news release

Yesterday (9/9), the IRC Board of County Commissioners recognized Melissa Meisenburg at their regular Board of County Commission meeting.  Meisenburg, a Senior Environmental Specialist in the County’s Natural Resources-Lagoon Division received the Clean Water Coalition (CWC) of Indian River County, Inc., Lagoon Champion Award on August 17^th. 

Addressing the Board, Judy Orcutt, President of the CWC, acknowledged Meisenburg’s leadership and initiative then said, “while we made this award in August, this is our public presentation.” 

Each year the CWC of Indian River County recognizes individuals dedicated to restoring and preserving the Indian River Lagoon through their conservation efforts, advocacy and educational initiatives. This prestigious recognition was most recently awarded to Dr. Duane DeFreese, Executive Director – Indian River Lagoon Council and Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program.

“We are delighted Melissa Meisenburg has been chosen as our newest Lagoon Champion,” said Orcutt.  Highlighting that Meisenburg joined the Natural Resources Division of IRC in 2022, she told the Board Melissa brought new energy and vision to protecting the Indian River Lagoon, and “we have given her several challenges like the need to focus on derelict vessels in the Lagoon, said Orcutt.

“Melissa, a native Floridian with a master’s degree from the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), brings both scientific expertise and a deep-rooted passion for environmental conservation to her work. Through innovative projects and community education, she is dedicated to protecting and restoring the Indian River Lagoon,” said Kylie Yanchula, Director, IRC Natural Resources Department.

“I am extremely honored to be chosen as a Lagoon Champion by the Clean Water Coalition. I take pride in my position and the efforts we are making as a County and community to protect the Indian River Lagoon. Being selected as a Lagoon Champion by the CWC is a sign of support and praise for the work we are doing, which is important,” said Meisenburg. Before leaving the podium, Meisenburg addressed the Commissioners, “I want to acknowledge this award would not be possible without the efforts of other members of our team, there are many departments and divisions in the County working on the Lagoon, like Utilities and the Parks and Recreation and Conservation Department,” said Meisenburg.

In September 2023, Melissa led the creation of the County’s Lagoon Management Plan. The goal of this comprehensive plan addresses key factors impacting the health of the Indian River Lagoon through research and the implementation of restoration projects to improve resiliency and conditions for the Indian River Lagoon and the Indian River County community.

While the plan identifies 17 key factors impacting the health of the lagoon, three recent initiatives have been visible throughout our County and are gaining positive support and momentum:

Living Docks: A program partnering with FIT and local volunteers to assemble oyster mats which are wrapped on dock pilings creating vital homes for marine life. (Supports the Ecosystem Functions and Habitat Use Objective)

Derelict Vessel Removal: Removal of abandoned vessels throughout Indian River Lagoon waters. Decreasing harmful oil runoffs, improving navigation of routes, and restoring the majestic views of our waters. (Supports the Marinas, Boats, and Boat Ramps Objective)

Seagrass Restoration: Spanning the planting of 22.8 acres, this project was one of the largest ever in the Indian River Lagoon. Seagrass growth has been observed thanks to volunteer planting sessions and community educational programs focusing on the care and stewardship of our Indian River Lagoon. (Supports the Ecosystem Functions and Habitat Use Objective)

“Melissa’s work is about more than science, it’s about community. She brings people together to protect and restore one of Florida’s greatest treasures, ensuring the Indian River Lagoon will thrive for generations to come. We are proud to have her oversight and dedication on our team working to protect and restore the Lagoon,” said County Administrator John Titkanich.

How You Can Help

Be a part of the programs responsible for the improving the health of our Lagoon. Become a community citizen scientist, attend a free workshop to build oyster mats, or attend one of our many volunteer events. Your participation truly makes a positive impact for our Lagoon and Indian River County.

To learn more about the Lagoon Management Plan, its projects and volunteer programs, visit our Indian River County website:

Lagoon Management Plan | Official Plan Docs

https://indianriver.gov/services/natural_resources/indian_river_lagoon/lagoon_management_plan.php

Volunteer Opportunities

https://indianriver.gov/services/natural_resources/indian_river_lagoon/volunteer.php

Join our Citizen Science Project

https://indianriver.gov/news_detail_T23_R368.php

About the Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County;

Mission: The Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County (CWC) is dedicated to the protection and restoration of our waters through advocacy, education, conservation, and restoration; by working in collaboration with private and governmental entities.