Everglades National Park has released an update on its Wilderness Stewardship Plan, which aims to guide the preservation, management, and use of the park’s wilderness lands, including the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness. The plan focuses on balancing the protection of resources with opportunities for public enjoyment, in compliance with the Wilderness Act and other laws.
Superintendent Pedro Ramos emphasized the importance of having a plan that ensures preservation of wilderness while allowing visitors to enjoy it. The park appreciates the input received so far, including feedback from the public and Tribes in spring 2024, which helped refine strategies and desired conditions.
Paddle through the Everglades Photo Courtesy NPS photo by Daniel Blankenship
Next steps include developing alternatives and engaging the public further. The National Park Service (NPS) will prepare an environmental compliance document to analyze proposed actions, with finalized alternatives shared for public review by late 2025.
The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness, covering 97% of Everglades National Park, is the largest designated wilderness area east of the Rocky Mountains. This wilderness includes submerged marine lands and has been a cornerstone of Everglades conservation since the park’s establishment in 1934—30 years before the Wilderness Act and 44 years before its wilderness designation in 1978.
The NPS highlights its commitment to shared stewardship of wilderness, welcoming collaboration and transparency in this process. Updates, including a StoryMap and public comment summaries, are available on the project website at parkplanning.nps.gov/ever-wsp.
For more information, visit the Everglades National Park website or follow their social media channels. This plan is a crucial step in protecting the Everglades’ ecosystem while ensuring future generations can enjoy its natural beauty.
