EVERGLADES SCHOOL TRIP

The Everglades, which cover an expanse of approximately 1.5 million acres, are the largest wilderness area in the Southeast United States. The area was declared a World Heritage site by the United Nations, reflecting the rich diversity of its wildlife, including 15 federally threatened and endangered species. Appleseed Expeditions Everglades school trips are meant to highlight endemic species that are threatened and endangered and provide opportunities for blossoming scientists to get involved in preserving these ecosystems. Naturalists, biologist, and park rangers will lead your school group on a kayaking adventure through this sea of grass. Our guides will identify and teach about unique species that call this one of a kind ecological habitat home.

Core Curriculum:

Our core curriculum consists of estuary studies, everglades habitats, endemic species identification, and service learning.

Estuary Studies

Although sawgrass and sloughs are the enduring geographical icons of the Everglades, estuary systems are the vital heart beat of this sea of grass. School trips to the Everglades will study how this estuary habitat impacts a variety of ecosystems from the hammock habitats to the coral reef.

Species Identification

The Everglades is home to a vast array of plants and animals that have adapted to a wet, subtropical environment. Some creatures such as the Florida panther, Wood Stork, and West Indian manatee have become symbols of a struggling ecosystem. While some of its flora and fauna are widely recognized, the Everglades also is comprised of many hundreds, if not thousands, of lesser-known plants, animals, and fish that are part of a living, dynamic ecosystem. Students on a school trip to the Everglades will learn about and identify many species that are threatened or endangered.

Everglades Habitats

The mosaic of habitats found within the Greater Everglades Ecosystem supports an assemblage of plant and animal species not found elsewhere on the planet. While nine distinct habitats have been identified, the landscape remains dynamic. On a school field trip in the Everglades students will learn about each of these habitats and how they must be preserved to maintain a healthy balance in this ecosystem.

Science and Service-Learning

Participants will be able to volunteer in a variety of service-based programs. The emphasis of the service opportunity is to show students how an affinity for science can be used to positively impact communities. Opportunities include volunteering at a wild bird sanctuary, helping with habitat restoration projects, mentoring migrant children, as well as a variety of other service opportunities.

Trip Highlights Include:

•  • Mentoring/Serving the "Ghost Children" of Florida
  

   

 • Airboat ride through the Everglades

 • Exploring hardwood hammock habitats
 
 and more...