Conserve & Restore Native Ecosystems
Starting in 2010, Brevard Zoo began advocating and working to balance the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. Staff and volunteers from the community are restoring populations of native, filter-feeding oysters to the lagoon, growing mangroves, plus restoring and building new reefs. We’ve set a solid foundation through collecting data and establishing best practices for ALL future projects needed to combat factors leading to the deterioration of lagoon health.
Working together to bring the health of the IRL back!
LIVING SHORELINE RESTORATION
Living shorelines support a complex ecosystem of vegetation, animals and humans! Here are the community projects we need your help with to restore the water quality and resilience of the Indian River Lagoon.
HOW WE'RE HELPING
OYSTERS
Oyster restoration provides invaluable support to cleaning and maintaining the naturalchemistry of our waters. One oyster can filter 50 gallons of water a day.
HOW WE'RE HELPING
CLAMS
Hard clam restoration reduces the buildup of nutrients in the lagoon. They are necessary for seagrass growth and the foundation of a healthy lagoon system.
HOW WE'RE HELPING
MANGROVES
Mangrove restoration provides stabilization of an essential habitat in the IRL. Mangroves are a nursery for many creatures and provide about 50% of Florida’s oxygen.
HOW WE'RE HELPING
SEAGRASS
Seagrass restoration provides a natural habitat and food source for marine life. It’s sensitivity to water quality serves as an indicator of coastal ecosystem health.
HOW WE'RE HELPING
MARSH GRASS
Marsh grass restoration, planted along the edge of the lagoon, prevents erosion and provides needed animal habitat instead of inorganic sea walls and bulkheads.
WAYS YOU CAN RESTORE OUR SHORES
Get involved with conservation efforts by shell bagging or even helping build reefs.
See how your waterfront property can help the IRL and our shoreline restoration efforts!
Love oysters and clams? Shells from restaurants can be returned to help the IRL.
