19th and Early 20th Century Florida’s incorporation into the United States in 1821 ushered in new waves of settlers, developers, and industries. The Oleta River area remained relatively wild, though logging, fishing, and small-scale farming increased. The mangrove forests were seen both as obstacles and valuable timber sources.The river’s t

The Tequesta and Early Inhabitants Long before European contact, the area encompassing Oleta River State Park was inhabited by the Tequesta people, one of Florida’s earliest Indigenous cultures. The Tequesta thrived along Biscayne Bay’s shores, relying on its abundant marine resources. Archaeological sites in and near the park reveal shell

Introduction Oleta River State Park, located in North Miami, Florida, stands as one of the largest urban parks in the state and a vital natural sanctuary within the bustling Miami metropolitan area. Encompassing approximately 1,000 acres of mangroves, tidal flats, hardwood hammocks, and coastal wetlands, the park preserves a rich tapestry of ecolo

Protecting the Santa Fe River The Santa Fe River is a first-magnitude spring-fed river, with an average flow of over 600 million gallons of water per day. The river’s underground passage beneath the park is vulnerable to pollution and groundwater depletion. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on protecting water quality, preventing erosion,