The Deep Dive Blog

Florida’s estuaries are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world, where freshwater and saltwater meet to create rich habitats for fish and wildlife. Among the species that depend on these coastal environments is the diamondback terrapin, a small, secretive turtle that spends its life navigating mangroves, tidal creeks,

Florida’s spring-fed rivers are some of the most biologically rich ecosystems in the state, supporting fish, wildlife, and the people who depend on clean water for recreation. Beneath the surface of these clear waters lies a critical but often overlooked component of river health: submerged aquatic vegetation. In April 2025,

It’s been four years since many of you stepped up during an incredibly challenging moment for Florida’s manatees. In 2021 an Unusual Mortality Event (UME) resulted in the loss of more than 1,100 manatees, largely due to starvation as seagrass habitats declined across Florida’s east coast. At the time, the

We are proud to announce an exciting new chapter for the Foundation with the appointment of Nick Wiley as our new Executive Director. Nick brings a lifetime of conservation leadership, deep Florida roots, and a national perspective that will help guide our mission forward at a critical time for wildlife

Few places in Florida offer the kind of fishing experience found at the Skyway Fishing Pier. Stretching into Tampa Bay, it attracts thousands of anglers each year and has become a hotspot not only for fishing, but also for wildlife encounters. Among the most visible are brown pelicans, iconic coastal

Florida’s wildlife depends on thoughtful management and a deep understanding of how land, animals, and people are connected. Hunting plays an important role in that balance, helping manage wildlife populations while funding conservation efforts across the state. But for many people, especially those without access or mentorship, getting started can

Long before artificial reefs were carefully planned and deployed, Florida’s coastline was mapped by nature itself. In 1856 a detailed nautical chart traced the line of reefs stretching from Key Biscayne to Pickles Reef, capturing a living underwater landscape so vast and complex that it guided ships navigating the Florida

Florida’s coastal ecosystems depend on a delicate balance. Mangroves stabilize shorelines, protect communities from storms, and provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife. Seagrass beds support entire food webs, improving water quality and sustaining fisheries. But in places like Jupiter Narrows, that balance is being disrupted. Thanks to funding from

Coral reefs are vital to Florida’s coastal ecosystems, providing habitat for marine life, supporting fisheries, and protecting shorelines. But restoring these reefs at scale comes with a surprising challenge: how to safely move corals from nurseries to restoration sites without harming them. Through our Freedom to Fail grant program, our