Why Conservation is Important in Florida and How to Have a Sustainable Vacation

Present-Day Conservation for the Future

In Florida, water is our greatest and most valuable resource. Not only does it support our biodiverse lands and wildlife, it gives us a place to explore, to learn, to relax, and to refresh. Visitors from around the world are drawn to our beaches and our boating, and fishing opportunities, which factors into a healthy economy for local businesses. 

When something is this important, it’s imperative that we appreciate and take care of it.

Respecting the natural resources we enjoy and leaving them better than we found them is the key to sustainability, which in turn will allow future generations to experience the same sense of wonder when exploring Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. Step off on the right foot by learning more about the area, here.

Easy Ways to Make Your Vacation More Sustainable

Here are some easy ways to have a sustainable Florida vacation, which not only feels great but helps preserve the beauty of this place for all, including future generations:

• Bring a reusable water bottle or tumbler.

Many restaurants, bars, and coffee shops are happy to fill your reusable beverage container. With brands like Stanley, YETI, and Tervis, there are many styles and colors to choose from.

• Go straw-less.

Single-use plastics such as straws, cups, and plastic utensils often end up in the oceans where they negatively impact the sea life and ecosystem. Many waterfront establishments won’t provide a straw unless requested. If you must use a straw, try bringing one of the reusable kind. 

• Pack in, pack out.

Whether beaching, boating, hiking, biking, or camping, be sure to clean up your trash when you leave and dispose of it properly. As they say: take nothing but photos and leave nothing but foot prints. Litter is not only a detriment to the environment and the wildlife, it ruins beautiful views. No one wants to visit a natural area and see trash.

• Fish responsibly.

As any angler knows, line-breaks and re-rigging are inevitable. Stash fishing line scraps and worn-out soft baits in a safe place until you can recycle them. Don’t toss them overboard where they can harm marine life and birds. Many boat ramps offer fishing line disposal receptacles.

• Opt for reusable shopping bags.

Bring your bags when shopping or, if you forget (as I often do), most grocery stores offer reusable bags with fun designs for sale at the checkout. If you don't want to purchase a bag, opt for paper bags instead of plastic.

You can also find reusable mesh produce nets online. It's also very satisfying to knit, crochet, or sew your own bags or nets. Make up your own design or follow an online tutorial.

• Avoid feeding or touching wildlife.

All too often, humans can't resist touching friendly manatees or feel they're being kind by throwing food to an alligator, or think it's not a big deal when a dolphin eats a freshly released fish, but these actions can be dangeous for them and for us.

Wild animals that habituate to humans lose the wariness that keeps them safe. And, if they grow dependent on food from humans, their hunting instincts can be impacted. A dolphin that gets used to snapping up fish that anglers release will soon gravitate to anyone fishing. Before long, no released fish will stand a chance.

When it comes to wildlife, observe from a distance and take photographs, but never feed or touch.
 

When you’re ready for a nature-friendly vacation, come on down to Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach!