Conservation on the Treasure Coast

The Fight for the Lagoon

The Indian River Lagoon is one of the most imperiled estuaries in the United States. Decades of unchecked development, nutrient pollution from septic systems and fertilizer runoff, and the destruction of natural filtration systems have brought this once-pristine waterway to a crisis point. Recurring algal blooms have smothered seagrass beds, starved manatees, and devastated commercial and recreational fisheries.

But the story of Treasure Coast conservation is not only one of loss. Across Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin counties, a broad coalition of government agencies, nonprofit organizations, scientists, and ordinary residents is working to reverse the damage. Muck dredging projects are removing decades of accumulated nutrient-laden sediment. Septic-to-sewer conversion programs are cutting off pollution at its source. Living shoreline projects are restoring oyster reefs and mangrove habitat. And citizen scientists are monitoring water quality at dozens of sites along the lagoon's 156-mile stretch.

The challenges are immense, and the work will take decades. But understanding what went wrong and what is being done about it is essential for anyone who cares about the future of this irreplaceable ecosystem.