🌊 Project WHIRL 2025 – Interest Form Now Live! 🌿 Are you (or do you know) a teen who’s ready to protect our lakes and explore the natural world in a hands-on, unforgettable way? Project WHIRL (Water and Habitat on the Indian River Lakes) is back this summer—and we’re inviting passionate students ages 14–18 to join us as the next class of WHIRL Protectors. 🧪 Get ready to: 🚣 Kayak local lakes 🔍 Study natural indicators of water quality 🌱 Learn about invasive species like Eurasian Watermilfoil 🏞️ Explore the watershed and even visit Clarkson University 🤝 Collaborate with experts and make a real impact 💥 This program is made possible thanks to our generous sponsors like—Cross Island Farms, The Enchanted Edible Forest, and our many program partners —who help us bring meaningful environmental education to our region’s youth. 📝 Space is limited to just 12 students, and registration closes June 6, so don’t wait! 📌 Fill out the Interest Form today and be a part of something big: https://indianriverlakes.org/project-whirl/ Program Schedule 8:00am-4:00pm: Tuesday, July 8 – Various Locations Thursday, July 10 – Various Locations Tuesday, July 15 – From Various Locations around Redwood Thursday, July 17 – Save the River Trip to Thousand Islands Biological Station Meet at Clayton Island Tours Tuesday, July 22 – Invasive Species Pull at Lakeview Wildlife Management Area Thursday, July 24 – Lunch & Paddle at Lake of the Woods 🌱 Transportation Notes: We are actively working on transportation solutions to make the program as accessible as possible. However, parents may be responsible for transporting their children to and from each program location. Please note that several days have multiple locations. We do encourage parents to participate as well. We strongly encourage carpooling among families. If transportation challenges would prevent your child from participating, please let us know—we’ll do our best to assist. Thank you for your support as we build this summer’s WHIRL adventure If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for programs like this please reach out. We would love to work with you. https://indianriverlakes.org/ways-to-give/business-partnerships/ #ProjectWHIRL #WHIRLProtectors #YouthInConservation #CleanWaterFuture #KeepTheWonderAlive (fb)

Today, the Indian River Lakes Conservancy pauses to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. We are deeply grateful for their sacrifice and the freedoms it has made possible. As we walk the trails, paddle the lakes, and find peace in the natural beauty around us, we remember that these quiet moments are a gift hard-won. To all who serve and all who have lost loved ones in service—we thank you. Your courage and commitment will never be forgotten. Wishing our community a peaceful and reflective Memorial Day. “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir (fb)