Riverwoods Field Laboratory

The Riverwoods Field Laboratory (RFL) is located on a historic section of the Kissimmee River and is managed by the Florida Center for Environmental Studies (CES) in partnership with the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). Established in 1995, Riverwoods' main objective is to support research and educational activities related to the restoration of the Kissimmee River and greater Everglades ecosystem. CES hosts research scientists, students, and technicians from state, national and international organizations including universities, water management districts and environmental agencies that are interested in learning about or conducting research on the Kissimmee River Restoration Project. CES, in collaboration with SFWMD, has developed a comprehensive Education and Research Program at Riverwoods targeting secondary and post-secondary students, educators, university faculty, scientists, and environmental professionals. The program highlights environmental education using the Kissimmee River as a living lab and model of the world’s largest river restoration. The program highlights the importance of the Kissimmee River restoration to the success of the greater Everglades ecosystem restoration that is outlined in the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP).