Indian River Lagoon

The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) is one the most diverse ecosystems in North America. This spectacular diversity occurs because the lagoon is influenced by a subtropical climate to the north and a warm temperate climate to the south. Raymond Manning of the Smithsonian National Museum of National History said, “The biodiversity of the crabs and shrimp that live in burrows in the sediments is higher in the Indian River Lagoon than any other temperate estuary on earth.” Therefore it is fair to say that the IRL is a treasure to Brevard County.

Did you know?

The IRL salt water recreational fishery generated $346 million per year in economic benefits to the eastern central Florida region. The market and non-market economic value of the lagoon exceeds $700 million per year. ***

The IRL is one of the most popular destinations for recreational anglers in the State of Florida. *

The IRL brings in $465 million to the Economy through Recreational Activities. *

The IRL is 1 out of only 28 “Estuaries of Significance” listed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). **

The IRL is home of the world renowned $2.1 billion Indian River Citrus Industry. **

The economic value of recreational fishing and commercial shellfish in the IRL is worth over $352 million. **

The IRL provides 50% of Eastern Florida’s fish catch and 90% of Florida’s clam harvest. ***

The IRL’s Location is a “biological highway” for many migratory bird species. ****

The IRL is characterized by the greatest species diversity of any estuary in North America including manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and seahorses. Approximately 2,200 species have been identified in the lagoon system, with 35 of these species listed as threatened or endangered. *****

The unique conditions of the IRL provide the specific habitat that is necessary for seagrass to flourish. This is significant because seagrass is valued at $20,500/acre annually.  Even just one acre of seagrass can provide shelter for 40,000 fish and 50,000,000 invertebrates. ******   Seagrass is also responsible for the recycling of nutrients that support Florida’s Fisheries. *

References for Indian River Lagoon

http://irl.sjrwmd.com*

http://www.epa.gov**

http://www.anep-usa.org/publications/factcards/pdf/indian.PDF***

http://www.sfwmd.gov/org/exo/mslsc****

http://www.sfwmd.gov/org/wrp/wrp_ce/2_wrp_ce_lagoon/irl.html*****

http://www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Seagrass_Habitat.htm ******

What is the Natural Resources Management Office’s role in conserving the IRL?

http://www.brevardcounty.us/environmental_management/irl_assessment.cfm