Indian River-Malabar to Vero Beach Aquatic Preserve

The Florida Department of State's Division of Historical Resources Master Site File indicates there are scores of historical sites adjacent to the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves system. Archaeological sites date from 10,000 BC to 1700 AD and include Spanish Fleet Survivors and Salvors Camp, Jungle Trail and Mount Elizabeth.

The preserve sits on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge, a narrow strip of land separating the lagoon from the ocean. The western shore of the preserve is characterized by the Anastasia Formation, a type of limestone known for its abundant and diverse fossils, formed over 5.3 million years ago during the Pliocene/Pleistocene epoch. Underlying these formations are even older basement rocks of the Florida Platform, some dating back to the Precambrian-Cambrian period. These geological formations, spanning millions of years, influence the preserve's topography, sediment composition and ultimately, the types of habitats and species that thrive within its boundaries.

Wildlife Habitat and Ecosystem Type
Aquatic preserves, estuary, mollusk reef, Outstanding Florida Waters, salt marsh, etc.

Spoil Islands
While not a natural community, spoil islands have become an important biological and recreational component of the Indian River Lagoon. Spoil islands were created from dredge material during the construction of the Intracoastal Waterway. The deposited material consists of sand, shell, muck and limestone rubble. The spoil islands have evolved into ecological communities which significantly contribute to the biodiversity of the Indian River Lagoon. Much of the vegetation on the spoil islands is exotic, consisting primarily of Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius) and Australian pine (Casuarina spp.). The shallow edges of the spoil islands have been colonized by mangrove forest, salt marsh and seagrass beds. Spoil islands support the majority of bird rookeries in the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserve system. Spoil islands provide recreational opportunities for boaters through the IRL. For information on visiting and camping, visit the Friends of the Spoil Islands website. 

Animals
Oysters, horseshoe crabs

Nesting and Migrating Birds
Wading birds, seabirds, shorebirds

Mammals
Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, West Indian manatee

Reptiles
Green sea turtle, Loggerhead sea turtle

Fish
Redfish, black drum, tarpon, snook, mullet

Other Species 
Seagrasses; red, black and white mangroves

Fall and spring

There are many private vendors around the Lagoon that offer these services.

• Environmental Learning Center
• Barrier Island Sanctuary
• Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Yes. Aquatic preserves often are adjacent to other conservation areas that may have nesting birds or other easily disturbed wildlife. Please do not let your pet run free in areas not designated for pets, and please pick up after your pet to avoid hazardous pathogens in our coastal waters. 

Follow current FWC saltwater fishing regulations.

Follow current FWC boating regulations.

Seagrass is protected within aquatic preserves; avoid shallow waters and raise motor if over seagrass. Damage to seagrass can result in a fine up to $1,000. 

Call Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).

ADA accommodations are specific to each access point and the managing entity for that site. 

There are no fees. Donations are accepted through Friends of the Spoil Islands.

Contact IRLAP@FloridaDEP.gov to learn more about conservation and volunteer involvement opportunities.