Ecological Health
Well-being Inspired by Water
In JAX, we are water.
It’s the heart that drives our community and economic pulse. It provides a sense of place, a home for aquatic life and an authentic environment for health, wellness and recreation. Beyond wetlands, shorelines and reservoirs, Jacksonville’s waterscapes inspire creativity, productivity and prosperity.
When you live in Jacksonville, you are one of the caretakers. A squad of stewards set on protecting and preserving our well-being and our way of life.
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Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Jacksonville area waters are home sweet home for a multitude of aquatic life. Dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, rays, anemones, alligators and big to small fish are some of the species you can expect to find while exploring local oceans and waters.
Visit the Guana River Marsh for exceptional water-related recreational activities and access to fishing, boating, shrimping and crabbing. Visit the Sea Turtle Hospital at Whitney Laboratory for an education and hands-on opportunity, where sea turtles are rehabilitated and eventually, returned back to their habitat.
An OCEARCH marine life research vessel is under development in Jacksonville. Like a lab, the vessel will help scientists collect ocean information by tagging marine life and studying them. The initiative is a partnership with Jacksonville University.
Ecology Education
Ecology Education
Jacksonville’s K-12 and higher education institutions offer oceans of opportunity for developing environmental and marine scientists.
Students start young thanks to Duval County Public Schools’ Marine Science Education Center. High school youth studying marine biology use the center’s wet lab and museum to build their knowledge of ecosystems and coastal science.
Many of Jacksonville’s higher ed schools – including Jacksonville University, the University of North Florida and the University of Florida – offer environmental ecology and marine science degrees.
Green JAX
Green JAX
Citizens and agencies across the Jacksonville area work together to create a green city and region. Jacksonville communities offer curbside recycling, while certain businesses recycle old appliances and electronics.
Awareness and education are the foundation of Beaches Go Green. The volunteer-supported organization works with event teams to encourage use of reusable materials, reduction of single-use items and recycling. Beaches Go Green hosts beach clean ups throughout the year.
North Florida Green Chamber’s website has a directory of green businesses that assist residents with renewable energy, composting, home improvement, community gardening and more.
JAXPORT, one of the busiest ports in the country, is also committed to environmental stewardship. In fact, JAXPORT provides top-tier LNG access and has two facilities dedicated to the manufacturing of LNG as well as a bunkering ship that refuels LNG-powered ships at sea. JAXPORT staff collaborate with cargo owners, trucking companies and ocean carriers to identify and implement environmental best practices.
Volunteer
Volunteer
Want to immerse yourself in our community and water life? Join thousands of locals who volunteer to keep our coastlines and waters beautiful.
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Florida State Parks
- North Florida Land Trust
- St. Johns Riverkeeper
- University of North Florida Environmental Center
Interested in other volunteer opportunities? Check out our “Get Involved” page.