Anchoring Limitation Areas to Protect Indian River Lagoon
The Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County (CWC) is pleased to announce that new regulations are on the way to address a longstanding issue impacting the Indian River Lagoon. Anchoring Limitation Areas (ALA) are being established in Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Indian River County to prevent vessels from becoming abandoned or derelict, a key factor in protecting this fragile ecosystem.
Why Anchoring Limitation Areas?
Derelict boats, often left to rot, release harmful pollutants like diesel, gasoline, hydraulic fluid, and human waste, which contaminate the water, harm wildlife, and disrupt recreational activities. CWC introduced the ALA concept to local leaders as a proactive measure, emphasizing early intervention to mitigate potential pollution and cut down on removal costs. CWC's initiative helps balance the joys of boating with the need to protect the lagoon's health.
The ALA policy will restrict boat mooring to no more than 45 days within a six-month period in designated areas. By enforcing this regulation, Vero Beach, and Indian River Shores can remove vessels before they cause environmental harm. The areas, totaling approximately 393 acres, will be clearly marked with signs and buoys, ensuring boaters are well-informed.
CWC's Role and Support
After years of advocacy and discussion, the CWC is excited to see this initiative advance, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Indian River County. Former County Commissioner Peter O’Bryan first introduced the ALA concept at CWC’s request, laying the groundwork for these regulations that will benefit both the community and the environment.
The ALA effort is a positive step forward, protecting the beauty and health of the Indian River Lagoon. CWC believes this proactive approach can serve as a model for coastal communities across Florida, underscoring our commitment to sustainable recreation and environmental preservation.
The Clean Water Coalition will continue to monitor and support these efforts, ensuring that the lagoon remains a cherished asset for generations to come.
Click here to read a story in the Press Journal for more.
Do you spend time out on the Indian River Lagoon? Whether you are a fisher spending time out on your boat or a kayaker who enjoyed paddling the lagoon, if you are out on the water, you can contribute to the Eyes on Seagrass in the Indian River Lagoon Blitz! Eyes on Seagrass is a participatory science program that monitors the health and status of Florida’s seagrass population. Organized by UF/IFAS Extension and Florida Sea Grant, the Eyes on Seagrass Blitz is a two-week effort between November 1-15 to collect data on the presence (or absence) of seagrass in the Indian River Lagoon. These data will allow us to better understand the current range of seagrass in the Indian River Lagoon and help inform future monitoring and restoration work.
The Eyes on Seagrass Blitz will rely on residents to report seagrass using the Seagrass Spotter App. A reporting involves taking a picture and answering a few quick questions about the area in the app. Participants may report as many or as few sitings as they’d like across the entire Indian River Lagoon region, including Mosquito Lagoon and the Banana River. We are interested in both the presence and absence of seagrass across the lagoon. Participation involves a few easy steps.
Before Going Out on the Water:
Download the Seagrass Spotter app in the Apple App store or Google Play store to your phone and create a free account. -OR- If you prefer, you can create an account on the computer version of the program.
Review the Eyes on Seagrass Species ID Guide.
Read the full instructions and download or print a copy of the shortened field protocol to have with you when you are out on the water.
Ensure that you have all the proper safety gear on your vessel and check that the weather conditions are safe to be out on the water. Low wind conditions are ideal for both your safety and visibility through the water’s surface.
Complete the Eyes on Seagrass Volunteer form to learn about future Eyes on Seagrass volunteer opportunities.
For more information visit the Eyes on Seagrass in the IRL Blitz event website.
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