Q3 2025 IRL Newsletter

Project Updates

Photo Credit: ORCA

The Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) is proud to announce the latest round of community-driven projects funded through its Small Grants Program. These projects are focused on restoring and protecting the Indian River Lagoon while educating and engaging local residents. From hands-on science for kids to critical research about what’s in the fish we eat, this year’s funded projects highlight the many ways our community is stepping up to care for one of Florida’s most unique waterways.

One project, led by the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA), is using citizen science to better understand what kinds of pollution are ending up in the fish people commonly eat from the Lagoon. Over 300 volunteers have helped collect and study more than 1,400 fish, and this year, researchers will analyze fish for traces of sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone. These findings could help us understand more about how everyday products impact the Lagoon and our health.

Photo Credit: Smithsonian

The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit is making sure the next generation learns how to care for the Lagoon. Their project will bring hundreds of students from Fort Pierce to the St. Lucie County Aquarium for hands-on science experiences. Students will explore lagoon habitats, identify threats to the environment, and even suggest their own solutions to help. These activities aim to inspire kids to become lifelong Lagoon stewards.

Photo Credit: MRC

Marine Resources Council (MRC) is updating its long-running LagoonWatch program by adding new tools for volunteers to test for nutrient pollution, such as the excess nitrates and phosphates that contribute to algal blooms and poor water quality. With better tools and more data, community scientists will help fill important gaps in our understanding of where pollution is coming from and when it’s most harmful.

Brevard Zoo’s Lagoon Quest program continues to make waves by offering students a close-up experience on the Lagoon. Kids wade into the water, catch and identify animals, test water quality, and learn how our daily actions, like using fertilizer or flushing waste, can impact the health of the Lagoon. This kind of outdoor learning helps students build a real connection to nature and encourages Lagoon-friendly habits at home.

Photo Credit: ELC

The Environmental Learning Center is expanding its Lagoon education program to include fifth graders from Title I schools. Students will visit ELC for a day of exploring mangrove forests, meeting native reptiles, learning about erosion control, and even potting mangrove plants that will be used in future restoration efforts. The goal is to show students that even small actions can make a big difference.

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute is working to protect dolphins in the Lagoon from harmful fishing line entanglements. The number of entangled dolphins has doubled recently, and many cases go unreported. This project will raise awareness through videos, educational materials, and community outreach. It will also encourage people who live near the water to watch for signs of injured dolphins and provide new tools for proper fishing line disposal.

Photo Credit: MDC

Finally, the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) is continuing Project Plankton, which brings microscopes and hands-on lessons about tiny aquatic life straight into local schools. Plankton play a big role in the health of the Lagoon, and this program helps students understand that even the smallest organisms matter. By expanding their equipment and reaching more classrooms, they’ll connect more students to science without needing long bus rides or expensive field trips.

Each of these projects highlights just how powerful community-based actions can be. Whether through science, education, or hands-on restoration, each one helps move us closer to a healthier Indian River Lagoon. The IRLNEP Small Grants Program continues to be a great way to support the people and ideas making a real impact right here in our backyard. Learn more at OneLagoon.org

Management Conference Quarterly Meetings

The IRLNEP Management Conference conducted its most recent series of quarterly meetings in May. The Citizens' Advisory Committee met on Thursday, May 1, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the IRLNEP Offices in Sebastian. The Finance Subcommittee, Management Board and STEM Advisory Committee each met on Tuesday, May 6, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the IRLNEP Offices in Sebastian, and the IRL Council Board of Directors met on Friday, May 9 at Sebastian City Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m. 

Citizen’s Advisory Committee

The Citizens Advisory Committee met one week earlier than usual to make their funding recommendations for the Small Grants proposals that had been reviewed and ranked. This early meeting allowed the funding recommendation to be brought through the entire Management Conference for approval by the Board of Directors at their meeting on May 9. The committee heard a presentation from Community Engagement Coordinator, Heather Stapleton, entitled, My Plastic Diet, which documented common recycling practices, outlined why they are not always successful, and made recommendations for reducing plastics in our everyday lives. 

The Committee recommended the IRL Council Board of Directors accept the 2024 Independent Audit Report. They recommended the IRL Council Board of Directors approve the final ranked list of projects for the Small Grants Program and the Priority Communities Program, funding the top recommended projects consistent with funding availability and budgetary authority. The committee also recommended the Board approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Final Budget.  

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

Finance Subcommittee

The Finance Subcommittee reviewed the quarterly financial reports. It also recommended to the IRL Management Board that the IRL Council Board of Directors accept the 2024 Independent Audit Report and approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Final Budget.

For details of all business conducted at the Finance Subcommittee meeting, view the Meeting Packet.

 Management Board and the STEM Advisory Committees 

The Management Board and Stem Advisory Committee heard presentations from the five IRLNEP Seagrass Nursery partners that gave an update on the status and future directions for each of the seagrass nurseries.  

Both committees made recommendations to the IRL Council Board of Directors to accept the 2024 Independent Audit Report and approve funding for eligible Small Grants Program and priority communities projects. The committees also recommended the Board approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Final Budget.  

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. 

IRL Council Board of Directors

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:

• Welcomed Mr. Craig Hesterlee, U.S. EPA Region 4 representative. Mr. Hesterlee gave remarks that introduced himself to the Board and outlined EPA’s commitment to the NEP.
• As part of the Consent Agenda, the Board:
• Approved the minutes from their previous meeting.
• Made appointments for the Management Conference:
• Mike Johannsen, Indian River County, to the Management Board and Finance Subcommittee
• Heard presentations from the five IRLNEP seagrass nurseries outlining their accomplishments over the previous 3 years and directions for the future.
• Accepted the 2024 Independent Audit Report from Carr, Riggs & Ingram.
• Approved the final ranked list of projects selected for funding under the Priority Communities RFP, approved funding the top-ranked proposals consistent with available funds and budgetary authority, and authorized staff to negotiate contracts with the successful applicants.
• Approved the final ranked list of projects selected for funding under the Small Grants Program RFP, approved funding the top-ranked proposals consistent with available funds and budgetary authority, and authorized staff to negotiate contracts with the successful applicants.
• Approved the 2026 Final Budget;

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

NEWS FROM THE FRONT…

Local Government Happenings

We commend our municipal partners for their continuing commitment to preserving and protecting our IRL. Here's a look at what has been simmering as we head into the heat of summer! 

Oak Hill City Commission Prioritizes Stormwater Management  

Photo Credit: City of Oak Hill

The City of Oak Hill Commission recently held a productive discussion at their May 27, 2025, special workshop focused on improving stormwater management throughout the city. With flooding, drainage issues, and aging infrastructure being persistent concerns, the Commission and staff reviewed both short-term needs and long-term solutions to better manage stormwater and protect public and private property.

During the meeting, city staff presented a summary of goals and next steps to address high-priority areas. These include tackling drainage issues from North Putnam to Nancy Cummings Park; extending to Halifax Avenue; advancing the larger-scale project on Canal Avenue; and prioritizing problem spots at Halifax Avenue and Gaines Street. The discussion also highlighted concerns near Oak Bridge, as well as the importance of developing benchmarks to guide a comprehensive stormwater management strategy.

While maintenance remains a key component, the Commission emphasized that the City is looking beyond reactive measures. Staff are actively developing schedules and exploring potential partnerships to support routine ditch maintenance and public works coordination, ensuring stormwater infrastructure is properly managed over time.

The Commission also acknowledged the need for long-term funding strategies. A consulting engineer is currently conducting a study to help determine what a fair and reasonable stormwater management fee might look like for residents and businesses. This will help ensure that future stormwater improvements are both sustainable and equitably supported.

With consensus from the Commission, city staff have been directed to move forward with the proposed projects. As Oak Hill continues to grow and adapt, these efforts mark a proactive step toward protecting infrastructure, improving water quality, and preparing for future storm events.

Brevard County Reduces Lagoon Pollution Through Vegetation Harvesting 

Photo Credit: Brevard County Natural Resources

Brevard County is continuing its efforts to improve water quality and restore ecological balance in the Indian River Lagoon and Banana River Lagoon through a large-scale mechanical vegetation harvesting program. Focusing on the unincorporated areas of the county, this initiative plays a critical role in reducing excess nutrients that contribute to harmful algal blooms and poor lagoon health.

In the North Indian River Lagoon, the County mechanically harvested an impressive 8.5 million pounds of aquatic vegetation, resulting in the estimated removal of 11,532 pounds of total nitrogen and 2,252 pounds of total phosphorus. These nutrients, when present in high amounts, can fuel algae growth and damage the lagoon’s delicate ecosystem. By removing nutrient-rich vegetation, the county is directly reducing pollutant levels and improving water clarity and habitat quality.

Similar work was carried out in the Banana River Lagoon, where crews removed 286,700 pounds of vegetation, which translated to the elimination of 586 pounds of nitrogen and 79 pounds of phosphorus. Though smaller in scale than efforts in the northern lagoon, this work is vital for the Banana River, which has faced its own share of water quality challenges in recent years.

The Central Indian River Lagoon also saw progress, with 41,480 pounds of vegetation harvested, removing an estimated 80 pounds of nitrogen and 11 pounds of phosphorus. Every pound matters in the fight to restore these vital waterways, and even moderate reductions in nutrient levels can lead to significant long-term ecological improvements.

These harvesting efforts are part of Brevard County’s broader lagoon restoration strategy, Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL), supported by citizen-approved funding and long-term planning. It’s a reminder that protecting our waterways requires both high-level coordination and boots-on-the-ground action – and in this case, that action is measured in literal tons. With continued commitment, Brevard County will assist in bringing the lagoon system back to life, one harvest at a time.

Indian River County Commission approves interlocal agreement with City of Sebastian Community Redevelopment Agency for Septic to Sewer Project  

At their April 22, 2025, meeting, County Commissioners approved an interlocal agreement with the City of Sebastian to help reduce pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. The focus? Converting septic systems to sewer in the Sebastian Community Redevelopment Area (CRA). 

The project comes after more than a year of collaboration between the County and City, during which staff identified 188 parcels within the CRA that could benefit from conversion. Of those, 96 are developed but not yet connected to the sewer system. The project includes plans to install 13 new sewer mains with some along existing rights-of-way and others in areas where easements will be required. 

The City will contribute up to $100,000 for materials, while the County will oversee the project using internal resources to keep costs down. The County also plans to waive some connection and extension fees (potentially up to $250,000), though property owners will still need to pay the standard sewer impact fee. The agreement includes a shared benefit through BMAP credits, aimed at reducing nitrogen levels in the Lagoon by converting septic systems to centralized sewer systems.  

This initiative stands as a strong example of local governments working together on practical solutions to protect the environment while also serving their communities. While infrastructure work isn’t always glamorous, the long-term impact on water quality and public health is significant. All in all, the program is a steady step toward a cleaner Lagoon and a healthier community.  

St. Lucie County ramps up Derelict Vessel Program 

St. Lucie County’s Port, Inlet & Beaches (PIB) team continues its focused effort to remove derelict and abandoned vessels from the Indian River Lagoon, especially near the port and spoil islands. In partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), this initiative is improving safety, water quality, and habitat protection while ensuring compliance with state laws.

Since the beginning of the year, 19 vessels have been identified as abandoned or at risk. So far, 13 of these have been removed, returned to compliance, or addressed early enough to prevent further harm. County staff continue to work closely with FWC to go through the appropriate legal channels required for removals, helping to streamline the process and hold vessel owners accountable where applicable.

As of mid-year, 16 vessels are under active investigation by FWC. Of these, one has already been removed by the County and is pending closeout; another is awaiting a purchase order for removal. One vessel has been brought back into compliance by its owner, and two others are currently on administrative hold with FWC. Notably, four vessels are slated to be removed by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) due to damage associated with Hurricane Milton.

Seven additional vessels are in the investigation and due process phase. To improve efficiency, PIB staff conduct regular inspections to identify and document potentially derelict or at-risk boats. This allows FWC to prioritize their response efforts more effectively rather than relying on random searches. County staff have also been in frequent communication with FWC about specific concerns, such as vessels located near Harbour Pointe, which are currently under active investigation.

By maintaining consistent monitoring and communication with state agencies, St. Lucie County is strengthening its Derelict Vessel Program and protecting the health of the Indian River Lagoon. While progress depends on coordination and regulatory procedures, the County remains committed to seeing this work through—ensuring cleaner, safer waterways for residents, boaters, and marine life alike.

For more information about FWC’s derelict vessel program, visit: https://myfwc.com/boating/waterway/derelict-vessels/.

Seagrass recovery making strides in St. Lucie Inlet 

Martin County is making meaningful progress in the restoration of seagrass habitats within the Indian River Lagoon, thanks to a strong partnership with the Ecosphere Restoration Institute and support from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). As part of a statewide initiative to plant 100 acres of submerged aquatic vegetation, Martin County has already successfully permitted 31 acres and is well underway.

In collaboration with contractor Aquatech, the County has planted 14 acres of shoal grass (Halodule wrightii), a hardy native species that helps stabilize sediment, improve water clarity, and support wildlife. This effort has resulted in over 62,400 individual planting units being installed in priority areas, including the St. Lucie Inlet and north of the Jensen Beach Causeway in Stuart.

Photo Credit: Martin County

Progress continues steadily, in addition to occurrences of natural recruitment. As of mid-June, staff finished planting 2 additional acres in a two-day effort. On average, the team is now planting 2 to 3 acres per month, keeping restoration efforts on track and building momentum toward long-term goals. These plantings mark visible progress in areas previously damaged by storms, runoff, and algae-related water quality issues.

Looking ahead, Martin County plans to plant another 10 acres in 2025 and is developing a larger permit to expand restoration further in 2026. The next phases of the project will also introduce other vital native species, such as turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum) and manatee grass (Syringodium filiforme), to support a broader and more diverse ecosystem.

As underwater meadows begin to reestablish, they reflect steady, science-based progress toward improving the lagoon’s health. With continued support and coordination, we’re grateful to Martin County for its contributions to the long-term restoration of the IRL.

One Lagoon

One Lagoon, Many Hands: How Partnership Powers Progress

Photo Credit: Riverside Conservancy

The Indian River Lagoon is one of Florida’s most unique and important natural treasures. It’s home to dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and hundreds of fish and bird species. Keeping the Lagoon healthy takes more than just one person or one group; it takes many hands working together toward a shared goal. That’s why partnerships are at the heart of everything we do.

Across the Lagoon, scientists, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, schools, businesses, and everyday people are teaming up to protect and restore this special place. These partnerships make it possible to take on big challenges, like reducing pollution, restoring habitats, and educating the next generation of Lagoon stewards.

Photo Credit: Marine Resources Council

Some teams focus on science: collecting water quality data, studying fish health, or monitoring seagrass. Others lead hands-on restoration efforts, like planting oysters, clams, or mangroves. Many work in classrooms or out in their communities, helping people understand how their actions affect the Lagoon and what they can do to help.

For example, the University of Central Florida regularly works with the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida to restore oyster beds in Mosquito Lagoon. By combining their skills and resources, they can be efficient in reaching more people and having a greater impact. In another project, Brevard Zoo and Florida Oceanographic Society are working together to restore seagrasses, improve water quality, and bring back native wildlife.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Partnerships also help stretch funding further and help build community among groups focused on restoration. By working together, these groups share tools, staff, and knowledge. This collaboration leads to better decisions, stronger results, and a more connected network of people who care about the Lagoon and have the knowledge and tools to help keep it healthy.

Even local residents are part of this team. Volunteers test water quality with Marine Resources Council; organize shoreline cleanups alongside Coastal Connections Inc. and other groups; attend community meetings with wise words from Riverside Conservancy; and, work with a variety of groups to install native plants, clams and oysters to enhance living shorelines and lagoon ecology. Many people are also taking an active role in converting their home landscapes into Florida-Friendly or native gardens that are water-efficient, use less fertilizer and pesticides, and benefit local wildlife. Every action, big or small, adds up.

At the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, we believe that partnership is the key to long-term success. Whether you’re a scientist, teacher, parent, policymaker, or volunteer, there’s a role for you. When it comes to saving the Lagoon, it’s not about any one group doing it all. It’s about all of us, working together.

Photo Credit: Coastal Connections

One Community

The Benefits of Buffer Zones to the Indian River Lagoon

An Ocean Research Conservation Association volunteer plants native vegetation at Riverview Park in Sebastian. Photo Credit: ORCA

Buffer zones – vegetated areas along the edges of waterways – are emerging as vital allies in the fight to restore and protect the Indian River Lagoon. These zones act as natural filters, slowing down stormwater runoff, increasing infiltration, and trapping pollutants before they enter the lagoon.

Local organizations like Brevard Zoo’s Restore Our Shores, Space Coast Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, and Ocean & Research Conservation Association are demonstrating how effective and beautiful these green solutions can be. With the support of the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program’s (IRLNEP’s) Community-Based Restoration Grants, all three organizations have implemented notable buffer zone projects that are already making an impact.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Brevard Zoo’s Restore Our Shores program, also funded by the IRLNEP, recently installed four buffer zones across Brevard County at Pineapple Park, Geiger Point, Fisherman’s Landing, and Kelly Park East. These projects were carefully designed using native plants that thrive in Florida’s climate and provide habitat for local wildlife. The goal: reduce nutrient runoff and slow erosion, while also enhancing the natural beauty of public spaces.

At Riverview Park in Sebastian, Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA), with the help of more than 50 community volunteers, recently completed the second phase of a shoreline restoration project. This initiative targets land-based pollution, shoreline stabilization, and ecological restoration. This phase centered on installing a vegetated buffer zone designed to intercept stormwater runoff and trap pollutants, especially excess nutrients. This buffered shoreline builds on the success of phase one – breakwater segments using oyster reef balls.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Utilizing a small grant from the IRLNEP, the Space Coast Chapter of Surfrider Foundation tackled stormwater issues at Ballard Park. The Ballard Park gardens, planted with a rich mix of native species, create a living buffer that intercepts runoff before it reaches the Eau Gallie River and the lagoon. Surfrider Foundation also completed its Indialantic bioswale on Earth Day 2025. This project takes a different kind of approach, using a specially designed channel to filter pollutants from stormwater flowing off city streets.

These buffer zones don’t just protect the lagoon; they educate and engage the community. All three groups have rallied volunteers, local governments, and residents to get involved, showing that small actions add up to environmental wins.

Together, these projects demonstrate how collaborative, science-based solutions can make a lasting difference. By restoring native plants and rebuilding shorelines one buffer zone at a time, communities are helping protect the lagoon—and inspiring others to do the same.

Rooted in Community: Native Plant Movement Grows in Indian River County

Photo Credit: Pelican Island Audubon Society

Pelican Island Audubon Society (PIAS) has unveiled its fifth Florida Native Plant Education and Demonstration Garden at the Vero Beach Main Post Office on 13th Avenue. With help from 20 volunteers, the group planted 179 native plants across eight species, creating a vibrant and sustainable landscape that requires no chemical inputs, nor excessive irrigation.

This native plant garden joins others at Vero Beach Elementary School, The Beach Post Office, Indian River County Administration Complex, and Up Against Poverty to create a growing network of native plants showcased throughout Indian River County. Each of the gardens is inexpensive, small scale, and easily replicable.

PIAS is currently planning and fundraising for a sixth, and most ambitious native plant landscaping project to date. This project will enhance the entire perimeter of a brand-new Habitat for Humanity neighborhood in Indian River County with over 1,500 native trees, shrubs, and flowering plants. By surrounding this community with carefully selected Florida-native species, PIAS and Habitat aim to create a thriving wildlife corridor, restore essential habitat, and significantly improve biodiversity in the area.

Photo Credit: Pelican Island Audubon Society

Beyond beautifying the landscape and benefiting native wildlife, the project also serves as a living demonstration of sustainable, water-wise landscaping practices. Equally important, Pelican Island Audubon is committed to engaging new homeowners by offering guidance and encouragement to extend native plantings into their own yards, helping them become stewards of their environment and amplifying the ecological impact of this effort throughout the neighborhood.

Florida currently uses up to 88% of its summer drinking water on lawn irrigation. Native plant gardens offer a beautiful, low-maintenance alternative that helps reduce harmful runoff, protect local wildlife, and combat climate change.

Most of the PIAS native plant gardens are maintained by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer or simply find out more information, please email piaudubon@yahoo.com.

One Voice

What’s Up in the Watershed – A Webinar Series by IRLNEP

Stay connected to the health and future of the Indian River Lagoon with What’s Up in the Watershed, a lively and informative webinar series from the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP). Each month, leading scientists, restoration professionals, and community advocates join us live to explore the latest efforts in lagoon science, habitat restoration, water quality, and citizen action throughout the watershed. Whether we’re diving into stormwater solutions, wildlife conservation, or grassroots programs, every episode delivers accessible, in-depth conversations for anyone who cares about this vital Florida ecosystem.

Watch Live or On-Demand

Webinars stream live each month and are available on IRLNEP’s YouTube channel.

Upcoming Episodes

• July 9 – Living Shorelines for Homeowners
• August 6 – Living Docks Program in Indian River County
• September (Date TBD) – Septic to Sewer Conversion in Martin County

Recent Topics Have Included:

• Marine Discovery Center’s Shuck and Share program
• Brevard Zoo’s Restore Our Shores
• Indian River County’s Lost Tree Island restoration
• ORCA’s One Health Fish Monitoring
• FPUA’s Wastewater Treatment Facility

Stay Updated

Follow IRLNEP on social media for updates on new topics and upcoming live sessions.

Whether you’re a student, professional, educator, or engaged resident, What’s Up in the Watershed is your front-row seat to the science and solutions shaping the Indian River Lagoon and its surrounding communities.