What is the Native Orchid Restoration Project?
Of the approximate 43 species of native orchids known to exist in south Florida, only about 30 species have been sighted in the past 15 years. Habitat destruction, modification and fragmentation are serious threats to native orchids. Another threat is wild collecting or poaching of epiphytic orchid species. The goal of the Native Orchid Restoration and Conservation Project is to protect native orchids of south Florida through the use of modern propagation science, recovery and translocation methods. A laboratory and associated facilities are located on the refuge. This project will involve and benefit state and federal land management agencies to collectively conserve, restore and protect native orchids in south Florida. The University of Florida is a primary partner in the research of propagation techniques and natural history of south Florida’s native orchids. For more information about Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, view our Fact Sheet [pdf].
