Environmental Interpretation and Its Role in the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee Restoration Programs

Large-scale wetland and river restoration projects carry with them substantial investments in Federal and State funds, as well as high environmental and economic costs to society. A well informed and participative society, especially the population in communities and regions directly affected by restoration activities, is essential to the smooth and trouble-free development of these projects as well as the long-term viability of the restored ecosystems. The restoration of the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee ecosystems provides unique opportunities to involve the public in the restoration process both through formal education programs and activities, as well as through the participation of citizen groups, educators and the general public in outdoor educational activities related to ecosystem restoration. We detail five different programs which meet the educational needs of Okeechobee and neighboring counties on ecosystem restoration and related topics. We focus on the importance of interpretation and novel educational methodologies to effectively justify to society the need for environmental restoration projects. Special emphasis is made on the role of scientists, engineers and environmental interpreters in designing materials and activities that are scientifically solid, entertaining and educational.