THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON

USA, Florida
County(s): Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, and northern Palm Beach

Measured Biodiversity Improvements

3+ Tons of Carbon Captured per acre per year

≈200 Pounds of Nutrient Reduction per acre per year

Synergistic Impact: Clams & Seagrass for Optimal Restoration

Partners

Led by Blue Ocean Quest, Sea & Shoreline, and The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience at the University of Florida, this project unites key restoration efforts within the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), creating a collective endeavor to preserve the IRL with the highest integrity and lasting impact possible.

Kickstarting Nature

This project takes an innovative approach by integrating proven seagrass restoration techniques with the strategic planting of clams in high densities using drones. This technology enables the rapid and cost-effective deployment of juvenile clams, bred from a resilient parent group of "super clams," into the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). Learn more below about why this approach is key to the future restoration and preservation of the IRL.

Managing the Balance

Increasing biodiversity naturally means an increase in all aspects, including clams natural predators such as fish, crabs, and rays. If the clam or population decreases below the expected growth rate then a second seeding is triggered to ensure long term survival.

Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Bio-credit

High integrity, voluntary, net positive, additional, enforced, verified, lasting

Aquatic Bio-credit Unit

Area =1 Acre

Active management = 15 Years

Site Control

Lease(s) are secured in an area(s) that precludes commercial harvesting

Site Management

A maintenance plan is provided for each site including monitoring, reporting, and enforcement practices

Purchase

Credit Benefits

Biodiversity Gain

Carbon Sequestration

Nutrient Reduction

Site Selection

10 acre sites are specially selected and targeted to maximize restoration impact

Measuring Success

Baseline data is documented for every site and performance metrics are measured over time

Validation

3rd party Verified by the University of Florida.

Financial Assurances

A maintenance trust fund ensures ongoing monitoring and necessary corrective action such as reseeding throughout the project's lifespan

Importance of the Indian River Lagoon

The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) stretches over 156 miles along nearly half of Florida's east coast, marking it as a cornerstone of the region's ecological framework. This vibrant estuary stands out as one of North America's most biodiverse habitats, supporting an unparalleled variety of life. Home to more than 4,400 species of plants, fish, birds, and marine mammals, the IRL is not just a natural treasure but a vital sanctuary for an array of wildlife. Its unique ecosystem plays a critical role in the environmental health and sustainability of the area, making its conservation essential for future generations and Florida's economy.

A-map-of-Indian-River-Lagoon-and-Halifax-River-Florida-The-Indian-River-Lagoon-is_edited.j

The Lagoon is at Risk

The Indian River Lagoon faces significant environmental challenges that threaten its biodiversity, ecological health, and Florida's Economy as a whole. One study found that for every $1 invested in the IRL has an economic return of $33. In 2011, the first major Algal bloom hit the Indian River Lagoon which led to recurring algal blooms and biodiversity loss. This Project is using clams and seagrasses to restore the lagoon and the effectiveness is astounding.

Restoring the Lagoon

The Benefits of Clams and Seagrass

Water quality improvement: Clams are being strategically deployed in the Indian River Lagoon to improve water quality by filtering excess nutrients and particulate matter from the water column.
Restoration of seagrass beds: By removing nutrients and improving water clarity, clams directly support the restoration of seagrass beds, which are crucial habitats for numerous marine species and provide important ecological functions.
Ecosystem restoration: Clam restoration efforts aim to restore and enhance the overall health of the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem, addressing issues such as nutrient pollution and degraded habitat conditions.

Community involvement: This project engages local communities and volunteers in activities such as clam seeding and monitoring, fostering stewardship and awareness of coastal ecosystem conservation.
Long-term sustainability: Integrating clam-based restoration approaches into broader ecosystem management plans can contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Indian River Lagoon and its associated resources.