The public is invited to IMAGINE! Protecting Paradise, a free inspirational hour kicking off the 21st Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Community Action Assembly.
This event, presented by the Marine Resources Council (MRC) LagoonWATCH: Citizens + Science, takes place on July 24th from 8-9 a.m. at the Gleason Performing Arts Center at the Florida Institute of Technology. Registration and details are available at LoveTheIRL.org/Events.
This opening ceremony marks the start of a two-day assembly where 150 dedicated citizen volunteers will gather. These volunteers will donate a combined 2,400 hours of their time to analyze current scientific data and reach consensus on actions needed to restore balance to the vital lagoon ecosystem.
The event kicks off with a glimpse of the future. Attendees will be treated to the debut of IMAGINE!, a captivating five-minute video showcasing the 150-mile lagoon. Following the video, there will be brief regional presentations and information on how to get involved in the restoration efforts. Here’s what you can expect:
- What’s Possible When People Collaborate? – Indian Riverkeeper Jim Moir and MRC Executive Director Dr. Laura Wilson will share success stories of collaboration.
- Our Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan – IRL National Estuary Program Chief Operating Officer Kathy Hill will detail the plan’s strategies.
- Lake Okeechobee and Southern Lagoon – Martin County Board of County Commissioners Environmental Resource Administrator John Maehl will discuss specific challenges.
- Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan – Brevard County Natural Resources Department Director Virginia Barker will outline their plan’s key points.
- A Message in a Bottle: What do People Need to Know? – Communication Strategist and Advocate Marilyn J. Waters will provide critical communication insights.
- Two Regional Planning Councils and the Lagoon – East Central Florida and Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council Executive Directors Tara McCue and Tom Lanahan will share their perspectives.
Join the Marine Resources Council (MRC) for this inspiring event and learn how you can be a part of protecting paradise! Contact MRC at 321.725.7775 or Council@mrcirl.org for more information.
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