This is an evening of famed speakers, unique art, wine, spirits, live music, and delectable food in recognition of our esteemed partners and individuals who have helped shape some of today’s most crucial lagoon conservation wins. Proceeds benefit the Marine Resources Council’s efforts to protect and conserve our cherished Indian River Lagoon.

Each year talented and dedicated conservationists are identified by the MRC Membership and honored through a nomination process. The winners will be announced during the ceremony Febuary 22.

This formal event is open to the public. Each ticket includes 2 complimentary adult beverages and choice of entree (Roasted Prime Rib, Spicy Grouper, Tuscan Marinated Chicken, or Roasted Vegetable Tower) with salad, & dessert.

Support & Sponsorship - This event offers unique in-person experiences and actionable insights led by leading lagoon scientists, educators, and advocates offering high-impact sponsorship opportunities. To secure your sponsorship, vendor space, or donate to the auction effort at this great event, please contact Steve at SharkeyMRC@gmail.com. ($100 - $1,000 sponsorship's are now available. Please view the event ticket options for sponsorship details.)

What happens to all the water that drains off our roofs, lawns, and streets? Where does it go? How does it affect our health and the water quality of the Lagoon so many enjoy? What is being done to help clean it before it enters our waterways? To find out, join the Marine Resources Council (MRC) and the City of Melbourne ECO Division on December 16, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. for a baffling virtual field trip supported by Lagoon Loyal!

Our special guest, Dani Straub, will be giving a tour of the Sherwood Park Stormwater Project to give us an awesome look into how runoff pollution can be filtered through rain gardens, retention ponds, and baffle boxes before draining into the Indian River Lagoon. This is the 50th project of the Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) restoration program. Join us for an eye-opening event to get a closer look at how the City along with other partners are working to reduce litter and chemicals from entering our waterways.

This 60-minute virtual field trip is geared toward youth grades 4th and up, but is open to all ages. Participants will have the chance to ask questions through the Q&A box that will be answered toward the end of the presentation. Participants are also encouraged to email questions to the MRC’s Programs Coordinator, Bri Forte, at [Field Trip|bri@mrcirl.org] by December 15.

Please register here for the free event and the Zoom link and login information will be in your confirmation email. The field trip presentation will be streamed live and available to watch through the MRC’s Facebook page. If you are experiencing technical difficulties or need to leave early, the program will be recorded and posted to the MRC’s YouTube channel a few days after the event.

Meet Our Guest Speaker!

Dani Straub has worked with the City of Melbourne for the last 16 years. She is currently the City’s Engineering Project Manager and is the person that came up with the idea for the stormwater system featured in the next virtual field trip, “Baffling Baffle Boxes”. When she is not at work using her engineering degree, she is a busy mom chauffeuring two hockey-playing children around the state. For rest and relaxation, Dani watches her favorite hockey team, the Washington Capitals.

2021-2022 Charter Review Commission to Examine Home Rule Charter

The Brevard County Home Rule Charter requires that every six years, a Charter Review Commission be appointed for the purposes of reviewing the existing Charter. The Charter Review Commission is made up of 15 members, three appointees from each of the Brevard County Commissioners to represent their Commission Districts. The Commission has elected Mr. Mike Haridopolos as the Chair.

The Charter Review Commission is scheduled to meet on a regular basis until its sunset date of August 12, 2022.

If any individual, group, or organization has a desire to comment on the Charter or offer any amendments, you may appear before the Charter Review Commission during Public Comment at any of the scheduled meetings.

Download: Charter Review Commission Meeting Agenda for June 23, 2022

Proposal 6 - Right to Clean Water Amendment

The June 23rd Brevard County Charter Review Commission meeting agenda includes consideration of Proposal 6 - Right to Clean Water.

"Clean water means waters that are free of further governmental harm. The intent of this Section is to achieve waters that are safe for fish and native wildlife and human recreation and, for public drinking water sources, for human consumption; that have sufficient habitats, water filtering, and nutrient cycling to support thriving populations and diverse communities of native fish and wildlife; that have natural flow regimes, to include recharging groundwater, as possible; and that have other intact ecological processes and functions that support healthy aquatic ecosystems, as pertinent to the waters at issue."

Right to Clean Water Executive Summary

Brevard County residents and organizations respectfully request members of the Charter Review Commission (CRC) to consider amending the charter to ensure present and future generations are able to protect themselves and their interests from harm.  The “Right to Clean Water” proposal creates a local cause of action for equitable (declaratory or injunctive) relief, which may include a “polluter pays” form of restorative relief.  As the proposal’s ultimate design will depend on the will of the CRC members and public comments, Attachment 1 is provided as a skeletal framework.  Attachment 2 provides the legal basis and argument that the County has the authority to enact this measure and that state preemption language found in Fla. Stat. 403.412 (9)(a) does not apply.  

This proposal starts off with the premise:  Brevard County has the power and duty to protect itself and its residents, businesses, visitors and economy from legalized harm.  

Legalized harm is caused by the action or inaction of federal and state governments, be it erratic definitions of health, harm, public interest, various scientific standards or environmental impact considerations or requirements; poor staffing, budgeting or resourcing decisions; substandard design or enforcement of basin management action plans or nutrient load limits; continued permitting of substandard or inappropriately located onsite septic systems; inappropriate use of fertilizers, herbicides; etc.  Waters such as the Indian River Lagoon have suffered from and continue to be impacted by substandard but legal government harm.  Missing from the current system is the ability to effectively challenge such continued or planned harm.  We believe it is the people’s inherent right to question and stop such practices to better protect themselves, their families, their businesses, and their communities.

The problem isn’t a lack of strong environmental laws in Florida, nor is it due to a string of illegal pollution.  The problem *set* is systemic and more like death by 1,000 papercuts, which is comprehensively difficult and expensive to remedy for large water bodies such as the Indian River Lagoon, much less to fully restore.  To make sense of our hundreds-of-millions of taxpayer dollar investment, we must be able to establish a stopgap – a “do no (more) harm” mandate, and allow individuals, businesses and nonprofits to engage in the litigation to arrive at a better system.  Courts will rule in equity, considering what’s possible, what harm is preventable, and declare certain actions or policies of inaction to be in violation of the Right to Clean Water.  Courts may award declaratory or injunctive relief, to either prevent harm or, if sufficient evidence is presented, to restore waters to their condition just before the harm occurred.  Outside of attorney’s fees and court costs (which can be awarded to prevailing plaintiffs), any money that changes hands will be applied (earmarked) directly to the restoration of waters.  Courts have the power to ensure government agencies do what the law says they should do.

A no-cost, apolitical solution to restore ecological balance for all to enjoy is a win-win opportunity.  The only opponents to such a measure will be those who benefit and wish to continue to benefit from exacting harm on Brevard’s shared natural resources under the current system, and their banner will likely point to some property rights fear.  This proposal only strikes at legalized “rights” to pollute or otherwise irresponsibly degrade waters, infringing on the rights and substantial interests of everyone else.  This proposal provides Brevard County a way to pivot back to good while balancing all competing interests through courts of equity, justice and fairness.

Please consider this proposal and the hope it may bring those living, working and playing in Brevard County.  It presents a chance for our leaders to show all other communities and states that it’s possible to have a thriving economy AND a thriving ecology, balanced for present and future generations, due to a small systemic tweak to establish and ensure a Right to Clean Water.

Download: Brevard County Charter Review Proposal 6 - Right to Clean Water

Brevard Environmentalists Support Right to Clean Water Charter Amendment

"Hi Partners,

On Thursday June 23rd at 3 pm the Brevard Charter Review will decide if ‘’The Right to Clean Water’’ will go forward as an Amendment to ballot in November.

The “Right to Clean Water” passed in Orange County with 89% voting in the affirmative. There is also a State Petition that can be found online.

The IRL Roundtable has taken this forward, and we desperately need your support either by attendance at the meeting next Thursday, or by emailing the Charter Commission.

This is common sense, no brainer, whose time has come for the people to demand at the Ballot Box, asking for action to prevent water pollution that threatens ourselves and our wildlife.

Cheerio,

Maureen Rupe"

Please view:

• Support Right to Clean Water - Brevard environmentalists call for action in support of the Right to Clean Water Charter Amendment.

• Right to Clean Water City of Titusville Charter Amendment - Speak Up Titusville's Michael Myjak encourages Brevard citizens to support the Right to Clean Water Amendment to the Brevard County and City of Titusville Charters.

Citizens who can not attend the 3pm meeting in person may send their comments via email.

2021-2022 Brevard Charter Review Commission Contact List

Sample Email:

Brevard County residents and organizations respectfully request members of the Charter Review Commission (CRC) to consider amending the charter to ensure present and future generations are able to protect themselves and their interests from harm. The “Right to Clean Water” proposal creates a local cause of action for equitable (declaratory or injunctive) relief, which may include a “polluter pays” form of restorative relief. As the proposal’s ultimate design will depend on the will of the CRC members and public comments, The Florida constitution provides the legal basis and argument that the County has the authority to enact this measure and that state preemption language found in Fla. Stat. 403.412 (9)(a) does not apply.

Come out and join the Canaveral National Seashore and Parks Project for this LOVELY event! Show your park some love this Valentine’s weekend by participating in a beach cleanup.

Meet at parking area # 1, Playalinda Beach, to sign-up and then depart to various beach areas. Trash bags and gloves provided.

For more information please contact Derek and Esther Ward (803-507-8262)

RSVP at the link below!

https://parksproject.ticketleap.com/loveccns

This excerpt is from the Parks Project Website:

❤️ LOVE YOUR BEACH CLEAN-UP:

Canaveral National Seashore

WHEN: SATURDAY, February 15th – 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (2 hours)

WHERE: "SD Playalinda Lot #1, florida" ( Google Maps )

-Drive up to the Playalinda Beach entrance of the Canaveral Nat. Seashore and mention the event at the gate for FREE entry!

WHO: Interpretive Ranger Ashley Lord, will lead us in showing some love this Valentine’s Day weekend by walking our amazing seashore and snagging as much debris as we can to keep our beaches clean and safe!

MEET: Parking area # 1 (see "Where" above) to sign-up/waiver and then depart to various beach areas with some awesome people from your community.

Free parking is available for all volunteers.

Volunteers: We suggest you show up in close toe shoes, t-shirt/long sleeve, and a light jacket to ward off any potential wind; you can strip it off once the sun heats up and tie it around your neck like a cape! Please bring your own sun block or lather up at home before the event. BYOB (Bring your own bottle)for water.

-The park will supply a large canteen of cold water for re-fills, but this event is a waste free event, lets not bring trash with us!

Manatee Memorial: 12-1PM Friday, December 24, 2021 at the Port St. John Boat Ramp.

Tragically, manatees continue to die of boat injuries, starvation and illnesses resulting from Florida's toxic sewage and chemical polluted waters, which is why stronger protections for manatees are needed IMMEDIATELY and government sanctioned polluting must be stopped.

Join Bear Warriors United Executive Director Katrina Shadix 12-1PM on Christmas Eve Day December 24, 2021 at the Port St. John Boat Ramp to remember and mourn the 1,000+ beloved manatees who perished during this year's ecocidal event that devastated manatee populations across Florida.

Kayaks and Paddleboarders may launch at the Port St. John's Boat Ramp located at 6650 N. Cocoa Blvd., Port St. John, FL 32927.

Those who prefer to stay on land may hold vigil at the boat ramp. Please park at Nicol Park, 6660 N. Cocoa Blvd., Port St. John, FL 32927.

Need to rent a kayak? Contact manatee advocate Greg Pflug at Adventures in Florida.

PLEASE WEAR BLACK!

Stuart Causeway Call to Action

Sponsored by Indian Riverkeeper

We invite residents and visitors alike to turn out and send a message to fellow residents, office-holders and environmental agencies that our public waterways are at the tipping point. Let’s send the message with homemade signage that it will take personal responsibility as well as political will and accountability to restore the health of Treasure Coast waterways. Our problems include inadequate sewage infrastructure, the need for more septic tank to sewer conversion, the overuse of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, and harmful discharges into our coastal waters from Lake Okeechobee and other interior lands.

We encourage social distancing and masks wherever possible and we ask that you refrain from bringing signage that supports or denounces any candidate running for public office.

And if you would rather attend by boat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard please do! We will be on East Island, which is the easternmost end of the Causeway. Check the live Facebook post on this page for directions on where to park. We will gather on the eastern side near the Hutchinson Marriot.

Statewide Event Information

Stand with us on a statewide day of action to DEMAND CLEAN WATER. We want legislative reform of this state's water protections NOW.

Florida's IS water, and year after year our Representatives have kicked the can down the road while polluters have been given a pass and our infrastructure is overburdened and underfunded.

The Indian River Lagoon is dying. There's sewage being dumped into our waterways, toxic algae blooms are rampant, and the government is spraying herbicides directly into canals and lakes. The EAA is back pumping its agricultural wastewater into Lake Okeechobee, Lake Okeechobee is discharging massive amounts of polluted freshwater to estuaries on both coasts, and The Florida Bay is dying while Sugar lobbyists continue to prevent Everglades restoration. Phosphate mining is stacking contaminated industrial wastewater while discharging mining waste into our rivers. Toxic human sewage known as biosolids is being spread on farmlands, our springs are turning from blue to green, and we are about to spend 26 billion on new toll roads through wildlands while Amendment 1 funds continue to get raided by special interests. They STILL haven't even banned fracking and drilling in a state where 20 million people get drinking water from a porous aquifer. This list goes on and on.

Enough is enough. We have organized, asked, bartered, and begged for reform, now it's time to DEMAND it unequivocally.

The statewide bridge demonstrations for Clean Water will happen at 11:00 am on Sunday, 18 October 2020.

These events are NON-PARTISAN. Please leave political divisions, arguments, and campaign signs at home. Those fights need to be settled at the ballot box, not this demonstration. OUR message is simple: "The People of Florida DEMAND CLEAN WATER!".

It's time that we come together across the state of Florida to show our leaders that Clean Water is the most critical issue facing our state.

Social distancing and masks are encouraged.

Locations:

• Collier County: S.S. Jolley Bridge, Megan MacNab

• Daytona: International Speedway Bridge. Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/782973939172117 Libby Higbee

• Deerfield Beach: Hillsboro Blvd. at the Cove, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/379836593196354 Susan Steinhauser

• Fort Myers Beach: Matanzas Pass, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1062806630821446 Lori Marlowe and George Cutting

• Titusville: A. Max Brewer Bridge, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/724466574774943 Stel Bailey

• Melbourne: Melbourne Causeway, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2814428938828268 Matt Fleming

• St. Pete Beach: Corey Causeway Bridge, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/986054221878547 Emerald Cromwell

• Stuart: Stuart Causeway, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/342420227208065 Mike Connor

• Delray Beach: ATL Ave Bridge, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2056534684470209 Bryan Galvin

• Lake County: Lake Minneola Bridge, Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1718859018277812 Cheryl Jozsa

• St. Lucie County: Fort Pierce location - 403 Seaway Drive, on the South Bridge near the FPUA (Fort Pierce Utilities Authority) wastewater treatment plant on Hutchinson Island. Event link:https://www.facebook.com/events/994433114373962 Debra Magrann

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources.

To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 5 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business. Because stakeholder involvement is an important part of the process, the Commission meets at different locations across the state and offer people the opportunity to address the Commission about issues under consideration.

The FWC's seven Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate to five-year terms. Their constitutional duty is to exercise the "...regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life and fresh water aquatic life and shall also exercise regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to marine life, except that all license fees and penalties for violating regulations shall be as provided by law."

Web Links

FWC Commission Meetings Web Page

FWC Commissioners Web Page

FWC Commission Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources.

To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 5 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business. Because stakeholder involvement is an important part of the process, the Commission meets at different locations across the state and offer people the opportunity to address the Commission about issues under consideration.

The FWC's seven Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate to five-year terms. Their constitutional duty is to exercise the "...regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life and fresh water aquatic life and shall also exercise regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to marine life, except that all license fees and penalties for violating regulations shall be as provided by law."

Web Links

FWC Commission Meetings Web Page

FWC Commissioners Web Page

FWC Commission Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources.

To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 5 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business. Because stakeholder involvement is an important part of the process, the Commission meets at different locations across the state and offer people the opportunity to address the Commission about issues under consideration.

The FWC's seven Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate to five-year terms. Their constitutional duty is to exercise the "...regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life and fresh water aquatic life and shall also exercise regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to marine life, except that all license fees and penalties for violating regulations shall be as provided by law."

Web Links

FWC Commission Meetings Web Page

FWC Commissioners Web Page

FWC Commission Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources.

To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 5 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business. Because stakeholder involvement is an important part of the process, the Commission meets at different locations across the state and offer people the opportunity to address the Commission about issues under consideration.

The FWC's seven Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate to five-year terms. Their constitutional duty is to exercise the "...regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life and fresh water aquatic life and shall also exercise regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to marine life, except that all license fees and penalties for violating regulations shall be as provided by law."

Web Links

FWC Commission Meetings Web Page

FWC Commissioners Web Page

FWC Commission Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources.

To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 5 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business. Because stakeholder involvement is an important part of the process, the Commission meets at different locations across the state and offer people the opportunity to address the Commission about issues under consideration.

The FWC's seven Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate to five-year terms. Their constitutional duty is to exercise the "...regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life and fresh water aquatic life and shall also exercise regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to marine life, except that all license fees and penalties for violating regulations shall be as provided by law."

Web Links

FWC Commission Meetings Web Page

FWC Commissioners Web Page

FWC Commission Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is an adult education UF/IFAS Extension program developed by the University of Florida and pro­vided by many Extension offices and participating organizations throughout the state of Florida. FMNP training will benefit persons interested in learning more about Florida’s environment or wishing to increase their knowledge for use in education programs as volun­teers, employees, ecotourism guides, and others.

Increase your knowledge of Florida's environment by taking a course with the Florida Master Naturalist Program. This module focuses on coastal systems including coastal uplands, estuarine, and nearshore marine environments. Course instruction includes traditional classroom learning as well as multiple field trips!

Registration ends March 16th. Space is limited, so sign up today!

Course Information and Registration: https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/fmnp/cs20-06.html

Anglers for Conservation is a 501 c(3) non-profit whose mission is to inspire new generations of marine stewards through education, conservation, and fishing.

Hook Kids on Fishing (HKOF) is for kids between ages 5-15 and taught by professional guides, knowledgeable anglers and scientists. This hands-on, conservation-minded and educational fishing program teaches children casting, knot tying, fishing safety, catch and release, fish habitats, conservation and more!

Registration is Required.

Increase your knowledge of Florida's environment by taking a course with the Florida Master Naturalist Program. This module focuses on coastal systems including coastal uplands, estuarine, and nearshore marine environments. This class will be presented online via Zoom from the Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach. Space is limited and the registration deadline is January 6, 2020.

Tentative Course Schedule:

Day 1 Monday, January 11, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Welcome to FMNP course, Introductions, Icebreaker (30 min) Getting familiar with Zoom/Google Classroom/testing technology (30 min) Pre-test (30 min) Review course requirements (attendance, final projects, on your own assignments, etc. (30 min) ON YOUR OWN 30 minutes - Familiarize yourself with course manual + expectations (30 min)

Day 2 Thursday, January 14, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Review course requirements, Q+A final projects, on your own assignments (60 min) Coastal Ecology presentation (60 min) ON YOUR OWN 75 minutes Brainstorm final project ideas (30 min) Watch Nearshore Environments video (30 min) Complete video reflection activity (15 min)

Day 3 Monday, January 18, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Debrief Nearshore Environments video (15 min) Marine and Estuarine Habitats presentation (60 min) Virtual tour – ELC mangroves (30 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min) ON YOUR OWN 45 minutes Watch Marine and Estuarine Habitats video (30 min) Complete video reflection activity (15 min)

Day 4 Thursday, January 21, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Debrief Marine and Estuarine Habitats video (15 min) Coastal Uplands presentation (60 min) Course and technology check-in (10 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min) ON YOUR OWN 45 minutes Watch Dune and Beach Habitats video (30 min) Complete video reflection activity (15 min)

Day 5 Monday, January 25, 2021 9:00am – 10:45am Debrief Dune and Beach Habitats video (15 min) Invertebrates I presentation (60 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min)

SELF-GUIDED FIELD ACTIVITY 180 minutes Field Experience: visit a nearshore marine habitat and complete assignment

Day 6 Thursday, January 28, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Guest Speaker: Sea Turtles (45 min) Invertebrates II presentation (60 min)

Day 7 Monday, February 1, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Debrief nearshore marine habitat field experience (30 min) Reptiles and Amphibians presentation (60 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min)

SELF-GUIDED FIELD ACTIVITY 180 minutes Field Experience: visit an estuarine habitat and complete assignment

Day 8 Thursday, February 4, 2021 9:00am – 10:30am Fish presentation (60 min) ELC Aquarium virtual tour (30 min)

• Final project check-in (*optional 30 min)

Day 9 Monday, February 8, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Debrief estuarine habitat field experience (30 min) Coastal Waterbirds presentation (60 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min) SELF-GUIDED FIELD ACTIVITY Instructions and online links provided by instructor via email Please complete before next live meeting or posted deadline 180 minutes Field Experience: visit a beach, dune, or maritime forest and complete assignment

Day 10 Thursday, February 11, 2021 9:00am – 10:45am General Birds in Coastal Ecosystems presentation (60 min) Student final project worktime (30 min)

Day 11 Monday, February 15, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Debrief beach, dune, maritime forest field experience (30 min) Mammals in Coastal and Marine areas presentation (60 min) Review on your own assignment (10 min)

ON YOUR OWN Please complete before next live meeting or posted deadline 45 minutes Watch Coastal Systems in Modern Human Society video (30 min) Complete video reflection activity (15 min)

Thursday, February 18, 2021 NO CLASS. Optional Final Project worktime

Day 12 Monday, February 22, 2021 9:00am – 10:30am Debrief Coastal Systems in Modern Human Society video (15 min) Interpretation presentation (60 min)

Day 13 Thursday, February 25, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Guest Speaker: Microplastics in coastal ecosystems (45 min) Ethics presentation (60 min) Day 14 Monday, March 1, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Live online via Zoom Interpretive practice (105 min) Final Project questions/review (15 min)

Day 15 Thursday, March 4th, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Final Project presentations (120 min)

Day 16 Monday, March 8, 2021 9:00am – 11:00am Finish Final Project presentations (60 min) Post-Test + Online course format evaluation (30 min) Graduation (30 min)

ON YOUR OWN Please complete before next live meeting or posted deadline 20 minutes FMNP Course Evaluation (20 min; complete online within 3 days)

Registration ends January 6th. Space is limited, so sign up today!

Register Here

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on February 12, 2021 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

This IRL Council Board meeting includes:

• Election of 2021 IRL Council Officers

• Water Quality Reports:
  • Northern and Central Lagoon (Dr. Chuck Jacoby, SJRWMD)
  • St. Lucie County (Jose Vega, St. Lucie County)
  • Southern Lagoon (Dianne Hughes, Martin County)

• Climate-Ready Estuary Report (Duane De Freese)
• FDEP grant announcement and FY 2021 Budget Amendment. (Duane De Freese, Daniel Kolodny).
• FY 2022 Preliminary Budget (Daniel Kolodny)

Meeting Agenda: IRL Council Board Meeting Agenda 2021-02-12 (PDF 4pp 240KB)

Meeting Packet: IRL Council Board Meeting Packet 2021-02-12 (PDF 217pp 7.44MB)

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on May 14, 2021 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Meeting Schedule and Agenda Web Page

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on February 11, 2022 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on May 13, 2022 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on August 5, 2022 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

There will be a meeting of the Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors at 9:30AM on November 18, 2022 in the Sebastian City Hall, Indian River County, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Indian River Lagoon Council Meeting Video Archive

The Cities of Melbourne, Palm Bay and Satellite Beach, Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department, Marine Resources Council, Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program and Anglers for Conservation invite you to join us for Indian River Lagoon Day, a fun-filled day focused on celebrating the Indian River Lagoon. Admission is free.

Environmental exhibitors will be on hand to showcase a variety of available volunteer opportunities in restoration activities, educational efforts and citizen-science projects. Free kayaking will be provided by Adventure Kayak of Cocoa Beach. Food trucks, arts and craft vendors, and activities for children will also be available.

A Hook Kids on Fishing clinic will take place from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. Kids participating in the clinic will each receive a free fishing rod and gear. Advanced registration is required. Sign up online at www.anglersforconservation.org.

For gardeners, rain barrel workshops will be held from 11 a.m. until noon. Participants will be able to construct and take home a free rain barrel. Only 20 are available and first-come, first-served basis. Registration will be conducted at the festival that morning.

Please maintain proper social distancing. Masks are recommended to be worn by all participants. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided.

Brevard County Natural Resources Management will cosponsor Indian River Lagoon Day on November 13th at Front Street Park in Melbourne, Florida. Free kayaking, Hook Kids on Fishing (pre-register), Rain Barrel Workshop (pre-register), Environmental Exhibitors, Craft Vendors, and Food Vendors.

Advanced registration is required for Hook Kids on Fishing and the Rain Barrel Workshop

The cities of Melbourne and Satellite Beach, the Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program invite you to join us for Indian River Lagoon Day, a fun-filled day focused on celebrating the importance of the Indian River Lagoon. The event will take place on Saturday, November 18, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Front Street Park, 2210 Front Street, Melbourne. Admission is free.

Environmental exhibitors will be present to showcase a variety of available volunteer opportunities in restoration activities, educational efforts and citizen-science projects. Free kayaking will be provided by 321 Boat & Rent. Food trucks, music, arts and craft vendors, bounce house and activities for children will also be available. Play bingo to have a chance to win one of the 19 prizes provided by our vendors in the gift raffle. You must be present to win.     

A Hook Kids on Fishing clinic will take place from 9 a.m. until noon. Kids participating in the clinic will each receive a fishing rod and gear. Advanced registration is required. Sign up online on the Anglers for Conservation website.  

For gardeners, rain barrel workshops will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Participants will be able to construct and take home a free rain barrel. Only 30 are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Register on Eventbrite. If there are any open slots, registration will also be conducted at the festival that morning.

Dr. Leesa Souto, Executive Director of the Marine Resources Council, presents the 2020 Indian River Lagoon Health Update. Please join the MRC, Tuesday, December 8, 2020, for the release of the 3rd IRL Report Card.

This event is a live webinar broadcast, and there are 40 spaces available to attend the event in person at MRC's Lagoon Learning Center in Palm Bay. Please utilize this link to register: https://irlreportcard2020.eventbrite.com. A webinar access link will be emailed to attendees after registration.

All attendees are asked to please make a donation to attend, $1, $5, or $500, any amount will help fund this vital lagoon health report. The goal is to raise over $100,000 to add vital fisheries data, more tributaries, and expand outreach.

To accommodate demand & scheduling, Dr. Souto is presenting the same material during a lunch and dinner session.

1st Presentation-

• Live webinar: 12 p.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2020

• Limited In-person Donor Luncheon

11 a.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2020 (Foodservice begins at 11a.m. before 12 p.m. presentation) $50 per attendee. Includes seafood boil and adult beverage service. Temperatures will be taken at the door. Social distancing & masks required.

2nd Presentation-

• Live webinar: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2020

• Limited In-person Donor Dinner

5:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2020 (Foodservice begins at 5:30 p.m. before 6:30 p.m. presentation) $50 per attendee Includes seafood boil and adult beverage service Temperatures will be taken at the door. Social distancing & masks are required

Indian River Lagoon Health Update 2020

Sea Grasses & Habitat Are In Peril

Indian River Lagoon Areas of Concern

• Turnbull Creek,Volusia County
• Big Flounder Creek, Brevard County
• Horse Creek, Brevard County
• Eau Gallie River, Brevard County
• Crane Creek, Brevard County
• Turkey Creek , Brevard County
• Goat Creek, Brevard County
• Saint Sebastian River, Indian River County
• Saint Sebastian River North Prong, Indian River County
• Saint Sebastian River South Prong, Indian River County
• C-54 Canal, Indian River County
• Taylor Creek Canal, St. Lucie County
• St. Lucie River, St. Lucie & Martin Counties
• St. Lucie River North Fork, Martin County & St. Lucie County
• St. Lucie River South Fork, Martin County
• St. Lucie Estuary Bessey Creek, Martin County
• Upper Loxahatchee, Martin County
• Middle Loxahatchee, Martin County
• Lower Loxahatchee, Palm Beach County
• Loxahatchee Southwest Fork, Palm Beach County

The Indian River Lagoon Council Management Board will meet at 10:15am on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at Up the Creek Farm in Malabar, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Management Board meetings are in-person events with no broadcast available at this time.

Web Links

• IRL Council Website
• 2021 IRL Council Meeting Schedule

The Indian River Lagoon coastal community of east-central Florida is dangerously out of balance, putting the region's health, habitat, and economy at risk. Marine Resources Council applauds all that is underway to address this imbalance, but much more needs to happen now.

Dr. Leesa Souto, Executive Director of the Marine Resources Council, invites you to the release of this important lagoon health update, examining the next bold steps for restoring water quality and improving the seagrass of the Indian River Lagoon.

Lagoon health regions of concern: Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, & Palm Beach Counties.

• To save the lagoon, we need bold leaders to act now.
• During this year's legislative session, MRC delivered a copy of the IRL Report Card to every Florida State Representative and Senator and spent three days in Tallahassee educating state leaders and stakeholders.
• Seagrass is dying, and Florida needs to know why!
• The water quality testing data set needs to include bacteria, pesticides, herbicides, and other toxins.
• Emergency Low Impact Development must be implemented to prevent polluted stormwater from entering Florida waterways.
• Please get involved today by visiting SaveTheIRL.org.

MRC humbly asks all registrants, if able, to please donate $1, $5, $500, or any amount to help fund the next Indian River Lagoon Report Card.

Online Seminar Date and Time: Thursday, March 10, 2021, at 12 p.m.

The first Indian Riverkeeper Sandspike Shootout Pompano and Whiting surf fishing tournament is on February 27 & 28, 2021 at Dollman Park Beachside on Hutchinson Island in Jensen Beach, Florida.

Fishing Hours

Fishing begins at first light on both fishing days. Saturday weigh-in deadline is 4:30 p.m. Sunday weigh-in deadline is 4:30 p.m. An angler weighing in a fish must be in line for weigh-in by these times, no exceptions. Fish caught on Saturday must be weigh in and recorded on Saturday—no “overnighting” of fish in your cooler. Anglers may weigh in one fish of both species on both days for consideration of final prize winnings. Anglers need not be present to win either a fish entry place/prize or a raffle item.

Entry Fee

Entry fee is $30 per angler, which covers one or both days of fishing, and includes complimentary bag of Fish Gum baits. Option is a $60 entry fee which includes your one-year membership to Indian Riverkeeper, package of Fish Gum, plus assorted surf fishing terminal tackle items and 1 (one) raffle ticket.

Visit https://www.theindianriverkeeper.org/sand-spike-shootout to pre-register.

Registration in person can be on a cash basis or credit card payment, but you must register in person at the Dollman Park tournament headquarters no later than 9 a.m. on either fishing day.

Fishing Restrictions

This is an “on-foot” surf fishing tournament for pompano and whiting.

Fishing the surf from a boat is strictly prohibited. Fishing in the Indian River Lagoon is strictly prohibited.

Anglers are restricted to fishing two (2) rods simultaneously though extra rods are permissible as backups.

Both natural baits and synthetic baits are permissible, but may also fish artificial lures (such as jigs) on lighter tackle where applicable in the surf.

Fishing Boundaries

All fishing must take place on beaches between Martin County’s St. Lucie Inlet to St. Lucie County’s Ft. Pierce Inlet.

All Florida pompano size restrictions and bag limits must be adhered to. No cut or mutilated pompano or whiting will be accepted, and the judges reserve the right to refuse to weigh any fish appearing to be caught prior to legal tournament hours.

Weigh-ins on both Saturday and Sunday will be conducted at Dollman Park. The weigh-in on Sunday will determine winning fish for finishing places over the course of two days’ fishing.

Prizes will be awarded for top four heaviest fish of each pompano and whiting. There are eight major prizes in all. Pompano must measure at least 11 inches fork length as required by FLORIDA law and tournament officials require that whiting must measure a minimum 12 inches overall to be considered. There will be 8 prizes awarded in all—four heaviest pompano and four heaviest whiting.

All participants are responsible for reading and following all rules and regulations set forth by the Indian Riverkeeper Sand Spike Shootout.

In the event of a weight tie between two angler’s fish, the fish weighed first would be given the place on the leaderboard, and second fish would be listed next in order.

Registered anglers can weigh only one of each species, pompano and whiting, no exceptions, for prize consideration.

Our raffle ticket sales will take place during fishing hours, and final raffle drawing will take place on Sunday promptly after weigh-in.

All Tournament proceeds benefit Indian Riverkeeper. We greatly appreciate your participation and support of our organization.

Questions please call 772-521-1882 or email keeper@theindianriverkeeper.org

2023 Florida Department of Environmental Protection BMAP Update

The FDEP Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration (DEAR) North Indian River Lagoon, Central Indian River Lagoon and Banana River Lagoon Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) annual update meeting will be held via webinar on April 3, 2023 at 1:30 pm.

Pre-registration is required: IRL BMAP Annual Update Webinar Registration

IRL BMAP Webinar Agenda

The 2023 Indian River Lagoon BMAP Update Webinar agenda includes:

• IRL BMAP program updates
• St. Johns River Water Management District – Charles Jacoby and Lauren Hall
• South Florida Water Management District – Cassondra Armstrong
• Shoreline Restoration Efforts – US Space Force
• Save Our Indian River Lagoon – Brevard County
• BMAP Annual Progress Report
• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Yesenia Escribano
• Agricultural Best Management Practice Compliance – FDEP David Frady
• BMAP Next Steps

Register Here: IRL BMAP Annual Update Webinar Registration

What is a BMAP?

A basin management action plan (BMAP) is a framework for water quality restoration that contains local and state commitments to reduce pollutant loading through current and future projects and strategies. BMAPs contain a comprehensive set of solutions, such as permit limits on wastewater facilities, urban and agricultural best management practices, and conservation programs designed to achieve pollutant reductions established by a total maximum daily load (TMDL).

Download the Indian River Lagoon BMAPs:

• Banana River Lagoon BMAP (pdf)
• North Indian River Lagoon BMAP (pdf)
• Central Indian River Lagoon BMAP (pdf)

Related Article: Brevard Total Maximum Daily Load Allocation Charts

The IRL BMAP Update Webinar Meeting Video is available on The Florida Channel at https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/4-25-24-department-of-environmental-protection-indian-river-lagoon-basin-management-action-plan-bmap-meeting/

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) will host a virtual public meeting on the North Indian River Lagoon, Banana River Lagoon and Central Indian River Lagoon Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) process on April 25, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. EDT.

Registration is open for the webinar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the webinar. The meeting agenda is now available. Please email Diana Turner at Diana.M.Turner@FloridaDEP.gov or call 850-245-8825 with any questions.

This is a public meeting of interested stakeholders to discuss the Banana River, North Indian River Lagoon, and Central Indian River Lagoon Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs).

The primary purpose of this meeting is to provide the annual update on the adopted BMAP and to discuss the upcoming BMAP updates.

The IRL BMAPs are updated every five years with the next update due in July of 2025.

Please send your questions, comments and feedback to Lisa VanHoudt at lisa.vanhoudt@floridadep.gov

What is a Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP)?

A basin management action plan, or BMAP, is a comprehensive set of site-specific strategies to reduce or eliminate pollutant loadings and restore particular waterbodies to health.

Each BMAP is designed to achieve one or more total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), each of which establishes a target for the maximum amount of a specific pollutant that may be present while ensuring the functionality and health of the affected waterbody.

Every BMAP is different to account for variations in water quality problems, land uses, pollutant sources, stakeholders, geography, hydrology and economic resources.

The fundamental steps in the BMAP development process are to identify and quantify pollutant sources; allocate responsibilities for reducing pollutant loadings; develop strategies and projects to accomplish the reductions; establish a monitoring program to measure progress; determine an implementation schedule; and identify financial resources to underwrite the necessary actions.

Common BMAP strategies include more stringent permit limits on wastewater facilities; land acquisition and conservation; public education; wastewater and stormwater system infrastructure improvements; agricultural best management practices; and financial assistance.

BMAPs are developed and refined collaboratively through a series of local public meetings and formal workshops and are adopted by enforceable Secretarial Order.

Restoration is a long-term process. BMAPs are typically developed in multi-year phases that include specific project and pollutant load reduction milestones in each phase. After adoption, the department holds regular meetings to keep stakeholders and the public apprised of progress and to generate new restoration strategies and projects. Each BMAP is reviewed and reported on annually and may be updated as necessary.

Download Current IRL BMAP Documents

• Banana River Lagoon
• North Indian River Lagoon (PDF)
• Central Indian River Lagoon (PDF)

The Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors will meet at 9:30am on Friday, August 13, 2021 at the City of Sebastian Council Chambers in Sebastian, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Agenda Items include:

6. Water Quality Reports

• a. Northern and Central Lagoon (Dr. Chuck Jacoby, SJRWMD)
• b. Southern Lagoon (Dianne Hughes, Martin County)

7. IRLNEP Management Conference Committee Reports

• a. Management Board Reports (Kathy LaMartina, Chair)
• b. STEM Advisory Committee (Dr. Chuck Jacoby, Chair)
• c. Citizens’ Advisory Committee (Captain Frank Catino)

9. Presentations

• a. The Aquarium Project by Keith Winston, Director, Brevard Zoo
• b. Martin County’s Septic to Sewer Program Update by Sam Amerson, Director, Martin County Utilities and Solid Waste and Duanne Andrade, Chief Strategic and Financial Officer, Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF)

Download: 2021-08-13 IRLNEP BOD Agenda

Web Links

• IRL Council Website
• 2021 IRL Council Meeting Schedule
• IRL Council Meeting Video Archive

The Indian River Lagoon Council Board of Directors will meet at 9:30am on Monday, November 29, 2021 at the City of Sebastian Council Chambers in Sebastian, Florida. The IRL Council is a Florida Special District that locally manages the Environmental Protection Agency's Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP).

The meeting agenda includes North and South IRL Water Quality Reports, 2022 budget amendments, the approval of the IRLNEP Communication and Financing Plan.

• IRLNEP BOD 11/29/21 Meeting Agenda (PDF 3pp)

The meeting packet contains detailed budget (pg35, pg196) and project (pg188) reports plus the complete Communication Plan by Kathy Hill (pg38), and CCMP Financing Plan by Duane De Freese (pg 65).

• IRLNEP BOD 11/29/21 Meeting Packet (PDF 212pp 15.2MB)

IRL Council Board of Directors meetings are open to the public and televised live by the City of Sebastian at https://www.cityofsebastian.org/274/Web-Channel---Live

Web Links

• IRL Council Website
• 2021 IRL Council Meeting Schedule
• IRL Council Meeting Video Archive

The Florida Section American Water Works Association Region III along with the Florida Water Environment Association Central Florida Chapter will be hosting an Indian River Lagoon Clean-up Event at Goode Park on Saturday, February 22, 2020 from 10:00am-12:00pm. Following the event will be an on-site lunch at Goode Park located at 1300 Bianca Dr. NE Palm Bay, FL 32905.

Please RSVP to Mike Demko at mdemko@wadetrim.com or use the online registration at www.fsawwa.org/reg3sjrcleanup.

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Lagoon Straight Talk 2022 Video

In case you missed it!

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Lagoon Straight Talk Speakers

Dr. Duane De Freese, Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) Executive Director – IRL Restoration, The Big Picture.

Vinnie Taranto, Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizens Oversight Committee (SOIRL COC) Chair – Mr. Taranto will discuss how citizens oversight works through the lens of Brevard's Save Our Indian River Lagoon half cent sales tax fund.

Dr. Jeff Ebel, Florida Tech – Dr. Ebel will discuss how Melbourne's Florida Tech is exploring new ways of improving water quality through their Indian River Lagoon Inflow Project.

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Lagoon Expert Q&A Panel:

Dr. Jeff Ebel, Florida Tech

Dr. Duane De Freese, Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program Executive Director

Vinnie Taranto, Citizens Oversight Committee Chair

Anthony Gubler, Brevard County Department of Natural Resources

Event Details:

Lagoon Straight Talk

June 23, 2022 5:30 – 8:00pm

Gleason Performing Arts Center at Florida Tech

150 West University Boulevard, Melbourne, FL 32901

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lagoon-straight-talk-tickets-348780089637

Lagoon Straight Talk is sponsored by the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition, an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit, nonpartisan organization seeking and facilitating education and collaboration–bringing together organizations, businesses and individuals who share the goal of supporting restoration of the Lagoon.

Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition will host a free Zoom event, "Lagoon Straight Talk-Palm Bay", on Wednesday, March 24 from 6-7:30 PM.

Hear the latest on the health of the Indian River Lagoon, Brevard's Save Our Indian River Lagoon tax fund, and growth in Palm Bay.

Get your questions answered by people who know:

- Commissioner Kristine Zonka

- Suzanne Sherman, City Manager, Palm Bay

- Virginia Barker, Brevard Natural Resources Management

- Dr. Jennifer Mitchell, St Johns River Water Management District

- Office of Sustainability & Resilience, City of Orlando

Register for the free Zoom event at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9cCeRNZBRV2mn7uEPbvSpA

See Also: Lagoon Straight Talk 2022

Join Florida Oceanographic Society Research Associates Morgan Gilligan and Sarah Cole to learn about a new pilot study at Florida Oceanographic.

Presented as part of the 2022 Virtual Water Ambassador Program.

Like many estuaries worldwide, the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), has seen a decline in resources and overall water quality due to human activities. One method to help restore water quality and benthic habitats is the construction and deployment of oyster restoration mats on dock pilings, known as the Living Docks program. Established at Florida Tech’s Indian River Lagoon Research Institute (IRLRI).

This community driven program was founded to promote the growth of filter feeding benthic organisms and improve local water quality. Oyster mats are constructed using an aquaculture grade polyethylene mesh and attaching dried oyster shells to the mat with standard UV-resistant cable ties.

Florida Tech is still testing a material that is able to be attached to the piling without succumbing to the pressures of sea life. We also would like to work on testing alternative materials that are environmentally friendly and cost effective here at Florida Oceanographic while conducting this pilot study. In terms of degradation of the plastic, we will be using an aquaculture, UV resistant grade polyethylene to minimize micro-plastic pollution.

The positive is that eventually organisms will encompass the entire mat (such as encrusting bryozoan, algae, and sponge) cementing itself to the piling, becoming part of the structure.

A Q&A will follow the webinar. We will be offering a Living Docks Oyster Matting on Monday February 28th at 10am. Be sure to register for that if you would like to participate.

Register Here

Join us on Saturday, March 21, 2020 for the 12th Annual Manatee Center 5K in Downtown Fort Pierce!

This race is a fundraiser for the Treasure Coast Manatee Foundation and all proceeds from this race are used to enhance environmental education programs offered at the Manatee Observation and Education Center, focusing on conservation and preservation of the Indian River Lagoon, an estuary of national significance, marine life within the lagoon, and the surrounding ecosystems.

Treasure Coast Manatee Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization established to support and enhance environmental awareness, education, conservation, and stewardship of endangered species and natural resources fulfilling its mission through the Manatee Observation and Education Center.

Dr. Leesa Souto is one of Florida’s most respected experts on environment issues, and is an interesting and entertaining speaker. The Marine Resources Council is a powerful and independent advocate for the lagoon, and for our offshore population of Southern Right Whales, as well as many other important environmental issues.

Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is partnering with the Marine Technology Society and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program to host a 2-day TechSurge that will focus on incremental and transformational technology and system design challenges and opportunities to help guide the development of comprehensive, coordinated and integrated coastal monitoring systems for Florida’s estuaries and nearshore coastal waters.

In addition, guidance and outcomes from this meeting will directly influence Indian River Lagoon monitoring network planning and may feed into the United Nations Ocean Decade Implementation Plan (2021-2030).

What is a TechSurge? Marine Technology Society TechSurges are conferences or workshops organized by MTS Sections or Technical Committees to address specific challenges that can be addressed with marine technologies.

Who Should Attend? Members of the ocean, coastal, estuary, and space communities who are interested in using technology to monitor and solve water quality issues. We hope to have a great response from private-sector industries working at the leading-edge of technology innovation.

Register and get more Information: https://florida.mtsociety.org/mts-florida-techsurge-florida-estuary-and-coastal-monitoring

Florida communities must reduce the amount of polluted stormwater entering coastal estuaries like the Indian River Lagoon. Low Impact Development (LID) and Green Infrastructure (GI) represent the most progressive trends in stormwater management to protect water quality. This conference covers the full range of LID/GI tools, from comprehensive land use planning and manual creation to engineered design and construction of green roofs, infiltration devices, cisterns, and bioretention areas. In addition, experts will share case studies that demonstrate cost-effective means to set and meet pollution load reductions, recharge groundwater aquifers, and prevent flooding.

Engineers, planners, builders, developers, resource managers, public works and stormwater personnel, environmental professionals, scientists, educators, and advocates will benefit from the experience of Florida’s leading LID/GI experts. Experts will showcase LID/GI design tools, policies, projects, and case studies and facilitate the discussion to begin the transition to a new future in stormwater management.

Program

DETAILED PROGRAM TO BE ANNOUNCED

Note: All times listed are Eastern Standard Time & are subject to change.

Complimentary continental breakfast (8 a.m.), lunch (12 p.m.), and beverage service will be provided for conference attendees on both days, with a complimentary Happy Hour Reception on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021, at 5 p.m.

Presentation day and times are to be determined.

Topics Include

• Building a better way - Making the Case for LID
• Coastal Resiliency and Green Infrastructure
• Preparing the Landscape for Development
• Florida Stormwater Rulemaking, Past, Present, and Future
• Low Impact Development Engineering Designs
• LID/GI cost-efficiency
• LID/GI maintenance and evaluation
• Stormwater/LID Manuals & Policies
• Panel discussion on obstacles to implementation

Please stay tuned in for program updates and details.

Presenters & Special Guests

Bios & Details Coming Soon.

• Mike Hardin, P.E., Ph.D., Geosyntec Consultants
• Eban Bean, Ph.D., P.E., University of Florida
• Chris Bogdon, Ferguson Waterworks
• Donald Carpenter, Ph.D., P.E., LEED AP – Drummond Carpenter Engineering & Research
• Cammie Dewey, P.E., St. John’s River Water Management District
• Mike Hardin, P.E., Ph.D., Geosyntec Consultants
• Pierce Jones, Ph.D., University of Florida
• Kelli Hammer-Levi – Pinellas County
• Eric Livingston, Watershed Management Services, LLC
• Marty Wanielista, PH.D. P.E., University of Central Florida

Registration Rates

All attendees $200

Fees include general admission, continental breakfast & lunch both days, with Happy Hour Reception on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021.

Register for the MRC LID Conference at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/low-impact-development-conference-tickets-159641960401?aff=mrcirl

Take a walk on the wild side at the Manatee Center's 24th Annual NatureFest celebration! This educational environmental festival features many exhibitors that showcase the Treasure Coast's wildlife, natural resources and Florida's great outdoors!

Non-stop activities will be offered throughout the day including wildlife exhibits, touch tank demonstrations, games, crafts, mural painting, and appearances by the Center's mascot 'Moe, the Manatee'. Enjoy special presentations and book signings. Bring your friends to learn about the environment while having fun and enjoying delicious food!

Other exhibits at the Manatee Center include five aquariums with live animals from habitats such as reefs, sand flats and freshwater ecosystems. Visit the Vanishing Mermaid Gift Shop to find hundreds of nature-related items including jewelry, books, tee shirts, toys, accessories and home decor. Look for specials that are only available during NatureFest

Festivities will be located inside the building and outside on the grounds surrounding Manatee Center, 480 N Indian River Drive in historic downtown Fort Pierce. For additional information please call the Manatee Center, 772-429-6266 or the Vanishing Mermaid Gift Shop at 772-429-6267.

North Indian River Lagoon, Banana River Lagoon and Central Indian River Lagoon Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) webinar meeting beginning at 10 a.m. on Dec. 16, 2020.

Registration is now open for the webinar.

Stacy Cecil Stacy.Cecil@FloridaDEP.gov

Theodore Saltos Theodore.Saltos@FloridaDEP.gov

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration

2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3565

Tallahassee, FL 32399

BMAP Webinar Agenda

North Indian River Lagoon, Banana River Lagoon, and Central Indian River Lagoon Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) Webinar

December 16, 2020

10:00 AM

Webinar Registration Link: [1]

Agenda

1. Welcome and Opening Remarks

2. State of the Lagoon – Chuck Jacoby, St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD)

3. Overview of the Updated BMAPs

4. Statewide Annual Report

5. Updates to Spatial Watershed Iterative Loading (SWIL) Model Scope

6. Next Steps

7. Questions, Comments, and Discussion

8. Adjourn

Water Quality Restoration Program

The Water Quality Restoration Program includes multiple groups focused on different, but integrated, aspects of restoration including: Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs); agricultural pollution prevention; guidance, training and education pertaining to Florida Friendly Landscapes and stormwater erosion control; and fertilizer ordinance review.

For each impaired waterbody or group of related waters, the department develops and adopts a scientifically derived restoration target, known as a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). In order to meet these restoration goals, the department facilitates coordination among local stakeholders to develop BMAPs to achieve reductions in pollutant loading. As the management actions are implemented largely through local efforts, BMAPs are produced through collaboration with local stakeholders, encouraging the greatest amount of cooperation and consensus possible. The process usually involves a series of meetings and technical discussions on sources, allocations, management strategies, monitoring, and tracking progress.

The results of these discussions are summarized in the BMAP document. A BMAP describes the management strategies that will be implemented under existing water quality programs, schedules, funding strategies, tracking mechanisms, and the fair and equitable allocations of pollution reduction responsibilities to the sources in the watershed. When the BMAP is adopted, the management strategies and schedule become the compliance plan for the responsible entities. The BMAP requirements are connected to NPDES permits, when applicable, agricultural BMP implementation, or BMAP authorities for other nonpoint sources.

Current BMAPs

• Banana River Lagoon BMAP Interactive Story Map
• North Indian River Lagoon BMAP Story Map
• Central Indian River Lagoon BMAP Story Map

Guest speakers, ocean inspired artists, guided hikes, beach scavenger hunt, environmental/marine life exhibitors, art raffle to benefit sea turtles, sharing table, beach craft making with local artists, food trucks & more!

Parking will be available at Chapel-by-the-Sea with a shuttle van running all day. Be sure to bring your beach combing cabinet curiosities to identify and display for a chance to win beach chic prizes.

The Barrier Island Center is an environmental education facility managed and funded through the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, a division of the Parks & Recreation Department, in partnership with the Caribbean Conservation Corporation. The Barrier Island Center is located on the east coast of Florida south of Melbourne Beach and adjacent to the globally significant sea turtle nesting beaches of the Archie Carr Refuge.

Stand-Up Paddle for a Good Cause!

This 1 and 5 mile SUP, OC & Surfski paddle race to benefit the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program is happening at 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. (Pavilion at Cocoa Beach Country Club) on Sunday, March 15th.

Online registration is required and costs $25 per person; $35 for OC-2. Participants get a shirt and pizza lunch. All entry fee proceeds go to the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program. $2,000 in prizes (No Cash Purse). Get ready for a fun race morning on the Banana River!

Race Schedule:

8:00am – Registration Opens

9:00am – 5 Mile Paddle Race– Everyone must be on site by this time.

9:10am – 1 Mile Paddle Race

12:00pm – Race Awards, Raffle, & Lunch

PLEASE NOTE: Parking for all competitors and spectators will be at Cocoa Beach High School. We will have shuttle buses taking people to and from the event. (Competitors will unload their SUPs at the Country Club Pavilion before parking at the high school. The Pavilion parking lot will only be used as a loading/unloading point.)

Join MRC and Dr. Jeff Eble, Visiting Research Assistant Professor at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), for our January 11, 2022 Lunch & Learn Hybrid Seminar on FIT’s Restore Lagoon Inflow Research project, a multi-year, state funded initiative to investigate the possible effects of using artificially enhanced seawater exchange to improve Lagoon water quality and restore the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

Florida Tech’s Restore Lagoon Inflow Research project is a multi-year, state funded initiative to investigate the possible effects of using artificially enhanced seawater exchange to improve lagoon water quality and restore the health of the Indian River Lagoon. Findings from phases I and II research and modeling efforts highlight the potential for enhanced inflow to help stabilize the lagoon by restoring the natural processes that remove the excess nutrients responsible for harmful algal bloom outbreaks. The next step in the project is to ensure that everyone has the information needed to evaluate the feasibility of this approach with construction of a temporary, small-scale pumping system to directly evaluate the impact of enhanced seawater exchange on water quality and nutrient cycling. Join us for our January Lunch & Learn to more about this project and register today!

The seminar will end with a live Q&A session, but we recommend participants to email any questions you already have that relate to this topic to [[1]].

This is a free event, but you must register to receive the Zoom link or to reserve your spot at the Lagoon House as space is limited (subject to cancellation). The Zoom link will be in your confirmation email. We will be live streaming the presentation through the MRC's Facebook page and will post the recording to the MRC's YouTube page for future viewing!

About the Presenter

Dr. Jeff Eble is a Visiting Research Assistant Professor at the Florida Institute of Technology where for the last three years he has shared his love of science and nature with just about anyone that will listen. With experience both in the field and in the lab, Dr. Eble works to understand the processes shaping biodiversity, from genes to species, to help improve understanding and conservation of marine ecosystems.

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The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Items:

• Item 8 - Approval of the ranking of consultants responding to Request for Qualifications – Indian River Lagoon Seagrass Mapping and authorization for staff to begin negotiations with the top-ranked firm. $270,000 total budget.

• Item 9 - Presentation regarding the regulation of septic systems.

During the December 8, 2020 Governing Board meeting, the Board expressed interest regarding the regulation of septic systems and authority to require or enforce connection to available sewer service. In order to address the Board’s interest, an informational item addressing these concerns will be provided in advance of this item for consideration.

• Item 10 - Approval of septic to sewer conversion projects for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-21 Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Improvement Grant.

At the December 8, 2020 Governing Board meeting, staff recommended the Governing Board consider funding the IRL Water Quality projects at a cumulative dollar total not to exceed $25 million. The Board approved all projects with the exception of septic to sewer conversion projects and asked staff to gather more information regarding commitment on the part of the potential grant recipients to hookup to sewer and abandon their septic systems.

Also, during the December 8 Governing Board meeting, the Board expressed interest regarding the regulation of septic systems and authority to require or enforce connection to available sewer service. In order to address the Board’s interest, an informational item addressing these concerns will be provided in advance of this item for consideration.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Board Meeting January 12, 2021 Agenda

SJRWMD Board Meeting January 12, 2021 Agenda Packet

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

Details: SJRWMD Meeting Calendar, Agendas and Video Archive

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

SJRWMD Governing Board Meeting Agenda

The SJRWMD Board meeting agenda for August 10, 2021 includes one item concerning the Indian River Lagoon. Agenda Item 7 is an update to the 2020-2021 IRL Water Quality Grant Program that requests the approval of $223,210 in funding for two IRL improvement projects.

Document: SJRWMD August 2021 Meeting Agenda and Information Packet (PDF 105pp)

Agenda Item 7 - Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Improvement Grant Program Update

BACKGROUND - Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature appropriated $25 million to the St. Johns River Water Management District (District) for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-2021 Indian River Lagoon Water Quality (IRLWQ) Improvement Grant.

In December of 2020 the Governing Board authorized the Executive Director to execute the expenditure and state revenue agreements for a cumulative dollar total not to exceed $25 million. To date, $24,776,790 has been awarded, leaving $223,210 available to fund one or more projects that were part of the FY 2020-2021 IRLWQ Improvement Grant application process.

DISCUSSION - Two additional projects have been selected by staff and are proposed as the final recipients of funding from the $25 million IRLWQ Improvement legislative appropriation. The total funding amount for these two projects is $223,210. These projects were the highest-ranked unfunded projects remaining from the FY 2020-2021 grant application process. The following are descriptions of each project, including estimated water quality improvement benefits to the IRL.

Convair Cove Low Impact Development (LID) and Living Shoreline

Environmental Learning Center (ELC) Septic to Sewer (non-profit organization)

To date, the District has fully executed contracts for 23 projects. The Convair Cove and ELC projects will be added for a total of 25 projects in the District’s portion of the IRL. Currently, 14 projects are under construction (including Convair Cove and ELC) and one project has been completed.

Source: Agenda Item 7 Memo (PDF 2pp)

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at it's Palatka headquarters beginning at 10 a.m.

SJRWMD Board Meeting November 9, 2021 Agenda

SJRWMD Board Meeting November 9, 2021 Agenda Packet (PDF 256pp 49.9MB)

There is an important Indian River Lagoon restoration item on the SJRWMD Board's November agenda:

Item 7) Consideration 4302 - Approval to amend contract 32116 for the Crane Creek / M-1 Canal Flow Restoration Project to add additional funding and to extend the expiration date.

• Current Amount: $1,520,694; Proposed Increase: $549,117; Revised Amount: $2,069,811

• Completion: Current: January 23, 2023; Proposed Completion Date: September 30, 2024

Description: In early 2017, the St. Johns River Water Management District, in partnership with the Indian River Lagoon Council, completed the IRL Stormwater Capture and Treatment Project Development and Feasibility Study to identify the next generation of large, high-benefit projects to improve the water quality of the IRL. The Crane Creek / M-1 Flow Restoration Project was among the top ranked projects evaluated in the study due to its relatively low cost per pound of nutrients removed, and alternative water supply benefit to the St. Johns River.

The M-1 Canal is a century old, man-made flood control feature that cuts through the coastal ridge with the result of diverting stormwater flow from approximately 5,300 acres of the historic St. Johns River basin to the IRL. Once completed, the stormwater baseflow will be re-routed back to the west and treated in a constructed stormwater treatment area (STA) that will reduce nutrient concentrations prior to reaching the St. Johns River.

Consideration 4032 Memo- Crane Creek / M-1 Canal Flow Restoration Project

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Live Broadcast: SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archive: SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar and Agendas

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

SJRWMD Board Meeting January 8, 2024 Agenda

SJRWMD Board Meeting January 8, 2024 Agenda Packet

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board holds its regular monthly meeting both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate. The Governing Board room will be open at a reduced capacity to provide an in-person option. The public also can watch the meeting online and offer comment by phone.

Web Links:

• SJRWMD Governing Board
• SJRWMD Governing Board Calendar

Live Broadcast:

• SJRWMD Governing Board Streaming Broadcast

Video Archives:

• SJRWMD Governing Board YouTube Channel
• SJRWMD Governing Media Center

Brevard County's Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizen Oversight Committee monthly meetings are held in the Viera Government Center, Building C. The committee meetings are usually held on Friday mornings from 8:30am to 11:30am. Check the SOIRL website for exact time and location.

The SOIRL COC meetings are also live streamed and archived on the Space Coast Government TV website, if you are unable to attend in person.

The primary item on the January 15, 2021 Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Agenda is the presentation of the 2021 SOIRL Plan Update by Marcy Frick, Tetra Tech Inc. and Virginia Barker, SOIRL Director.

Agenda Item: IX

Title: Draft Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan 2021 Update

Requested Action: After hearing a presentation on the proposed changes contained within the draft document, motion to recommend the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan 2021 Update to the Brevard County Commission for their consideration and adoption.

Each year, new information and project opportunities are incorporated into the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan through an annual update. The proposed draft update incorporates new information, projects and modifications. Draft changes to the plan are presented, discussed, and may be modified by the Citizen Oversight Committee. The Committee recommends an annual update of the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan to the County Commission for adoption.

The Committee’s recommendations are presented to the Board of County Commissioners for their inclusion, modification and inclusion, or non-inclusion in the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan. Per the enabling ordinance for the surtax, the Board shall not act on the Committee’s recommendations any sooner than 15 days after posting of the draft plan update on the County’s Save Our Indian River Lagoon website.

During plan updates, projects that deliver comparable nutrient removal benefits may be added to the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan or substituted for funding allocated to other projects in the same sub-lagoon. Unless otherwise agreed to by the County Commission, if a substituted project costs more than the project previously included in the Plan, the requesting partner must provide the balance of costs. During the November 2020 meeting, the Citizen Oversight Committee recommended adding twenty-four (24) new projects that were submitted by the community plus six (6) projects identified by staff.

The total revenue expectation from the ten-year surtax is decreased from $494 to $489 million, including economic growth. The total cost of projects, performance measures and reserves included in the proposed 2021 draft, with 2.5% inflation, is $489 million.

Download: 2021 SOIRL Plan Update Draft (DOCX 25.2MB)

2021 SOIRL Plan Update Draft (PDF 222pp 12MB)

Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Info:

SOIRL COC meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Online Zoom Meeting:SOIRL COC Zoom Meeting Link
• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.

January 15, 2021 Save Our Indian River Lagoon Progress Report

This meeting has been cancelled due to the February 9th Brevard Commission Meeting.

Brevard's Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizen Oversight Committee meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Online Zoom Meeting:SOIRL COC Zoom Meeting Link
• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.

January 15, 2021 Save Our Indian River Lagoon Progress Report

Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Info:

SOIRL COC meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page
• Online Zoom Meeting: TBD

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.

January 15, 2021 Save Our Indian River Lagoon Progress Report

Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Info:

SOIRL COC meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page
• Online Zoom Meeting: TBD

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.

Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Info:

SOIRL COC meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page
• Online Zoom Meeting: TBD

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.

Citizen Oversight Committee Meeting Info:

SOIRL COC meetings are held monthly at the Brevard County Commission Chambers in Viera, Florida.

Following CDC Guidelines, public meeting attendance is limited in the Commission Chambers. Prior contact with the COC staff is required to attend the meeting or participate in-person.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting via:

• Broadcast on Brevard's Space Coast Government TV website
• Facebook Live on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Facebook Page
• Online Zoom Meeting: TBD

Save Our Indian River Lagoon meeting videos are archived on YouTube at Brevard SOIRL COC Meeting Video Playlist.

About the SOIRL:

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program outlines Brevard County water quality projects that improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the Banana River and Indian River lagoons. Funding for the IRL improvement projects is raised through a November 8, 2016 referendum that established the SOIRL Program and Trust Fund.

The SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee (COC) reviews and updates the SOIRL plan, recommends restoration projects, and audits each project's finances.

It is estimated that the plan will bring in up to $484 million in revenue over 10 years to fund projects that will reduce or remove about 1.3 million pounds of excess nitrogen and 106 thousand pounds of phosphorus annually from the Indian River Lagoon.