Audubon Florida A Century of Conservation & Community
By Laura Riggs
Audubon Florida, celebrating its 125th anniversary, is a cornerstone of the state’s conservation movement.
From its roots in combating the plume trade at the turn of the 20th century to its current advocacy for imperiled species and habitats, the organization has consistently championed science-based solutions to Florida’s environmental challenges. This commitment to scientific rigor and grassroots engagement defines Audubon’s approach, making it a powerful force for conservation across the diverse landscapes of the Sunshine State.
Executive Director Julie Wraithmell emphasizes the organization’s statewide reach and local impact. With approximately one hundred staff members specializing in research, resource management, education, and policy, coupled with 44 grassroots chapters, Audubon boasts a presence in diverse communities across the state. This local connection is crucial because it allows Audubon to understand and address the specific conservation needs of places as distinct as Jacksonville, Naples, Tallahassee, and Miami.
“We are the wonky science nerds of the world,” Wraithmell quips, highlighting the organization’s dedication to data-driven decision-making. This scientific foundation allows Audubon to navigate the complex political landscape, advocating for policies that protect Florida’s natural resources without resorting to partisan tactics. This approach sometimes gives the impression of “weaving back and forth across the political aisle,” but Wraithmell emphasizes that Audubon’s loyalty lies with science, not ideology.
This commitment to nonpartisan conservation was evident in the recent public outcry over proposed changes to Florida’s state parks. Audubon Florida played a crucial role in mobilizing public opposition to these “off-cycle” proposals, which sought to introduce new recreational uses without adequate consideration for the delicate ecosystems they could impact. With only a week’s notice, Audubon’s grassroots members attended public meetings across the state, providing informed and passionate advocacy for the natural resources at stake. Wraithmell points out the inherent challenge in such debates: while recreational users can readily express their desires, “the natural resources don’t have a voice. We pride ourselves in being that proxy.”
