Good morning, Melbourne.

Scientists at Blue World Research Institute launched Florida Otter Spotters, a citizen-science project seeking local reports of otter sightings to help track these animals and reduce car-related deaths.

Researchers monitor mercury levels and habitat risks in areas like the Indian River Lagoon (contact: 321-261-5903 for reports).

Space Florida applied on Sept.

3 for stormwater permits to start site work on a 217-acre commercial aerospace facility near NASA's Launch and Landing Facility. The project will add measures to protect local wildlife & wetlands as planning continues.

On Sept. 3, Florida health officials reported 20 Vibrio vulnificus cases and three deaths across different counties; they advised residents to avoid raw oysters and contact with brackish water if they have open wounds.

A part of Melbourne is under a 60-day rabies alert after a confirmed case was found in a raccoon off Andrews Avenue last week.

Residents in the alert zone (from North Wickham Road to Croton Road) are urged to keep pets leashed and immunized per Florida Department of Health guidelines.

All four Health First hospitals earned the Leapfrog Full Transparency Badge for sharing patient safety and quality data from the annual survey.

Holmes Regional, Viera, Cape Canaveral and Palm Bay received the honor as they show a strong commitment to transparency in our community.

A new guide lists 24 ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in Florida with indoor, outdoor, free, and family-friendly events.

In Melbourne, families can visit Brevard Zoo for hands-on exhibits (Sept. 5-7) as one of the highlighted options.