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Big Cypress National PreserveAn anole, a tropical species of lizard, on a branch.
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Big Cypress National Preserve
Commercial Visitor Services

The NPS must determine what types of commercial activities are necessary and appropriate at Big Cypress National Preserve. All commercial activities must operate in a manner that is consistent with the mission of the  Preserve and NPS. That is to say, all commercial activities operating within the Preserve should provide high quality visitor experiences while protecting important natural, cultural, and scenic resources. The 1991 General Management Plan and other planning documents identified the Preserve mission or purpose to provide and protect, in perpetuity, the natural, scenic, hydrologic, and recreational values and cultural resources.

Operating any type of commercial visitor service within Big Cypress National Preserve without written authorization from the United States is a violation of Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations. It is a citable offense. If you are in doubt, please contact the Big Cypress National Preserve either by mail, telephone, or in person.

Right of First Refusal
There are two federally recognized tribes residing within and near the Preserve – The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. In order to ensure the rights provided by Congress to the recognized Tribes, before entering into any contract or agreement to provide new visitor services, including Commercial Use Authorizations, the NPS will offer the right of first refusal to each of the Tribes. More...

Big Cypress National Preserve Commercial Services Plan

Authorized Services and Limitations

Application Schedule

Application and Requirements

Commercial Operator Training

NPS Commercial Services Website

If you have questions related to commercial visitor services within the Preserve click here to email.

A great white heron scratches its neck. Notice the color of the legs.  

Did You Know?
The Great White Heron is very similar to the Great White Egret. However, look closely and you will see that the heron has yellow legs, while the egret has black legs. The Great White Heron is found only in South Florida in the United States. It can also be found on several Caribbean Islands.

Last Updated: September 21, 2009 at 15:36 EST