Smyrna Dunes Park, an approximately 75-acre parcel, is located on the south side of Ponce de Leon Inlet in New Smyrna Beach, with frontage along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. It is a highly popular destination for local and non-County residents alike.

In 2012, the County was required to develop a Land Management Plan to renew its land leases with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. EAI was contracted to prepare the management plan. EAI met with County staff to identify management goals and set priorities.

Existing habitat types were mapped, plant assemblages within each community characterized, protected species identified, and site conditions documented. The Plan included recommendations for best management practices for conserving protected species (beach mice, gopher tortoises, and shorebirds) and controlling exotic and nuisance vegetation (prescribed burns, pesticide application, etc.).

The Plan was developed in consultation with County staff to ensure cost- effective and practical management practices and schedules, with an emphasis on enhanced public use and natural resource conservation.