Nature-Based Shoreline Protection: Harnessing Wetlands and Living Shorelines
September 16, 2025 | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ET
ASLA Florida Members: $25 | Non-Members: $35 | Student: $10
Discover sustainable alternatives to seawalls with Nature-Based Shoreline Protection. This course explores how living shorelines and other natural approaches protect property, reduce risks, and restore coastal ecosystems. View successful Florida projects, learn about permitting requirements, and access resources to support your work. By the end, you’ll be ready to explore integrating nature-based solutions into your shoreline projects.
**Please be sure to provide your LA license number in your registration if you want to receive credit. *
Meet the Speaker:
Dr. Anna Braswell
Assistant Professor, Coastal Watersheds & Ecosystems
Florida Sea Grant Extension Specialist, University of Florida
Dr. Anna E. Braswell is a coastal ecosystem ecologist whose research explores the formation, persistence, and degradation of coastal ecosystems—especially in the intricate context of terrestrial, marine, and urban interfaces. She employs an interdisciplinary approach that blends geospatial analysis with field data to investigate phenomena such as disturbance impacts on marsh ecosystems and coastal ecosystem vulnerability to sea-level rise. Dr. Braswell’s work advances understanding and management of coastal watersheds through collaborative tools and educational products for stakeholders and resource managers. She earned her PhD in Environmental Science from Duke University (2017), an MS in Biological Sciences from the University of Alabama (2012), and a BA in Environmental Studies from Washington University in St. Louis (2006).
Moderator: Aurora Alcaide
Landscape Designer
Curtis + Rogers Design Studio
ASLA Florida Climate and Biodiversity Action Committee chair
Aurora Alcaide is a landscape designer at Curtis + Rogers Design Studio, a Miami-based firm specializing in sustainable landscapes for a resilient future. Her work focuses on urban waterfronts and climate adaptation projects that integrate ecology, economy, and social equity to address the complex challenges of climate change.
She has presented at state and national ASLA conferences on climate adaptation through design and currently serves as Chair of the ASLA Florida Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee. Aurora is also a WEDG Associate with the Waterfront Alliance, promoting sustainable and resilient coastal development practices.
Attendees will explore the living shoreline at Maurice Gibb Park in the City of Miami Beach through a guided tour highlighting its natural features and ecological benefits. The walk will include insights into native plantings, shoreline resilience strategies, and lessons learned from the installation process.
Get-Up-To-Date: Laws & Rules for Florida Landscape Architects
September 30, 2025 | 2:00 - 3:30 PM ET
ASLA Florida Members: $55 | Non-Members: $75
Join us for an insightful session with Jeff Littlejohn, P.E., as he explores key legislative and regulatory issues impacting design professionals today. This webinar will highlight current trends and emerging challenges in interdisciplinary coordination and cooperation at both the state and local levels. Topics will include the newly updated stormwater rule, ongoing artificial turf rulemaking, and the state’s deregulation efforts that continue to shape the profession. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed on the policies and practices influencing your work.
This session will provide Course # 15169; 1.5 credit - Laws & Rules & .5 CE – Optional
**Please be sure to provide your LA license number in your registration if you want to receive credit.**
Meet our Speakers:
Diana Ferguson, Hon. ASLA
Attorney & Lobbyist
Diana joined Rutledge Ecenia in January 2011 as an attorney and lobbyist. Her practice is concentrated in the areas of environmental and administrative law, regulated industries and government relations. She currently provides governmental advocacy services for several clients, including businesses, local governments, associations, and non-profit organizations. Prior to joining the firm, Diana provided legislative counsel to the Florida Association of Counties. In that capacity, she lobbied numerous environmental issues as well as other local government issues.
Jeff Littlejohn, P.E
Adams & Reese
Jeff Littlejohn is a professional engineer with more than 25 years of experience planning, designing, and implementing programs and projects to improve Florida’s water quality. He has particular expertise in water quality regulations and policy, having served as the Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
In 2021, Jeff joined Adams and Reese as a Senior Policy Advisor, focused on water, energy and environmental issues. Jeff is also a co-founder of National Stormwater Trust, a Florida-based smart infrastructure company, where he leads the company’s business development, regulatory and policy objectives.
Jeff graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering.
Kevin White, ASLA
ASLA Florida Member at Large for Advocacy & Licensure
Kevin White is a Senior Landscape Architect with England Thims & Miller Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida. Kevin received his Bachelor of Science, College of Agriculture, University of Florida and his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, College of Design, Construction and Planning, University of Florida - 2002 (1st graduating class of the 5-year accredited program). Kevin has been a committed member of ASLA Florida for 24 years and has served in various roles including President of the Chapter and currently serves as the Member at Large for Advocacy and Licensure.
ASLA Florida 2026 Annual Conference & Expo
July 15-17 | Walt Disney World® Swan and Dolphin Resort
Our 2026 Annual Conference + Expo, held July 15–17 at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort in Orlando, is themed Storyscapes: Weaving Narrative Into Place. This theme celebrates the role of landscape architects in shaping environments that tell stories, connect people, and strengthen our sense of place through innovation, collaboration, and stewardship.
Conference sessions will spotlight cutting-edge approaches in AI and technology, nature-based solutions, water management, native plant materials, and natural resource stewardship. Together, we’ll explore how narrative-driven design can inspire resilience, advance the practice, and spark new ways of thinking.
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If you are an ASLA Member in a different state, please reach out to info@aslaflorida.org for the registration code!
About the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
1200 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Cut Off Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
In the heart of Walt Disney World® Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is your gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The resort is located between Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Magic Kingdom® Park. The three-hotel complex features 23 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds® and the luxurious Mandara Spa. Enjoy six pools, three health clubs, nearby golf and special Disney benefits, including complimentary transportation to Walt Disney World theme parks and attractions.
Questions?
Please reach out to info@aslaflorida.org
ASLA Florida 2027 Annual Conference & Expo
August 5-7 | JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Save the Date: Thursday, August 5 - Saturday, August 7, 2027
Registration coming soon!
MISSION STATEMENT
CONTACT US
ASLA FLORIDA P.O. Box 841 Pensacola, FL 32591 Office: 850.480.7332
Email: info@aslaflorida.org