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A white wading bird stands at the edge of calm blue water surrounded by small marsh islands covered in grasses and shrubs beneath a clear sky.

Natural Resources

Florida is home to a wide variety of natural resources that contribute to its communities, industries and recreational activities. Well-known for its gorgeous beaches, Florida boasts the longest coastline in the contiguous United States, not to mention the largest number of freshwater springs. Tourists appreciate the sunny climate, and farmers also benefit from its abundant rainfall. UF/IFAS Extension offers a wealth of information on natural resources topics, including many plant and animal species, rivers and lakes, and good environmental stewardship.

Slider turtles lined up on logs in the Santa Fe River.

Field Guide Face-Off Part 3: Cooter vs Slider

Welcome to another installment of Field Guide Face-Off, a series I created to...

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Florida Land Steward Update, September 25, 2026

Florida Land Steward Update, September 25, 2026

Wetland Preserve Recognized as Florida Land Steward Ambassadors at the 2026...

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Not Red Tide: Scientists Detect a Rare “Rust Tide” Algae in Charlotte Harbor

Not Red Tide: Scientists Detect a Rare “Rust Tide” Algae in Charlotte Harbor

By Elizabeth “Betty” Straugler and Kate Rose A recent detection of the...

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Florida Master Naturalist Program

The FMNP is an adult education program available to all lay and professional audiences. Multiple course options are offered that teach about Florida's environments, plants and animals, conservation issues, and more.

Water Resources

Sugar-sand beaches may be Florida’s most famous water resources, but the state also features a network of rivers, lakes and springs at its surface, as well as vast subterranean aquifers below. Learn about water and wise use of this vital resource with UF/IFAS Extension publications and websites.

Old World Climbing Fern - Lygodium microphyllum

Invasive Species

Invasive species are a major concern in Florida and UF/IFAS is a leader in providing information on their identification and management. For information, resources, links, and experts on invasive species see UF/IFAS Invasive Species Council and Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants websites.