Q2 2025 IRL Newsletter

From Duane’s Desk

It is March 27, 2025. I am writing this message at the Atlanta International Airport waiting for my connecting flight home after four days in Washington D.C. speaking to members of Congress during Coast Week on Capital Hill and participating as a panelist for a bipartisan Congressional Estuary Caucus event. It was my great honor to be able to introduce Congressman Brian Mast, one of the four co-chairs of the Caucus. Waiting for my connecting flight on the way home, I found myself reflecting about discussions with members of Congress or their staff. The trip brought back powerful memories of my childhood that have influenced me throughout my professional career and life.

photo credit: IRLNEP

For a period during my childhood, I thought that I wanted to be a historian. The spark was lit on a family road trip that included visits to our nation’s Capital, its historic monuments, and the breathtaking beauty of the cherry trees in full bloom. That same road trip included George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Virginia and the hallowed ground of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. I have often wondered if the central figures of those times realized that their actions, and in some cases sacrifices, would become part of the storied history of the United States.

What do my ponderings have to do with the Indian River Lagoon? The National Estuary Program (NEP) was authorized by the U.S. Congress in 1987 through amendments to the Clean Water Act. Two core components of that authorization were the creation of a Management Conference to serve as a non-regulatory, cooperative governance assembly of scientists, resource managers, policy makers, and citizens charged with a common goal to develop and implement a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). That decision by Congress was historic. It helped ensure that matters of clean water were addressed and managed locally utilizing local knowledge and expertise. Since that time, the 28 estuaries in North America and the territory of Puerto Rico that are designated as NEPs have received broad bipartisan support in Congress for both reauthorization and annual appropriations. The next Congressional reauthorization of the NEP is in 2026.

Those of us in the Indian River Lagoon region find ourselves in a historic moment. Multiple local, state, and federal initiatives and investments are in alignment with a common vision to restore the Indian River Lagoon system. Individually and collectively those efforts are improving wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, restoring natural habitats, reducing the frequency and intensity of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), and improving water quality to support a healthy seagrass ecosystem, the foundation for a healthy lagoon. With continuing public support and financial investments from local, state and federal sources, we are bringing the Lagoon back to health. Federal designation of the IRL as an estuary of national significance and the connected leadership of the IRLNEP Management Conference provide the framework for enhanced communication, cooperation and collaboration among stakeholders throughout the IRL watershed. The road to recovery is still long. Success is achieved one project at a time. If we get it right, history will look back at this decade and the decade ahead as times of visionary, bold action, and decisive leadership. The IRL Council Board of Directors, the IRLNEP Management Conference, and the entire staff are dedicated to making the dream of a healthy IRL system a reality.

Sebastian Community Re-develoment Area Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Program: Improving Water Quality for the Indian River Lagoon

photo credit: The City of Sebastian

The City of Sebastian is making strides in protecting the Indian River Lagoon through its Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Program. This initiative helps property owners transition from septic systems to the Indian River County sanitary sewer system. By switching to sewer service, property owners are directly helping to improve the health of the lagoon by removing harmful nitrogen pollution from local waterways. Septic systems release nitrogen into the ground, which can eventually make its way into the Indian River Lagoon. High nitrogen levels contribute to algal blooms, fish kills, and poor water quality.

From 2019 to 2022, the Indian River Lagoon Council provided $100,000 in funding to launch the City of Sebastian’s initial Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Program. These funds enabled 17 property owners to transition from septic systems to the county sewer system, successfully removing 19 septic tanks and reducing an estimated 171,856 grams of nitrogen from entering the lagoon. Each participant received financial assistance to reimburse construction costs upon completion of their conversion.

Following the success of the initial phase, the City of Sebastian is working to secure additional state funding to continue the program. As part of this effort, Sebastian is working in collaboration with Indian River County to meet new state requirements that mandate septic-to-sewer conversions or upgrades to enhanced nutrient-reducing septic tanks by July 1, 2030. With an estimated 11,000 to 12,000 septic tanks in the city. The city remains committed to expanding septic-to-sewer conversions within the Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) district, further reducing nitrogen pollution and improving water quality on properties adjacent to the IRL.

As part of its commitment to lagoon preservation, the City of Sebastian is actively reaching out to property owners in the CRA district to encourage participation. By working together, we can protect the Indian River Lagoon and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.

For more information on the program, visit the City of Sebastian’s website.

For more information on Indian River Lagoon projects, visit the IRLNEP Master Project Map on OneLagoon.org

Management Conference Quarterly Meetings

The IRLNEP Management Conference conducted its most recent series of quarterly meetings in February. The Finance Subcommittee, Management Board and STEM Advisory Committee each met at the IRLNEP offices in Sebastian on Tuesday, February 11, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Citizens’ Advisory Committee met on Thursday, February 13 at 1:30 p.m., and the IRL Council Board of Directors met on Friday, February14 at Sebastian City Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Finance Subcommittee

 Management Board and the STEM Advisory Committees 

The Management Board and Stem Advisory Committee each held their annual election of officers for 2025. The Management Board unanimously reelected Beth Powell, Indian River County Parks as Chair and Terri Breeden, Brevard County, as Vice Chair. The STEM committee unanimously reelected Dr. Chuck Jacoby, Florida Flood Hub, as Chair and Chad Truxall, Marine Discovery Center, as Vice Chair.

Both committees heard a presentation entitled, Runoff to Resilience – Smart Watersheds, a project of the Nature Conservancy’s Brightstorm program. Team members Matt Rea and Jennifer Carpenter shared details about a pilot study being conducted in Brevard County to bring new technologies to use in managing stormwater ponds with more efficiency. Following a multi-year modeling and design phase, the project will proceed to pilot implementation and real-world testing. The Indian River Lagoon was selected due to its numerous stormwater ponds and the openness of regulators, policymakers, and the public to adopt technological solutions. Funding for modeling development is provided by private philanthropy.

Both committees made recommendations to the IRL Council Board of Directors to approve The slate of projects reviewed and ranked in response to the annual funding call of proposals. They recommended the IRL Council Board of Directors approve the final ranked list of projects, funding the top recommended projects consistent with funding availability and budgetary authority. One project in the Water Quality category will be funded; two in Habitat Restoration; one in Community-Based Restoration; and two in Science and Innovation.

The committees also recommended the Board approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Tentative Budget; the FY 2026 EPA and BIL workplans; and authorize staff to enter into negotiations with the lowest bidder responsive to the Invitation to Bid call for a replacement to the current IRLNEP vessel.

For details of all business conducted at the Management Board meeting, view the Meeting Packet.

For details of all business conducted at the STEM Advisory Committee meeting, view the Meeting Packet.

Citizen’s Advisory Committee

The Citizens Advisory Committee held their annual election of officers for 2026, unanimously reelecting Frank Catino as Chair and Tess Sailor-Tines as Vice Chair. The committee heard a presentation from Olivia Redding, Coastal Connections, entitled Let’s Tackle Fishing Line Debris, which addressed monofilament recycling in Indian River County. This project is funded through the IRLNEP.

The Committee recommended the IRL Council Board of Directors to approve the slate of projects reviewed and ranked in response to the annual funding call of proposals. They recommended the IRL Council Board of Directors approve the final ranked list of projects, funding the top recommended projects consistent with funding availability and budgetary authority. One project in the Water Quality category will be funded; two in Habitat Restoration; one in Community-Based Restoration; and two in Science and Innovation.

The committee also recommended the Board approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Tentative Budget; the FY 2026 EPA and BIL workplans; and authorize staff to enter into negotiations with the lowest bidder responsive to the Invitation to Bid call for a replacement to the current IRLNEP vessel.

For details of all business conducted at the Citizens Advisory Committee meeting, view the Meeting Packet.

IRL Council Board of Directors

photo credit: IRLNEP

The week of quarterly meetings concluded with the IRL Council Board of Directors meeting, which incorporated all the recommendations from the Management Conference.

The Board of Directors:

• Elected its slate of officers for 2025 in keeping with the usual rotation among county commissioners. Joe Earman was elected Chair, Sarah Heard was elected Vice Chair, and Kim Adkinson was elected as Secretary. The board honored Mr. Brower with an IRLNEP oyster gavel to thank him for his service.
• Approved minutes from their previous meeting;
• As part of the Consent Agenda, the Board:
• Made appointments to the Management Conference:
  • Affiliation change for Olivia Escandell from Brevard Zoo to Florida Fish and Wildlife
  • Chandler Keenen, FDEP to the Management Board, replacing Diana Turner
  • Jennifer Thera, FDACS, to Management Board, replacing Yesenia Escribano
  • Adam Dyer, Space Coast League of Cities, to Management Board and Finance Sub-committee as new representative replacing Stu Glass, who will remain as an at-large member
  • Thomas Heller, Jupiter Narrows Conservation Alliance, currently serving on the Citizens’ Advisory Committee, adding the Finance Sub-committee
• Heard a presentation entitled, Runoff to Resilience – Smart Watersheds, a project of the Nature Conservancy’s Brightstorm program. Team members Matt Rea and Jennifer Carpenter shared details about a pilot study being conducted in Brevard County to bring new technologies to use in managing stormwater ponds with more efficiency.
• Approved the final ranked list of projects, funding the top recommended projects consistent with funding availability and budgetary authority. One project in the Water Quality category will be funded; two in Habitat Restoration; one in Community-Based Restoration; and two in Science and Innovation.
• The Board also:
  • Approved the 2026 Tentative Budget;
  • Authorized staff to complete and transmit the FY 2026 EPA Work Plan and EPA BIL Workplan.
  • Authorized staff to enter into negotiations with the lowest bidder for the replacement of the IRLNEP work vessel in accordance with established procurement procedures.

For details of all business conducted at the IRL Council Board of Directors meeting, view the Meeting Packet.

photo credit: IRLNEP

NEWS FROM THE FRONT…

Local Government Happenings

We commend our municipal partners for their commitment to preserving and protecting our IRL. Here’s a little sampling about what’s happening in the watershed as we SPRING INTO ACTION.

Volusia County Council Special Meeting Updates Stormwater Management Policies

At their February 11, 2025, Special Meeting, Volusia County Council members voted to implement a voluntary Low-Impact Development (LID) and Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) program. This decision follows the work of the Environment and Natural Resources Advisory Committee (ENRAC) and the County Engineer, who were tasked with evaluating the county's stormwater ordinance and strengthening standards to prevent flooding on adjacent properties. 

During the meeting, officials discussed common problems with stormwater systems, such as storms exceeding design standards, inaccurate seasonal high groundwater elevation estimates, and soil condition changes during construction. Other concerns included incorrect tailwater elevations, issues with discharge structures, and concentrated stormwater flow from development. Recent rainfall data from DeLand and Daytona Beach showed that after a relatively dry period from 2006-2016, the region has experienced above-average rainfall, limiting groundwater recovery between storms. 

photo credit: Volusia County Government/volusia.org

The newly adopted ordinance encourages environmentally–friendly stormwater management techniques that reduce runoff and increase natural filtration. By incorporating features such as rain gardens, permeable pavements, and vegetated swales, the program will help mitigate the impact of development on local waterways while also improving resilience against extreme weather events. 

As part of the first set of recommendations, ENRAC proposed several measures to improve stormwater management, including adding a 6-inch safety factor to seasonal high water table elevation estimates, requiring two pond borings per acre for stormwater facilities, using more conservative soil classifications, and involving county staff in setting tailwater elevations. Future recommendations will be based on ongoing basin studies.

By adopting these amendments, Volusia County is taking proactive steps to enhance stormwater management and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit Volusia County's ENRAC official website. 

Rockledge and Brevard County Mark 100th Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Milestone 

The City of Rockledge, working in conjunction with Brevard County, has reached an exciting milestone with the completion of the 100th project under the Save Our Indian River Lagoon initiative. This achievement highlights the city's dedication to keeping the lagoon clean and healthy for everyone to enjoy.

photo credit: Brevard County

The latest improvement includes a 1.4-million-gallon flow equalization basin added to Rockledge's wastewater treatment system. Installed upstream of the secondary treatment process, this basin helps optimize the plant's performance by providing a steady feed of wastewater, preventing system overloads during periods of increased flow. As a result, the facility can now reduce nitrogen levels in reuse water by an impressive 50-85%. 

By enhancing wastewater treatment efficiency, this project plays a crucial role in reducing nutrient pollution entering the lagoon. Excess nitrogen contributes to harmful algal blooms, which can degrade water quality and harm marine life. The City of Rockledge's proactive approach sets a strong example for other communities working to protect the Indian River Lagoon.  

As efforts continue under the Save Our Indian River Lagoon program, milestones like this show how collaboration and strategic planning can make a big difference in preserving natural resources for future generations. Funded by the ½ cent sales tax that Brevard County residents voted to impose on themselves in 2016, the program is designed to address excess nitrogen and phosphorus pollution through a variety of projects. These initiatives focus on reducing pollution inputs, removing legacy loads of pollution, and restoring natural filtration systems to improve the health of the lagoon. To learn more about the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan, visit Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan. 

Pelican Island Anniversary Event Joins Indian River County Centennial Celebration 

photo credit: IRLNEP

Indian River County is marking a significant milestone—its 100th anniversary! Established on June 29, 1925, the county has grown into a vibrant community known for its rich history, natural beauty, and the cherished Indian River Lagoon. The centennial festivities are in full swing, running from January to June 2025. There will be lots of opportunities to immerse yourself in the region's rich past through captivating historical exhibits, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities that create a festive atmosphere showcasing the county's thriving community. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a fun-filled day, Centennial celebrations have something for everyone.

photo credit: IRLNEP

One of the standout events of the celebration was the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge 122nd Anniversary Festival, which took place on March 15, 2025. This festival honored the nation's first wildlife refuge, established in 1903, and its ongoing legacy of conservation. Visitors enjoyed guided tours, educational exhibits, and interactive activities that highlighted the importance of protecting local ecosystems. The event also featured guest speakers, live entertainment, and opportunities to learn about the refuge's rich history and significance to Indian River County. Our Community Engagement Coordinator, Heather Stapleton, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating, "The 122nd anniversary celebration was an absolute delight! With live music filling the air, the beautiful weather setting the perfect backdrop, and a celebratory mood embracing both the Indian River Lagoon and the nation's very first national wildlife refuge." 

As Indian River County continues to celebrate its centennial milestone, residents and visitors are encouraged to get out and enjoy the many events happening through the end of June. It's a great chance to engage with the community, learn about local history, and take part in activities on the Indian River Lagoon that highlight the county's heritage. Visit Indian River County's website for the celebration schedule.  

Protecting White City Park: Phase 2 of Shoreline Stabilization 

On March 4, 2025, the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners approved a $400,000 grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) to support the next phase of shoreline stabilization at White City Park. This funding, along with County funds, will allow for $800,000 to be available to complete this project, which includes design, shoreline stabilization structures constructed, and the restoration of the original access road to its original condition and use. This is a crucial step toward addressing the severe erosion that has impacted the park's shoreline due to storms and heavy boat traffic. 

photo credit: IRLNEP

Over the years, this erosion has not only damaged the park's natural landscape but has also begun to threaten the perimeter roadway, making certain areas unsafe for visitors. To address this growing concern, St. Lucie County is seeking additional funding for Phase 2 of the shoreline stabilization project. This phase aims to reinforce 300 linear feet of the shoreline, preventing further erosion and ensuring the safety of park visitors. 

Beyond public safety, stabilizing the shoreline will also have long-term environmental and economic benefits. By securing the land, the project will reduce the need for costly dredging in the future, as it will prevent sediments from entering the waterways and obstructing navigation to and from the St. Lucie River and its adjoining waterbodies. 

Preserving White City Park is a priority for the community, and this critical effort will help maintain its beauty and accessibility for years to come. White City Park is one of St. Lucie County's oldest parks and is in the middle of the County off Midway Road on the St. Lucie River. Stay tuned for updates on this project and how you can support ongoing preservation efforts at this treasured location. 

Martin County establishes Environmental Lands Oversight Committee 

Martin County has taken a significant step toward protecting its natural resources with the establishment of the Environmental Lands Oversight Committee (ELOC). At their February 11, 2025, meeting, the Board of County Commissioners officially created the ELOC following voter approval of a referendum which authorized a one-half cent government infrastructure sales tax for ten years. This tax will fund the acquisition of environmentally significant lands or conservation easements in designated areas throughout Martin County. 

The ELOC is tasked with ensuring citizen oversight of land acquisitions funded by the surtax. The committee will conduct and coordinate necessary studies to determine which lands should be acquired and will provide recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. 

The ELOC will consist of nine members representing different sectors of the community, including environmental organizations such as Martin County Forever, The Everglades Foundation, Rivers Coalition, and Audubon of Martin County. Additionally, members will be appointed from organizations focused on fiscal oversight, real estate, economic development, and agriculture, including the Martin County Taxpayers Association, Martin County Realtors Association, the Economic Council of Martin County, the Martin County Farm Bureau Inc., and the University of Florida IFAS Extension Martin County's 4H Youth Development Program. 

With the creation of the ELOC, Martin County reinforces its dedication to preserving and protecting its valuable natural resources. This committee will play a vital role in ensuring that tax revenues are used effectively to safeguard the county's environmental future. Visit Martin County's website for more Land Acquisition information. 

photo credit: Martin County Government/martin.fl.us

One Lagoon

The 2025 Indian River Lagoon Symposium: Science, Collaboration, and a Changing Climate

photo credit: IRLNEP

The Indian River Lagoon Symposium, held in February 2025, was a fantastic gathering of scientists, students, resource managers, and community members, all coming together to share the latest research and ideas for protecting our lagoon. Held at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, , the event focused on The IRL in a Changing Climate, exploring how global and local changes are affecting water quality, wildlife, and restoration efforts.

Day 1 featured a full lineup of technical presentations, with researchers diving into topics from seagrass restoration to water quality monitoring. The poster session in the evening offered attendees a relaxed setting where they could connect and discuss projects..

Day 2 was all about collaboration and communication—a fast-paced forum where speakers had just five minutes to share key insights and spark exciting conversations among researchers, environmental organizations, and resource managers. The discussions focused on strengthening partnerships and finding real-world solutions for the lagoon.

A highlight of the symposium was the Indian River Lagoon Council’s award for Promising Scientist, presented to Sarah Newton, a graduate student at Florida Atlantic University, for her research on sediment nutrients and seagrass health in the southern lagoon. Congratulations, Sarah!

This year’s symposium was a great success, reinforcing the importance of working together to protect the Indian River Lagoon.

photo credit: IRLNEP

One Community

Trees & the IRL

photo credit: IRLNEP

Did you know that a natural tree canopy plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the Indian River Lagoon? Trees are not just beautiful; they are vital for our environment.

Here's how they help:

• Preventing Additional Pollution: Trees act as natural filters, trapping pollutants from the air and water, which helps keep our lagoon clean.
• Increasing Carbon and Nutrient Absorption: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and nutrients, reducing the impact of climate change and preventing nutrient overload in the lagoon.
• Preserving Tree Canopy and Natural Areas: A healthy tree canopy supports biodiversity, providing habitat for wildlife and maintaining the natural beauty of our region.
• Providing Aquifer Recharge: Trees help water infiltrate the ground, replenishing our aquifers and ensuring a sustainable water supply.

photo credit: IRLNEP

What Homeowners Can Do

We understand that some homeowners may be concerned about the potential storm damage from trees. Here are some steps you can take to enjoy the benefits of trees while minimizing risks:

• Regular Tree Maintenance: Have a certified arborist inspect your trees regularly. Pruning dead or weak branches can reduce the risk of storm damage.
• Planting the Right Trees: Choose native tree species that are well-suited to your area. These trees are more resilient to local weather conditions.
• Proper Planting Techniques: Ensure trees are planted at the correct depth and distance from structures to promote healthy growth and stability.
• Creating Windbreaks: Plant trees in strategic locations to act as windbreaks, reducing wind speed and protecting your property during storms.
• Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in place for storm events, including knowing how to safely secure your property and when to evacuate if necessary.

Pelican Island Audubon's Trees for Life Program

photo credit: IRLNEP

Pelican Island Audubon Society's (PIAS) Trees for Life program is a fantastic initiative aimed at planting 100,000 native trees to improve community health, provide shaded roadways, and increase economic stability. This program offers free native Florida trees, such as live oak, mahogany and bald cypress, to help support local wildlife and waterways. Thus far, PIAS has distributed over 13,000 trees free of charge!

For more specific tree care information, homeowners can visit the following online resources:

• UF IFAS: Find the right plant for the right place. https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/apps/plant-guide/
• Arbor Day Foundation: Comprehensive tree care tips, including selecting, planting, and maintaining trees. https://www.arborday.org/tree-care-maintenance
• Pelican Island Audubon Society: Information on native plants and their benefits for the local ecosystem. https://pelicanislandaudubon.org/trees-for-life-plants-for-birds/

Leaves, along with other organic matter, can contribute to nutrient over-enrichment in the lagoon. This can lead to excessive algae growth, which depletes oxygen levels in the water and suffocates marine life. Planting buffer zones, composting or disposing of leaves properly, and never blowing leaves (nor grass clippings) into streets and storm drains can significantly reduce excessive organic matter from entering water ways.

You can contribute to the health of the Indian River Lagoon and enjoy the many benefits that trees provide. Let's work together to protect our environment and create a sustainable future for generations to come!

One Voice

2025 Regional IRL Envirothon Competition

photo credit: IRLNEP

On February 19, 2025, the IRLNEP, state and county partners held the Regional IRL Envirothon Competition that brought together passionate young environmentalists at the City of Sebastian’s Friendship Park, Boys & Girls Club, and Indian River County’s North Sebastian Conservation Area. The event was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and knowledge of students from across the region.

During the competition, students rotated through various stations, each focusing on a different environmental topic.

Aquatic Ecology: Students tested water samples for quality indicators such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity. They also identified aquatic organisms and discussed the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Forestry: Participants learned to identify tree species, measure tree height and diameter, and understand forest management practices. They also explored the importance of forests in carbon sequestration and habitat preservation.

Soils: Students examined soil samples to determine texture, composition, and fertility. They also discussed sustainable land use practices and the impact of soil health on agriculture and the environment.

Wildlife: Teams identified various wildlife species and their habitats. They also learned about conservation strategies and the importance of biodiversity in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Current Environmental Issue: This year’s focus was on “Roots and Resiliency: Fostering Forest Stewardship in a Canopy of Change.” Students analyzed case studies and proposed solutions to contemporary environmental challenges.

Indian River Lagoon Ecology: Unique to the IRL regional competition, this station highlighted the biodiversity of the Indian River Lagoon. Students identified local species, discussed the lagoon’s ecological significance, and explored conservation efforts to protect this vital estuary.

Congratulations to all the amazing teams at the Regional IRL Envirothon!

photo credit: IRLNEP

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the adult volunteers. Without your contributions, the event could not have taken place. Your dedication and hard work ensured a smoothly run event and provided an invaluable experience for all the participants. Your positive influence and commitment to being environmental role models shine brightly. You are the inspiration that our young environmentalists look up to, and your impact cannot be overstated.

To our amazing teachers – thank you for your support and encouragement of your teams. Your guidance and mentorship are the cornerstones of their success and growth. While not every team can take home the top prize, the true victory lies in their participation, learning, and the passion they bring to the competition. Your efforts in fostering this spirit are deeply appreciated and celebrated!

A huge shoutout to the Bulldogs from Melbourne High (Brevard), the Soilmates from Saint Edward’s School (Indian River), and the Sea Monkeys from St. Andrews Episcopal Academy (St Lucie) for advancing to the State Envirothon! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we can’t wait to see you shine at the state level!

Let’s also give a special round of applause to the top middle school team, the Pirate Grey Team from St. Edward’s School (Indian River County)! Your outstanding performance is an inspiration to us all.

Best of luck to everyone moving forward and keep up the fantastic work!

We look forward to Regional IRL Envirothon 2026!