As we grow wiser in life, we should begin to appreciate the importance of understanding more about those things we cherish the most. Comprehending their characteristics is a significant step forward. The unique things help us be the people we are.
Take, for instance, fly fishing. If you love it, you’re probably going to learn the finer details of the art. You may study its origin, history, etc. The more you explore the many aspects of the sport, the more you will live it. The same goes for places we value the most. Exploration of these places often build our stewardships from within.
For many of us living along Florida’s Indian River Lagoon coast, as our knowledge of the IRL grows, our ability to appreciate its uniqueness and irreplaceable resources it is. Here are several significant IRL facts boaters should understand.
The IRL is not a river; it is a system of lagoons, comprised mainly by the Banana, Indian River & Mosquito Lagoon. The IRL is not the Intracoastal Waterway. The 3000 mile long Intracoastal Waterway is an inland navigable route running along our nation’s Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. It’s a marked channel maintain for continuous year-round boat traffic.
With the recent historical fish kills and die-off of seagrasses in the IRL, there has been talking of digging more man-made inlets to flush the system. The existing IRL man-made ocean inlets are part of the problem. The continuous flow of saltwater from these inlets into the IRL contributes to its demise.
Yes, despite what you may have heard, manatees are native to Florida. Florida is the only state which can claim to be temperate, semi-tropical and tropical. The reason why? The Gulf Stream. Suggest you study the Gulf Stream to recognize its impact on the IRL’s complexity.
To sign-up for one of Captain Smith’s free boating workshops please call, 321-750-3374 or email, irlcoast@gmail.com.
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