The Challenge

National wildlife refuges are America's promise to its citizens that there will always be places where wildlife and wildlife habitats can thrive.  The Everglades, the "River of grass" is one such treasure. Indeed, the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge is a vital, irreplaceable part of the Palm Beach County ecosystem.

This promise can only be maintained through public awareness of the importance of the Everglades to us and to the species with which we share our environment. We have succeeded in bringing over 300,000 visitors to the Refuge every year. Each visitor takes time to enjoy the Refuge's fishing, its hiking and canoeing trails, its wildlife and its foliage.

Today we stand at the threshold of a new era of ecological education. We seek to leave a legacy of inclusion, insight, innovation and growth.  We are building a new Visitor Center around an educational complex of dynamic, fascinating exhibits, employing the newest technologies. The building itself has been funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, but the Friends of Loxahatchee are responsible for raising the money for these exhibits.

We welcome the challenge to create a new level of public awareness.  We need your help to meet the challenge.

The Opportunity

Here is your opportunity to make a significant contribution to the future ecology of South Florida. There are several ways you can help us preserve the Everglades.

1. Send a contribution.  Your contribution will go into the Friends Exhibit Fund, to provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the Everglades.

2. Become a Friend. Everyone needs friends. Join the Friends of Loxahatchee, and receive many additional benefits.

3. Become an Ambassador.  Tell your friends why they should support the Friends of Loxahatchee. 

If you or your friends contribute $100 or more, the Visitor Center will include a brick paver engraved with the donor's name.