THE EVERGLADES

LIGHTHAWK’s ROLE IN EVERGLADES CONSERVATION

LightHawk plays an essential role in supporting conservation efforts in the nation’s largest wetland, the Everglades. Our aerial viewpoint provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of rapid development, expanding agriculture, climate alterations, unsustainable water management practices and runoff, offering crucial visual data to assess the changing landscape. 

THE EVERGLADES: A UNIQUE ECOSYSTEM

Often referred to as the “River of Grass,” the Everglades is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species, like the Florida panther and manatee. It serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds and provides important ecosystem services such as water filtration and flood control. However, the Everglades faces numerous threats, making conservation efforts vital.

LightHawk collaborates with strategic partners across the region, providing aerial resources for its preservation to include:

 Aerial Imagery for Impactful Communications

• LightHawk flights capture aerial photos and videos to showcase the impact of nutrients and effluent on water quality and provide valuable imagery for ongoing monitoring efforts, aiding in understanding environmental dynamics.

Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement

• LightHawk utilizes an aerial perspective to educate stakeholders on issues like hydrology and habitat loss and facilitates informed decision-making on policies for the well-being of both human and ecological communities within the Everglades region.

Proactive Planning for Climate Resilience

• LightHawk supports proactive planning for sea-level rise in South Florida by providing aerial insights, imagery, and data collection over coastal regions and wetlands to assess saltwater intrusion, identify vulnerable areas, and monitor changes over time.

Wildlife Conservation 

• LightHawk supports efforts to restore and conserve marine ecosystems, fostering a healthier environment for diverse wildlife populations.