For newcomers to the area, the first time a tropical system puts the Treasure Coast in its cone of uncertainty, the experience can give you a pretty intense case of the yips. Social media lights up, people descend hurriedly upon grocery and hardware stores, water and other items disappear quickly from the shelves, and neighbors are suddenly dragging out the shutters. Things seem weirdly frantic. And somewhere between checking your phone and watching the palms start to bend, i

When Association Rules Meet Wildlife Reality in Florida Few things spark neighborhood debates faster than a flock of Muscovy ducks waddling across a manicured lawn or gathering around a community pond. To some residents, they are charming reminders of nature; to others, they are noisy, messy, and destructive. But when homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and condominium associations (COAs) attempt to manage wildlife issues through community rules or well-intentioned policies, they

A Responsible Guide to Paddling on the Indian River Lagoon You've just cleared the launch site when the water bulges beside you. A grey-brown shape the size of a dining room table rises slowly to the surface, exhales with a sound like a wet sigh, and slides back under without a ripple. You've just met a Florida manatee, and if you're paddling the Indian River Lagoon on the Treasure Coast, there's a good chance this happens within minutes of setting out. The shallow, calm wat

For years, the story of the Indian River Lagoon has often felt like a cautionary tale. Fish kills, algae blooms, murky water, and heartbreaking images of starving manatees have horrified anyone truly paying attention. But this month, scientists shared some encouraging news that signals the lagoon may finally be showing signs of recovery. According to newly released data from the St. John’s River Water Management District (SJRWMD), the environmental regulatory agency responsib