Edgewater Wetland Park

Edgewater Wetland Park is a collaborative environmental project designed to improve water quality in the Indian River Lagoon, restore natural wetland habitat, and provide opportunities for people to experience Florida’s unique landscape.

Located west of the City of Edgewater within the Florida Wildlife Corridor in Volusia County, the project will transform approximately 50 acres of former timberland into a constructed wetland system. The land for the project is being donated by Farmton North LLC, making the project possible through a public private partnership focused on long-term environmental stewardship.

Once completed, the wetland system will redirect between 0.7 and 3 million gallons per day of excess reclaimed water that would otherwise be discharged into the Indian River Lagoon, also known as Mosquito Lagoon, during times when that reclaimed water is not being used by customers. Instead of flowing directly into the lagoon, the excess reclaimed water will move through the constructed wetlands where native vegetation and natural processes remove nutrients before the water percolates into the aquifer.

By working with nature, the wetlands will function as a natural filtration system that helps reduce nutrient loading to the lagoon. The project is expected to remove approximately 2,432 pounds of nitrogen and 83 pounds of phosphorus each year. Reducing these nutrients is an important step toward improving water quality, protecting seagrass, and supporting a healthier lagoon ecosystem.

The wetland park is designed to mimic natural systems and will include ponds, marshes, and native plant communities that support a wide range of wildlife. As the ecosystem develops, birds such as herons, egrets, waterfowl, marsh birds, and birds of prey are expected to establish habitat within the wetlands. Species such as roseate spoonbills, tricolored herons, reddish egrets, and wood storks may also benefit from the habitat created by the project.

In addition to its environmental benefits, Edgewater Wetland Park will provide opportunities for passive outdoor recreation. Planned features include walking and biking trails that will connect with the regional trail network, including the East Central Regional Rail Trail and the broader SUN Trail system. Visitors will be able to enjoy birdwatching, nature photography, and quiet outdoor exploration while learning about how wetlands improve water quality.

The project represents a partnership between the Deering Park Stewardship District, the City of Edgewater, Farmton North LLC, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and a professional design build team responsible for engineering and construction including Phillips Infrastructure, Jacobs, ETM, Wetland Solutions and Family Lands Remembered. The Deering Park Stewardship District is managing the project through construction, after which the completed facility will be conveyed to the City of Edgewater for long term operation and maintenance.

Construction of the Edgewater Wetland Park is expected to begin in 2026 with completion and beginning operations anticipated in 2027. When finished, the wetland park will serve as both an environmental restoration project and a public space where people can connect with the natural landscape while supporting the long-term health of the Indian River Lagoon.

Edgewater Wetland Park reflects a shared commitment to protecting Florida’s water resources, strengthening wildlife habitat, and creating places where conservation and community can thrive together.

Edgewater Wetland Park Frequently Asked Questions