Environment

Allyson Gantt: Steward of the Keys’ National Parks

Allyson Gantt inspires others to care for the Florida Keys’ two national parks and their unique environments. A National Park Service ranger for over 25 years, she directs communications and public affairs for Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks — and is overseeing a year of activities for Everglades National Park’s upcoming 75th anniversary.

By |2021-12-01T14:33:26-05:00December 1, 2021|

10 Experiences to Savor ‘Only in the Keys’

The Florida Keys & Key West are known around the globe for their unmatched natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere and year-round warmth. But they also offer environmental, cultural and adventure activities that can’t be enjoyed anywhere EXCEPT in the island chain. Make lasting vacation memories by undertaking 10 extraordinary “only in the Keys” experiences.

By |2021-11-24T15:46:53-05:00November 24, 2021|

Dive a ‘Movie-Star’ Shipwreck and a World-Class Reef

The largest shipwreck available for sport diving in the Lower Keys remains a popular stop on the Florida Keys Wreck Trek for divers, and a relatively easy introduction to wreck diving for novices. The 210-foot-long Adolphus Busch, sunk intentionally in 1998, lies between Looe Key and American Shoal, southwest of Big Pine Key.

By |2021-11-17T15:18:54-05:00November 17, 2021|

Jordan Budnik: Steward of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

Jordan Budnik is the executive director of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center in Tavernier, a nonprofit facility that takes in over 900 native birds in need of rehabilitation every year. Driven by a lifelong fascination with avian species, she’s passionate about advocating for wildlife and encouraging people to protect the environment.

By |2021-10-27T17:54:48-04:00October 27, 2021|

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden Presents … Scarecrows!

Visitors to the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden might spot scarecrows peering out from among the 15-acre habitat’s plants and trees during a lighthearted exhibit of recycled art creations. The “Scarecrows in the Forest” exhibition features figures crafted from natural and recycled materials by local artists, students and other community members.

By |2021-10-13T18:31:02-04:00October 13, 2021|

Harry Appel: Steward of the Keys’ Endangered Wildlife

Harry Appel co-owns Big Pine Key’s eco-friendly, boutique Deer Run on the Atlantic, the Florida Keys’ only “Four-Palm” Green Lodging Property — a designation earned for a steadfast commitment to protecting natural resources. An avid animal activist, he’s president of the nonprofit Save-A-Turtle of the Florida Keys and is a Key Deer Protection Alliance advisor.

By |2021-09-29T16:55:01-04:00September 29, 2021|

Shipwrecks to Reefs: Dive an Awesome Threesome

Vessels intentionally sunk to create artificial reefs serve as refuges for fish, delicate corals and invertebrates — and provide fascinating sites for divers to explore. Within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which protects the waters surrounding the entire Keys, lie nine notable wrecksites that are part of the popular Florida Keys Wreck Trek.

By |2021-08-25T17:55:51-04:00August 25, 2021|

Sarah Fangman: Steward of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Sarah Fangman, superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, is a Minnesota native whose impressive career as a marine scientist has spanned the country. Not only has she conducted more than 600 dives in sanctuary waters, she also holds a Coast Guard 100-ton master captain’s license and is a certified submersible pilot.

By |2021-09-07T11:55:04-04:00August 4, 2021|

Samantha Zeher: Steward of Islamorada’s Wildlife

Captain Samantha “Sam” Zeher operates KeyZ Charters, an eco-tour operation specializing in wildlife tours out of Islamorada’s popular Robbie’s Marina. Offerings include sightseeing excursions with birdwatching and sunset viewing and Islamorada–area island trips that explore Indian Key, Lignumvitae Key and Alligator Lighthouse — each with a history dating back to the 1800s.

By |2021-09-07T11:55:51-04:00July 7, 2021|

Experience Key West

Key West, at the tip of the Florida Keys, blends 19th-century charm with a laid-back contemporary atmosphere. Visitors to the continental United States’ southernmost city will find palm-shaded streets, picturesque Victorian architecture, environmental attractions and eco-experiences, a lively multicultural culinary scene, unique museums, a nightly waterfront sunset celebration and a flourishing arts community.

By |2021-06-30T13:55:45-04:00June 30, 2021|
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