It is without question the greatest exotic species threat to the greater Everglades area. In addition, exotic animals, such as wild boars, are harming park resources. Because much of the park is largely inaccessible and inhospitable much of the year, people tend to remain in the park's developed areas for relatively short periods of time. Nonetheless, humans are adversely affecting the resources of the park. Recreational boating in Florida Bay is a serious internal problem.
Groundings are numerous and destroy seagrass beds, vital to the Bay's productivity.
In addition, poaching occurs, and in the northeastern expansion area, where ownership patterns are mixed, the dumping of toxic wastes and cars as well as other types of vandalism are apparent.