Banana River Aquatic Preserve

 

Banana River Aquatic Preserve is located in north central Brevard County, separating Merritt Island on the west and the beach barrier island on the east. The surface water area of the aquatic preserve is approximately 30,000 acres. The aquatic preserve begins at State Road 528 (Bennett Causeway), extends almost to the southern tip of Merritt Island, and includes Newfound Harbor and Sykes Creek as far north as Hall Road. There is no visitor center in the area or official trails managed by Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves.

Last Modified: Thursday, Oct 03, 2024 - 09:19am

Nassau River-St. Johns River Marshes and Fort Clinch Aquatic Preserves

Situated amidst growing developmental pressure, these beautiful, natural and cultural areas require special attention and protection."

Nassau River-St. Johns River Marshes and Fort Clinch aquatic preserves are in the northeastern part of Florida, along the Atlantic intracoastal waters of the St. Marys, St. Johns and Nassau rivers.

Last Modified: Thursday, Oct 03, 2024 - 09:19am

Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve

Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve, located within the boundaries of GTM Research Reserve, is unusual because it includes uplands. Nearly 12,000 acres of uplands were purchased by the state of Florida in 1984 because of their environmental sensitivity and to protect several species of endangered and threatened plants and animals.

Approximately 9,500 acres are managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and 2,600 acres are managed by DEP's Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, including the house and visitor center near Guana Dam. 

Last Modified: Thursday, Oct 03, 2024 - 09:19am

Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve

 

Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve was designated in 1976. Of the four aquatic preserves in the Tampa Bay region, it is the least developed and is in the most pristine condition. Portions of the submerged lands within the aquatic preserve are not state owned but are leased from the Tampa Port Authority.

Last Modified: Thursday, Oct 03, 2024 - 09:39am