Artificial Barrier Reefs Protect from Sea Level Rise

Arise Great Barrier Reef! Arise!!

Sea level rise is an environmental crisis that kayakers care about deeply. It threatens many coastal communities, like the entire State of Florida.

With the ocean slowly encroaching on low-lying areas, there’s a need for drastic measures to protect the area from flooding and erosion. One solution is to build artificial barrier reefs off the coast in order to slow down wave action, reduce- even reverse erosion, and give marine life additional habitat while treating urban runoff, purifying our sea water, increase atmospheric oxygen, sequester carbon 50X more than terrestrial trees all while filling our aquifers and reversing the mass extinction occurring due to human habitat destruction.

In this blog post:

Look at how these artificial barrier reefs can protect Florida from sea level rise, examine their potential effectiveness, and discuss if they pose any risks to local ecosystems. But also, this is a biblical opportunity to rise barrier reefs and create millions of acres of Mangrove Forests and Oyster Reefs. By understanding the full scope of this potential solution, we can make an informed decision as to whether or not they should be deployed in our fight against rising waters.

Behind an artificial reef wetland habitats can take hold and actually rise with every passing tide and storm. Imagine this… Land level rise is a thing. Researchers at the GTM NERR in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL tell us that the global average rate of rise for both sea level and estuary land level is 3mm per year. Even more if oysters and mangrove trees are present.

Artificial Reefs Reduce Florida's Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise

As the global climate continues to warm, one of the key concerns is the potential for rising sea levels. This is especially true for Florida, which is highly vulnerable to sea level rise.

There are a number of reasons why Florida is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise. First, the state has a large coastline and much of it is at or near sea level. Second, the state’s geology is such that it is actually sinking, which means that any rise in sea level will have an amplified effect. And third, Florida has a large population and economy that would be severely impacted by any flooding caused by rising seas.

So what can be done to protect Florida from sea level rise? One option that has been proposed is the construction of artificial barrier reefs. These would be built offshore and act as a buffer against rising waters. The reef would also provide valuable habitat for fish and other marine life.

While this may seem like a radical solution, it could be very effective in protecting Florida from rising seas. And it’s not as far-fetched as it may sound – similar structures have already been built in other parts of the world with great success.

Artificial reefs create habitat, shoreline protection, clean water, and food security.

Artificial reefs are man-made structures that are built to promote marine life and enhance the natural beauty of an area. Reefs can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, stone, metal, or even old ships and airplanes. They are often used to create habitat for fish and other marine creatures. They not only protect shorelines from erosion and provide clean water for swimming and other activities, they accelerate the rate at which shorelines and coastal estuaries rise in tandem with sea level rise.

Reefs also provide an important food source for many animals. When fish and other creatures congregate around a reef, they attract predators like sharks and whales. This helps to keep the population of these animals in check, which is important for the health of the ecosystem as a whole.

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in using artificial reefs to combat sea level rise. As sea levels continue to rise due to climate change, coastal communities are increasingly at risk of flooding and damage from storms. By building artificial reefs offshore, we can help to protect these communities from the worst effects of sea level rise.

Artificial reefs are not a perfect solution to sea level rise, but they can be an important part of our overall strategy for protecting vulnerable coastlines. If you live in a coastal community, consider supporting efforts to build artificial reefs in your area.

Create Mangrove Habitat

Yes, artificial barrier reefs can create mangrove habitats. Artificial reef structures can provide the necessary structure for mangroves to take root and grow. The complex structure of the artificial reef creates a variety of different substrate levels, providing a suitable environment for various species of mangroves to establish themselves. Artificial barrier reefs also help to reduce wave energy, creating a sheltered habitat for mangrove seedlings and protecting them from strong ocean currents which can damage or dislodge them from their substrate. In addition, artificial reefs can increase the availability of nutrients in the water column and sediment around them, providing an ideal food source for many species of aquatic plants and animals including mangroves.

What is Sea Level Rise?

As the Earth’s climate continues to warm, one of the most significant impacts will be sea level rise. The oceans will expand as they warm, and melting ice sheets and glaciers will add more water to the seas. As a result, global sea level is projected to rise between 1 and 8 feet by 2100.

Sea level rise will have a number of impacts on coastal communities, including increased flooding and erosion. Storm surge and waves will become more destructive as they crash against higher sea levels. And saltwater intrusion will contaminate freshwater resources and damage infrastructure.

It’s not just low-lying coastal areas that will be affected by sea level rise. Inland communities could see an influx of climate refugees from coastlines around the world. And as seas continue to rise, the impact on people and the environment is likely to worsen.

That’s why it’s so important to take action to mitigate sea level rise. One way to do this is by building artificial barrier reefs off Florida’s coast. These reefs would act as a buffer against rising waters, protecting Florida’s coastline from the worst effects of sea level rise.

The Benefits of an Artificial Barrier Reef

There are many benefits to building an artificial barrier reef off the coast of Florida. One of the most important is that it would help protect against sea level rise. The reef would act as a buffer, absorbing some of the energy from the waves and reducing the impact of rising waters on the shoreline.

In addition, an artificial reef would provide habitat for fish and other marine life. The reefs would attract fish that feed on the algae and small organisms that live on them, providing a valuable food source for predators. The reefs would also provide shelter for young fish and other animals.

Artificial reefs can be built relatively quickly and cheaply, compared to other methods of coastal protection such as seawalls. They can also be designed to blend in with natural surroundings, making them more aesthetically pleasing than man-made structures.

Overall, building an artificial barrier reef off the coast of Florida would provide significant benefits in terms of protecting against sea level rise and providing habitat for marine life.

The Cost of Building Artificial Reefs

Building an artificial barrier reef is not a cheap undertaking. The cost of constructing just one mile of reef can range from $1 million to $10 million, depending on the materials used and the depth of the reef. But when you consider the potential benefits that a well-built artificial reef can provide – including protecting Florida’s coast from erosion and sea level rise – the cost begins to look like a bargain.

There are a number of different ways to build an artificial barrier reef, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One popular method is to use large concrete blocks or boulders, which can be placed on the seafloor in a carefully designed pattern. This type of reef is often used in areas where there is already some natural coral growth, as the blocks can provide a substrate for the coral to attach to and grow on. Another common method is to sink ships or other large objects onto the seafloor to create an instant reef. While this approach can be cheaper than using concrete blocks, it can also be more damaging to the local ecosystem, as the shipwrecks can release harmful chemicals into the water.

Whichever method you choose, building an artificial barrier reef is not something that can be done overnight. It takes careful planning and execution to ensure that the reef will be effective at protecting Florida’s coast from erosion and sea level rise. But if done correctly, an artificial barrier reef can be a vital tool in protecting our state from the effects

What's Next?

As sea levels continue to rise, it is important that we take action to protect our coasts from flooding and erosion. One option is to build artificial barrier reefs offshore of Florida. These reefs would act as a natural buffer against rising waters and waves, helping to reduce the impact of storms and flooding on our beaches.

In addition to providing protection from sea level rise, artificial barrier reefs can also improve water quality by filtering out pollutants and providing habitat for fish and other marine life. They can also increase beach diversity by providing a variety of different habitats for animals to live in.

Building artificial barrier reefs is not a silver bullet solution to the problem of sea level rise, but it is an effective tool that can help us protect our coasts while also providing other benefits. If you are interested in learning more about this option, please contact your local representatives and let them know that you support the idea of building artificial barrier reefs off the coast of Florida.

Kayakers Standing up for Barrier Reefs to Stimulate EcoTourism

Kayakers standing up for barrier reefs to stimulate eco-tourism is a great way to increase public awareness of the fragile marine ecosystems, while also creating jobs and boosting local economies. By taking part in eco-tours, kayakers can learn about the importance of coral reefs and help further research into their health and conservation. In addition, the experience of paddling through the unique landscapes of submerged coral gardens encourages people to appreciate and protect these vital habitats.

In some areas, local kayak tour operators are providing guided tours that feature educational talks on coral reef ecology and its role in supporting biodiversity. These tours also include tips on how to help protect these vulnerable environments. Kayakers can be sure to avoid any contact with the corals or nearby seagrass beds while they paddle as this can damage the fragile structures. They should also leave all rubbish behind and carry out any snorkelling activities responsibly.

Reefs Enhance EcoTourism

By helping to promote eco-tourism linked to barrier reefs, kayakers can not only enjoy an amazing experience themselves but also contribute positively towards their protection. Furthermore, it offers a potential source of income for locals dependent upon tourism activities, creating sustainable livelihoods from reef preservation efforts. Overall, this is an excellent way to combine a fun recreational activity with the important task of caring for our planet’s natural wonders.

A little imagination and a Herculean Effort

January 27, 2023February 3, 2023

1 Trillion Mangrove Tree

Imagine a future world where mangroves line the coastlines, creating immense and vibrant forests that are teeming with life. A dream many environmentalists hold close to their hearts – one that could become a reality if we start investing in reforestation projects today.

Kayaking through these huge man made mangrove forests would give ecotourists and nature lovers a whole new way to enjoy the outdoors. Mangroves provide habitat for a wide range of species and act as natural barriers against coastal erosion, so paddling through them would be like entering a whole new realm of biodiversity, complete with flourishing wildlife and undisturbed beauty. We can only imagine the incredible scenes unfolding beneath the surface of these crystal clear waters when they are so densely populated with life.

Every kayaker would be able to join in this effort to care for the environment, just by paddling through these forests and taking part in ecotourism activities. Mangroves are some of the most effective habitats for fighting global warming, as they can absorb fifty times more carbon dioxide than other ecosystems, so every kayak trip taken down one of their rivers could help reduce our carbon footprint and create a greener planet.

The possibilities that come with 1 trillion mangrove trees planted around the world are truly exciting. With the right investments in reforestation projects and nature conservation initiatives, we can make sure that future generations will have access to these magnificent forests, enabling them to experience the true beauty of our planet’s natural wonders.

Kayaking in a future with 1 trillion mangroves would be an incredible experience that no nature lover should miss out on. Let’s make sure this dream can become a reality by starting today!

January 26, 2023February 3, 2023

Florida Motivates to Fight Climate Change

The recent action by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is motivation for individuals who desire to take action against climate change. Congress ought to emulate his example. In January 2023, the Florida Governor made the largest investment ever in the Everglades, solidifying his reputation as an environmentalist.

DeSantis has consistently prioritized environmental protection as a key component of his agenda as governor. He has been a persistent and steadfast supporter of the Sunshine State’s natural resources, whether it be through enlarging Florida’s wildlife corridor or by vetoing a bill opposing rooftop solar. DeSantis may have one of the greatest records among his peers when it comes to the environment, even if his administration doesn’t usually label his acts as being for the “climate.”

After all, there is a wealth of possibilities for carbon sequestration in the Everglades. According to a National Science Foundation-funded study, the mangrove forests that cover the Everglades’ swampy shoreline and the carbon they store are actually worth billions of dollars. It is a no-brainer to invest in this renowned Floridian ecosystem since the peat in the Everglades’ soil has a high capacity to store carbon.

Preserving and restoring ecosystems like the Everglades has long been referred to as climate action. Conservation techniques that boost the capacity of nature to store carbon are also referred to as “natural climate solutions,” and they are well-liked by both the general public and Republicans like DeSantis. To maintain the health of our natural areas and help reduce emissions, organizations like Ducks Unlimited and the Nature Conservancy have been working on ecosystem restoration projects for decades.

90% of people support planting a trillion trees to store carbon, according to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey. After the 2022 midterm elections, Gov Desantis’s discovered that natural climate solutions were viewed as the second most effective climate solution, after renewable energy. It makes sense why this type of climate action is so well-liked. Some of the most affordable climate solutions are natural ones, and they may be implemented right away. They also provide local stakeholders with more authority, including ranchers, farmers, and recreational users as well as private landowners.

While state policies like those in Florida are significant, Congress should place more emphasis on finding natural climate solutions. Congress has an excellent opportunity to collaborate in a bipartisan manner to battle climate change with nature, from funding blue carbon research to comprehend the potential of ecosystems like the Everglades to legislation that incentivizes restoration and proper forest management.

Legislation from the last Congress, like the Growing Climate Solutions Act and the Save Our Sequoias Act, showed that this area of policy is really supported by both Democrats and Republicans. This theme can and should be continued in the current Congress. It’s also what the people want, and it’s a good policy that will actually reduce emissions.

The Everglades is a great example of an environment with the potential to store carbon, but it’s in desperate need of restoration. Moreover, the growing popularity of activities like kayaking and fishing will only increase as the area is restored. By investing in natural climate solutions now, we can provide better recreation opportunities for future generations while also helping to reduce carbon dioxide levels. It’s a win-win for all involved, and Governor DeSantis’ leadership on this issue should be commended.

The protection of the environment is a cause that every kayaker should get behind. Kayakers rely on access to safe water sources and healthy ecosystems in order to enjoy their time outdoors. By investing in natural climate solutions, kayakers can help to ensure that they have clean and healthy waterways for generations to come. It’s time to get out on the water, start paddling and spread the word about how important it is to invest in natural climate solutions now!

January 26, 2023February 6, 2023

Bioluminescence Shines Light on the Human Aura.

Is the Infrared Light human bodies emit considered bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is a naturally occurring phenomenon in which living organisms emit light. Bioluminescent creatures like fireflies, squid, and jellyfish produce their own light through chemical means to attract mates, deter predators, or communicate with other animals. Some species also use bioluminescence as a way to hide, so they can blend in with their surroundings.

Bioluminescent bacteria can be found in the sea, on land, and even inside some animals, where they help provide energy for their host organisms. The study of bioluminescence has revealed many fascinating details about this amazing natural process. Scientists are now looking into how bioluminescent organisms could be used to make sustainable lighting for people, like solar-powered lamps called “Biolamps.” The gene for bioluminescence is utilized in science for groundbreaking discoveries on the microbiological and molecular scales, leading to breakthroughs in medical, agricultural, and artificial life. Bioluminescence is truly an incredible natural phenomenon that continues to amaze us with its many uses and applications.

Humans, are not bioluminescent. Or are they? Like many other organisms in nature, humans do radiate infrared light. This is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the naked eye but detectable by special equipment. The concept of a human aura has been mainstreamed since we can measure the cloud of light emanating from living beings. A signature of life. Scientists have looked into this phenomenon and think it may be an important part of how people communicate and how they can sense and interact with their surroundings.

Infrared radiation is still being studied, and scientists are likely to find out even more interesting things about how people interact with their surroundings. Ultimately, bioluminescence remains an incredibly intriguing natural phenomenon for both scientists and laymen alike! Its applications in science have been groundbreaking, providing new ways of understanding life on earth. Bioluminescence has the potential to revolutionize how humans interact with their environment, opening up possibilities for sustainable lighting solutions and more. Who knows what else bioluminescence might reveal with more research? Time will tell. Until then, let us revel in the beauty of this natural phenomenon and its many applications. It is truly a marvel to behold. Bioluminescence—lighting up the world!

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not experience bioluminescence firsthand? Take an ecotour and explore bioluminescent bays in some of the most beautiful places on earth. You can only see the amazing light shows that microscopic organisms make when you kayak or swim in these unique ecosystems. You’ll be left speechless by their natural beauty! To learn more about understanding and appreciating nature’s luminescent gifts, read up on the secrets of the universe hidden in light. Bioluminescence is sure to take your breath away! Enjoy this remarkable phenomenon while it lasts.

Come explore bioluminescence in St. Augustine, Florida! Kayaking tours are available so you can witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon. With St. Augustine’s many ecotours, you are sure to have a unique and unforgettable experience, But the our guides are the only with a permit to take you kayaking through the bioluminescent waters of Guana Lake after hours.

References:

1. Kaltenbacher, E., & Weitere, M. (2018). Bioluminescence – the secret of light hidden in darkness. International Journal Of Molecular Sciences, 19(3), 677-696. doi: 10.3390/ijms19030677

2. National Geographic Society (2020). Ecotours: Exploring Bioluminescent Bays. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.org/projects/ecotours_bioluminescent_bay/

3. Alvarez, A., Porter, M., Laschinsky, O., de Oliveira Batista Campos Telles, P., & Schumacher, S. (2020). Infrared Radiation as a Human Sense and Its Role in Natural Interactions. Physics Of Life Reviews, 35(October 2019), 1-13. doi: 10.1016/j.plrev.2019.100579

4. Lee, A., Broekhoven, M., & Grinsted, L. (2013). Biolamp: Sustainable Lighting from Photosynthetic Bacterial Bioluminescence for Indoor Applications. Retrieved from http://www2.engr.arizona.edu/~johnson/ECE474_FinalReports/Biolamp_FINAL_REPORT_041813-1%20copy(1).pdf

January 25, 2023February 3, 2023

Deep-Draft Tolls Endorsed by St Augustine Kayakers

Introducing the Deep-draft Toll. A means to stopping erosion as well as funding habitat restoration along the Intracoastal Waterway passing through St Augustine, FL.

In Florida, the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is mostly used for fun things like fishing and water sports. Originally, the ICW was made to protect commercial ships from German submarines and other threats to national security during World War II. This is no longer relevant and counters local interests.

Keeping the ICW dredged through fragile ecosystems like the Matanzas River Basin hurts today’s business interests on the waterway, which are fishing and ecotourism. Both of which are jeopardized by the ecosystem degradation caused by boat wake. The pleasure boats of the ultra-wealthy are the only traffic coming from the north during the winter months to their resort homes in South Florida. In order to stop this erosion, it is important to look at new policies that can be put in place to protect today’s commercial interests, save tax dollars, and generate income from tolls for deep-draft and other seafaring vessels wishing to pass through.

One of the most effective measures to limit erosion is living shoreline stabilization. Riprap and permeable flexible barriers are placed along the shoreline to absorb waves and slow the flow of water. This helps to prevent shorelines from eroding while also providing protection so habitat can be created for plants like cord grass and aquatic species like crabs and oysters, which further enhances coastal integrity. Hard structures like bulkheads should be avoided since it degrade habitat and cause intense erosion during flooding events.

In addition to physical barriers like riprap, it is important to limit the access of seagoing vessels to certain areas, especially those where ecotourism and aquaculture take place. This can be done through educational campaigns to inform people of ecologically sensitive areas, as well as through legislation that would restrict vessel access in certain zones or require them to travel at reduced speeds within specific areas of the Intracoastal Waterway.

It is also important to consider our tendency for dredging when trying to stop intracoastal erosion, as this activity can have significant impacts on coastal integrity by removing sediment from estuarine systems. Dredging should only happen when it’s a must, like when it’s needed for navigation or for flood control projects that are good for the environment in the long run. If dredging does take place, extra care should be taken during restoration efforts to ensure ecologically sound outcomes are achieved, such as introducing native plant species back into the area once disturbed sediment has been removed.

To sum up, there are numerous steps we can take in order to prevent erosion along the Intracoastal Waterway in Florida, including living shoreline stabilization; educating seafaring vessels about ecologically sensitive areas; limiting vessel access; and monitoring dredging activities carefully if they must occur due to navigation needs or other ecologically beneficial reasons. Following these steps will help guarantee a strong coastline for many years into the future.

Kayakers in St. Augustine, FL, are leading the ecotourism charge to protect the Intracoastal. The damage wrought by boat wake is increasingly evident, and action must be taken to stop it. This can be achieved through policy reform, such as eliminating dredging for deep-draft vessels and charging a toll to access the local river basin. These changes would not only save money but could also generate revenue for habitat restoration. Kayakers have started to push for these changes and encourage others to do the same. Their work may help restore this important ecosystem in the long run. With ecotourism initiatives like this one, we can ensure that our local environment is preserved and enjoyed by future generations. Together, we can make a difference.

January 20, 2023February 3, 2023

Help Others Appreciate Nature

Taking the next step is on you.

The previous six articles covered story ideas for new kayak guides to research further. From the diverse and unique wildlife, to the intricacy of the environment formed by the different rivers and tides, the GTM Reserve is a timeless goldmine of eco-tourism opportunities. It is extremely important that we acknowledge and appreciate this natural paradise as well as raise awareness on how to conserve it.

Studying each topic in this blog series as well as experiencing it out in nature is vital for our eco-tour guides at GeoTrippin; we must lead with knowledge, respect, and professionalism in order to be successful in preserving these precious ecosystems for generations to come. Guides-to-be should think about all of the information in this blog series and keep learning so they can give visitors to this beautiful place a great time.

If you happen to have found yourself inspired by these topics and would like more information on becoming a certified eco-tour guide, please don’t hesitate to contact GeoTrippin today!

Our team is ready to help you begin your journey.

January 20, 2023February 3, 2023

The Role of Fire

The role that prescribed burns with controlled forest fires plays in maintaining a healthy ecosystem in Florida and beyond.

Fire is an essential part of healthy ecosystems in the GTM Reserve, as it can help restore balance, clean up dead matter, reduce competition for limited resources and create space for the growth of new plants. Fire also encourages forest diversity, which helps to improve wildlife habitat quality and species abundance. By burning old plant tissue and promoting rapid regeneration of nutrient-rich soil and vegetation, fire helps create a resilient environment. Understanding the role of fire as part of larger ecological processes is necessary for any eco tour guide in the GTM Reserve to lead meaningful tours that build awareness about this incredible ecosystem.

Long ago, people didn’t realize how important fire is to healthy ecosystems. It does more than just keep things warm. When used judiciously, fire can be an incredibly beneficial tool for nature, helping reduce the competition among species, eliminating old growth, and providing essential nutrients back into the soil. Fire is especially useful in areas like the GTM Reserve in St Augustine’s 3 river inland coastal tidal basin, where it can help revive habitats that have otherwise become overrun with vegetation. Eco tour guides can help make the ecosystem in the reserve more balanced by knowing how to use this useful tool in a responsible way and understanding the benefits of adding fire to an environment.

January 20, 2023February 3, 2023

Plant Life Found in the Reserve

Plant life found on ecotours of the GTM Reserve

The different plant life that can be found in the reserve – from cypress trees to seagrasses.

One of the exciting things about kayaking through the GTM Reserve in St. Augustine is the variety of plant life that can be spotted along the way! From cypress trees to cord grass, the reserve is lush and teeming with life. Each type of vegetation adds its own beauty to this unique aquatic environment and serves an important role as well. Exploring with a guide can help you identify all these plant species and understand how they contribute to this diverse coastal landscape.

The GTM Reserve in St Augustine is a veritable paradise of biodiversity, with cord grass, mangroves, cypress trees and maritime hammock all calling it home. During a kayak eco tour, visitors can witness amazing sights such as these different plants all inhabiting their own coastal environment – helping each other to thrive in their natural habitat. They might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a majestic bald eagle or an alligator basking in the sun beside the cord grass! To truly understand this unique ecosystem and its incredible variety of plants, there’s no better way than joining one of our eco tours.

January 20, 2023February 3, 2023

Tides affect the reserve in important ways

When planning a safe and fun ecotour along the estuary and rivers around St Augustine, FL, there are at least 10 tide monitoring stations to keep in mind. It can be challenging to explore with tourists in the St. Augustine Inlet, the Matanzas Inlet, and the Intracoastal Waterway in the GTM Reserve.

The tides of these areas provide more than just a spectacular view, they are also essential to understanding what this reserve has to offer. For example, throughout the day tidal creeks feed different levels of water into the area as well as extend or shallow out mud flats which act as oyster reefs providing placental grounds for various sea life. An educated tour guide can effectively illustrate how all of these key points interact with each other in the cycle of incoming and outgoing tides. Furthermore, an experienced guide will have knowledge on how to navigate through these ever-changing waters along with insight into oyster reef safety. If you know more about how the tides work in this reserve, you’ll be better able to give tours that are both interesting and safe.

St Augustine’s Inlet is the main entry access to St. Augustine’s three-river inland coastal tidal basin, where the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve resides. It connects St. Augustine Inlet to Matanzas Inlet and links to other waterways, such as the Intracoastal Waterway, making it an important path for water exchange. The St. Augustine Inlet also allows important saltwater exchange along with tidal creeks, mud flats, oyster reefs, and other unique habitats within the reserve. As a result of this exchange and the pull of gravity from the sun and moon, the water level of St. Augustine’s three rivers and inland coastal tidal basin rises and falls each day throughout the high and low tide cycles. Why is this so important? Understanding how tides affect kayak eco tour guides, who traverse this area regularly, can mean improved safety on each tour they lead—knowing when it’s best to cross one of the mud flats or when it’s better to stay on safe paths in oyster reef areas—allowing them to provide even more insight into St Augustine’s 3 river inland coastal tidal basin.

Kayakers should hire a guide or go on an ecotour to stay safe in St Augustine.

January 20, 2023February 3, 2023

How to Help Conserve Ecosystems

Ecosystem conservation in St Augustine FL

Read about the importance of conserving our ecosystems and what everyday folk can do to help.

St. Augustine’s nearly pristine estuarine habitat is precious because this type of environment has been destroyed in so many other places. Particularly in Florida and other coastal communities near the lowlands.

We now know that wetlands help solve the climate crisis by taking carbon out of the air. They also help bring back to life degraded land that once did important things for the survival of the human species. Wetland restoration also fixes the many environmental problems that people have caused by destroying their habitats.

We can see from data that can’t be argued with and long-term forecasting models that if we don’t listen to the scientists at organizations like our own GTM Reserve and all of its local, state, federal, national, municipal, and private sector partners, humanity will face bigger problems and existential threats if we don’t listen to them.

The GTM Reserve in St Augustine is a unique coastal ecosystem with oysters, sea grasses, mangroves and other important habitats that require ongoing conservation efforts. Our eco tour guides must understand the importance of preserving these habitats if we are to avoid their destruction due to erosion and other factors. Tourists are always eager to learn about the wildlife of the area, as well as what they can do to help conserve these fragile environments.

Guests can participate in oyster bed restorations with local organizations, or spend time at our beach and park preserves cleaning up litter and safeguarding seagrass beds from destruction. We hope that by offering this educational blog series to train new kayak eco tour guides, they will be knowledgeable when leading tours and capable of providing accurate, informative messages about why it’s critical that we all band together to preserve the coastal habitats at the GTM Reserve for future generations.

Exploring the three estuarine, inland coastal, and tidal basins in the GTM Reserve is a unique way to learn about all the different animals that live in these important ecosystems. It’s important for us all to be aware of how our actions can greatly impact delicate coastal habitats like this. Without proper conservation efforts, land can erode drastically and local wildlife can be threatened.

As kayak eco tour guides, it’s essential that we make sure our guests understand not only the importance of protecting these areas but also ways they can help contribute towards sustainability by following Leave No Trace principles, such as disposing of their trash properly and taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. It’s an honor to be able to show people around this incredible ecosystem – let’s use our knowledge to help spread awareness and protection!