Nature along our indian river
The Treasure Coast is renowned for it’s beauty and environmental wonders. We must at least in part give thanks to the extensive environmental and nature appreciation programs that are in place to ensure that the beauty lasts. There are several resources in place to promote education about nature and our ecology.
The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge extends from Melbourne Beach to Wabasso on a 20.5 mile tract. The Refuge began in 1991 in response to ecologist Dr. Archie Carr Jr.’s research and educational contributions to turtle conservation. He is noted for writing eleven books and over 120 scientific articles on sea turtles before his death in 1987. The Refuge is an expansive 248 acres dedicated to maintaining and increasing the once dwindling population of sea turtles. This area provides ideal conditions to encourage nesting for these creatures that were once threatened with extinction.
In similar nature, but focused on the preservation of local birds and their habitats, the Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge was established in 1903 and contains 5,413 acres. It has the privilege of being named the very first national wildlife refuge.
Botanical gardens are also a nature lover’s delight. Both the Heathcote Botanical Garden and McKee Botanical Garden are in close proximity and a relaxing and educational experience. Heathcote, located in Fort Pierce, began in 1985 and contains 3.4 acres of native flora. McKee’s beginnings reach back to 1929 when established as the McKee Jungle Garden.
The Environmental Learning Center supplies ecology camps for kids and promotes education about nature and the indigenous animals and plant life. Their efforts have not gone unreciprocated. In response to a lightening strike that hit the ELC and subsequently destroyed all of the wet lab, classroom and restrooms, five local elementary schools held a read-a-thon specifically to raise money for the ELC’s Fire Fund. Their philanthropic gesture raised over $8500 and gave the Environmental Learning Center even more drive to continue with their mission.
Another fascinating place to visit, whether young or old, is the Florida Power & Light Energy Encounter. It offers a number of educational displays, programs and exhibits and explains how energy is produced and used.
To get a good look at manatees in their natural environment, visit the Manatee Observation & Education Center. Located in Fort Pierce, the Indian River Lagoon is a natural resting spot for manatees. They are attracted to the warm water produced by the nearby power plant and reside there regularly during the cooler winter months. Manatees, which are large mammals, are capable of weighing 1,000lbs and reaching 1o feet in length. The Indian River Lagoon is the most biologically diverse estuary in North America, housing over 2,200 species of animals and 2,100 species of plants. The diversity of the lagoon attracts tourists and brings millions of dollars to Florida. Stop by to learn how human interaction affects the species and how you can help keep them safe.
Regardless of your specific affinity towards nature, the Treasure Coast will provide you with every opportunity to take in its beauty.
