Places of Environmental Interest

In 1980, President Jimmy Carter signed the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) doubling the holdings of the NPS. Interviews with Carter as well as proponents and opponents of the legislation are interspersed with dramatic footage from the parks created by this act.

Ranger Jenny describes the properties of the Hardwood Hammock. She explains how the hammock is a raised area, naturally protected by a thick canopy and walls of native vegetation. They encounter a great deal of unique flora and fauna.

Ranger Nic talks about the Pine Rocklands. He describes its status as an endangered habitat, and details many of its interesting features. They come across the nests of several species of birds, and discuss the benefits of fire to the rocklands.

Ranger Christeal discusses the properties of the Sawgrass Prairie. She describes the ebb and flow of the river of grass, and describes much of the native flora and fauna. She also talks about the properties of Periphyton and the local food chain.

Ranger Yvette introduces the everglades visitor to the Cypress Dome habitat. She explains why the habitat is called a "dome", speaks about the nature of cypress trees, and identifies several types of fauna and flora. She also talks about watermarks and levels

Ranger Greg gives our everglades visitor a tour of the Slough habitat. He begins by describing it as the "beating heart" of the Everglades, then goes on to list the abundant fauna of the habitat after discussing the water cycle.

Ranger Ally gives our Everglades visitor a tour of the Mangrove habitat. She describes how the mangrove habitat is intertidal, and talks about the beneficial effects of tides on the mangroves. They discuss the mangrove life cycle, and local flora/fauna.

Ranger Daniel teaches our Everglades visitor about the Florida Bay. They hop on a boat together to explore the muddy bay, and discuss various flora and fauna, as well as tidal and salinity cycles.

Our everglades visitor moves through the park on her own and considers some of the unifying themes of The Everglades National Park. She is eventually revealed to be the newest park ranger, Ranger Laura.

Timucuan Preserve: The rich history of the Timucuan Preserve is discussed. Native Americans, Spanish, French, and African Americans all have contributed to the region’s cultural heritage. Wildlife present and types of activities available at the park are also mentioned.