environment
education
economy
Welcome to this remarkable place. Here, our land is still alive and wild; our
wildlife, exotic and primal. Our urban centers are exciting cultural destinations, while our rural towns, villages and hamlets portray a rich heritage that will surprise and enchant you. As travelers, you want to go where we, the locals, go—so we’re connecting you with all of our own favorite places, characters and stories. Hundreds of local Florida’s Eden writers, artists, naturalists, musicians and business owners contributed to create this personal Guide for your enjoyment. We hope you’ll connect with many of them as you make your own journey of discovery. Please send us email with your comments and stories.
Just thinking about Florida’s Eden conjures up a perpetual garden of earthly delights! Here we have the complete recipe for rich culinary offerings: a year round harvest, two coastlines, fresh & delicious products and the combined influence of Spanish, Caribbean, Southern Cracker and African cultures. This Guide includes information on what we are all doing to preserve our unique, yet fragile, environment. We want you to have an unforgettable experience exploring our beloved springs, rivers and coastal communities. We just ask that your visit will leave them as pristine as when you found them. Please take a little time to learn about Florida’s Eden at www.FloridasEden.org. We created Florida’s Eden in 2002 as a citizen initiative, contributing solutions for our region’s environmental and growth challenges. Our innovative regional programs bring together new models for environmental conservation initiatives, education and sustainable economic development. As this region continues to be threatened by unparalleled changes, we need your support and invite you to join with us. Your Membership provides direct support for our programs and helps build the collective citizen voice for our region. Learn more about our Water Awareness and Conservation Efforts on pages 72-79, our Place Based Education Partnership on page 99, and our sustainable economic development Scenic Guides and Florida’s Eden Source on the back cover. o Professional $50 o Supporter $20 o Traveler $10 o Patron: o $100 o $250 o $500 o $1000 Send your tax-deductible contribution to: Florida’s Eden, P.O. Box 1149, Gainesville, FL 32602-1149 or join online at www.FloridasEden.org
Florida’s Eden
Non-profit 501(c)3 educational organization
www.FloridasEden.org
The Santa Fe River, photo: Dick Madden