How Nature, Policy, and People Shaped Florida and What Comes Next

Hear about our state's history of overcoming complex environmental challenges, pressing issues today, and pathways for collective action.

Florida’s natural environment has long shaped the state’s identity, economy, and quality of life. From its coastlines and wetlands to its working lands and wildlife, the Sunshine State is defined by extremes—and by resilience. In her presentation, Executive Director of Audubon Florida and Vice President for Florida for the National Audubon Society, Julie Wraithmell will explore Florida’s history of overcoming environmental threats through innovation and dedication, examine the most pressing conservation issues currently facing the state, and highlight pathways for collective action to protect Florida’s natural resources while sustaining its economy.

This discussion is timely for Sanibel. After incorporating as a city to protect against overdevelopment, our sanctuary island is once again facing development pressures as the county approves major new development on Captiva. There are also several large-scale developments planned in both Lee and Collier counties. As a result, we are seeing key habitats around us threatened, along with regional water quality and general quality of life. It is clear that the best future for our sanctuary islands requires protection of land and ecosystems in the region, and indeed throughout the state.

Coming fresh from the 2026 Florida Legislative Session, there may be no one more qualified to provide perspective on the environmental challenges and opportunities in the state then Julie Wraithmell.

Immediately following the presentation, there will be a brief business meeting for COTI membership only.