WEBVTT 00:15.100 --> 00:23.866 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 00:23.966 --> 00:25.833 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Florida's legendary Everglades 00:25.933 --> 00:30.333 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% are now crawling with unwanted, destructive invaders, 00:30.433 --> 00:35.200 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% threatening the very survival of native plants and animals. 00:35.300 --> 00:37.466 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% Join author Charles J. Kropke 00:37.566 --> 00:41.033 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% as he explores the war on invasive species 00:41.133 --> 00:43.466 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% onBattleground Everglades. 00:50.666 --> 00:52.866 align:left position:25%,start line:77% size:65% SPONSORSHIP NARRATOR: Major funding for this program is provided 00:52.966 --> 00:54.666 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% by Eleanor Goldstein. 00:54.766 --> 00:57.966 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% Interactive Learning & Technology, LLC. 00:58.066 --> 01:00.700 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Additional funding provided by... 01:03.566 --> 01:17.566 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 01:24.600 --> 01:28.100 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: They slither and devour natural wildlife, 01:28.200 --> 01:31.533 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% root up soil, spreading disease, 01:31.633 --> 01:35.466 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% overwhelm and destroy native habitats. 01:35.566 --> 01:38.766 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Countless non-native plants, animals, reptiles, 01:38.866 --> 01:41.766 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% and insects are wreaking havoc on the rare landscapes 01:41.866 --> 01:43.633 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% of the Everglades, 01:43.733 --> 01:46.933 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% changing this precious resource forever. 01:47.033 --> 01:55.666 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 01:55.766 --> 01:58.366 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% The battle against invasive exotic plants and animals 01:58.466 --> 02:01.733 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% has gone on in the state of Florida for decades. 02:01.833 --> 02:05.500 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% This place, the Arthur R. Marshall, Loxahatchee National 02:05.600 --> 02:08.633 align:left position:30%,start line:5% size:60% Wildlife Refuge, may be ground zero. 02:08.733 --> 02:11.533 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Despite spending millions of dollars each year, 02:11.633 --> 02:14.666 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% eradication of invasive exotics is a problem. 02:14.766 --> 02:17.533 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% And still, more come to our subtropical wilderness. 02:21.133 --> 02:24.500 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Florida's welcoming climate has created the largest invasive 02:24.600 --> 02:28.333 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% species crisis in the continental United States. 02:28.433 --> 02:31.900 align:left position:37.5%,start line:83% size:52.5% Once here, intruding species can thrive, 02:32.000 --> 02:34.033 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% unchallenged by the natural predators 02:34.133 --> 02:35.500 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% of their home environment. 02:35.600 --> 02:36.600 align:left position:40%,start line:89% size:50% (Snorts) 02:39.800 --> 02:43.400 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: But the Sunshine State is fighting back, introducing 02:43.500 --> 02:47.166 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% another kind of predator: human hunters. 02:47.266 --> 02:49.433 align:left position:35%,start line:89% size:55% Look at you! MAN 1: Woah! 02:49.533 --> 02:53.366 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% Ho-oh, my God. 02:53.466 --> 02:55.400 align:left position:17.5%,start line:5% size:72.5% That's gotta be atleast... (Man laughing) 02:55.500 --> 02:57.200 align:left position:42.5%,start line:83% size:47.5% MAN 1: I don't know, 17 feet? 02:57.300 --> 03:01.133 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Actually, this snake was just under 15 ½ feet; 03:01.233 --> 03:05.033 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% a Burmese python hiding deep in the Everglades. 03:05.133 --> 03:07.766 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% The capture was part of Florida's stepped-up efforts 03:07.866 --> 03:11.466 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% to aggressively reduce the snake population 03:11.566 --> 03:14.700 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% Florida's python hunter program has authorized 03:14.800 --> 03:18.700 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% a total of 25 seasoned hunters to capture and kill 03:18.800 --> 03:20.100 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% the pythons 03:20.200 --> 03:23.200 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% forever removing them from the ecosystem. 03:24.200 --> 03:27.266 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% The Sunshine State has more non-native reptile 03:27.366 --> 03:31.900 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and amphibian species than anywhere else in the world. 03:32.000 --> 03:36.833 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% More than 80% arrived here as part of the pet industry. 03:36.933 --> 03:41.066 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% But the deadliest invader has been the Burmese python. 03:41.166 --> 03:45.533 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% First seen in the Everglades in 1980s, the population has 03:45.633 --> 03:49.633 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% exploded, decimating native mammals. 03:49.733 --> 03:53.366 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% One study reported that roadside sightings of raccoons, 03:53.466 --> 03:56.400 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% rabbits, foxes, and other local wildlife 03:56.500 --> 04:00.400 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% have dropped by more than 90% in the last few decades. 04:01.933 --> 04:03.166 align:left position:42.5%,start line:83% size:47.5% MAN 1: Wow! 04:03.266 --> 04:04.300 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% (Laughing) 04:04.400 --> 04:06.800 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Wildlife experts blame the huge pythons 04:06.900 --> 04:09.500 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% for destroying populations of small animals 04:09.600 --> 04:12.233 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% and wading birds who for centuries have called 04:12.333 --> 04:14.300 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% the Everglades home. 04:14.400 --> 04:17.733 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% The snakes are not venomous, but they do bite. 04:17.833 --> 04:20.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% They kill their prey by constriction. 04:20.266 --> 04:22.566 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% Wrapping their bodies around their victims 04:22.666 --> 04:25.000 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% and squeezing the life out of them. 04:26.933 --> 04:30.400 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% The state's lieutenant governor assisted with this capture. 04:30.500 --> 04:32.700 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Snakes have a very unique pattern... 04:32.800 --> 04:35.433 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: But he couldn't have done it without Tom Rahill 04:35.533 --> 04:38.833 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% and his group of military vets and first responders 04:38.933 --> 04:41.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% called the Swamp Apes. 04:41.266 --> 04:45.166 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% TOM: I started the Swamp Apes Organization to help veterans 04:45.266 --> 04:47.833 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% deal with various challenges they may have returning 04:47.933 --> 04:49.866 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% from their service to the country. 04:49.966 --> 04:51.333 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% We welcome all veterans. 04:51.433 --> 04:53.300 align:left position:15%,start line:5% size:75% And many of our veterans had joined us or are just here 04:53.400 --> 04:54.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:5% size:72.5% strictly for the adventure. 04:55.033 --> 04:57.366 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% But the common bond with the veterans is 04:57.466 --> 04:59.600 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% that they wanna help the wilderness. 04:59.700 --> 05:02.300 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: On this buggy south Florida summer evening 05:02.400 --> 05:05.266 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% Tom and his team are on the hunt for pythons, 05:05.366 --> 05:08.400 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% searching burrows and armadillo nests, looking 05:08.500 --> 05:11.500 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% for any evidence of the big snakes. 05:11.600 --> 05:14.466 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% He's joined by Rams, a combat vet 05:14.566 --> 05:17.466 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% who served two tours of duty in Iraq. 05:17.566 --> 05:21.833 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Rams' largest catch to date was a feisty 7-footer. 05:21.933 --> 05:24.300 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% He says his time with the Swamp Apes has helped 05:24.400 --> 05:27.400 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% him cope better with the emotional wounds of war. 05:28.400 --> 05:29.500 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% RAMS: When you first get out of the military, 05:29.600 --> 05:31.633 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% it's a little hard to communicate 05:31.733 --> 05:34.066 align:left position:30%,start line:5% size:60% as you did before you went in. 05:34.166 --> 05:37.600 align:left position:12.5%,start line:5% size:77.5% So when Tom and the others take us out there and kinda 05:37.700 --> 05:40.800 align:left position:22.5%,start line:5% size:67.5% give you an extra push to communicate with people 05:40.900 --> 05:43.666 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% um, as you used to before, it helps a lot. 05:43.766 --> 05:44.900 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% So knowing what you do, 05:45.000 --> 05:47.866 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% would you encourage other veterans to join the Swamp Apes? 05:47.966 --> 05:49.033 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% Absolutely. 05:49.133 --> 05:52.200 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% I have brought out numerous other veterans before. 05:52.300 --> 05:54.833 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% For the most part, a lot of them do enjoy 05:54.933 --> 05:56.833 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% being out here helping out. 05:56.933 --> 05:59.133 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% You have to be part of a team to come out here 05:59.233 --> 06:00.533 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% and hunt pythons. 06:00.633 --> 06:02.800 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% 'Cause we're looking after each other. 06:02.900 --> 06:04.133 align:left position:27.5%,start line:5% size:62.5% We're looking after everybody's back 06:04.233 --> 06:05.333 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% when you're out here. 06:05.433 --> 06:06.466 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And it gives you a sense of purpose, 06:06.566 --> 06:08.200 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% 'cause of what we're doing as well. 06:08.300 --> 06:09.733 align:left position:42.5%,start line:77% size:47.5% MAN 2: Okay, what have we got here, Tom? 06:09.833 --> 06:12.100 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% TOM: Hey, man, I think we got a-- 06:12.200 --> 06:14.466 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% a potential python nest. 06:14.566 --> 06:17.966 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Tom and Rams are joined by Omar Gomez. 06:18.066 --> 06:21.800 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Omar, a former paramedic diagnosed with PTSD, 06:21.900 --> 06:24.933 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% says he's found focus and meaning here 06:25.033 --> 06:26.533 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% in the Everglades. 06:26.633 --> 06:29.566 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% And the program helped me a lot, you know to kinda get back 06:29.666 --> 06:32.200 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% into it, and function back out in society, and at home, 06:32.300 --> 06:33.400 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% and everywhere else. 06:33.500 --> 06:34.766 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% And I just thump it. 06:34.866 --> 06:37.233 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% And I can hear the hollowness and I can follow-- 06:37.333 --> 06:39.400 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Omar's biggest catch was a pregnant 06:39.500 --> 06:41.233 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% 13½ footer 06:41.333 --> 06:44.166 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% carrying 67 eggs inside her. 06:44.266 --> 06:47.300 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% OMAR: That's one snake with minus, you know 67 possible 06:47.400 --> 06:48.500 align:left position:35%,start line:89% size:55% other snakes. 06:48.600 --> 06:51.633 align:left position:10%,start line:5% size:80% I mean that's just-- you get up, you think to yourself, 06:51.733 --> 06:53.133 align:left position:30%,start line:5% size:60% "I'm gonna change the Everglades today, 06:53.233 --> 06:54.966 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% by removing one python." 06:55.066 --> 06:57.900 align:left position:12.5%,start line:5% size:77.5% And you can literally say that, with that big 13-footer you know 06:58.000 --> 07:00.366 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% pulled out you know, that's a big change. 07:00.466 --> 07:01.800 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% Right here, you know. 07:01.900 --> 07:04.266 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Omar's passion for the Everglades elicits 07:04.366 --> 07:07.433 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% different reactions from family and friends. 07:07.533 --> 07:09.066 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% Some think you're crazy, 07:09.166 --> 07:11.033 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% some think it's the best thing that has ever been-- 07:11.133 --> 07:13.066 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% you know, put out there for me. 07:13.166 --> 07:16.033 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% Uh, I can say as far as my wife is concerned, 07:16.133 --> 07:17.733 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% she's a big supporter of this. 07:17.833 --> 07:20.100 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% She's seen all the changes in me. 07:20.200 --> 07:22.866 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Uh, same thing as my folks you know, back in home. 07:22.966 --> 07:25.200 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% You know, they have seen a lot of changes, positive changes. 07:25.300 --> 07:27.133 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% And if anything is good for someone, 07:27.233 --> 07:28.700 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% I think you can to say to yourself, 07:28.800 --> 07:30.500 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% "This is probably something that's gonna be affective." 07:30.600 --> 07:32.666 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% This is something that maybe someone else can be using 07:32.766 --> 07:35.066 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% in their family to help them out, 07:35.166 --> 07:36.300 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% you know, through some hard times. 07:36.400 --> 07:38.700 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: The hunters get paid for the snakes, 07:38.800 --> 07:42.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% $8 dollars and 10 cents an hour, plus $50 dollars 07:42.266 --> 07:46.933 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% for the first 4 feet and $25 per foot after that. 07:47.033 --> 07:50.966 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% That can add up, but Tom says the Swamp Apes don't do it 07:51.066 --> 07:52.266 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% for the money. 07:52.366 --> 07:54.066 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% TOM: They have this sense of duty to country. 07:54.166 --> 07:56.866 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% They have this altruistic philanthropic attitude. 07:56.966 --> 07:58.533 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% They're giving up their lives. 07:58.633 --> 08:00.133 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% They did that in the military service 08:00.233 --> 08:03.100 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and now they have a chance again to do that 08:03.200 --> 08:05.033 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% and to be celebrated for giving. 08:05.133 --> 08:06.733 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% And in this case, they're helping the environment. 08:06.833 --> 08:07.866 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: Yeah. 08:07.966 --> 08:09.433 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% Yeah, I don't see anything. 08:09.533 --> 08:12.566 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: The python nest turned out to be an empty hole. 08:12.666 --> 08:15.266 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% So the Swamp Apes gather their gear and prepare 08:15.366 --> 08:16.966 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% to hit the road. 08:17.066 --> 08:19.966 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% TOM: Where this road T-bones, we're gonna be on a long 08:20.066 --> 08:21.733 align:left position:17.5%,start line:5% size:72.5% north-south running Levy-- CHARLES: Okay, yeah. 08:21.833 --> 08:24.900 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% About 23 miles from the Everglades Holiday Park 08:25.000 --> 08:27.500 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% all the way down to where the Valujet Memorial is. 08:27.600 --> 08:28.566 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% CHARLES: I see. 08:28.666 --> 08:30.366 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Daylight has now turned into night 08:30.466 --> 08:33.133 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and they journey deep into the Everglades. 08:33.233 --> 08:35.866 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% Since it's summertime, late night is usually 08:35.966 --> 08:37.933 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% the best time to find the pythons, 08:38.033 --> 08:40.633 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% because of the somewhat cooler temperatures. 08:45.433 --> 08:48.033 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% Tom and his team know what they're looking for. 08:48.133 --> 08:51.100 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Already the Swamp Apes have removed hundreds of pythons 08:51.200 --> 08:52.633 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% from the Everglades. 08:52.733 --> 08:54.866 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% But that's not nearly enough. 08:54.966 --> 08:56.166 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% Estimates put the number 08:56.266 --> 08:59.733 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% of snake invaders somewhere between tens of thousands 08:59.833 --> 09:02.266 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% to nearly a quarter million. 09:04.033 --> 09:07.000 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% CHARLES: So Tom, you've been doing this for several years now. 09:07.100 --> 09:10.666 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% What have you seen from the veterans here in the field 09:10.766 --> 09:14.233 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% and you know, what do you hear from them after the experience? 09:14.333 --> 09:16.000 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% TOM: Some of the difficulties that they've had 09:16.100 --> 09:20.066 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% from their return to civilian life are minimized after 09:20.166 --> 09:22.800 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% coming out and participating in our program for a long time. 09:22.900 --> 09:24.900 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Nightmares in particular, they no longer have nightmares 09:25.000 --> 09:27.300 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% of their war service and their trauma. 09:27.400 --> 09:29.100 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% They have dreams of pythons. 09:31.066 --> 09:33.233 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: They didn't find one on this night. 09:33.333 --> 09:35.733 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% But the Swamp Apes don't give up. 09:35.833 --> 09:36.933 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: Alright, everybody ready? 09:37.033 --> 09:39.266 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: The stakes are too high. RAMS: Yeah. 09:39.366 --> 09:42.966 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: The invaders too lethal to the native wildlife. 09:43.066 --> 09:44.500 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: Easy, easy, easy, easy. 09:49.100 --> 09:50.300 align:left position:37.5%,start line:83% size:52.5% Here we go, it's right underneath me. 09:50.400 --> 09:51.633 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% TOM: Got him? RAMS: Yeah. 09:51.733 --> 09:53.166 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% TOM: Alright, good job. 09:54.400 --> 09:57.566 align:left position:45%,start line:77% size:45% RAMS: Oh God almighty, come here, baby. 09:57.666 --> 10:00.666 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% (Grunting) (Indiscernible speech) 10:03.866 --> 10:04.766 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: What? 10:04.866 --> 10:05.866 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% TOM: You wanna take this? 10:05.966 --> 10:07.166 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: I got this. TOM: Slide it back, okay? 10:07.266 --> 10:08.700 align:left position:45%,start line:83% size:45% RAMS: Yeah, yeah, yeah. 10:08.800 --> 10:10.466 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% Just stretch him out. 10:10.566 --> 10:14.566 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: This snake was a pregnant 15-footer carrying 61 eggs. 10:16.166 --> 10:17.900 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% With each capture, the Swamp Apes 10:18.000 --> 10:19.833 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% fulfill their mission of helping preserve 10:19.933 --> 10:22.400 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% the delicate balance of the ecosystem 10:22.500 --> 10:25.800 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% and heal the trauma that haunts some us military veterans. 10:29.033 --> 10:32.133 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% While south Florida's invasive pythons have captured 10:32.233 --> 10:37.066 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% national media attention, a far more common sight is this, 10:37.166 --> 10:39.033 align:left position:37.5%,start line:89% size:52.5% feral hogs. 10:39.133 --> 10:41.900 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% The feral hog population in Florida is currently 10:42.000 --> 10:45.100 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% estimated at more than 500,000. 10:46.266 --> 10:48.300 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% Only Texas has more of these dangerous 10:48.400 --> 10:50.266 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% and disruptive animals. 10:50.366 --> 10:52.600 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% We only have 24 square miles left. 10:52.700 --> 10:55.166 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Sam Dorfman is with the Grassy Waters Preserve 10:55.266 --> 10:57.433 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% in West Palm Beach, Florida 10:57.533 --> 10:59.233 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% and he knows full well the destruction 10:59.333 --> 11:02.266 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% feral hogs can cause in their search for food. 11:03.266 --> 11:04.366 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% They come through. 11:04.466 --> 11:07.400 align:left position:12.5%,start line:59% size:77.5% And as they're rooting around, they disturb the soil. 11:07.500 --> 11:10.466 align:left position:22.5%,start line:59% size:67.5% And when they do that, they take that very fragile 11:10.566 --> 11:13.233 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% few inches of soil they turn it over. 11:13.333 --> 11:15.900 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% When that sun hits it, dries it up. 11:16.000 --> 11:20.533 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% The wind, causes erosion also creates an opportunity 11:20.633 --> 11:22.800 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% for invasive plants to get in there. CHARLES: Yeah. 11:22.900 --> 11:26.333 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: They also expose the roots of native trees which makes 11:26.433 --> 11:30.433 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% the trees extremely vulnerable in the next big storm. 11:30.533 --> 11:35.566 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Feral hogs date back to 1539 when Hernando de Soto landed 11:35.666 --> 11:39.866 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% on the west coast of Florida with 13 sow hogs from Cuba. 11:39.966 --> 11:41.133 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% Within one year, 11:41.233 --> 11:44.633 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% they had reportedly increased to 300. 11:45.800 --> 11:48.800 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% You've made your trap and you put corn in it, right? 11:48.900 --> 11:50.000 align:left position:40%,start line:89% size:50% Yes, sir. 11:50.100 --> 11:52.600 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Certified wildlife biologist Brian Shoch 11:52.700 --> 11:56.733 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% tracks and captures feral hogs for many government agencies. 11:56.833 --> 11:59.300 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% .in areas where the hogs are creating problems. 12:00.433 --> 12:04.533 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: He says the feral hogs can cause up to $800-million 12:04.633 --> 12:06.300 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% in damage every year. 12:06.400 --> 12:09.566 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% And they have the potential to severely affect agriculture 12:09.666 --> 12:12.000 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% throughout the United States. 12:12.100 --> 12:14.200 align:left position:42.5%,start line:77% size:47.5% BRIAN: They actually, in the state of Florida 12:14.300 --> 12:19.133 align:left position:15%,start line:5% size:75% are known to harbor at least 46 different parasitic 12:19.233 --> 12:21.733 align:left position:20%,start line:5% size:70% and infectious diseases. 12:21.833 --> 12:26.733 align:left position:10%,start line:5% size:80% Not to mention they are a vector for numerous 12:26.833 --> 12:30.600 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% foreign animal diseases that could be devastating 12:30.700 --> 12:32.700 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% to the agricultural community. 12:32.800 --> 12:37.700 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% It could not only devastate Florida's agricultural economy 12:37.800 --> 12:40.200 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% but have a tremendous impact 12:40.300 --> 12:44.000 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% on our national agricultural economy as well. 12:44.100 --> 12:47.666 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Feral hogs reproduce at a remarkable rate, 12:47.766 --> 12:51.566 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% anywhere from 18 to 22 offspring a season. 12:51.666 --> 12:53.733 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% They are big and aggressive enough to forage 12:53.833 --> 12:55.933 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% through a particular food source, 12:56.033 --> 12:59.433 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% leaving little leftover for native wildlife. 12:59.533 --> 13:02.533 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% The saw palmetto berries are a good example. 13:02.633 --> 13:04.933 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% So they'll come in here and all these different plants, 13:05.033 --> 13:07.600 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% they will route through this area and kind of 13:07.700 --> 13:08.600 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% chew these up. 13:08.700 --> 13:11.500 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And again this is you know, the saw palmetto 13:11.600 --> 13:14.666 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% are utilized heavily by native wildlife, 13:14.766 --> 13:17.300 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% by white-tailed deer, by turkeys, 13:17.400 --> 13:20.566 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% by black bears, by raccoons, and well, possums. 13:20.666 --> 13:25.566 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% So again, when you have a very prolific large mammalian species 13:25.666 --> 13:29.833 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% that is focused on resource, it can outcompete 13:29.933 --> 13:31.900 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% our native wild life. 13:32.000 --> 13:34.600 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Tracking and capturing the hogs can help to remove them 13:34.700 --> 13:37.533 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% from the wild, but that won't help in places like 13:37.633 --> 13:39.700 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% the Grassy Waters Preserve. 13:39.800 --> 13:42.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Sam Dorfman estimates there are several hundred hogs present 13:43.033 --> 13:45.066 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% here at any one time. 13:45.166 --> 13:47.066 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Government and sport hunters will target them 13:47.166 --> 13:50.433 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% in the wild, but hunters are not allowed to track prey 13:50.533 --> 13:51.900 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% in the preserve. 13:52.000 --> 13:55.566 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% Native alligators however have no such restrictions. 13:56.633 --> 13:59.933 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% So we hope during the wet season 14:00.033 --> 14:02.900 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% that these populations of hogs are more isolated. 14:03.000 --> 14:05.266 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% They can't do vast amounts of damage. 14:05.366 --> 14:07.333 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And that the alligators are gonna do their job, 14:07.433 --> 14:08.766 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% as an apex predator. 14:10.000 --> 14:13.066 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Florida is also the entry point for nearly three-fourths 14:13.166 --> 14:15.800 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% of all plants imported in the US 14:15.900 --> 14:19.400 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% and many are taking over intricately-balanced ecosystems 14:19.500 --> 14:21.533 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% developed over thousands of years. 14:21.633 --> 14:28.100 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 14:28.200 --> 14:32.000 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% NARRATOR: Stretching over 147,000 acres, 14:32.100 --> 14:35.033 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge 14:35.133 --> 14:37.100 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% protects the northernmost remnant 14:37.200 --> 14:39.200 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% of the historic Everglades ecosystem. 14:42.333 --> 14:45.700 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% It's a haven for rare and endangered native species, 14:45.800 --> 14:48.300 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% as well as flocks of migrating birds. 14:50.566 --> 14:53.233 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% But the refuge is battling an overwhelming threat 14:53.333 --> 14:55.033 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% from invasive plants, 14:55.133 --> 14:58.233 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% including one which could destroy critical parts 14:58.333 --> 14:59.866 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% of this habitat. 14:59.966 --> 15:02.566 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Rebekah, the average person probably can't recognize that 15:02.666 --> 15:06.100 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% there is an invasive exotic that's pretty bad on the list 15:06.200 --> 15:07.700 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% that's right here behind us. 15:07.800 --> 15:09.333 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% Can you tell us what it is? 15:09.433 --> 15:13.000 align:left position:25%,start line:59% size:65% Behind us you can see the lime green vine that 15:13.100 --> 15:14.366 align:left position:27.5%,start line:59% size:62.5% tends to stand out. 15:14.466 --> 15:17.433 align:left position:12.5%,start line:59% size:77.5% It's a slightly different color from the rest of the vegetation, 15:17.533 --> 15:21.366 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% is a plant called lygodium, or old world climbing fern. 15:21.466 --> 15:24.000 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% And it's really causing a lot of ecological damage here 15:24.100 --> 15:25.133 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% in the refuge. 15:25.233 --> 15:28.100 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% How did old world climbing ferns get here 15:28.200 --> 15:29.966 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% in south Florida in the first place? 15:30.066 --> 15:33.100 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% Lygodium arrived in south Florida through 15:33.200 --> 15:34.500 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% the nursery industry. 15:34.600 --> 15:37.700 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% And it was sold for landscaping purposes to homeowners 15:37.800 --> 15:40.233 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% who really liked it, because it was fast-growing, 15:40.333 --> 15:42.533 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% it was very hardy, difficult to kill 15:42.633 --> 15:45.266 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and it looks very beautiful trellising up in your yard, 15:45.366 --> 15:46.533 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% on your house. 15:46.633 --> 15:48.566 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% This fern is very good at surviving 15:48.666 --> 15:50.333 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% and spreading itself around. 15:50.433 --> 15:52.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% It's spread by spores. 15:52.266 --> 15:54.833 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% And they can get into the wind currents 15:54.933 --> 15:58.566 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and spread up to 40 miles, even more during a big storm, 15:58.666 --> 16:00.033 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% like a hurricane. 16:00.133 --> 16:02.766 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% How pervasive is the old world climbing fern 16:02.866 --> 16:05.300 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% in the refuge? 16:05.400 --> 16:09.133 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% Unfortunately, we have nearly 102,000 acres of, 16:09.233 --> 16:14.133 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% almost 142,000 acres that are impacted by lygodium. 16:14.233 --> 16:16.466 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% We actually have to canvass the entire refuge, 16:16.566 --> 16:20.466 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% looking for the fern to kill it before it takes over. 16:20.566 --> 16:22.466 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% CHARLES: So how do you get rid of this? 16:22.566 --> 16:26.033 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% What do you do to eradicate this vine? 16:26.133 --> 16:27.666 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% It's very difficult to fight. 16:27.766 --> 16:29.133 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% We still haven't found a chemical 16:29.233 --> 16:30.466 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% that will actually kill it. 16:30.566 --> 16:33.633 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% We can knock it back by manually cutting 16:33.733 --> 16:36.233 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% and spraying with herbicides. 16:36.333 --> 16:38.533 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% The problem is that it just knocks it back. 16:38.633 --> 16:39.933 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% It doesn't kill the rhizomes. 16:40.033 --> 16:42.000 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% So we have to be back out in six months 16:42.100 --> 16:44.533 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% or a year retreating the regrowth 16:44.633 --> 16:46.866 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% or otherwise we'll be in the exact same position 16:46.966 --> 16:49.600 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% we were before we treated it. 16:49.700 --> 16:50.900 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% CHARLES: Why don't we go out and check out some 16:51.000 --> 16:52.266 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% of this lygodium? 16:52.366 --> 16:58.566 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 16:58.666 --> 17:01.066 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% CHARLES: So, this stuff kind of stinks. 17:01.166 --> 17:02.133 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% Yeah, there's-- 17:02.233 --> 17:04.300 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% It definitely has its own unique smell. 17:04.400 --> 17:08.400 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And there's so much of it, it can be overwhelming. 17:08.500 --> 17:10.466 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% But you can see that this plant can grow both 17:10.566 --> 17:11.966 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% down on the ground, 17:12.066 --> 17:15.433 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% and then, all the way up into the canopy of the trees. 17:15.533 --> 17:17.500 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% And that is really one of the reasons 17:17.600 --> 17:19.566 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% that it's so damaging. 17:19.666 --> 17:22.833 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% Because you can see how densely it grows here-- 17:22.933 --> 17:24.200 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% CHARLES: Wow. 17:24.300 --> 17:27.633 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% REBEKAH: Preventing access to the tree island from any wildlife. 17:27.733 --> 17:30.366 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Eventually, it can cover all the native vegetation. 17:30.466 --> 17:33.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% You can see it's trying to start out, crowd out some 17:33.266 --> 17:34.800 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% of the native ferns here. 17:34.900 --> 17:37.700 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Ultimately, all of the native vegetation would die. 17:37.800 --> 17:41.333 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% And you would just be left with thick mats of lygodium. 17:44.066 --> 17:48.766 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Here in this tree behind us, you can see both live and dead, 17:48.866 --> 17:50.500 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% the brown lygodium. 17:50.600 --> 17:53.866 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Basically creating a ladder into the top of that tree. 17:53.966 --> 17:57.133 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% So naturally the fire would not get into the tops 17:57.233 --> 17:58.166 align:left position:35%,start line:89% size:55% of the trees. 17:58.266 --> 18:00.266 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% But the lygodium has now provided fuel 18:00.366 --> 18:01.733 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% all the way to the crown of the trees, 18:01.833 --> 18:05.966 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% which can actually kill the trees during a natural fire. 18:06.066 --> 18:09.166 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% So once the lygodium kills a tree island, 18:09.266 --> 18:11.833 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% what does that mean for the refuge? 18:11.933 --> 18:14.633 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% REBEKAH: Well, in Loxahatchee, it means a lot. 18:14.733 --> 18:16.700 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% There's a lot of ecological implications. 18:16.800 --> 18:20.233 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% One thing is that the habitat here in Lox, 18:20.333 --> 18:22.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% we have the highest density of tree islands throughout 18:23.033 --> 18:24.533 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% the entire Everglades. 18:24.633 --> 18:27.733 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% So losing our tree islands changes 18:27.833 --> 18:31.800 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% the fundamental structure of this refuge. 18:31.900 --> 18:34.600 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% And then, from a wildlife perspective, 18:34.700 --> 18:37.400 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% the wildlife in the Everglades depend really heavily 18:37.500 --> 18:41.400 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% on the tree islands, because it is the only upland area in, 18:41.500 --> 18:42.800 align:left position:37.5%,start line:5% size:52.5% you know-- CHARLES: That they can forage-- 18:42.900 --> 18:44.833 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% REBEKAH: ...vast acres of water. 18:44.933 --> 18:47.100 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% And so the deer are dependent upon them. 18:47.200 --> 18:48.900 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% Alligators nest on them. 18:49.000 --> 18:52.533 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% You know, wading birds roost and nest on them as well. 18:52.633 --> 18:55.166 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% So without the tree islands, we would see a collapse 18:55.266 --> 18:57.366 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% in our wildlife population, because they depend 18:57.466 --> 18:59.000 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% so heavily upon these islands. 18:59.100 --> 19:02.200 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% The lygodium renders them basically useless 19:02.300 --> 19:04.000 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% for our wildlife. Yeah. 19:07.933 --> 19:11.133 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: A short airboat ride soon reveals other invasive plants 19:11.233 --> 19:13.366 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% wreaking environmental havoc. 19:13.466 --> 19:16.266 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Fighting this battle requires an army of government 19:16.366 --> 19:19.400 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% and non-profit agencies working together. 19:21.500 --> 19:23.833 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% Biologist Kristina Serbesoff-King 19:23.933 --> 19:25.400 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% of The Nature Conservancy 19:25.500 --> 19:28.200 align:left position:37.5%,start line:83% size:52.5% specializes in invasive species, 19:28.300 --> 19:32.333 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% including the melaleuca tree, an import from Australia. 19:32.433 --> 19:34.000 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% The seed capsules look nothing like that. 19:34.100 --> 19:35.500 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% They're so like maybe fewer of them. 19:35.600 --> 19:36.733 align:left position:42.5%,start line:89% size:47.5% Right. 19:36.833 --> 19:39.133 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Originally imported as a decorative tree, 19:39.233 --> 19:42.533 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% it's enormous capacity for absorbing water was once 19:42.633 --> 19:45.700 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% considered a way to dry out the Everglades. 19:45.800 --> 19:47.766 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% The one gentleman got a lot of seeds. 19:47.866 --> 19:50.833 align:left position:12.5%,start line:5% size:77.5% It was a nursery here in Davie, Florida, and actually went up 19:50.933 --> 19:53.233 align:left position:35%,start line:5% size:55% in the 1930s, flew over the Everglades, 19:53.333 --> 19:55.100 align:left position:22.5%,start line:5% size:67.5% and sprinkled seeds out of his plane. 19:55.200 --> 19:57.366 align:left position:15%,start line:5% size:75% So that's one of the biggest introductions, 19:57.466 --> 19:59.200 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% which is probably what caused you know, a larger number 19:59.300 --> 20:01.066 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% of seeds to be out close to each, 20:01.166 --> 20:03.633 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and allowed these plants to really wildly reproduce. 20:04.633 --> 20:08.500 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Today, melaleuca has spread all the way north to Orlando. 20:08.600 --> 20:12.066 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Dense stands of trees have choked wide open marshes, 20:12.166 --> 20:14.633 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% making it harder for birds to find food. 20:15.633 --> 20:19.100 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Scientists are harnessing many tools to fight back. 20:19.200 --> 20:21.066 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% KRISTINA: A lot of what we do, 20:21.166 --> 20:23.633 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% in invasive plant control or weed control across the world, 20:23.733 --> 20:25.233 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% is called "Integrated Pest Management". 20:25.333 --> 20:27.366 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% So we're trying to find a whole bunch of different ways. 20:27.466 --> 20:29.766 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% So we'll cut 'em, we treat em' with herbicides, 20:29.866 --> 20:32.300 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% we try to find natural predators like the insects, 20:32.400 --> 20:34.766 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% biological controls that we can release on 'em. 20:34.866 --> 20:36.600 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Thinking that all of those pressures together 20:36.700 --> 20:38.566 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% can help us reduce the population. 20:38.666 --> 20:40.200 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% So Kris, I have a personal experience 20:40.300 --> 20:41.766 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% with the melaleuca. 20:41.866 --> 20:45.800 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% Back in my twenties, I was a member of 20:45.900 --> 20:47.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% the Everglades Restoration Movement. 20:48.033 --> 20:52.400 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% And we were just tired of the talk, and talk, and talk 20:52.500 --> 20:54.033 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% about the restoring the Everglades. 20:54.133 --> 20:57.566 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% And we decided that all we wanted was action. 20:57.666 --> 21:00.966 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% We weren't going to lobby, we weren't going to raise funds. 21:01.066 --> 21:02.300 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% On the weekends, because we were you know, 21:02.400 --> 21:03.933 align:left position:30%,start line:89% size:60% weekend warriors. 21:04.033 --> 21:06.700 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% We were cutting tens of thousands melaleuca 21:06.800 --> 21:09.266 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% from plucking them out of the you know, the ground 21:09.366 --> 21:11.200 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% the little-- to cutting trees that were 21:11.300 --> 21:12.600 align:left position:17.5%,start line:89% size:72.5% this big around, you know. 21:12.700 --> 21:16.700 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% After 10 years, we saw some very dramatic things. 21:16.800 --> 21:19.566 align:left position:12.5%,start line:89% size:77.5% We saw, the sponge-like affect. 21:19.666 --> 21:23.466 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% We saw waters actually returning as the trees dropped, 21:23.566 --> 21:28.033 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% water tables rose and the glades took on its normal look. 21:34.333 --> 21:37.033 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Wetlands aren't the only places reshaped 21:37.133 --> 21:38.933 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% by invasive plants. 21:39.033 --> 21:43.066 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% Drier landscapes can be infested by Brazilian pepper. 21:43.166 --> 21:45.400 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% Imported for its bright red berries, 21:45.500 --> 21:48.033 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% these fast-spreading, dense trees crowd out 21:48.133 --> 21:50.500 align:left position:32.5%,start line:89% size:57.5% native species. 21:50.600 --> 21:52.166 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% It creates a dense monoculture, which means 21:52.266 --> 21:54.800 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% when it grows, it grows so tightly that 21:54.900 --> 21:56.100 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% the only plant found 21:56.200 --> 21:58.166 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% in the entire area is Brazilian pepper. 21:58.266 --> 22:00.800 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% So there's no diversity, there's no other plants 22:00.900 --> 22:03.433 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% that are growing underneath it or amongst it 22:03.533 --> 22:04.900 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% and so-- you know, that creates 22:05.000 --> 22:08.366 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% a lot of different things, it shades out our native plants 22:08.466 --> 22:10.466 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% but also our wildlife, you know aren't quite-- 22:10.566 --> 22:13.066 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% It's not the food they necessarily need or want. 22:13.166 --> 22:15.266 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And so we've really changed that whole system to something 22:15.366 --> 22:17.266 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% that's not as desirable. 22:17.366 --> 22:19.900 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Once considered a way to beautify Florida, 22:20.000 --> 22:23.433 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% invasive plants now pose a never-ending threat. 22:23.533 --> 22:26.666 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% Only constant vigilance and on-going funding 22:26.766 --> 22:29.066 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% will keep them under control. 22:29.166 --> 22:34.066 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Old world climbing ferns, melaleuca, quin-- quinaria, 22:34.166 --> 22:36.300 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% you know, Brazilian pepper these problems are gonna be with us 22:36.400 --> 22:38.400 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% for a long time aren't they? 22:38.500 --> 22:39.633 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% Yes. 22:39.733 --> 22:43.366 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% You know, it's not all dismal though, we've got a quite 22:43.466 --> 22:45.600 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% a great group of people out here working on it. 22:45.700 --> 22:47.666 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% We have tools that we can employ, 22:47.766 --> 22:49.600 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% there's additional science and research going on. 22:49.700 --> 22:51.166 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% But they will be with us for a long time. 22:51.266 --> 22:53.033 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% I mean, they're gonna be with us forever. 22:53.133 --> 22:54.700 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% And we have to think of them that way, 22:54.800 --> 22:56.733 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% that even when we get 'em to low levels, 22:56.833 --> 22:58.133 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% we need continued funding 22:58.233 --> 22:59.300 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% and we're gonna have to be out here, 22:59.400 --> 23:00.766 align:left position:40%,start line:83% size:50% you know, keeping that maintenance, 23:00.866 --> 23:03.133 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% keeping 'em at a low level, so that the wildlife can thrive. 23:03.233 --> 23:04.933 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% So which one do you fear the most? 23:05.033 --> 23:06.100 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% Right, good question. 23:06.200 --> 23:07.233 align:left position:27.5%,start line:89% size:62.5% So of those three? 23:07.333 --> 23:08.933 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% None of 'em, it's the next one. 23:09.033 --> 23:11.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% Every one of those came in for some purposeful introduction 23:12.033 --> 23:14.300 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% which kinda gives an insight if we could really look 23:14.400 --> 23:16.200 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% at the next one to prevent and there's good science 23:16.300 --> 23:18.766 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% or predictive science on how a plant becomes invasive, 23:18.866 --> 23:21.366 align:left position:25%,start line:83% size:65% what characteristics make it invasive. 23:21.466 --> 23:23.000 align:left position:30%,start line:83% size:60% We could predict the next one and keep it from 23:23.100 --> 23:24.900 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% having to battle that one the next time. 23:25.000 --> 23:26.133 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% I guess our fight continues. 23:26.233 --> 23:27.333 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% Yeah. 23:27.433 --> 23:34.666 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 23:34.766 --> 23:37.366 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: Florida's tropical waters have also become home 23:37.466 --> 23:39.733 align:left position:20%,start line:89% size:70% to invasive fish species, 23:39.833 --> 23:43.500 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% now threatening delicate marine environments. 23:43.600 --> 23:45.933 align:left position:35%,start line:83% size:55% The lionfish, native to South Pacific 23:46.033 --> 23:48.600 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% and Indian oceans, is a vicious predator 23:48.700 --> 23:50.766 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% of native reef fish. 23:50.866 --> 23:55.766 align:left position:10%,start line:83% size:80% These invaders target local fish species which graze on algae. 23:55.866 --> 23:59.933 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% Losing these important grazers may cause algae to overgrow 24:00.033 --> 24:04.866 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% coral reefs and reduce habitat for corals and sponges. 24:04.966 --> 24:07.933 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% So far, only a few lionfish have appeared 24:08.033 --> 24:11.200 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% in the protected waters of Florida Bay. 24:11.300 --> 24:15.433 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% Scientists are carefully monitoring and removing lionfish 24:15.533 --> 24:17.766 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% from the park waters. 24:17.866 --> 24:21.200 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% Snorkel and diving enthusiasts have also been encouraged 24:21.300 --> 24:24.400 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% to hunt lionfish by netting or spearing. 24:24.500 --> 24:30.466 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 24:30.566 --> 24:33.766 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% NARRATOR: The Everglade's intricate web of unique ecosystems 24:33.866 --> 24:36.700 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% has given rise to an irreplaceable diversity 24:36.800 --> 24:38.433 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% of plants and animals. 24:38.533 --> 24:40.966 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% Now, it's increasingly under pressure 24:41.066 --> 24:43.000 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% by invasive intruders. 24:43.100 --> 24:45.300 align:left position:25%,start line:89% size:65% But what can be done? 24:47.600 --> 24:50.533 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% While dozens of government and non-profit agencies 24:50.633 --> 24:52.500 align:left position:22.5%,start line:89% size:67.5% are battling invasives, 24:52.600 --> 24:56.733 align:left position:12.5%,start line:83% size:77.5% environmental experts recommend these helpful steps: 24:56.833 --> 25:00.600 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% Don't release unwanted exotic pets into the wild, 25:00.700 --> 25:02.266 align:left position:15%,start line:89% size:75% turn them in to agencies like 25:02.366 --> 25:05.700 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 25:05.800 --> 25:08.733 align:left position:27.5%,start line:83% size:62.5% Check boat trailer, hulls, and propellers, 25:08.833 --> 25:11.966 align:left position:32.5%,start line:83% size:57.5% or hiking boots for invasive intruders. 25:12.066 --> 25:16.066 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% Replace invasive yard plants with native species. 25:16.166 --> 25:21.000 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% And report invasive plants and animals at ivegot1.org. 25:21.100 --> 25:23.900 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% There's even a free app for smartphones. 25:27.100 --> 25:31.366 align:left position:40%,start line:77% size:50% CHARLES: Original Florida, native Florida was blessed 25:31.466 --> 25:35.600 align:left position:15%,start line:83% size:75% with incredible biodiversity and breathtaking beauty. 25:35.700 --> 25:38.233 align:left position:17.5%,start line:83% size:72.5% But invasive exotic plants and animals 25:38.333 --> 25:41.166 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% have started to cost us that heritage. 25:41.266 --> 25:45.333 align:left position:22.5%,start line:83% size:67.5% We need to act quickly and need to act aggressively. 25:45.433 --> 25:49.033 align:left position:20%,start line:83% size:70% If not, we stand to lose all of this. 25:49.133 --> 25:55.133 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 25:56.500 --> 26:16.466 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪) 26:16.566 --> 26:36.566 align:left position:45%,start line:89% size:45% (♪♪♪♪♪)