Bird Monitoring is necessary in order to properly manage the Spoil Islands in the Indian River Lagoon. The Florida DEP Southeast Aquatic Preserve is focused on coastal wading bird habitat of the Spoil Islands because human-related activates can negatively affect bird habitat for foraging and reproduction. It is necessary to monitor bird activity within the aquatic preserve on a regular basis.

Each month, 1-2 volunteers are needed to record bird behavior on 39 designated Spoil Islands in St. Lucie and Indian River County (Ft. Pierce South Causeway to 17th Street Causeway in Vero Beach). Volunteers can meet with the Spoil Island Coordinator at the FDEP/CAMA office in Fort Pierce, or at a public boat launch. The entire bird survey can be done in 1 full day or 2 half-days, either on weekdays or weekends, depending on volunteer availability. The Florida DEP Southeast Aquatic Preserve Field Office will supply everything including: food, drinks, binoculars, sunscreen, safety equipment, data sheet, and Sibley's field guide (volunteers are welcome to bring their own personal items/equipment as well). Each new volunteer will receive a "Spoil Island Project" T-shirt for helping out with the survey.

If you are interested in Bird Monitoring, please send an email with your contact information to either the Southeast or East Central Office Spoil Island Coordinator and you will be added to the Bird Monitoring distribution list. You will be asked to fill out a Volunteer Application Agreement prior showing up at the Dock.