Firm identifies and confirms populations of mangroves, seagrass, and oysters in diverse Florida waterway

February 3, 2010 – Merritt Island, FL – How could Floridians preserve the Indian River Lagoon for future generations? That question is answered with mapping and environmental consulting services from Alpha JC. The firm is working with the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves office of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to visualize mangrove, seagrass, and oyster data through maps.

Information about these natural resources are taken from state agencies and verified in the field by the FDEP and the firm. Once verified, geographic information systems (GIS) is used to convert the positions of these resources publishable maps for management plans. These plans provide direction for the FDEP office on protecting the lagoon.

John Constantinide, Alpha JC President, views the mapping as a crucial step in better understanding and preserving one of Florida’s natural treasures. “The Indian River Lagoon is an economic engine for recreational fishers and fisheries and a historical part of our state,” explains Mr. Constantinide.

While mapping the Indian River Lagoon’s natural resources, Mr. Constantinide will identify problems and solutions for the Banana River Aquatic Preserve Management Plan.

Additionally, the 45th Space Wing of the U.S. Air Force is interested in working with Alpha JC and its partner firm, Alpha MRC, to do field work and create a database of mangrove and seagrass populations at Patrick Air Force Base and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This work is important for assessing environmental impacts of building projects at the bases.

“The Air Force has a commitment to be environmental stewards. Our firm is honored to help the 45th Space Wing fulfill this commitment,” says Mr. Constantinide.

For more information about Alpha JC’s work in environmental GIS, please e-mail the firm at gis@alphajc.com or contact the office at (321) 720-7411.