Why do we need environmental monitoring for Everglades restoration?

Frank Mazzotti andRebecca Harvey
Other Contacts: Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez , Eric Suarez , andAaron Chimelis

Release Date: 11/25/2019

Reviewed At: 3/23/2026

DOI: 10.32473/EDIS-uw283-2007

Natural Resources

Abstract

Monitoring ecosystems is similar to monitoring human health. There are both short-term and long-term indicators of ecosystem health. In general, however, ecosystems require long-term monitoring because they are complex and sensitive, and because they change slowly. Ecosystem monitoring means measuring physical, chemical, and/or biological variables over time to provide information on ecosystem change. It is only through such careful observation that we can evaluate the health of our natural resources and make science-based management decisions.

About this Publication

This document is WEC241, one of a series of the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date November 2007. Visit the Ask IFAS website at https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/ for the currently supported version of this publication.

How to Cite

Mazzotti, F. J., Hughes, N., & Harvey, R. G. (2008). Why Do We Need Environmental Monitoring for Everglades Restoration? EDIS, 2008(2). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-uw283-2007

Authors

Frank Mazzotti

Contact

Specialist

University of Florida

professor, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Rebecca Harvey

external

University of Florida

former environmental education coordinator; Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center

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Contacts

Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez

Contact

staff

University of Florida

senior research wildlife ecologist, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, and director Lamanai Field Research Center, UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

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Eric Suarez

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staff

University of Florida

biological scientist III, UF/IFAS Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie, FL

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Aaron Chimelis

Contact

student

University of Florida

wildlife intern, UF/IFAS Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie FL