Q2 2026 IRL Newsletter

Project Updates

Brings Shorelines to Life in Sebastian

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

At the City of Sebastian’s Riverview Park Kayak Launch, a once-vulnerable stretch of shoreline is being transformed into a living example of how nature-based solutions can protect and restore the Indian River Lagoon.

Through a partnership between the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, the Buffered and Living Shoreline Demonstration Project is showcasing how innovative shoreline designs can stabilize banks, improve habitat, and build public awareness.

The project began in November 2024 with the installation of a living shoreline, followed by a buffered shoreline in April 2025. Both installations were completed with the help of community volunteers, turning restoration into a hands-on, shared experience.

Over the course of the effort, 150 individual volunteers contributed more than 600 hours to installation, monitoring, and outreach. An additional 195 people participated through workshops, surveys, presentations, and an interactive photo-monitoring effort known as a “Chronolog,” which has collected more than 60 photos documenting the shoreline’s transformation over time.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

While community involvement is central to the project, researchers are also closely tracking how the shoreline is responding beneath the surface. Monitoring efforts focus on nutrient capture, sediment stability, and overall environmental improvements.

Early results are promising. Nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the sediment are steadily increasing—an expected and positive sign. Living shorelines act as natural filters, trapping excess nutrients in the soil rather than allowing them to remain in the water column, where they can contribute to harmful algal blooms. Organic matter in the sediment is also beginning to build and is expected to continue increasing as the project matures, further strengthening the shoreline and enhancing habitat.

Monitoring has also detected small amounts of glyphosate, a commonly used herbicide, in the water. Although the City of Sebastian does not apply glyphosate on its properties, trace levels are likely entering the lagoon through stormwater runoff from upstream areas or from use in surrounding neighborhoods. Understanding these inputs provides important context about the broader environmental pressures affecting the lagoon.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Encouragingly, physical changes to the shoreline are already visible. Scientists have observed signs of sediment accretion, meaning the shoreline is beginning to build rather than erode. An increase in medium-sized sediment particles suggests reduced wave energy at the site, a key goal of the project. In some areas, a “tombolo” (a natural sand formation connecting the shoreline to offshore oyster reef structures) has begun to form. This is clear evidence that the installed reef elements are slowing waves, trapping sediment, and stabilizing the shoreline.

Monitoring will continue to play a critical role moving forward. Scientists and trained volunteers will conduct quarterly assessments over the next three years, helping track long-term changes and compare results to similar projects across Florida and beyond.

Looking ahead, the project team plans to expand the living shoreline footprint in 2026, pending permit approval. The proposed expansion includes the addition of 96 oyster reef structures, which will further enhance habitat, improve water quality, and strengthen shoreline resilience.

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 on Tuesday, February 10, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the IRLNEP Offices in Sebastian. The Citizens’ Advisory Committee met on Thursday, February 12, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the IRLNEP Offices in Sebastian. The IRL Council Board of Directors met on Friday, February 13, at Sebastian City Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m.

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 2027 Tentative Budget.

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

 Management Board and the STEM Advisory Committees 

As it was the first meeting of a new year, election of officers was held. The Management Board elected Terri Breeden of Brevard County Natural Resources as Chair, and Laura Wilson of Marine Resources Council as Vice-Chair. The Stem Advisory Committee re-elected Dr. Chuck Jacoby of Florida Flood Hub as Chair, with Holly Sweat of the Smithsonian Marine Station elected as Vice Chair.

There were no presentations and no old business. New business focused on funding recommendations for the annual RFPs. The Management Board and STEM Advisory Committee reviewed and recommended approved of the ranked listing of projects for two Water Quality Restoration projects, two Community-Based Restoration projects, and nine Science and Innovation projects. No proposals were submitted for the Habitat Restoration category. They further recommended funding and directing staff to negotiate and enter into contracts with the top ranked projects in each category.

The Management Board and STEM Advisory Committee recommended approval of the FY2027 tentative budget and authority for staff to prepare and submit the 2027 Work Plan to the EPA before June 1. They also recommended staff to develop and advertise an RFP for a five-year independent audit contract. Staff provided updates on Community Engagement, IT and Data Science projects, and the Executive Director’s report.

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

Frank Catino was re-elected as Chair, and Thomas Heller was elected as Vice Chair. The Citizen’s Advisory Committee made recommendations to the IRL Council Board of Directors to accept the ranked listing of projects submitted under the annual Requests for Proposals call. They recommended funding top-ranked projects within budgets. Members raised issues for future discussion.

The CAC also recommended approval of the Fiscal Year 2027 tentative budget and authorized staff to submit the 2027 Work Plan to the EPA before June 1. They also recommended that staff develop and advertise an RFP for a five-year independent audit contract. Staff provided updates on Community Engagement, IT and Data Science projects, and the Executive Director’s report.

For details of all business conducted at the Citizens 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:

As part of the Consent Agenda, the Board:

• Approved the November 7, 2025, Board of Directors meeting minutes
• Contract #IRL2025-22 with Marine Discovery Center
• Board of Directors Appointments to the Management Conference:
  • Chad Truxall, Marine Discovery Center, from STEM to Management Board
  • Tess Sailor-Tynes, Marine Discovery Center, from Citizens’ Advisory Committee to STEM Committee
  • Campbell Rich, Treasure Coast League of Cities, to Management Board and Finance Subcommittee, replacing Tom Campenni

The Board elected its officers for 2026 with Ms. Sarah Heard, Martin County, moving from Vice Chair to Chair; Kim Adkinson, Brevard County, from Secretary to Vice Chair and James Clasby, St. Lucie County, to Secretary.

The Board accepted the Management Conference recommendations for the ranked lists of projects in each funding category and authorized staff to negotiate and enter into contracts with the top ranked proposals in each category consistent with funding availability. They also voted to direct the $100,000 remaining from the Habitat Restoration category, for which no proposals were received, to the second-ranked project in the Water Quality category.

The Board also approved the Fiscal Year 2027 tentative budget and authorized staff to submit the 2027 Work Plan to the EPA before June 1. They also directed staff to develop and advertise an RFP for a five-year independent audit contract. Staff provided updates on Community Engagement, IT and Data Science projects, and the Executive Director’s report.

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

Building on more than a decade of partnership with the IRL Council, our local governments continue to lead with action, demonstrating their shared commitment to protecting one of our region’s most vital natural resources.

ReGrow Volusia: Growing a Stronger, Greener Community Through Tree Canopy Restoration

Photo Credit: Volusia County

Launched in 2025, ReGrow Volusia is a community-centered initiative focused on expanding and enhancing the tree canopy across Volusia County. Through a combination of county-led planting projects, grant opportunities, educational programming, and volunteer engagement, the program reflects a comprehensive approach to strengthening the region’s green infrastructure. Recognizing that trees provide important environmental, social, and economic benefits, ReGrow Volusia is helping build a more resilient community while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

The program supports both public and community-driven planting efforts. County-led projects are funded through the Volusia County Tree Replacement Trust Account, which collects tree replacement fees associated with development and reinvests those funds into restoration. Planting efforts are focused on publicly accessible spaces such as parks, scenic corridors, bike trails, stormwater facilities, and conservation lands. In addition, public and private partners may apply for grants to support native tree planting projects on public lands, expanding opportunities for collaborative stewardship and local investment in environmental improvements.

Education and volunteerism are also key pillars of the initiative. Through partnerships with organizations such as UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County, Be Floridian Now, and the Lyonia Environmental Center, ReGrow Volusia offers free educational programs that promote sustainable landscaping practices and environmental awareness. Volunteer opportunities for hands-on restoration work, including invasive species removal and native tree planting that supports wildlife and pollinator habitats. By combining science-based planning, community participation, and environmental education, ReGrow Volusia is cultivating a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship. 

Check out the ReGrow Volusia Dashboard!

Rockledge Advances Advanced Wastewater Treatment to Protect the Indian River Lagoon

The Rockledge City Council took an important step toward improving water quality in the IRL during its February 18, 2026 meeting by approving the next design phase of its Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) project. This work is part of the City’s compliance with requirements under the Clean Water Act mandating that wastewater facilities discharging into the lagoon meet stricter treatment standards to reduce nutrient pollution. The upgrades are intended to significantly reduce nitrogen and other contaminants that can contribute to algal blooms, seagrass loss, and declining estuarine health.

To advance this effort, the project is being implemented through a progressive design-build approach, which allows engineers, contractors, and City staff to collaborate through design, permitting, and cost development before construction begins. Phase 1A, which included field sampling and evaluation of treatment alternatives, was completed in 2025. The newly approved Phase 1B will focus on detailed engineering design, regulatory permitting, and development of a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), providing cost certainty before the city moves into construction. 

The Phase 1B work, valued at approximately $2.76 million and expected to take about 16 months. Once completed, the project will move into construction and commissioning, positioning Rockledge to meet regulatory standards while demonstrating regional leadership in lagoon protection. Together, these investments highlight the City’s commitment to modernizing critical infrastructure, protecting water resources, and supporting the long-term restoration goals shared by agencies and environmental partners throughout the watershed.

Vero Beach Advances Septic-to-Sewer Conversions to Protect the Indian River Lagoon

Photo Credit: City of Vero Beach

In a continued commitment to improving water quality in the Indian River Lagoon, the Vero Beach City Council recently voted unanimously to expand septic-to-sewer conversion efforts into unincorporated areas of Indian River County. This decision reflects a growing regional focus on reducing nitrogen pollution, a major contributor to declining lagoon health. By extending wastewater infrastructure beyond city limits, Vero Beach is demonstrating leadership in addressing one of the most persistent sources of nutrient pollution affecting this nationally significant estuary.

Central to this effort is the use of Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) technology, which redirects wastewater from individual septic systems into the city’s centralized sewer system. This approach prevents nitrogen and other harmful substances from infiltrating groundwater and eventually reaching the lagoon. The city has identified priority “basins” for expansion based on their proximity to canals, waterways, and other hydrologic connections that directly influence lagoon water quality. Areas such as Basin 10, located near the Main Relief Canal, highlight the urgency of this work, as groundwater from these neighborhoods can quickly carry pollutants into habitats used by fish, dolphins, and other wildlife.

STEP systems offer both environmental and community benefits. Using small-diameter pipes, these systems can be installed at less than half the cost of traditional gravity sewer systems while minimizing disruption to neighborhoods. This technology also reduces the need for extensive excavation, helping to preserve mature landscaping and the iconic oak trees that define many of these communities. By combining environmental protection with cost-effective infrastructure solutions, the program represents a balance between ecological restoration and community preservation.

Recognizing the financial challenges that infrastructure upgrades can present, the city is offering residents in designated basins up to $3,390 in credits toward STEP system installation, with additional assistance available through community partners such as the Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County. Implementation of the program is already underway, with construction beginning in priority mainland neighborhoods and expansion to barrier island communities anticipated by 2027. City officials expect that once infrastructure is in place, residents will have a 12-month window to take advantage of available financial incentives. Through strong partnerships, strategic investment, and community engagement, Vero Beach’s septic-to-sewer initiative represents meaningful progress toward restoring the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

St. Lucie County Advances Proactive Stormwater Maintenance to Strengthen Community Resilience

St. Lucie County further demonstrates its commitment to protecting water quality and strengthening stormwater infrastructure through ongoing drainage maintenance efforts across the county. As part of this work, the County’s Water Quality Division is strategically using the dry season to conduct inspections and maintenance activities that help ensure stormwater systems function effectively before the onset of the rainy season. This proactive approach reflects the County’s dedication to protecting both neighborhoods and downstream waterways.

Photo Credit: St. Lucie County

Since October,  swale maintenance has been conducted in communities including Lakewood Park, River Park, and Indian River Estates. This work includes clearing and reshaping swales to improve drainage capacity, as well as vacuuming culvert pipes to remove accumulated sediment and debris. Following this work, the county conducts detailed inspections, documenting pipe conditions, and identifying potential structural concerns that could compromise drainage performance.

These inspections focus on early warning signs of culvert failure, including soil depressions near drainage structures, erosion beneath driveways, sediment discharge from pipe outlets, and corrosion of metal pipe sections. Identifying these issues early is critical, as a failing culvert can significantly reduce or even block stormwater flow, potentially affecting drainage across entire neighborhoods. Once issues are identified, residents receive detailed inspection reports and are given 30 days to respond or take corrective action.

To help residents address these infrastructure needs, St. Lucie County offers a Culvert Assistance Program designed to reduce financial barriers to replacement. For qualifying homeowners, the program allows costs to be deferred and incorporated into annual property taxes over a 10-year period. This approach helps ensure necessary infrastructure improvements can move forward while minimizing financial strain on residents and supporting long-term neighborhood stability. Through ongoing maintenance, technical oversight, and resident assistance programs, St. Lucie County continues efforts not only improve drainage reliability but also contribute to broader water quality protection goals throughout the region.

Cypress Creek Restoration: Reconnecting the Headwaters of a Nationally Significant River

Photo Credit: Duck Unlimited

The Cypress Creek Restoration Project represents a significant step forward in the protection and recovery of the headwaters of the Northwest Fork of the Loxahatchee River, one of southeast Florida’s federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. At the heart of this effort is the restoration of a former 340-acre row crop farm back to native wetland and upland habitats through strategic land contouring and the reestablishment of native vegetation. This work plays a vital role in the broader hydrologic restoration of a 2,934-acre landscape that includes flatwoods, depression marshes, cypress strands, creeks, and sloughs. By restoring natural sheet flow and historic drainage patterns, the project will strengthen ecological productivity and improve resilience throughout these critical riverine headwaters and the downstream waters they support.

This large-scale restoration effort reflects strong regional collaboration among the South Florida Water Management District, Martin County, Palm Beach County, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The former agricultural parcel at the center of the project area will undergo significant restoration activities including ditch filling, reconnection of previously impounded wetlands, installation of culverts and low water crossings, and re-establishment of native habitats guided by historic aerial imagery. Previous site preparation has already included soil improvements, well capping, and invasive plant treatment. Together, these efforts will restore hydrologic connectivity across the landscape and recreate the natural conditions necessary to support fish, wildlife, and downstream water quality.

Equally important to the project’s success is the ongoing management of invasive plant species and the commitment to adaptive management following restoration. At least 15 invasive plant species have been identified within the project footprint, including emerging regional threats that require immediate attention following ground disturbance. Project partners are contributing both funding and technical expertise for invasive species control, monitoring, hydrologic modeling, and long-term management to ensure restoration goals are achieved. Through careful planning, shared investment, and strong interagency partnerships, the Cypress Creek Restoration Project stands as a model of watershed stewardship and reflects a shared commitment to protecting the ecological integrity of the Loxahatchee River system.

Students Shine at Regional Indian River Lagoon Envirothon

On February 26, the Regional Indian River Lagoon Envirothon brought together some of the brightest young environmental minds for a day of outdoor, hands-on competition at the Environmental Learning Center.

Hosted by the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP), this annual event reflects the program’s ongoing commitment to protecting and restoring the lagoon through education, community engagement, and stewardship. By connecting students directly with the natural environment, the IRLNEP helps inspire the next generation of scientists, conservationists, and informed citizens.

Eighteen teams representing four counties participated in this year’s event, demonstrating their knowledge, teamwork, and passion for natural resource conservation. Envirothon is a field-oriented academic competition that challenges students in aquatic ecology, forestry, soils and land use, wildlife, and a current environmental issue. The Indian River Lagoon regional competition, also features a sixth category focused on the unique ecology of the lagoon itself.

Students rotated through testing stations, tackled real-world environmental problems, and presented solutions, building critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills along the way.

This impactful event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose contributions ensure that participation remains free for all students.  Very special shout outs go to the Environmental Learning Center for hosting this year’s competition and to Special District Services for their generous sponsorship of the event.

We also extend our deepest appreciation to the dedicated volunteers and Steering Committee members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and on the ground. From organizing logistics and coordinating stations to judging competitions and mentoring students, their passion and commitment made the day a success.

Celebrating Our Top Teams

Congratulations to all participating teams for their hard work and enthusiasm. This year’s county winners, who will advance to the Florida State Envirothon competition, are:

• Brevard County: Melbourne High School’s Bullsharks
• Indian River County: St. Edward’s Pirates
• St. Lucie County: St. Andrew’s Lagooners
• Seminole County: Trinity Prep’s Blue Tailed Skinks

Taking top honors overall, the St. Edward’s Pirates from Indian River County earned the highest score in the region.

A Strong Showing from Middle School Teams

This year’s competition also highlighted the growing strength of middle school participation. Notable performances included The Red Wolves from Edgewood in Brevard County and the Blue Team from St. Edward’s in Indian River County, both of which demonstrated impressive knowledge, teamwork, and enthusiasm throughout the event.

From Uplands to Lagoon: Connecting Florida’s Landscapes to the Indian River Lagoon

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Florida’s uplands are an essential, yet often overlooked, part of the state’s conservation story. While wetlands tend to receive much of the attention, Florida’s ecosystems function not as isolated pieces but as a patchwork mosaic, each component connected, interdependent, and vital to the health of the whole.

Uplands play a critical role in this mosaic. These higher, drier landscapes often surround and buffer wetlands, creating natural transitions that support a wide diversity of plant and animal life. Rather than acting as separate systems, uplands and wetlands are tightly linked. Water, nutrients, and wildlife move between them, forming a dynamic network that sustains Florida’s remarkable biodiversity.

One of the most important functions of uplands is their contribution to wildlife corridors. Many species depend on large, connected habitats to feed, breed, and migrate. Uplands provide the space and continuity needed for these movements, helping maintain healthy populations and genetic diversity. Without these corridors, wildlife can become isolated, leading to long-term ecological decline.

Uplands are also essential for aquifer recharge. Rainwater that falls on these landscapes filters slowly through sandy soils, replenishing the underground freshwater reserves that supply drinking water to millions of Floridians. Along the way, upland habitats act as natural filtration systems, improving water quality before it reaches wetlands, rivers, and estuaries.

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Even systems like the Indian River Lagoon are influenced by upland health. What happens on the land directly affects the water. Nutrient runoff, sediment, and pollutants can travel from uplands into connected waterways, making responsible land management critical to protecting the lagoon’s ecological balance.

Recognizing these connections is key to effective conservation. That’s why education plays such an important role. The Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) has been working to deepen public understanding by helping teach classes in the University of Florida’s Florida Master Naturalist Program. These courses encourage participants to take a closer look at Florida’s ecosystems as a whole, rather than viewing them in isolation.

Recently, IRLNEP wrapped up assisting with the Uplands Module of the Florida Master Naturalist Program in partnership with the Indian River County IFAS Extension. The course provided participants with hands-on learning experiences and a deeper appreciation for how uplands contribute to the broader environmental picture.

As Florida continues to grow, fostering this kind of awareness is more important than ever. Protecting uplands means protecting water resources, wildlife habitat, and the health of connected systems like the Indian River Lagoon.

For those interested in learning more or participating in future classes, please contact Heather Stapleton at stapleton@irlcouncil.org.

One Lagoon

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Join Us in Living Lagoon-Friendly

Photo Credit: IRLNEP

Restoring: Hand in Hand with Removing

After removing invasives, consider Restoring your landscape with native Florida plants that bring immediate and lasting benefits for wildlife, water quality, and even your own maintenance routine.

Native plants are adapted to Florida’s climate; they typically require less water, fertilizer, and care once established. Even better, they provide the exact food and habitat that local wildlife has evolved to depend on.

Restoring your landscape with native Florida plants does more than improve curb appeal; it rebuilds the ecological foundation that supports wildlife across the Indian River Lagoon region. Native plants are uniquely adapted to local conditions. At the heart of this effort are keystone species like the Southern live oak, which function as true biodiversity powerhouses.

Live oaks and native trees play an outsized role in the environment because they support entire food webs. Research has shown that a single live oak tree can host more than 500 species of caterpillars. These caterpillars are essential in that they are the primary food source for nesting birds. Even bird species that eat seeds as adults depend almost entirely on soft-bodied insects like caterpillars to raise their young. In fact, one brood of chickadees can require thousands of caterpillars to successfully fledge.

This highlights a critical truth: if native plants disappear, so do the insects that rely on them. Without enough caterpillars, bird populations decline. Yards filled with non-native or ornamental plants may still look lush and green, but they often function as ecological “deserts,” supporting very little wildlife.

Native plants, especially trees like live oaks, red maple, and sweetgum, reverse that trend by providing the specific food sources that native insects have evolved to use. Most insects are specialists, meaning they can only feed on certain plants.

Expanding tree cover helps improve air and water quality, bolster stormwater performance, reduce heat and energy demand. Increased tree canopies also play a vital role in protecting the Indian River Lagoon by filtering stormwater runoff, stabilizing soils to prevent erosion, and reducing the volume and velocity of runoff entering local waterways. These benefits help keep sediments, nutrients, and contaminants from reaching the Lagoon, supporting its ongoing restoration and long-term health.

Beyond trees, incorporating a diversity of native plants, those that produce fruits, seeds, nectar, and foliage, creates a layered habitat that supports wildlife at every level.

Groundcovers, shrubs, and canopy trees work together to provide food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. Adding larval host plants and nectar sources invites butterflies to complete their full life cycle in your yard.

For those living along the water, restoring a living shoreline extends this impact even further. By replacing hard edges with native vegetation and natural materials, living shorelines stabilize banks, filter runoff, and create habitat for fish, crabs, and birds, all while enhancing the resilience of your property.

Restoration isn’t just about planting, it’s about reconnecting pieces of a larger system. When you add native plants, especially keystone species like live oaks, you’re not simply landscaping, you’re rebuilding food webs, supporting wildlife, contributing to the long-term health of the lagoon and shoreline resiliency.