We have so much to share this year that we’ve split our traditional keynote slot into three riveting discussions of Audubon in Florida across 125 years, our unique place in the Sunshine State’s conservation history, and our role in the future of conservation in the Western Hemisphere.

Paul Gray, PhD, Everglades science coordinator, will give the first talk during our welcome lunch hour. From the plume trade to the senseless slaughter of birds before the advent of the Christmas Bird Count, Dr. Gray will trace the origins of both Audubon and the modern conservation movement.

During the Friday evening dinner event, Charles Lee, director of advocacy, will take the reins of the story and recount a historical perspective on pivotal moments in more contemporary Audubon history. He will outline efforts to save the Everglades, from the establishment of Everglades National Park, to Florida’s water crises of the mid-1950s, the proposed Jetport that almost became a reality in Eastern Collier County, and the onset of Everglades restoration under Governor Bob Graham.

Finally, on Saturday morning, National Audubon Chief Conservation Officer Marshall Johnson will share the ambitious, hemispheric vision of Audubon's Flight Plan, with an engaging morning celebrating how Florida is leading the way in its implementation at the state and chapter levels.

Field Trips: Enjoy the Birds and Wild Places of Beautiful Volusia County

You won't want to miss this year's suite of exciting field trips, ranging from a boat-based birding tour of the Indian River Lagoon, ramble for shorebirds and migrants at Lighthouse Park, and urban wildlife viewing at Ormond Beach's Central Park and Environmental Discovery Center.

Added bonus! West Volusia Audubon will host a special open house at Florida Scrub Jay mecca Lyonia Preserve on Thursday afternoon. Register for details: fl.audubon.org/assembly

This article originally appeared in the 2024 Summer edition of the Naturalist. To read the full magazine, click here.