Egret Marsh Stormwater Facility Tour

Ever wonder what happens to canal water before it reaches the Indian River Lagoon? Indian River County runs tours of Egret Marsh Stormwater Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, and it is a great way to see lagoon protection up close.

Egret Marsh opened in April 2010. Each day it removes dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus from eight to ten million gallons of canal water. The heart of the system is a 4.6 acre algae farm that soaks up much of those nutrients. The water then moves through a large polishing pond and a created wetland before it goes back into the canal system.

The site is also a dedicated wildlife sanctuary and home to many reptile, mammal and bird species. That makes the tour a good pick for nature lovers and birders, and for anyone curious about how our lagoon is being cared for.

Egret Marsh is closed to the public except for scheduled tours, so a tour is the only way in. The county says tours are typically held on the first Friday of the month, and this one runs from 9:00 to 10:30 AM. Groups can also schedule a private tour.

The park is at 7295 4th St, Vero Beach, FL 32968. To sign up, email the county stormwater educator at [email protected].

Details and any updates: the organizer's page.