Evaluating Ecosystem Degradation and Stakeholder Livelihood in a Marine Protected Area: A Case Study in Mosquito Lagoon, Florida

Keywords: Protected Areas, Seagrass, Remote Sensing, Florida, Socioeconomics
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract

Abstract

Mosquito Lagoon (ML), the northern part of the Indian River Lagoon on the east coast of Florida, USA, used to be one of the premier wildlife destinations in the world. It was so high in biodiversity that the lagoon and surrounding areas received county, state, and federal protection. From catching fish to bird watching to manatee spotting, the lagoon had a draw for everyone. However, over the last decade because of nutrient loading, overgrazing, and a changing climate, the lagoon has become a toxic wasteland devoid of primary producers and the consumers that depend on them. There are very few quantified and accessible datasets that evaluate this loss and the resultant consequences. The project utilizes remote sensing and qualitative surveys to build a critical framework by which to quantify system degradation from a holistic approach, including seagrass monitoring and socioeconomic impact. Fieldwork was completed the last three years and includes coupling this data with satellite imagery and advanced statistical algorithms (including Random Forest and Deep Learning techniques) to accurately mapping seagrass loss (90+%) over the last decade. This project also focuses on the impact of this seagrass loss socioeconomically to stakeholders around ML through surveys. Stakeholders have been impacted negatively by seagrass decline through a loss of business and a need to adapt their equipment and work location to a different ecosystem. This study serves as data to inform policy through local partners and politicians to develop better regulations to protect this vulnerable ecosystem.