Why is the Indian River Lagoon so important to Florida?

• The Indian River Lagoon is 156 miles long with approximately 4,000 species documented to occur including 53 threatened or endangered species that inhabit the IRL for at least some portion of their lives.
• People come from around the world to fish, kayak, canoe, paddle board, and swim in the Indian River Lagoon
• The Indian River Lagoon contributes $7.64 billion annually to its five counties
• The fish and shellfish provide local food for the people of Florida