Everglades Tree Islands Can Mitigate Sea Level Rise
In the “river of grass” known as the Everglades, tree islands stand as small but mighty patches of forest rising just above the wetlands. Scientists now say these unique ecosystems may hold the key to addressing some of South Florida’s most pressing climate challenges—if we act fast.
Sea Levels Rising Rapidly in South Florida
Florida’s battle against rising seas is well-documented, but the stakes are particularly high in South Florida, where the water is climbing faster than most places. Between 2012 and 2023, scientists recorded a startling acceleration in sea level rise along the southeast coast. What’s driving this change? The answer isn’t entirely clear, but experts suspect a combination of long-term trends and natural variability.
Over the last 80 years, sea levels in South Florida have risen roughly one foot—a foot that’s made a big difference for the region’s low-lying communities. Alarmingly, eight inches of that increase happened in just the past 30 years, according to Brian McNoldy, a senior researcher at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. Projections from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggest the next foot could come in only 30 years, with even faster rises to follow. “Sea level rise is starting to accelerate,” McNoldy said. “In recent decades, the trendline is no longer straight.”
Despite these dire warnings, Florida’s state government is leaning into optimistic projections. A bill signed by Governor Ron DeSantis now requires state-funded projects to base planning on “intermediate-low” and “intermediate” sea level rise scenarios, ignoring higher-end projections. Critics warn this could leave Florida’s infrastructure woefully unprepared for what’s coming.
Miami-Dade projected sea level in 2100
North Miami communities after a rain bomb (what locals call excessive rainfall) in late 2024.
North Miami communities after a rain bomb (what locals call excessive rainfall) in late 2024.
North Miami communities after a rain bomb (what locals call excessive rainfall) in late 2024.
North Miami communities after a rain bomb (what locals call excessive rainfall) in late 2024.
A Delicate Game of Water: Tree Islands and Their Decline
Tree islands—small, elevated forests scattered throughout the Everglades—have long been a cornerstone of the ecosystem. They’re critical habitats for wildlife, natural water filters, and cultural pillars for the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes who have long inhabited and protected the tree islands. But these vital patches are disappearing. Only about 30% of the tree islands that once dotted the Everglades remain today.
What’s causing the decline? Decades of dredging, draining, and developing the Everglades have severely disrupted water flow. The region now operates on an artificial system of levees, pumps, and canals that frequently leave some areas waterlogged and others bone dry. This is a delicate game of water.
Miccosukee leaders who closely monitor the tree islands shared how some tree islands spend six months underwater following an unusually wet winter. Such prolonged flooding not only drowns plant life but also drives away the wildlife that depends on these islands for survival. And while restoration efforts are underway, progress is slow.
After years of staying silent, tribal leaders are now stepping up to advocate for the protection of their ancestral lands with stronger policies. Today, tribes are demanding a seat at the table in discussions about Everglades restoration and water management, alongside the notorious U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, responsible for much of the historical dredging.
Nature’s Flood Defenders
Amid South Florida’s pressing climate challenges, tree islands are emerging as an unexpected ally. In addition to being culturally significant, these ecosystems excel at mitigating flooding and buffering against rising seas, making them a critical component of the region’s climate resilience strategy.
Tree roots play a pivotal role in regulating water levels. By soaking up excess groundwater, tree islands can help lower the water table, reducing the risk of prolonged flooding. This function is particularly vital in areas prone to saltwater intrusion, where rising seas threaten to contaminate freshwater resources. Stabilizing water levels protects both the natural balance of the Everglades and the communities that depend on it.
In addition to groundwater management, tree islands slow the flow of water across the landscape, acting as natural speed bumps for floodwaters. Their ability to trap sediments and filter pollutants also improves water quality, benefiting the surrounding ecosystem. During hurricanes and heavy rain events, these islands can help absorb storm surges, offering a natural buffer for vulnerable communities.
Dr. Meenakshi Chabba, Ecosystem and Resilience Scientist at the Everglades Foundation, explains how valuable the peat soil of the everglades is in managing water levels.
What Needs to Happen
To unlock the full potential of tree islands, South Florida needs bold, coordinated action. Policymakers must ensure that state-funded projects consider the worst-case sea level rise scenarios, despite De Santis’ climate negations, and prioritize tree island restoration and protection. Collaboration with Miccosukee leaders, who know each tree island by name, is crucial. We need to push for local Miccosukee input into state and federal land management and restoration practices.
Tree islands in the Everglades are lifelines for a region grappling with a changing climate. Without decisive action, the Everglades—and the communities that depend on it—face an uncertain future. Protecting tree islands isn’t just about saving a unique ecosystem; it’s about rethinking how we adapt.
