The Sunshine State has miles and miles of beautiful beaches to enjoy this Summer. After seeing the devastation of back-to-back hurricanes (Matthew, Irma, and Michael) and witnessing the flocks of visitors that enjoy Florida beaches each year, we all need to remember to do our part when visiting the pristine coastlines and virginal nature reserves throughout the state.
Natural resources are limited and as planned urban communities continue to grow, the animal populations face intense pressure. Everyday people in Florida encounter wildlife both on land and sea. In fact, that is one of the many reasons visitors come to florida. Florida is the 3rd most populous, the 22nd most extensive, and the 8th most densely populated of the 50 states of the United States. It is the southernmost contiguous state in the United States. Florida is a peninsula, meaning it is almost completely surrounded by water. Just two states border Florida, they are Georgia and Alabama. One of Florida's most visited tourist locations are the Florida Keys, a group of about 1,700 tiny islands and habitats to many endangered wildlife species. Another top pick of Florida is The Walt Disney World Resort. It is the planet’s most visited and biggest recreational resort. It was established in 1971 and is about the same size as San Francisco, California. It has the second longest coastline of all the contiguous states and it is also the only state that borders both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Only Alaska has a longer coastline.
Let's all remember to do the right thing. Walking along my local beaches near Saint Augustine, Florida, I took a few pictures to help us remember and to pass the word to those visiting our State that nature should be honored and revered so that future generations can continue to enjoy this precious resource and the place so many call home. The following four rules can help us all enjoy a safe and action packed vacation:
Rule One.
Rule Two.
Rule Three.
Rule Four.
When everyone obeys posted habitat signs, people and animals are usually safer. Even when a sign is not present, we must be careful to not disturb wildlife. Even brief encounters can be dangerous and deadly. The U.S. state of Florida is also home to the world’s most dangerous tree – the Manchineel tree. All parts of the tree contain strong toxins. Mere contact with the sap from this tree can cause blisters on the skin. So be safe and don't touch!
The more we know the more we can do. In signing off of this post, I'll leave you with these final words of wisdom, "Love the world as your own self; then you can truly care for all things." Lao Tzu