Ecosystem Restoration

Nesting Island Creation for Wading Birds

C. Leann White, Peter C. Frederick, Martin B. Main, and James A. Rodgers, Jr.

This document is CIR1473, one of a series of the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date May 2005. Revised September 2008.

Validation, Verification, and Calibration: Using Standardized Terminology When Describing Ecological Models

Frank J. Mazzotti and Joy J. Vinci

The American Crocodile: An Indicator Species for Everglades Restoration

Rebecca G. Harvey, Michiko Squires, Jeff Beauchamp, Frank J. Mazzotti, and Laura A. Brandt

Use of Amphibians as Indicators of Ecosystem Restoration Success

Ken G. Rice, Frank J. Mazzotti, and J. Hardin Waddle

This document is CIR 1484, one of a series of the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date February 2007.

Pondweeds of Florida

Christine Rohal, Laura Reynolds, Carrie Reinhardt Adams, and Charles Martin

This factsheet describes the defining characteristics of the eleven pondweed species that are present in Florida. It serves as a pondweed identification guide for aquatic habitat managers, lake monitors, conservationists, and plant enthusiasts, and it gives some context on each species' life history and ecological role.

Biodiversity as a Tool to Boost Seagrass Restoration Success

C. Spengler, Jamila Roth, and Laura K. Reynolds

This publication reviews the importance of seagrass, major threats to seagrass, and ways in which seagrass species diversity and genetic diversity can positively impact seagrass management and restoration. Written by C. Spengler, Jamila Roth, and Laura K. Reynolds, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences, March 2024.

Native Habitats for Monarch Butterflies in South Florida

Rebecca G. Harvey, Patricia L. Howell, Carol Morgenstern, and Frank J. Mazzotti

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Measuring the Short-Term Economic Impacts of Ecological Restoration

Robert Botta, Christa D. Court, and Edward V. Camp

Increasing demand for ecological restoration has resulted in the development of a “restoration economy” in the United States. Often, the implementation phase of restoration efforts involves substantial capital and labor investments, the short-term economic impacts of which should not be ignored when evaluating the outcomes of restoration efforts. This publication describes the relevant economic impact analysis methods and summarizes a case study application of these methods for the restoration of the Lone Cabbage Reef (LCR) Complex, a recently restored oyster reef in Florida. It should be useful to local governments, outreach and Extension agents, and management agency personnel who want to better understand the economic impacts of restoration actions.

Salt Marsh Restoration: A Summary of Approaches

Emory H. Wellman, Bethany J. Lee, and Anna E. Braswell

In this publication, we describe methods commonly used to restore salt marshes, particularly those dominated by smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and commonly found along the Gulf and East Coasts of the United States. This publication will be of particular use to land managers and property owners whose land includes salt marsh habitat. Restoration methods described here are discussed in an order reflecting increasing costs, effort, and spatial scale, meaning that methods most applicable to owners of small coastal properties will be listed first. We also provide a table summarizing the goal, advantages, and disadvantages of each method for quick reference.

Pinus serotina Michx., Pond Pine

Audrey C. Plauche, Gage D. LaPierre, and Michael G. Andreu

This publication provides an in-depth profile of Pinus serotina for academic audiences and interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology.

Oyster Habitat Restoration and Shoreline Protection

Charles Wallace, Edward Camp, and Ashley Smyth

As the climate continues to change, coastal areas and the people that live there face increasing risks from erosion and wave damage. This is made worse by declines in natural oyster reefs, which would provide some natural protection. However, oysters can be restored for the specific purposes of protecting shorelines. The practicality and cost effectiveness of using oysters in this way is described in this publication, which is intended to be used by coastal property owners, as well as local governments that must make decisions about protecting shorelines in the face of a changing climate.

A Comparison of Planting Techniques for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation

Laura Reynolds, Carrie Reinhardt Adams, Enrique Latimer, Charles W. Martin, Christine Rohal, and Jodi Slater

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. Published by Natural resources operations and Invasive Species

Keeping the Ghost Orchid Part of Florida’s Heritage: Challenges to Survival and Promises of Restoration

Adam R. Herdman, Raelene M. Crandall, Kelsey Sonnen, Lawrence W. Zettler, Michael E. Kane, Héctor E. Pérez, and Carrie H. Reinhardt Adams

The ghost orchid (Dendrophylax lindenii, Bentham ex Rolfe, Orchidaceae) is a rare, leafless epiphytic orchid native to southwestern Florida and Cuba. In Florida, populations have declined significantly due to the compounding effects of habitat fragmentation, poaching, and shifting climate. These threats have altered the hydrology and ecological integrity of critical swamp habitats, further limiting the already restricted range of the species. In response, scientists and land managers have intensified efforts to study and conserve the remaining wild populations, while also developing propagation and reintroduction strategies. A more inclusive and comprehensive approach is needed—one that integrates in situ and ex situ conservation, improves habitat resilience, and ensures that less charismatic native orchids are not overlooked in ongoing conservation efforts. 

The American Alligator: An Indicator Species for Everglades Restoration

Rebecca G. Harvey, Frank J. Mazzotti, and Laura A. Brandt

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.