South Florida National Parks Coordinated Management Framework Draft: Big CypressNational Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, Everglades National Park

摘要

The national park units of South Florida contain the remaining elements of avast, interrelated ecosystem and linkages to the cultural heritage of this country. Collectively, these units of the national park system protect hundreds of thousands of acres that embody some of the best and most complete examples of the natural and cultural history of South Florida. Each was set aside by Congress for distinct purposes based on the special and individual significance of each site. The parks have long understood that they cannot effectively manage their resources without including their users, supporters, and neighbors in their decision-making process. And now, in the context of ecosystem management, they must look to one another to ensure that management and operational efficiencies are maximized, policies (where appropriate) are consistent, and missions and goals are coordinated. In that context, the four units of the national park system in South Florida have initiated a planning process that describes their future. This framework document sets forth the purpose and significance of each park and presents individual and collective goals that reflect conditions the park managers envision for the future. These collective goals are intended to help shape, and where possible, unify future management decisions.