Vero Beach, Florida — The health and preservation of the Indian River Lagoon remain a top priority for residents of the Treasure Coast, and an upcoming event in Vero Beach seeks to deepen the community’s understanding of local conservation efforts. The American Association of University Women (AAUW), Vero Beach branch, will host key leaders from the Indian River Land Trust for an informative luncheon aimed at discussing the future of this vital estuary.
Scheduled for Saturday, January 17, at 11:30 a.m., the event will take place at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 2555 58th Avenue. This gathering offers residents a unique opportunity to hear directly from the experts spearheading land conservation projects that protect the lagoon’s shoreline, water quality, and habitats.
Event Details and Registration
Those interested in attending must act quickly, as the registration deadline is approaching.
- Date: Saturday, January 17
- Time: 11:30 a.m.
- Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2555 58th Ave, Vero Beach
- Ticket Price: $25
- Registration Deadline: January 12
- Tickets: Available online at AAUWverobeach.org
Expert Insight on Conservation
The program will feature two prominent figures from the Indian River Land Trust: Executive Director Kenneth Grudens and Chief Development Officer Melissa DePriest.
Grudens, who has been with the organization since 2004, has been instrumental in leading programs designed to protect natural resources and historically significant sites throughout the county. DePriest, a lifelong resident of Florida, brings a deep local perspective, managing philanthropy and fostering community partnerships to support these initiatives.
Together, they will outline the Trust’s ongoing efforts to preserve the lagoon, which serves as the ecological and economic heart of Indian River County. Following the county’s 2025 centennial celebration—which heavily emphasized the lagoon’s role in the local identity—this discussion is particularly timely.
Organizers emphasize the lagoon’s importance to the region’s economy and quality of life, drawing on the sentiment that “this land is your land; this land is our land.” The trust actively engages residents in restoration projects to maintain the estuary’s health.
A Legacy of Protection
Founded in 1990, the Indian River Land Trust has spent decades conserving land that acts as a buffer for the lagoon. Their work includes preserving critical wildlife habitats, protecting scenic waterfront views, and ensuring public access to nature across Indian River County.
Beyond the environmental education, the luncheon serves a dual purpose for the community. The AAUW-Vero Beach, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has announced that all proceeds from the ticket sales will fund scholarships for women and girls in Indian River County, supporting the next generation of local leaders.
Residents wishing to support both local education and environmental conservation are encouraged to secure their tickets before the January 12 deadline.
