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Introduction
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The Indian River Lagoon estuary is facing some serious problems, both in the water and out. Many different types of groups want to use the waterways for a variety of reasons, most of which appear to conflict with each other. Fish and plants are dying. Manatees are being seriously injured, and even killed. Fishermen are losing money, and the safety of water sports is in jeopardy.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been called in to try and help save the waterway before it dies out completely. After a preliminary review of the waterway, the EPA has decided that effective immediately, the following rules are in place: all motorized watercraft has been banned; no commercial or pleasure fishing, including crab or shrimp trapping, is permitted; no fishing from the banks of the estuary. Only the Coast Guard and EPA personnel will be permitted to have access to the the estuary until further notice. They expect to have recommendations for public and commercial use in approximately 30 days.
Is there a way the groups can work together to preserve both the beauty and recreational pleasures of this unique waterway before the EPA bans use of the estuary completely?
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