Enhancement Days

“Enhancement Days” plays a major role of the Spoil Island Project. It is made up of various government agencies, citizen support groups, private and public organizations, and concerned citizens dedicated to the enhancement of the spoil islands in the Indian River Lagoon. Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Florida Inland Navigational District (FIND), Florida Fish Wildlife and Conservation Commission (FFWCC), United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS), Stewards for the Southeast Florida Aquatic Preserves (SSFAP), Boy Scouts of America, Keep Florida Beautiful, and Marine Resources Council (MRC), are typically known as the Spoil Island Work Group (SIWG). The SIWG helps coordinate volunteer efforts to enhance the islands.
The enhancement of spoil islands requires several steps of progression over time. First the islands are cleared of any hazardous debris and trash. Next, portions of invasive exotic vegetation are identified, eliminated, and replaced with native vegetation by controlled succession. Depending on the designated use of the island, trails, fire pits, picnic tables, benches, and kiosks are designed/constructed and strategically placed on the island. Finally, regular maintenance of the islands is required to ensure its designated use and appearance.
All participants will enjoy a free BBQ lunch on the island and a free Spoil Island Project T-shirt. Many volunteers enjoy fishing, relaxing and taking in the scenery on the island after the work is completed, others may camp overnight. However, campers must register their vehicles prior to overnight parking.

“Enhancement Days” occur on the 3rd Saturday of every month from October thru April and end with a “Volunteer Appreciation Day” on the 3rd Saturday of May. Please check the schedule of events page for times and locations and the message board for recent events, or to ask questions and make announcements. If you are interested in Enhancement Days, 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 Enhancement Days distribution list. You will be asked to fill out a Volunteer Application Agreement prior showing up at the Dock.