Exploring Biodiversity Inside Florida’s Wekiva River Basin

Florida is more than sandy beaches and sunshine—it’s one of the most biologically rich places in the world. With over 80 distinct ecosystems packed into a single state, Florida’s landscapes support an incredible web of life. At the heart of it all is the Wekiva River Basin, a near-pristine watershed where crystal-clear springs meet subtropical forests and species from temperate and tropical climates overlap. Join an engaging in-store presentation that dives into the Wekiva River Basin and the vital role biodiversity plays in supporting everything from clean water to resilient ecosystems. Learn how interconnected habitats work together, why Florida’s springs and rivers are so ecologically unique, and what it takes to protect these natural systems in a rapidly growing state. This session will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the unseen connections that keep wild places—and our everyday lives—thriving. About our speaker: This presentation is led by a ranger from Wekiwa Springs State Park, who brings on-the-ground experience managing and protecting one of Central Florida’s most important natural landscapes. Drawing from daily work in the park, they’ll share insights into the Basin’s ecology, conservation challenges, and why protecting biodiversity matters now more than ever.