Distinguished Speaker Series | Dry Tortugas: Stronghold of Nature with Ian Wilson-Navarro
An immersive journey into the stunning beauty, rich biodiversity, and fragile ecosystems of Dry Tortugas National Park, this presentation and accompanying book combines captivating photographs with insightful narratives to highlight a remote archipelago that has profound ecological significance.
Accessible only by seaplane or boat, located 70 miles west of Key West and part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, the park includes seven enchanting islands and—with 99 percent of the park being underwater—a treasure trove of marine life. Through the lens of conservation photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro, readers will discover lush seagrass beds, vibrant coral reefs, and mesmerizing turquoise waters that are difficult for the public to visit.
About the Presenter:
Growing up amidst the enchanting seascapes of the Florida Keys, Ian Wilson-Navarro's connection to the natural world was cultivated by the waters and diverse ecosystems that surrounded him. A lover of the outdoors and a passionate advocate for conservation, he seamlessly blends his deep-rooted affinity for the Keys with his fervor for adventure sports, such as surfing, freediving, and fly fishing.
Ian has channeled his creative vision into capturing the beauty and fragility of the Florida Keys and its unique ecosystems. His body of work serves as a powerful visual testament to the evolving landscape, the challenges confronting the reefs, seagrass flats, and fisheries, and the pressing need for conservation within this remarkable region. Notably, Ian's photographs have been featured in publications such as Garden & Gun, Field & Stream, and The Fly Fish Journal. His active engagement with conservation organizations like Bonefish & Tarpon Trust underscores his commitment to the cause.
Funding for this program was sponsored in part by Aloys & Carol Metty and The John & Marilyn Rintamaki Family Charitable Fund.
