The Bird Island restoration strengthened a critical rookery habitat in Central Florida.
Bird Island, an ecologically significant rookery island, had experienced progressive shoreline erosion, vegetation loss, and elevation decline due to wave action, storm events, and rising water levels. These impacts threatened the island’s function as a safe nesting and roosting site for species such as brown pelicans, herons, and egrets.
BlueTerra previously announced the successful completion of the Bird Island Restoration Project in the Indian River Lagoon in Melbourne in Brevard County for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Engineered by Taylor Kroll, P.E., of WSP, the project was designed to reduce shoreline erosion, reinforce critical nesting habitat, improve water quality, and enhance shoreline resilience.
According to Kevin Perry, BlueTerra’s Director of Marine Construction, the scope of work included:
- Removal and reuse of damaged oyster walls around the island,
- Dredging and reuse of fill material to enhance the shoreline’s elevation,
- Installing new oyster reefs comprised of limestone boulders and bedding stone, and
- Planting large red mangrove trees behind the new reefs to enhance shoreline resiliency”
“This project represents a meaningful investment in the health of the lagoon and the protection of one of its important rookery islands,” said Caity Savoia, Biological Administrator for FWC’s Aquatic Habitat Conservation & Restoration Section. “By restoring elevation, stabilizing the shoreline, and reestablishing native vegetation, we are helping to ensure that Bird Island remains viable habitat for nesting birds for years to come.” The land is owned by the Marine Resources Council, which also donated the mangroves for the project.
BlueTerra LLC is a private company headquartered in Winter Garden in Orange County. FWC’s goal is to conserve Florida’s natural resources while supporting responsible outdoor recreation for residents and visitors.
