Abstract |
A benthic monitoring program has been included in the draft management plan (CCMP) for Tampa Bay 1996 as a key instrument for assessing the status, or 'health' of Tampa Bay's biotic resources as well as a measurement tool to assess the effects of management decisions vis a vis toxic contaminants, stormwater runoff, and freshwater inflow (TBNEP 1996). The benthic monitoring program envisioned for Tampa Bay recommended annual sampling in each seven designated segments of Tampa Bay. Implementation of the program in 1993, however, saw samples collected from only six of the segments; Boca Ceiga Bay was excluded. In 1995, with support from TBNEP, sampling was undertaken in Boca Ciega bay in accordance with overall objectives of the monitoring program, which are summarized in this report. |