Getting closer to the Indian River Lagoon

Two new projects of the Indian River Land Trust are worth noting.  One is the 111-acre nature preserve on Bee Gum Point in Indian River Shores on the Barrier Island just north of Vero Beach.  The other is the Indian River Lagoon Greenway on the mainland in south Vero Beach.  Bee Gum Point – named for the gum trees that shelter bees -- is the last undeveloped wetland on the Barrier Island.  The point juts into the lagoon next to Lost Tree Islands and across the water from undeveloped land north of Grand Harbor.  A residential development was to be built on Bee Gum Point, but the land was purchased by the Indian River Land Trust, whose mission is to promote the preservation of Indian River County’s natural environment.  Bee Gum Point is at the west end of Fred W. Tuerk Drive.  Tours are free but by appointment.  The Indian River Lagoon Greenway won’t be dedicated for a couple of months, but you can walk at least some of the 3-mile trail system.  The trailhead is at Indian River Boulevard and Eighth Street.  Eventually, the trail will include a 1,000-foot elevated boardwalk.  For information about either Bee Gum Point or the greenway, go to indianriverlandtrust.org.  For 88.9 FM, this is Paul Janensch.