Conservation Lands Map

Statement of Function

The primary purpose and objective of the Indian River County Conservation Lands Program is to protect, restore and sustain endangered ecosystems and associated rare and endangered species in Indian River County. Secondary objectives of the program include passive public recreation, preservation of open space, groundwater quality protection, flood protection, protection of historic and cultural resources, and general preservation of “quality of life.” The Conservation Lands Program is managed by the Conservation Lands Manager through the Parks Division and supervised by the Parks Superintendent. The Conservation Lands Manager and Parks Superintendent also work closely with the Community Development Department.

2010/2011 Goals and Objectives

• Complete the USFWS Habitat Conservation Planning Grant as described in the terms and conditions of the grant.
• Work with the Florida Division of Forestry to conduct prescribed burns on prioritized conservation area, install firebreaks and provide educational information to the public about the necessity of prescribed fire on conservation lands.
• Maintain compliance with SJRWMD/DEP and other regulatory agencies on projects on conservation lands and for County development projects.
• Assist with County environmental issues as they pertain to upcoming development projects.
• Maintain compliance with FCT reporting as it pertains to conservation areas purchased with FCT grant funds.
• Continue working with volunteers to improve conservation areas, e.g. Coastal Tech at Prange Island, volunteers conducting scrub-jay reporting and maintenance of exotics on conservation areas.
• Work with environmental consultants/developers who are looking for mitigation opportunities for
  wetlands/uplands. Direct these mitigation projects to conservation areas with a need for restoration or enhancement.
• Acquire Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation permit for North Sebastian Conservation Area and
  Wabasso Scrub Conservation Area to become long-term recipient sites for gopher tortoises. Allow relocation of gopher tortoises from development projects within the County to be placed on these conservation areas.
• Provide education to the public about environmental issues as they pertain to listed species and conservation areas.
• Update the county website with information about the County’s conservation areas.
• Continue providing county departments with assistance in regard to gopher tortoise surveys/relocations and other listed species concerns as they relate to County development projects.
• Utilize the Parks Division staff, as available, to assist with conservation lands maintenance.