Tips for Reducing Lagoon Pollution
The Indian River Lagoon watershed includes most of the land from South Volusia County to South Martin County east of interstate I-95. It is a HUGE area and every household therein contributes to the load of nonpoint source pollutants reaching the lagoon. Like it or not, every house contributes to the source of pollution entering the lagoon and every house can make a difference.
To successfully restore the Indian River Lagoon, we all must do our part. Everyday actions such as fertilizing the lawn, washing the car, or walking the dog can have a major impact on Lagoon water quality. The Lagoon can’t be fixed by government and non-profit restoration partners alone. It will take all of us. By making simple changes in our lives, we each can take part in restoring the Lagoon for future generations to enjoy. Here are a few tips for reducing the pollution going to the Indian River Lagoon.
Give Your Lawn a Break From Fertilizer This Summer!

• Don’t apply N (nitrogen) fertilizer between June 1 and September 30
• Don’t apply P (phosphorous) without a soil test
• In the spring, apply a 50% slow release nitrogen fertilizer
• Stay 15–25 feet from shorelines (this setback varies by ordinance)
• Ask your professional what they are applying and when
Build a Rain Garden!

Dispose of Your Trash

Create a Vegetative Buffer

Test Your Soil

3695 Lake Drive
Cocoa, FL 32926
Keep Lawn Clippings Out of the Street

• Divert the mower chute away from impervious surfaces
• Blow clippings back onto the lawn
Kill Weeds Naturally

Hand pull!
Go Native

Create Pervious Areas Where Water Can Infiltrate to the Ground

• Mulch or pine straw
• Pea gravel or shell
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Dispose of Pet Waste in the Trash

Build a Rain Barrel

Dispose of Medicines

Take Your Car to the Carwash

Don’t Dump Your Aquarium!

Avoid Sea Grass Beds

Volunteer!

Create Habitat, Plant Mangroves

Attend a Workshop
or Volunteer

Join the Campaign to Save the Indian River Lagoon! Join MRC today!

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