MARTIN COUNTY — Dredging and gas- and diesel-powered engines — if allowed by state and federal agencies — may harm wildlife in an aquatic conservation area off the Indian River Lagoon and set a precedent, according to experts and others.
The conservation area, consisting of a tidal pool and channel off South Hutchinson Island in St. Lucie County, is supposed to be protected in perpetuity, though dredging is allowed with a permit. Only electric boats are now allowed.
“My greatest concern is the precedent it sets,” said Jim Moir, Indian Riverkeeper, whose group aims to protect and restore the Indian River Lagoon…