Message From The Manager

Each of the aquatic preserves within the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves offers a unique visit of protected submerged state lands. Within the Indian River Lagoon region, a broad variety of natural community types, watershed and drainage features, connections to the Atlantic Ocean and complex hydrodynamics combine to create a complex landscape unique among Florida’s estuaries.  A visit to one of the seven managed aquatic preserves and you may see healthy mangroves, seagrass beds, spoil islands, mudflats, oyster bars and freshwater river systems.

The overlapping boundaries of two biotic zones, the temperate Carolinian zone and the sub-tropical Caribbean zone occur within the Indian River Lagoon region. The combination of these two zones, along their associated plants and animals, distinguishes the Indian River Lagoon as one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America. Astonishing biodiversity, habitat mosaics, aesthetic value and recreational opportunities are among many of the reasons this stunning region is worthy of the continued protection for the enjoyment of future generations.   

From the office of The Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves, we hope you enjoy your aquatic preserve experience and do your part to safeguard Florida’s natural beauty.

Sincerely,

Matthew Anderson