Draining and development of the Everglades

USGS Northern Everglades image 2001

The draining and development of the Everglades refers to the extensive efforts to drain and reclaim land in the Everglades region of Florida for agricultural and urban development. These efforts began in the late 19th century and have had significant environmental, social, and economic impacts.

History[edit | edit source]

Early Efforts[edit | edit source]

The first attempts to drain the Everglades were initiated in the 1880s by Hamilton Disston, a wealthy industrialist who purchased four million acres of land from the state of Florida. Disston's efforts included the construction of canals to divert water from the Everglades to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Despite some initial success, these early projects were largely ineffective due to the vastness and complexity of the Everglades ecosystem.

20th Century Development[edit | edit source]

In the early 20th century, the state of Florida and the federal government undertook more extensive drainage projects. The creation of the Everglades Drainage District in 1913 marked a significant step in these efforts. The district was responsible for constructing a network of canals, levees, and pumping stations designed to control water levels and convert wetlands into arable land.

The construction of the Tamiami Trail in the 1920s further facilitated development by providing a roadway across the Everglades, connecting Tampa and Miami. This roadway acted as a dam, disrupting the natural flow of water and contributing to the degradation of the ecosystem.

Post-World War II Expansion[edit | edit source]

After World War II, the pace of development accelerated. The establishment of the Central and Southern Florida Flood Control Project in 1948 aimed to provide flood protection, water supply, and land reclamation. This project involved the construction of additional canals, levees, and water control structures, significantly altering the hydrology of the Everglades.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

The draining and development of the Everglades have had profound environmental consequences. The reduction of water flow has led to the loss of habitat for many species, including the American alligator, the Florida panther, and numerous bird species. The disruption of natural water cycles has also contributed to the decline of the Everglades National Park and the Big Cypress National Preserve.

Efforts to restore the Everglades began in the late 20th century, with initiatives such as the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) aiming to restore natural water flow and improve the health of the ecosystem.

Economic and Social Impact[edit | edit source]

The development of the Everglades has had significant economic benefits, particularly for agriculture and urban development. The region has become a major producer of sugarcane, citrus, and other crops. Urban areas such as Miami and Fort Lauderdale have experienced substantial growth, driven in part by the availability of reclaimed land.

However, these benefits have come at a cost. The alteration of the Everglades has led to conflicts over water rights, environmental degradation, and the displacement of indigenous communities, including the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes.