Flora, Fauna & Ecosystems
of
the Western Regions of Cuba
JUNE 3 - 14, 2025
A cultural & research trip trip to the natural areas of Viņales Valley National Park, Zapata Swamp Biosphere Reserve, Topes de Collantes Nature Reserve, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Viņales, Cienfuegos, and Old Havana, Cuba!
Embark on a captivating journey through Cuba's cultural and natural wonders on this
12-day,13 night adventure, immersing yourself in its rich history, vibrant landscapes,
and diverse ecosystems. This meticulously curated itinerary promises an exploration of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, promising an unforgettable experience.
When: June 3-14, 2025
Price:
• Land package: $3900 per person double occupancy. (travel insurance not included)
• Add $400 for a single supplemental ($4300)
• A deposit of $900.00 is required with registration to reserve your place
About Dr. Marc Minno
 |
Dr. Minno has a Ph.D. in zoology and over 22 years of professional experience as an
interdisciplinary scientist and ecologist. He currently serves as the Lead Ecologist and co-
founder of Eco-Cognizant, Inc. Formerly with the Saint Johns River Water Management
District (SJRWMD), Dr. Minno has worked on mapping wetlands in northeastern Florida,
restoring drained wetlands in the Upper Saint Johns River Basin, estimating harm to wetlands
and lakes from groundwater withdrawals, and was the lead environmental reviewer for the
SJRWMD Consumptive Use Permitting program from June 2002 through September 2011.
He has considerable experience in designing environmental monitoring networks and using
groundwater model results, soils, vegetation, water level data, Minimum Flows & Levels
(MFLs), and other information to determine impacts from water withdrawals. Dr. Minno helped
to develop a predictive model for estimating harm to natural systems from groundwater
withdrawals used in SJRWMD water supply planning.
He has been qualified as an expert in wetland ecology and Consumptive Use Permitting and
has testified at Administrative hearings. He has served as Chairman of the Southern
Lepidopterists’ Society, President of the Florida Association of Benthologists, and was chair
of the Environmental Measures Team of the Central Florida Water Initiative through
September 2011.
Dr. Minno is also keenly interested in conservation biology and has authored/coauthored six
books, five book chapters, and more than 90 other scientific articles. He has worked on the
biological control of invasive pest species such as Hydrilla, Cogongrass, Japanese Stiltgrass,
and Caribbean Fruit Fly.
Dr. Minno received an Award of Excellence in gratitude for exceptional performance and
dedicated commitment to excellence and the water resources of Florida, presented by St.
Johns River Water Management District, November 9, 2010. |
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