Living with Wildlife

Overview

The Living with Wildlife workshop is a collaborative effort between the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Archbold Biological Station. The workshop will bring together landowners, community members, agencies, conservation organizations, researchers, and other local professionals to explore practical strategies for living alongside wildlife in Florida.

Throughout the day, attendees will:

• Learn about practical tools and strategies for reducing human-wildlife conflicts to protect your pets and livestock.
• Learn about local wildlife, conservation efforts, and available resources.
• Hear from local landowners about their experiences through a landowner panel.
• Connect with landowners, agencies, NGOs, researchers, and other partners.

Buck Island Ranch Tour

Join local landowners, community members, and wildlife professionals for a conversation about living and working alongside wildlife while touring Archbold’s Buck Island Ranch.

Buck Island Ranch Tour spots are first-come, first-served. Add a Ranch Tour ticket to your order to reserve your spot.

Participants are responsible for driving to the ranch, approximately 20–25 minutes from the event venue.

Attendees can also look forward to a few giveaways throughout the day!

Agenda

09:00 AM – 09:30 AM

Open Exhibits

09:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Morning Presentations

Presentation topics may include: reducing conflict with coyotes, bobcats and other small predators; living with panthers and bears; predator-resistant enclosures; mealybug and screwworm; and landowner assistance programs. Topics are subject to change.

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

Lunch

Will be provided to event participants.

12:30 PM – 01:15 PM

Landowner Panel

Hear from landowners about their experiences, challenges, and successes in managing habitat and living alongside wildlife. Learn how conservation programs and agency partnerships can support land stewardship and wildlife conservation.

01:15 PM – 03:15 PM

Buck Island Ranch Tour with Archbold Staff

Optional, limited-capacity. Participants on the tour will have an opportunity to join local landowners, community members, and wildlife professionals for a conversation about living and working alongside wildlife while touring Archbold’s Buck Island Ranch.