The Best Ecosystem services in Homestead, Florida

The Florida National Parks Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and preserving the national parks in Florida. Located at 10 Parachute Key in Homestead, Florida, this institution works to educate the public about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Visitors can learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife found in Florida's national parks, as well as participate in various educational programs and events. Join the Florida National Parks Association in protecting these precious natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

The Dry Tortugas National Park Headquarters is a key administrative center for the stunning national park located in the remote Dry Tortugas Islands off the coast of Florida. Situated at 40001 State Highway 9336 in Homestead, this headquarters serves as a hub for managing and preserving the natural and historical resources of the park. Visitors can learn about the park's unique ecosystems, marine life, and historic Fort Jefferson through exhibits, ranger-led programs, and informational resources. The headquarters also provides information on recreational opportunities, permits, and safety guidelines for those exploring this beautiful and remote national park.

The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, located in Homestead, Florida, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park and tourist attraction offers a wide range of amenities to enhance your visit, including a bookstore where you can purchase books, films, postcards, and insect repellent. The bookstore is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The visitor center also serves as a gateway to a series of popular walking trails, just a short drive away. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, these trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Restrooms are conveniently located on site for your comfort and convenience.

Welcome to the Gladys Douglas Preserve, a cherished natural sanctuary located at 1900 Virginia Avenue, Dunedin, Florida. Spanning approximately 44 acres of environmentally sensitive lands, this preserve is a true treasure of Dunedin, offering an escape into nature's serene beauty. Adjacent to the preserve is the stunning 80-acre Jerry Lake and surrounding wetlands, making the entire area a remarkable 125 acres of preserved land. The Gladys Douglas Preserve is dedicated to protecting its unique ecosystem, including the last-known rosemary bald in Pinellas County and numerous endangered and threatened species. Our walking and nature trails are thoughtfully designed with educational signs that highlight the diverse plant and wildlife you may encounter during your visit. While the first phase of the preserve is now open, exciting future amenities are planned, including access to Jerry Lake, a pier, kayak launch, picnic pavilion, observation platform, and a nature museum.

The Mangrove Preserve in Homestead, Florida is a captivating park and tourist attraction that showcases the beauty and importance of mangrove forests. These watery mazes provide habitat for a variety of marine life, including tarpon and manatees. The preserve is home to one of the longest continuous stretches of mangroves on Florida's East coast. Mangroves are trees that thrive in salty environments, with some species able to block salt from their roots while others secrete excess salt through their leaves. The intricate root systems of mangroves help to keep the park's waters clean and clear by slowing water flow and allowing sediment to settle. These roots also provide shelter for marine organisms and breeding areas for birds such as brown pelicans.

The Guy Bradley Visitor Center at Flamingo is a must-visit destination located at 1 Flamingo Lodge Highway in Homestead, Florida. This park and tourist attraction offers a variety of activities and services to enhance your experience in the stunning Everglades National Park. At the Activities Booth near the Marina fuel pumps, visitors can rent bicycles, canoes, kayaks, motorboats, and even reserve houseboats for a unique stay on the water. The booth is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm, with equipment rentals available until 5 pm. Boat tours led by knowledgeable naturalists or park rangers depart from the Marina, providing a 90-minute journey through the park's diverse ecosystems.

The UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) is a renowned university institution located at 18905 Southwest 280th Street in Homestead, Florida, United States. Specializing in tropical agriculture and environmental research, TREC offers cutting-edge programs and resources for students and researchers alike. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, TREC is dedicated to advancing knowledge in tropical sciences and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental conservation. Come and explore the diverse opportunities for learning and research at UF/IFAS TREC.

SCCF Native Landscapes & Garden Center is a unique institution located in Sanibel, Florida, dedicated to protecting and caring for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems. As the only retail garden center in the area that carries 100% native plants, it serves as a valuable resource for sustainable landscape design. Visitors can explore the demonstration gardens for inspiration or seek advice from the knowledgeable staff. The center is situated on SCCF's Bailey Homestead Preserve and appointments can be made on Saturdays by calling 239-472-2329.

Foliage Forest Inc is a charming store nestled in the heart of Homestead, Florida. Located at 17350 Southwest 248th Street, this institution is a haven for plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts. With a wide variety of lush greenery, colorful flowers, and unique plant accessories, Foliage Forest Inc offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for all customers. Whether you are looking to spruce up your home with some indoor plants or enhance your garden with beautiful outdoor foliage, this store has everything you need to create a serene and inviting space. Visit Foliage Forest Inc today and let your love for plants bloom!

Welcome to the Lee County Hyacinth Control District (LCHCD), your dedicated local government office located in the heart of Lehigh Acres, Florida. Situated at 15191 Homestead Road, our office is committed to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for residents by managing and controlling aquatic vegetation, particularly water hyacinths, in the region's waterways. Our team of experienced professionals utilizes environmentally responsible methods and innovative techniques to ensure the health and safety of our local ecosystems. We work diligently to support recreational activities, protect native plant and animal life, and prevent flooding. At LCHCD, we are proud to serve the community with transparency, efficiency, and a deep commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Lee County. For more information about our services or to get involved, please contact us or visit our office during business hours. Together, let's keep our waterways healthy and thriving for generations to come.