewardship agreement signed in August is a significant step forward in the tribe’s fight to protect the Everglades. It allows them to have a say in the management and conservation of important natural areas, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.
The Miccosukee Tribe’s efforts to protect the Everglades are not only important for their own community, but also for the larger ecosystem and the future of South Florida. By working together with other stakeholders and taking a leadership role in conservation efforts, the tribe is making a significant impact in the fight against climate change and the preservation of this unique and vital ecosystem.