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Exhibit' D" DRAFT v10...2-17-09 3. Continue to protect and conserve the natural resources of the Lagoon and adjoining wetland and upland habitats. a. establish a schedule for trail and wetland clean ups b. develop goals & strategies for long-term abatement of invasive plants c. coordinate efforts for other improvements to the natural resources 4. Establish interpretive facilities (and corresponding programs) for educating the public of the significance of the Greenway's local natural and historic resources and the need for their management. Interpretive facilities should include: a) trail and interpretive signage; b) trailhead kiosks and observation decks to accommodate individuals and/or groups; c) distribution points for educational materials; and d) wildlife blinds (viewing areas). Topics to consider for interpretation include: a) interaction of the native mangroves with the IR Lagoon; b) importance of Greenway area for mosquito control; c) wetlands as important absorbers of excess rainwater; and d) people's historic and present interaction with IR Lagoon. Greenway Background and Initiative During the 199o's, several properties along the Indian River Lagoon south of the 17th Street Bridge in Vero Beach were protected from development by a combination of outright purchases or with development mitigation easements for projects along Indian River Boulevard. They were protected primarily to conserve the native wetland habitat and buffer the shoreline of the Lagoon. These properties which are in both public and private ownership are made up primarily of mangrove swamps ringed by impoundment roads managed by the Indian River County Mosquito Control District for minimizing the mosquito populations of eastern Indian River County. The mangrove swamps along the Indian River Lagoon are very important wetlands for a variety of reasons. They are an important nursery for spawning and early growth stages of a variety of native fish species. They provide an important natural protection during tropical storms to prevent erosion and destruction of shoreline and nearby structures from wave action, wind and flooding. Lastly, they harbor a large variety of native plants and wildlife important for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. In 2007, a local citizens group and the Indian River Land Trust, which owns one of these properties along the Lagoon, established the idea for an Indian River Lagoon Greenway situated between the South Relief Canal and the 17th Street Bridge. Working with the citizens group, now the Lagoon Greenway Advisory Committee, together with staff from the Mosquito Control District, the Florida Inland Navigation District, and the Indian River County Environmental Lands Program, IRLT has set forth this plan for the Indian River "Lagoon Greenway." Page 2 of 4