About the Living Docks Program
The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) has experienced an increase in urbanization and freshwater discharge, which has led to an increase in algal blooms, subsequently decreasing oyster reefs and seagrass beds. In order to combat these changes, Florida Oceanographic and Florida Tech have collaborated to expand the Living Docks Program to the southern half of the IRL, including the St. Lucie Estuary.
A Living Dock consists of 6 – 10 mats made from aquaculture grade mesh, with 60 – 80 dried oyster shells, which are then attached to dock pilings. The chemical composition in the shells attracts oysters, as well as other bivalves through chemical cues, and acts as natural habitat for filter-feeding organisms to settle on. In return, these communities will attract larger organisms such as fish, dolphins, and turtles, creating a diverse ecosystem.
The creation and deployment of the oyster mats is fully inclusive with both children and adults participating in the process. The Living Docks project is driven by citizens and the utilization of their docks for placement of oyster restoration mats in the IRL. Projects such as Living Docks that are at a local scale and manageable by the general public of all ages, are one way that the public can get involved and make a difference.
- Besides filtering impurities from our waters, oyster mats installed on the dock pilings promote the growth of filter feeding organisms such as oysters, sponges, barnacles, and tunicates and have the potential to significantly improve water quality, as well as provide habitat for crabs and fish. — Dr Robert Weaver, Director of the Indian River Lagoon Research Institute.
Easy to Follow Process
An initial dock inspection was conducted to analyze water quality conditions and to obtain piling measurements, ultimately to determine that the location was suitable for the oyster mat installation. After this, a community-based oyster mat workshop was scheduled.
Community Engagement
Anyone from children to adults came together as a way to help improve local water quality. Mats can be easily assembled and applied.
