Environmental Stewardship in Jacksonville Beach, FL

Florida is home to some of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in the United States, which include some of the rarest plants and animals in the world. Unfortunately, Florida’s natural wonders face numerous environmental threats, ranging from habitat loss and fragmentation to pollution to rising sea levels in the wake of climate change. Therefore, conservation is essential both on a large scale and through the environmental stewardship of every resident and visitor who enjoys outdoor exploration in Northeast Florida.

Featured Initiatives for Sustainable Recreation in Florida

Public Trust for Conservation takes an active role in local conservation efforts by researching and implementing initiatives to restore and preserve local waterways and wetlands, revolutionize urban forestry practices, and acquire conservation properties for effective wildlife conservation throughout Northeast Florida. From Clean Water Enforcement to Tree Planting to Land Acquisition, you can learn more about our featured initiatives here. 

Top Places to Explore: Outdoor Exploration Guide

Northeast Florida has an abundance of beautiful outdoor areas to explore. Duval County has the largest park system in the country, and there are many state forests and parks throughout the region for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top destinations in the area include:

  • Talbot Islands State Parks
  • Julington Durbin Creek Preserve
  • Cedar Point Preserve
  • Big Shoals State Forest
  • Etonia Creek State Forest
  • Castaway Island Preserve
Ecosystem Conservation Efforts Protecting Natural Environment by Public Trust for Conservation in FL

The Public Trust collaborated with the Timucuan Parks Foundation and the University of North Florida on the video series titled EXPLORE NORTHEAST FLORIDA.

Stewardship and Volunteering

Public Trust for Conservation believes that those who use and enjoy conservation properties will prove to be their greatest champions. If you want to become involved with our stewardship and volunteer opportunities, the first step is to become a member. Members are invited to volunteer opportunities like tree planting and trail cleanups. As a member, you will be kept in the loop with regular communication about upcoming volunteer events. Members may also be invited to join lawsuits as plaintiffs when appropriate and participate in social advocacy.

Along with volunteering, we promote safe and sustainable use of our shared public spaces by providing free resources, including our paddling guides

Impact Stories

Public Trust for Conservation has been defending the public lands and wildlife of Northeast Florida since 2005, and we have accomplished numerous remarkable feats during that time. Take a look at some of our impact stories to understand how our work has furthered conservation and ecosystem restoration in our own backyard.

Get in Touch With Public Trust for Conservation Today

To learn more about how you can get involved, reach out to us via our contact page.

Environmental Stewardship FAQs

What are some of the best outdoor exploration sites in Florida?

As home to several state parks, national parks, and national preserves, Florida has no shortage of outdoor exploration sites to discover. From the quiet shores of Boneyard Beach and the diverse wildlife habitat of Big Talbot Island State Park in Jacksonville Beach to the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park in Southern Florida, there is so much to discover.

How can I access free paddling guides from Public Trust for Conservation?

Our paddling guides are available to download for free on our website, and you can contact us by phone at (904) 247-1972 for more information about current conditions and restrictions.

What does “environmental stewardship” mean, and how can I get involved locally? Environmental stewardship can mean a wide range of things, from individual actions to large-scale efforts. The best way to get involved locally in Northeast Florida is by becoming a member to stay informed about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.

Which conservation organizations are active in Florida?

Because Florida is home to so many remarkable and sensitive outdoor areas, there are many local conservation organizations working in tandem to protect those spaces. Along with Public Trust for Conservation, these include Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation, The Sierra Club of Northeast Florida, St. Johns Riverkeeper, Environmental Protection Board, North Florida Land Trust, and 1000 Friends of Florida.

Are there opportunities to volunteer or participate in conservation projects?

Yes! There are many ways to participate in conservation projects, from making a donation in support of the efforts of conservation organizations to volunteering your time and effort for projects like tree planting and waterway cleanups.