Everglades City
by Denise Wauters
Capt. Franklin Adams, a renowned conservationist, historian, and Gladesman, has received a prestigious award from the Friends of Fakahatchee for his outstanding service in preserving the natural beauty of South Florida. His lifetime of dedication to the Everglades and surrounding lands is a testament to his unwavering commitment to conservation and his instrumental role in establishing the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park—the largest state park in Florida.
Born in Miami, Franklin’s passion for the outdoors was ignited early in life by his father, G.B. Adams. Together, they hunted and fished throughout the Everglades, a land Franklin remembers as unspoiled and abundant with wildlife. His deep connection to these wild spaces laid the foundation for his conservation efforts.
Throughout his career, Franklin wore many hats—warden-naturalist for the National Audubon Society, Florida Master Naturalist, land surveyor, and eco-tour operator, to name a few. His extensive knowledge of the land was honed through years of surveying projects in Big Cypress National Preserve, Everglades National Park, and the Florida Keys. But it was his work in conservation that left an indelible mark. As former chair of the Florida Wildlife Federation and past president of the Florida Division of the Izaak Walton League of America, Franklin worked tirelessly to protect the Everglades. He was also a 31-year board member of the Florida Wildlife Federation and served as Collier County chair of the Friends of the Everglades.
Franklin’s leadership extended to his work with the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. Recognized as a Guardian of the Everglades, he played a crucial role in advocating for the park’s protection. His efforts helped preserve this unique ecosystem, which is home to the Florida panther, the rare Everglades mink, and the largest collection of native orchids and bromeliads in North America.
Franklin’s lifelong conservation efforts were shaped by early encounters with Marjory Stoneman Douglas, who became a mentor and family friend, teaching him the importance of defending nature.
Franklin’s book, Enjoyment of the Same, offers a captivating history of South Florida’s public lands, reflecting his deep knowledge and passion for the region’s natural heritage. Through its pages, readers gain insight into the rich history of the area and the importance of preserving these lands for future generations.
The Friends of Fakahatchee award honors Franklin Adams for his lasting contributions to conservation.
