It is easy to experience the Florida Everglades just west of Boynton Beach. Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge is located just west of Boynton Beach, and a short drive from West Palm Beach.
Water in south Florida once flowed freely from the Kissimmee River to Lake Okeechobee and southward over low-lying lands to the estuaries of Biscayne Bay, the Ten Thousand Islands, and Florida Bay. For thousands of years this intricate system evolved into a finely balanced ecosystem that formed the biological infrastructure for the southern half of the state. early colonial settlers and developers the Everglades were potential farmland and communities. By the early 1900s', the drainage process to transform wetland to land ready to be developed was underway. The results would be severely damaging to the ecosystem and the species it supported. With the support of many early conservationists, scientists, and other advocates, Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to conserve the natural landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and animals.
The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, is 145,188 acres of protected habitats for more than 250 species of birds, 60 species of reptiles and amphibians, 40 species of butterflies and 20 types of mammals. This legendary environment lures everyone from Indiana Jones-like adventure seekers to people just looking to kick back and relax within one of earth's natural treasures.
Regrettably, the Everglades Day 2021, scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2021, has been cancelled. The health and safety of Festival visitors, exhibitors, presenters, volunteers, and staff is their top priority. Given the nature of Everglades Day, administration did not feel they could not offer an event that meets the standards they expect while maintaining public safety. Mark Saturday, February 12, 2022 on your calendar for the next Everglades Day Festival which is being redesigned with exciting new offerings and surprises.
In the interim keep your eyes peeled for alligators, bobcats, pileated woodpeckers, wood storks, snail kites and more!
