Bird Island Shoreline Stabilization

Just 1.6 acres in size, Bird Island (MC-2) is one of the most important bird nesting areas in Southeast Florida. Located in the Indian River Lagoon, this man-made island supports the nesting/roosting of thousands of threatened and endangered birds each year. Bird Island is home to 28 wildlife species, including 18 different bird species of which nine (9) are state or federally protected. 

However, erosion has decimated Bird Island’s mass with more than 30 percent of the island lost over the past 50 years as boat wakes, currents, king tides, and wind-driven storms result in shoreline retreat. The island’s erosion has been intensified and accelerated by sea level rise and the increased frequency and intensity of storm events. 

Attempts to stabilize the island with marsh grass and mangrove plantings were largely unsuccessful due to the extent of the erosion, compelling the county to find a more sustainable solution. Therefore, a 400-linear foot long reef, or man-placed rock reef, was constructed to maximize protection to the island while minimizing impact to seagrasses. While the improvements have mitigated the effects of sea level rise, slowed erosion, and encouraged growth of the island along its northeastern portion, the southern end is still under threat. Efforts to install smaller reef planters in that area are currently underway.