HOLLYWOOD – The Florida Climate Institute is taking a hands-on approach in addressing climate change and its impact on communities. On Aug. 4 and 5, the institute will raise awareness about worldwide climate change at the Tidally United 2017 Summit.

The summit will focus on the impact of sea level rise on Florida’s archaeological and cultural resources. On Aug. 4, guests can take part in talks and panels from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., lunch provided, at the Seminole Native Learning Center, 6363 Taft St. in Hollywood. On the morning of Aug. 5, there is an optional off-trail walk through ankle- or knee-deep water at Everglades National Park led by a ranger. A tour at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Reservation will follow the walk in the afternoon.

The importance of this topic comes from statistics surrounding Florida’s cultural sites. According to the institute, the state has 16,015 sites that may be completely flooded if there is a 3-foot sea level rise. Most of these places are neglected in resiliency planning. Tidally United will specifically highlight indigenous groups and individuals who speak about climate science, planning and cultural heritage.

Sara Ayers-Rigsby, director of southeast/southwest regions at the Florida Public Archaeology Network, said this event is a great opportunity for people to take part in climate-related discussions.
“People should come for a day of discussion about how climate change and sea level rise will impact archaeological and culturally significant sites,” she said.

The Florida Public Archaeology Network, Seminole Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and Florida International University Indigenous Forum are co-sponsoring the event. The summit is open to 100 people based on first-come, first-served, and is free for Tribal members and $40 for non-members. Those interested in speaking at the event or who want more information should contact Sara Ayers-Rigsby of the Florida Public Archaeological Network at sayersrigsby@fau.edu or visit fpan.us/projects/tidally.php.