STUART, Fla. - eTradeWire -- Over 400 conservation groups, leaders, scientists, students and supporters attended the 39th Annual Everglades Coalition Conference, held Jan. 25-27 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in Bonita Springs, Florida. The conference is the largest forum for discussing the restoration of the Everglades, and featured several keynote speakers, educational sessions and awards.

The Everglades Coalition hosts its annual conference to educate attendees about the full restoration of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. The 2024 conference, themed Everglades Restoration Rewards: Benefitting Ecosystems, Economies and Communities, featured panelists who highlighted topics including ecological health and economic success, environmental advocacy, the future of Florida's conservation and more.

Since 1995, the Everglades Coalition has presented awards at its annual conference to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to protect and restore the Everglades and mirror the ideals and accomplishments of the award namesake. Four honorees were recognized at the 2024 conference in the following categories:

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The Conservationist Award was awarded to Marisa Carrozzo, the senior coastal and wildlife program manager of the National Parks Conservation Association. In her role, she continues protects land and water in areas like the Big Cypress National Preserve. Marisa was the Everglades and Water Policy Manager with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. Marisa also served as Everglades Coalition Co-Chair for four years.

Col. Charlette Roman, an at-large member of the South Florida Water Management District and chair of the Big Cypress Basin Board, received the Public Service Award. For over 20 years, Roman has worked to restore America's Everglades, improve water quality, protect the region from flooding and ensure an adequate water supply for South Floridians.

Terrence "Rock" Salt entered the Hall of Fame for his work in the effort toward Congressional Authorization and funding for the Kissimmee River Restoration project and his help in setting the course for the start of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP).

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The Voice of Conservation Award was granted to Mac Stone, a contributing photographer for National Geographic Magazine, a senior fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers and a National Geographic Society Explorer, to recognize his work elevating conservation issues through his photography and videography.

The Everglades Coalition, in partnership with the National Parks Conservation Association, selected 20 students to receive full scholarships to attend the conference. Each year, the Coalition waives conference registration fees for teachers and students. A record number of students participated this year. The Everglades Coalition also announced Equity and Community Engagement speaker stipends to offset the costs of participation for speakers in need.

The 40th Annual Everglades Coalition will take place from Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, 2025, at the Miccosukee Resort and Casino in Miami. To learn more about the Everglades Coalition and the 2025 conference, visit EvergladesCoalition.org/Conference.