Policy Statement
Indian River Lagoon and Water Resources
The Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County supports federal, state, and local government action to restore and conserve all water resources of Indian River County.
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Critically needed federal, state and local government actions include enforcement of regulations, cooperative planning and funding to proactively:
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provide for public education relative to public interests and the compelling need to restore and preserve all County water resources - particularly the Indian River Lagoon,
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convert existing septic tank systems to municipal wastewater collection and treatment systems,
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upgrade municipal wastewater treatment systems to state-of-the-art advanced treatment,
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eliminate derelict vessels and overboard waste discharge into State waters.
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identify and eliminate or treat existing stormwater pollutant sources including agricultural sources,
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restore and preserve aquatic habitat.
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create resilient communities in light of our changing climate
Background
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Indian River County’s water resources and associated ecosystems are inherent to a healthy economy and the quality of life within the County.
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Over the past 50+ years, the quality of County water resources has significantly diminished due to increased population, growth, and land uses changes.
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To restore and maintain County water resources, adverse human impacts upon County water resources must be identified, minimized, and mitigated through actions to implement state-of-the-art measures based on “Good Science” – including publication with peer review and replication.
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Public education and political leadership are key to prompt desirable actions by government and private entities; an informed and knowledgeable public is critical.