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,

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

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

Florida’s spring-fed rivers are known for their clear water, abundant wildlife, and thriving fisheries. But these delicate ecosystems can change quickly when powerful storms push saltwater far inland. In 2024, our Foundation awarded a $39,015 Protect Florida Springs grant to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife

Seventy percent of Florida’s land is privately owned. That means the future of our state’s wildlife depends not only on public lands, but also on the stewardship of private landowners across the landscape. Thanks to funding from our Foundation’s Conserve Wildlife specialty license plate, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

This feelgood story has it all: dedicated teachers, eager young minds, and rescued manatees who need their help. Thanks to a $25,000 grant from our Foundation, the human heroes of this story are growing hydroponic lettuce in an after-school program to help support rescued manatees at nearby SeaWorld Orlando. Eco