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The major ecological communities within Indian River County are identified <br /> as follows: <br /> • South Florida Coastal Strand <br /> • Sand Pine/Xeric Scrub <br /> • South Florida Flatwoods <br /> • Tropical/Coastal Hammocks <br /> • Freshwater Wetlands <br /> • Indian River Lagoon and Associated Estuarine Wetlands <br /> • Near shore Atlantic Ocean <br /> Of particular concern are those ecological communities located in the <br /> eastern portion of the county, where development pressures conflict with the <br /> preservation of diminishing habitats. Tropical hammock communities and <br /> coastal scrub communities are examples of habitats found almost exclusively <br /> in Florida that are in danger of disappearing or being drastically reduced, <br /> along with their unique flora and fauna. A balance of natural system <br /> preservation and the rights of property owners to develop land is an <br /> important issue to be considered as county population and development <br /> growth continues. <br /> C. DEMOGRAPHICS <br /> In 2014, the estimated countywide population is 140,928, up 25%from 2000. <br /> The Treasure Coast has experienced tremendous growth since the 1960's, <br /> and this trend is expected to continue. According to a FEMA Post-Disaster <br /> Recovery and Redevelopment Guide, St. Lucie County was ranked 20th of <br /> the Atlantic and Gulf Coast counties with the largest population growth rates <br /> between 1960 and 1990. The County's growth rate during this time period <br /> was 256.4%. The county is supported by an economy based primarily on <br /> tourism, light industry, and agriculture. Area wise, this provides <br /> approximately 274 persons per square mile throughout the entire county. <br /> However, the majority of the County's population resides within the eastern <br /> ten miles of the County, or approximately 600 persons per square mile. A <br /> chart representing the estimated* population centers in the county is <br /> attached to this document and identified as Figure 5. <br /> Additional statistics reveal that much of the immigrating population has <br /> produced a median age in the County that is nearly ten years greater than <br /> that of the median age of the United States. <br /> Indian River County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan Basic Page 87 <br />