Rare photographs that capture the beauty of a unique ecological treasure  
 
“From star-studded nights to fish-filled waters, nesting terns to hatchling sea turtles, and the varied moods of historic Fort Jefferson through looming storms to tranquil sunsets, photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro shares a diverse view of one of the most remote and mysterious locations in Florida. Wilson-Navarro highlights the beauty of this Caribbean paradise, provides a glimpse at various threats, and reminds us of the fragility and resilience of this natural and cultural treasure.”—Kirsten Hines, author of Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey
 
“A captivating journey through the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park. Wilson-Navarro masterfully showcases the beauty, diversity, and challenges faced by these marine environments. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in marine biology, conservation, and the delicate interplay between human and natural worlds. It not only educates but also inspires a profound appreciation for one of nature's most enchanting and vulnerable treasures.”—Deb Castellana, director of strategic partnerships, Mission Blue/Sylvia Earle Alliance  
 
“Dry Tortugas may well be America’s most remote national park, but Ian Wilson-Navarro’s book takes you on a deep dive through this enchanted place of wonder and rich history, with astonishing photos and a personal narrative to connect the reader to a unique and special place.”—Clay Henderson, author of Forces of Nature: A History of Florida Land Conservation  
 
“With an eloquence of their own, the striking photos combine with the warmly evocative personal narrative to capture the stark beauty and vulnerability of this unique environment.”—Sandy Sheehy, author of Imperiled Reef: The Fascinating, Fragile Life of a Caribbean Wonder  
 
An immersive journey into the stunning beauty, rich biodiversity, and fragile ecosystems of Dry Tortugas National Park, this book combines captivating photographs with insightful narratives to highlight a remote archipelago that has profound ecological significance.
 
Accessible only by seaplane or boat, located 70 miles west of Key West and part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, the park includes seven enchanting islands and—with 99 percent of the park being underwater—a treasure trove of marine life. Through the lens of conservation photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro, readers will discover lush seagrass beds, vibrant coral reefs, and mesmerizing turquoise waters that are difficult for the public to visit.
 
The book’s nearly 200 color images are accompanied by essays by Sarah Fangman, Cori Convertito, Curtis Hall, and Nancy Klingener, individuals with intimate knowledge of the park who explore its history, culture, and environment. They elucidate the complex relationships between nature and humanity that have long existed in the Dry Tortugas and emphasize the importance of preserving both historic structures such as Fort Jefferson on Garden Key and the undisturbed habitats that allow countless wildlife species to flourish.
 
From graceful green sea turtles and magnificent frigatebirds to intricate coral formations and spectacular starry skies, the photographs in Dry Tortugas inspire awe and appreciation for an environmental sanctuary that serves as a baseline for Florida Keys ecology during a time of accelerating climate change for the planet. Educational and emotionally resonant, this book is a powerful testament to the park’s allure and its incredibly special natural wonders.  
 
Ian Wilson-Navarro is a conservation photographer based in Key Largo. Wilson-Navarro’s work focuses on documenting the ecosystems and natural resources found in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys.  
 
Funding for this publication was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

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