For the first time, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has declared a “no-discharge zone” (NDZ) in a Florida aquatic preserve, stretching 12 miles from Vero Beach to Fort Pierce.
EPA declares ‘no-discharge zone’ for portion of this lagoon
The designation means boaters can no longer legally dump sewage, whether treated or raw, into this portion of the Indian River Lagoon.
Advocates say the move is a major step in restoring water quality in one of Florida’s most ecologically sensitive areas.
“It has been so rewarding to know that there’s people out there that care just as much about water quality as those here in our county,” said Christa Stone with Marine Cleanup, a group that has long pushed for stronger protections in the lagoon…