Nestled along Florida’s northern Gulf Coast, the Apalachicola River and Bay system is a landscape rich in both natural and cultural heritage. For over 12,000 years, this region has supported diverse ecosystems and communities, from Indigenous groups to early industries like cotton, timber, and fishing. The area now faces mounting challenges, however: the impacts of climate and the subsequent loss of historical sites threaten the preservation of these communities’ stories. Ranking as one of Florida’s most under-resourced areas, there is an urgent need to document and preserve the region’s heritage while fostering connections with its current residents.

This webinar will spotlight the "People of the Apalachicola System" project, which combines archaeological research, digital modeling, and innovative community engagement to understand and protect the area’s cultural landscape within the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. Participants will learn about the project’s approach, including methods for engaging local voices through workshops and surveys, as well as how these efforts address threats to heritage resources. The webinar will also share preliminary findings, highlight effective strategies for fostering collaboration, and explore how these lessons can guide future preservation and education initiatives in similar at-risk areas. Join the session to discover how heritage and community are coming together to protect the stories of Apalachicola’s past and shape its future!