• Physical Characteristics
  The natural topography of the North Fork St. Lucie River watershed is flat with few rises, but has been extensively modified for navigation and flood control.

• Hydrology
  Alteration and expansion of the historic watershed coupled with ecologically-degrading land use practices have set the stage for the impaired condition of the current watershed.

• Natural Communities
  North Fork St. Lucie River Aquatic Preserve contains mostly estuarine natural communities and those associated with estuaries.

Wildlife

• Native Species
  North Fork St. Lucie River Aquatic Preserve is teeming with temperate and tropical species that tolerate a wide salinity range, from fresh to estuarine.
• Listed Species
  The preserve provides valuable habitat and protection for 22 animal and 11 plant species that are listed as endangered, threatened or of special concern.
• Invasive and Problem Species
  Several non-native species (mostly fish) have been identified within and along the North Fork St. Lucie River.