Thanks everybody & thank you for picking up on this Shawn!

Right now is the perfect time for the Park Service to set up a network of paddle & foot trails in ENP & BC with appropriate access points. Everything is already pretty much in place, just waiting to be implemented the right way!

It's true : People in the Everglades didn't drive wildlife away, it's what people did to the Everglades that did it!

Yeah by pure chance the tower stairs were wide open when we got there so we were able to get to the top. Like you said every other time I've been there it's always been blocked off, so this was a real treat. I'm really glad I was able to capture it!!  :)

shawn beightol said:

Flex:

some great points about keeping the backcountry accessible by allowing maintenance and use of airboat trails.  This loss of trails is happening all over the Big Cypress Preserve and the Everglades.  It is sad.

Historically, Native Americans and Gladesmen kept trails open, sometimes even with fire.  As you noted, gators do it and so do other game.  I wish people would stop seeing humans as non-animals. We are (certainly not Fungi or Plants).  We belong.  And our history there needs to be honored.

Education and ethics are the answer (not just to proper use of the glades).  We need to figure out how to get back to responsible civics, build and support the groups that get kids outdoors and teach them responsible usage.

I think you've hit on the right approach - open the trails up to responsible use.

BTW, how did you access the upper deck of the tower?  every time I've looked, its been locked...sweet pix from there.

Great pic. How do you keep the pole out of the picture?

Flex, awesome panoramas!!!  Thank you for sharing them.