Cypress Bend Community Preserve was once an active citrus grove located directly adjacent to the Sebastian River. Upon acquisition of the tract, the County developed a management plan that includes habitat restoration and providing access for public recreation. The old grove within the 47-acre tract will require extensive management to provide native vegetative communities, and is now dominated by ruderal vegetation. Although the upland areas do not include native communities, they do provide habitat for Florida gopher tortoises. Many tortoises and active burrows can be observed on-site. The County has plans to improve the old grove and restore it to native upland habitat.
Conservation of this tract is particularly important as a buffer for the Sebastian River. Removal of active agricultural operations helps to reduce the possibility of nutrient inputs from pesticides and herbicides. Conservation of the site also eliminates the potential for the area to be converted into residential development, which would result in other types of impacts to the River. The County plans to develop additional passive recreation opportunities on the site as funding becomes available. We encourage the public to enjoy observing wildlife and learning about our conservation efforts, but please remember to leave only footprints on site!
There is no parking currently available at this site. For canoe/kayak access please register at https://secure.rec1.com/FL/indian-river-county-fl/catalog or call 772-226-1780 for assistance.
