Land & Water Conservation
Protecting Land for the Future
At the Indian River Lakes Conservancy, we are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of our region through comprehensive land and water conservation efforts. By safeguarding these precious resources, we ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from them as we do today.
We believe in enriching the quality of life in our community by providing access to natural spaces that promote wellness, recreation, and connection with the environment. Our preserved lands and trails offer opportunities for residents of all ages to explore, exercise, and unwind in peaceful surroundings.
These natural areas not only enhance physical and mental well-being but also foster a sense of belonging and pride in our local environment. By conserving and maintaining these spaces, we ensure that our community continues to thrive with access to natural beauty and recreational opportunities close to home.
The Need for Conservation
Conservation is crucial as it protects our environment, wildlife habitats, and water sources. It helps maintain biodiversity, supports local economies dependent on outdoor recreation, and mitigates the impacts of climate change. Without conservation efforts, we risk losing critical ecosystems and the services they provide.
The urgency for conservation is underscored by alarming statistics: up to 1 million species face extinction due to habitat destruction and climate change, as reported by the UN. Over 2.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, exacerbating global water scarcity issues. Pollution affects 9 out of 10 people worldwide, contributing to health risks and environmental degradation. Conservation not only protects biodiversity but also enhances community resilience against natural disasters and promotes public health through nature-based solutions. These challenges highlight the critical need for immediate and sustained conservation efforts to preserve and protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future.
Additionally, land conservation plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making it a vital component of sustainable environmental stewardship.
Our Philosophy
We believe in the importance of stewardship and the responsibility to protect our lands, waters, and natural heritage. By conserving lands and waters, we contribute to cleaner air and water, enhanced wildlife habitats, and opportunities for outdoor recreation and education. Our efforts also support sustainable land use practices that benefit both nature and communities.
How Does the IRLC Protect Land and Water?
Land Conservation & Nature Preserves
The Indian River Lakes Conservancy accepts land donations and acquires properties through grant funding and donor support. This approach allows us to strategically acquire and protect lands that are ecologically significant or under threat from development. Each acquisition is carefully planned to maximize conservation benefits and ensure long-term protection.
Once we've acquired a piece of property, it remains undeveloped forever, but with public access for minimally-invasive activities such as hiking and responsible fishing. Our public preserves are a place that people can connect with nature and remember why it’s so important to live in harmony with the natural world.
Water Conservation & Protecting our Lakes
We deeply value the special lakes that make up the Indian River Lakes watershed. These pristine waters are not just resources but part of our community's heritage, cherished for generations.
IRLC’s water conservation efforts focus on preserving water quality and aquatic habitats. Through land preservation and community education efforts, we work to reduce runoff pollution, protect shorelines, and promote responsible water use practices.
Creating nature preserves plays a critical role in protecting watersheds from the pressures of development, such as increased pollutants from roads, urban expansion, and invasive species.
By establishing preserved areas, the Indian River Lakes Conservancy preserves natural habitats and vegetation that act as buffers. These buffers help filter pollutants, regulate water flow, and maintain water quality in lakes and rivers within the watershed. Preserved lands prevent soil erosion and sedimentation, which can degrade aquatic ecosystems and diminish water clarity. Through strategic land conservation efforts, we ensure that these vital watershed functions continue to support clean water and biodiversity for future generations.
We also focus on preserving shoreline habitats. Preserving lakeshores isn't just about keeping these special places beautiful; it's about protecting our water quality and wildlife too. Stable shorelines are essential for wildlife to thrive. Plus, wild and natural shorelines offer more opportunities for everyone to enjoy the outdoors and soak in the beauty of nature. By conserving lakeshores, we're ensuring healthy ecosystems and a sustainable future for our communities.
Get Involved!
You can make a difference in land and water conservation efforts:
Your financial support helps us acquire and protect critical lands and waters.
Join us in hands-on conservation activities, from trail maintenance to habitat restoration.
Visit our conserved lands and experience the beauty of nature firsthand.
Spread awareness about the importance of conservation and encourage others to get involved.
Future generations deserve to inherit healthy and vibrant natural environments to explore and enjoy. By conserving these areas, we provide opportunities for educational experiences and outdoor adventures that foster a deep connection with nature from an early age. Join us in our mission to conserve, protect, and cherish our natural heritage.
Together, we can make a difference.
The Indian River Lakes Conservancy maintains 28 miles of trails open to the public across 5 different land preserves, and we are consistently working to expand our trail system. With trails in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties, there are lots of places for you to explore and enjoy!