PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Marine Resources Council (MRC) is launching a new, digital 2024 Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Report at LoveTheIRL.org on Mon. Nov. 18, 2024.
The new report is designed to be easy to use, understand and share. Presentations of the report may be arranged by contacting MRC at 321.725.7775.
According to MRC Executive Director Laura Wilson, “The new report approach grew out of insights gained during the 21st Indian River Lagoon Action Assembly held this July at Florida Institute of Technology.”
The new report utilizes up-to-date data collected across the Lagoon by eight different organizations between August, 2023 and August, 2024; details about the collaboration are included in the online report.
The report provides a cumulative as well as categorical health assessment for each of the five basins of the 156-mile-long Lagoon. The data are displayed in a dynamic digital dashboard, including graphic maps. Each cumulative and categorical basin health assessment is either good, okay, poor or very poor. Each basin is analyzed with regard to:
- sediment health,
- water quality,
- harmful algal blooms,
- seagrass coverage
- and wastewater spills.
Previously, MRC had published the Indian River Lagoon Report Card, which only considered water quality and seagrass health. “The 2024 IRL Report is a more comprehensive assessment that aims to inform and engage the whole community, as well as guide future conservation initiatives across the Lagoon ecosystem,” according to MRC Director of Science Mara Skadden.
Additionally, the report highlights various projects underway that showcase the ongoing efforts of government agencies, non-profits, and other stakeholders dedicated to Lagoon restoration and protection.
MRC has worked to protect, restore, unite, and promote the IRL coastal community of east central Florida for more than 40 years. More information is at LoveTheIRL.org.
