MISSION  AND  BACKGROUND

" To Protect Natural Habitat through Educational Tourism " 

E-mail  wdykstra@swfla.rr.com       Website   http://www.naturetour.com

The company was formed in November of 1996 as a result of the owner's observation that there was a demand for wildlife and educational nature tours in Florida that showed people the subtle beauty and species diversification of the State's ecosystems and explained the various past and present human impacts upon the area.  Tour lengths range from ½ to full day, extended weekend breaks of 3-5 days and in-depth from 5-7 days.

The owner is a NAI Certified Interpretive Guide and Florida Master Naturalist who has been in commercial travel for over 20 years and is joined by other local Naturalists. Together they look forward to exploring their passion for nature and ecology with you and sharing insights to the natural world.

South Florida is a vast wetland region, which encompasses the Everglades and attendant Eco-systems, and is one of the Earth's most diverse regions for plants and animals.  Its botanical significance with over 3,500 plant; 425 bird; and 184 amphibian and reptile species, is why it is designated a Natural Heritage Site by the United Nations.  It is a Transition Zone between tropical and temperate climates meaning that many of the plants and animals found here are at their extreme range.  They are Nature's Astronauts, pushing their species genetic systems to the maximum.  They are also under attack by Alien Invaders, various non-native plant species imported by man but now decidedly out of control.

Wildlife interaction is a vastly expanding travel market and we aim to make it as beneficial an experience as possible for travelers and animals alike.  We are acutely aware of the dangers of over-visitation and exploitation, which is why we work closely with Parks, Conservation Groups and the 7 Golden Rules of Eco-Tourism :  

1   Provide money and other tangible support for developing Parks' services and managing Natural Resources

2   Link commercial tourism to local conservation programs

3   Develop sustainable tourist facilities that minimize environmental damage

4   Help repair the damage done by others

5   Promote ecological research and rescue programs

6   Arrange and promote meaningful contact between tourists and local people

7   Support indigenous people/businesses by buying local goods & services

There are many threats to the survival of the Everglades and its roll-call of endangered species.  We are convinced that in the long run the power of Eco-Tourism will provide an Eco-nomic alternative to environmentally threatening development.  In the interim we will provide a percentage of our profits to fund programs that will support conservation and restoration of the region's Eco-Systems. 

But first and foremost WE NEED YOU to visit our region and take our tours.

ORCHIDS & EGRETS

Protecting Natural Habitat through Educational Tourism

Authentic Florida Nature Tours

Please use info@naturetour.com email address for information and questions to Orchids & Egrets Eco-Tours.

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