The Indian River Lagoon Observatory - Education & Outreach

Our research on the Indian River Lagoon is readily transferred to students, environmental managers and agencies, and the public. For many years, Harbor Branch’s education and outreach efforts have focused on the Lagoon. With its high biodiversity and year-round accessibility, the IRL is a great classroom for all!

Academic Programs for Graduate and Undergraduate Students:

Training of Graduate Students – Students often use the IRL as a research site while pursuing FAU graduate degrees in Biological Sciences and Environmental Science. Harbor Branch courses include Natural History of the Indian River Lagoon (NHIRL), an interdisciplinary overview of the IRL ecosystem.

Semester By The Sea – FAU Harbor Branch faculty provide undergraduate students with a semester-long immersion in marine science, including extensive field experience in the IRL.

Harbor Branch Summer Intern Program – This competitive program attracts top undergraduate and graduate students worldwide for a 10-week immersion in projects that touch on all aspects of research at Harbor Branch, with many projects involving the IRL.

Public Lectures

IRLO staff members frequently give public lectures, including participation in Harbor Branch’s Ocean Science Lecture Series. Here is a link to some of our IRL lectures.

IRL Information

Looking for some facts and figures on the IRL, its threats, and what you can do to help. Click here.

Jake Berninger completed his M.S. degree in 2015; his thesis focused on using floating seagrass to jump start restoration efforts in the IRL. IRLO HomeJake Berninger completed his M.S. degree in 2015; his thesis focused on using floating seagrass to jump start restoration efforts in the IRL.