April 14, 2026 (From WESH-TV, Mike Hanson)
A recent news story on WESH said, “A major restoration project aimed at improving water quality in the Indian River Lagoon is set to begin near the Eau Gallie Causeway, part of a long-term effort to restore one of Florida’s most ecologically important waterways.”
“Brevard County officials said the Eau Gallie Northeast Muck Removal Project will target a large deposit of nutrient-rich sediment that has accumulated over decades just northeast of the causeway.”
Muck has many negative aspects, including lowering oxygen levels and harming fish, seagrass and wildlife.
Eau Gallie Pier
County officials said the project is funded through the voter-approved Save Our Indian River Lagoon program, along with grants from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Work is expected to begin in mid-April and continue through mid-2027.
According to WESH,”During the project, dredged sediment will be hydraulically pumped through an approximately 7-mile pipeline from the lagoon to a dredge material management site near Palm Bay, where the material will be dewatered.”
Boaters should be aware that they need to use caution near the construction area where dredging is taking place. They should pay attention to the on-site crews and follow directions, slow down and create minimal wakes.
“County leaders said removing the muck will help restore natural conditions in the lagoon,” according to WESH.
“The work is part of the broader Save Our Lagoon (SOIRL) initiative created after Brevard County voters approved a half-cent sales tax in 2016 to help restore the Indian River Lagoon,” WESH said.
For the latest report of SOIRL completed projects and data on the removal of excess nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients (that can fuel algae blooms and degrade water quality), along with oversite reports from the Citizens Advisory Committee, can be found on the Brevard County website.
“County officials said the cleanup effort, along with stormwater improvements, septic-to-sewer conversions and other projects, represents a long-term commitment to protecting the lagoon,” WESH said.
Source: WESH