Wildlife photographer Carlton Ward Jr., filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus, bear biologist Joe Guthrie and conservationist Mallory Lykes Dimmitt have wrapped up the traveling part of their Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition. They crossed the finish line Sunday, nearly 100 days after setting off in the Everglades on a 1,000-mile journey to the Georgia state line. Their goal is to inspire the creation of a permanent unbroken wildlife corridor. WUSF's Steve Newborn kept track of the expedition - and joined in on occasion - and was there when they crossed the finish line. He talks with WUSF Morning Edition host Carson Cooper.
The Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition team has trekked through scrub, swamp and forest from one end of the state to the other. They have documented their journeys in film, books and photography exhibitions with a goal demonstrating the urgent need for an unbroken spine of wilderness running the length of Florida to give wildlife a chance for survival.The third expedition kicked off April 15 and once again, WUSF News reporters are along for the adventure. This time around the explorers want to highlight an area of wilderness in Central Florida that is threatened on all sides by urban development and transportation infrastructure including Interstate 4.WUSF Public Media is a sponsor of the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Follow along on with our reporters on our website and social media accounts on Facebook and on Twitter, using the hashtag #Heartland2Headwaters.
Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition Wraps Up in the Okefenokee
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Expedition members Carlton Ward, left, Joe Guthrie and Mallory Lykes Dimmitt on the Suwannee River in Georgia's Okefenokee Swamp. (Click on picture to view other images)
Steve Newborn
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Gearing up on the Suwanee River in Georgia
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Mallory Lykes Dimmitt
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Nearing the finish line at Stephen Foster State Park, Georgia
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At the finish line, 1,000 miles behind them
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Carlton Ward reunites with his wife
Steve Newborn
