Adaptation Actions to Reduce Impairment of Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Caused by Climate Change, Florida, USA

Abstract

Results of a vulnerability assessment of the Indian River Lagoon to climate change indicate future risks to water quality can be mitigated through adaptation actions targeting anticipated increases in pollutant loads from wastewater treatment plants, on site treatment and disposal systems, and surface water storage and conveyance infrastructure. Nine adaptation actions are recommended and if successfully implemented could reduce risks caused by climate change by fifty percent. The mitigating benefits of these actions are expected to cascade into other elements of the Lagoon, like living resources and habitats. The results and recommendations of this investigation are novel because they are based upon site-specific data and anticipated risks prioritized using a repeatable and defensible methodology. Furthermore, the focus and deliverables were informed by stakeholder involvement to facilitate utility to and implementation by resource practitioners. The next challenge is to implement, monitor, and revise each adaptation action as warranted. This will require a substantial increase in funding dedicated to the Lagoon’s restoration and coherently managed for decades. Strengthened collaboration between local, state, and federal programs is necessary to enhance the probability of successfully reducing future climate-related water quality impairments and facilitating the emergence of a more resilient, climate-ready estuary.