Abstract |
This volume of a 7-volume environmental impact assessment of the phosphate industry in seven counties of central Florida documents information on the surface and subsurface water systems. One chapter addresses water quantity and quality, while a second chapter presents a baseline ecological characterization of the various aquatic communities in the counties studied (Hillsborough, Charlotte, Manatee, Hardee, Polk, Sarasota, and DeSoto). Water quantity is described through such information as location of sources and watershed boundaries; water rights; existing potable systems and administrative procedures for regulating consumption; points and rates of surface-water withdrawal; the water table's relationship with other subsurface aquifers; and the relationship between existing and future water usage and existing and future resources. Water quality of appropriate stream segments is characterized, violations of standards indicated, major point and nonpoint sources of pollution identified, future phosphate industry loadings projected, and historical problems discussed. The ecological characterization deals specifically with threatened and endangered species, species of commercial and recreational importance, nuisance and pest species, and resource management in the standing and running freshwater communities and estuarine and bay communities. |