District continues Indian River Lagoon restoration efforts

Stormwater runoff from lawns and roads carry nutrients that can contribute to harmful algal blooms in the Indian River Lagoon.

PALATKA, Fla., July 9, 2024 — The St. Johns River Water Management District has unveiled an update to the 2017 Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Feasibility Study. In partnership with Jones Edmunds and Associates, this updated study aims to identify and prioritize new stormwater treatment project concepts that could provide environmental benefits to the IRL system.

The study identified and screened 30 potential project concepts. After a careful selection process, seven top-tier concepts were prioritized for future design and development considerations, with costs ranging from $1.8 million to $48.3 million. These projects were selected based on their cost-effectiveness, range of upfront capital costs and nutrient-load reduction benefits.

The District’s next steps include engaging with public stakeholders through upcoming meetings with the Indian River Lagoon Council and Brevard County’s Save Our Indian River Lagoon program, and holding individual discussions with potential project partners.

This updated feasibility study demonstrates the District’s continued commitment to protecting and restoring the Indian River Lagoon. To view the final feasibility report and additional information on the District’s work to protect and restore the Indian River Lagoon, visit www.sjrwmd.com/waterways/indian-river-lagoon.

To learn more about the Crane Creek / M-1 Canal flow restoration project, visit www.sjrwmd.com/projects/#crane-creek.