Field Trip: Osprey Acres Stormwater Park & Nature Preserve

Date: Monday, October 14, 2024

Location: Osprey Acres Stormwater Park and Nature Preserve, 925 5th St SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962

Leader Name: Diane Morgan

Trip/area Description: Expert naturalist Diane Morgan will lead an easy and informative hike at this Preserve. Indian River County bought this 83.7-acre facility that boasts a range of natural Florida ecosystems including uphill pine, mesic oak hammock, a small scrub area, and constructed wetlands. The wetlands provide treatment of stormwater and reverse osmosis-saline water from both Osprey Marsh (next door) and untreated canal water before these waters enter the Indian River Lagoon. Waters for treatment come Special treatment cells and a constructed serpentine flow-way that removes harmful nutrients that could result in unwanted algal growth in the Lagoon. The area now offers essential wetland habitat for birds, mammals, and aquatic wildlife.

Click to learn more about Osprey Acres Stormwater Park & Nature Preserve.

Duration of trip: 2 hours

Walking distance: About 1 mile or less

Degree of difficulty, and any special instructions: Easy walking along trails along the wetlands and through the woodlands.

Where you’d like participants to meet: Parking area at the site.

Time of meeting: 9:00 am

Number of participants limit (either individuals, or vehicles if a driving tour): 20 people

Host or Publisher Pelican Island Audubon Society