Directions

Question

Read the instructions for this self-checked activity. Type in your response to each question, and check your answers. At the end of the activity, write a brief evaluation of your work.
Activity
In this activity, you will learn about the Everglades, an important and rare ecosystem in Florida. Read about the Everglades, and look at the map for its approximate location. Then answer the questions that follow.

a map showing the location of the Everglades

Part A
Based on what you have read about the Everglades, why have humans modified the Everglades ecosystem? How has the Everglades been affected by human modifications to the environment of South Florida?

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Part B
Look at the map. It shows the amount of freshwater used by different counties in Florida. Based on the map, what is one reason that saving the Everglades is important to the people of Florida?

map showing how much freshwater different regions of Florida produce

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It is important to save the Everglades because the area is a source of water for many people across the state.
Part C
Read President Barack Obama’s 2015 budget proposal to restore the Everglades. Then write a short letter to Congress telling them why they should support the president’s budget request.

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Dear Congress:

I think you should support restoring the Everglades. We can’t lose more animal and plant species than we already have. And South Florida needs the freshwater from the Everglades.

This project also will be important for the economy. It will create hundreds of jobs.

Please support the budget request so that the Everglades can be restored.

Self-Evaluation
How did you do? Rate your work on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 as the highest score. Then write a brief evaluation of your work below. Note what you learned and what challenged you.

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Answer 1

Part A: Humans have modified the Everglades ecosystem primarily for agriculture, urban development, and flood control. These modifications have led to habitat loss, altered water flows, and changes in water quality, which have negatively impacted the native flora and fauna. Additionally, the construction of canals and levees has disrupted the natural water cycle, making it difficult for the ecosystem to sustain itself. As a result, many species are at risk of extinction, and the overall health of the Everglades has significantly deteriorated.

Part B: One reason that saving the Everglades is important to the people of Florida is that it serves as a critical source of freshwater for many communities and industries. Protecting the Everglades ensures the availability of clean water for drinking, agriculture, and recreation, supporting both the environment and the economy.

Part C: Dear Congress,

I urge you to support President Obama’s budget proposal for the restoration of the Everglades. The Everglades is not only a unique and vital ecosystem but also a crucial resource for millions of Floridians. With the ongoing threat of climate change and habitat destruction, it is imperative that we take immediate action to restore and protect this biodiversity hotspot.

By investing in the Everglades, we will help safeguard the homes of numerous endangered species while also securing freshwater resources essential for agricultural and urban communities in South Florida. Furthermore, this restoration effort would create hundreds of jobs, boosting our local economy and promoting sustainable practices.

Please prioritize the preservation of the Everglades in your funding decisions. Our environment, economy, and future generations depend on it.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Self-Evaluation: I would rate my work a 4 out of 5. I believe I addressed the questions thoughtfully and provided solid reasoning for the importance of the Everglades restoration. I learned about the intricate relationship between human activities and environmental health, and I found it challenging to succinctly express my thoughts in the letter while maintaining a persuasive tone. Overall, this activity has increased my awareness of environmental issues and the need for conservation efforts.