Because it binds all living organisms, water is often described as the lifeblood of the Florida Everglades. Historically, water flowed through the landscape as a broad, seasonal, slow-moving river, feeding a wide diversity of ecosystems along the way. Understanding how this water interacts with the physical and biological environment is critical in the ongoing protection of Everglades National Park.

The hydrologic monitoring network within the park includes 62 freshwater sites throughout the marsh and 37 marine/estuarine sites. The oldest stations began operation in 1949. Parameters measured include water level, rainfall, air temperature, water temperature, and salinity. Data from each station are automatically collected and are transmitted daily via radio telemetry. The monitoring program also conducts manual, bi-weekly flow measurements in Taylor Slough.