Mike Owen has been Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park biologist since 1994. His primary focus is collecting data relating to the survival, distribution and reproductive habits of the native and exotic animals, as well as plants like the ferns, orchids, peperomia and bromeliads (some, such as the ghost orchid, which are extremely rare). Mike will be sharing his experiences and insights as well as photos of this beautiful and unique environment.
With help from park staff and other supporters, he documents and studies fluctuations of water levels, fire and weather events, the effects of exotic species invasions, topography and the importance of maintaining the biological diversity of this area, which includes the greater Everglades and Big Cypress ecosystems. He continues to contribute greatly to the scientific knowledge of the area, most of which had never been documented before. He offers visitors an introduction to the many wonders of the region and is famous for his guided swamp walks which delight visitors from around the world. 
Speaker: Jim Roberts