This past weekend, the Surfrider Foundation Space Coast chapter hosted an impactful event at Ballard Park to protect the Indian River Lagoon. Volunteers came together on Saturday morning, November 16, to plant the very first buffer gardens in the Space Coast as part of the nationwide Ocean Friendly Gardens program.
The event focused on building Eu Gallie Riverfront buffer gardens—a specially designed drainage system that uses native plants to filter contaminants from rainwater before it flows into the lagoon. An additional benefit of these native plants is that they restore pollinator migratory bird and wildlife habitat. Volunteers not only planted a variety of native flora but also removed invasive species that threatened the local ecosystem.
Why a Buffer Garden Matters
This innovative project is a step forward in protecting the Indian River Lagoon's health. By preventing erosion and filtering water through the roots of native plants, these buffer gardens will help filter nutrients and pollutants, and replenish groundwater, supporting the lagoon’s long-term well-being.
The event was a hands-on learning experience, teaching participants how they can protect the environment in their own backyards while making a tangible impact on their community.
This milestone for Surfrider’s Space Coast chapter was made possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, as well as funding from a grant by One Lagoon. A huge thank-you to everyone who showed up, got their hands dirty, and made this event a success!
What’s Next?
These buffer gardens are just the beginning of what’s possible through community-driven efforts like Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Gardens (OFG) program. As we look to the future, the success of this project inspires hope for more eco-friendly initiatives that will protect our waterways for generations to come.
Sign up for our newsletter to hear about upcoming OFG projects, and come to our chapter meetings on the 3rd Wednesday of every month!
Thank you to all the volunteers who joined us to plant, rake, and restore. Your passion and energy are vital to our mission of protecting and enjoying the ocean, waves, and beaches!
*All Photos courtesy of Zaperzon