Polk County Board of County Commissioners Environmental ... · Commissioner Don Gifford, District 1...
Transcript of Polk County Board of County Commissioners Environmental ... · Commissioner Don Gifford, District 1...
Polk County Board ofCounty Commissioners
Environmental Management DepartmentNatural Resources Division
Polk County Board of County Commissioners
Commissioner Don Gifford, District 1Commissioner Randy Wilkinson, District 2Commissioner Jack R. Myers, District 3Commissioner Bruce L. Parker, District 4
Commissioner Neil Combee, Chairman, District 5
Jim Keene, County Manager
Darrell Gunn, Environmental Services Department Director
Jeff Spence, Natural Resources Division Director
Natural Resources Water Resources Section Staff
Robert Kollinger, P.E. Water Resources EngineerDiane Gibson, Laboratory Manager
Joe King, Lakes ManagerHong Nguyen, Environmental Specialist III - Chemist
Conley Whiddon, Environmental Technician IIIRobbie West, Environmental Technician III
Michele Medani, QA/QC Data ManagerMark Mikolon, Environmental Specialist III
Will Harboe, Environmental Specialist ISheryl Taggart, Secretary
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I
LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II
LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV
SECTION I - MISSION & SCOPE OF WORKMission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Laboratory and Water Quality Assessments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Lake Management / Water Quality Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Atmospheric Deposition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Lake Mariana Water Quality Assessment Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Banana Lake Post Dredging Evaluation Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Jan-Phyl Storm Water Retrofit Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Alafia River Process Water Spill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Lake Hancock/Upper Peace River Enhancement Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Garden Grove Pines Stormwater Retrofit Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Stephenson Avenue Stormwater Retrofit Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Education Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Public Education Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Polk County Lakes Atlas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
SECTION II - LAKE and STREAM WATER QUALITYLake Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Stream Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
SECTION III - POLK COUNTY LAKE LEVELSLake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
APPENDIX ALake Water Quality Data and Charts
APPENDIX BStream Water Quality Data and Charts
APPENDIX CGlossary
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report II
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE No. PAGE
1 Environmental Tech prepares to collect a lake water sample with a Kemmerer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Water Analyses being performed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Wet/Dry Atmospheric Collector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Aerial of Lake Mariana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Banana Lake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Lake Manager Identifying Algae Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Jan Phyl Retrofit Ponds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Northern Section of Lake Hancock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Kiosk at Banana Lake Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1110 Heavy Metals analysis being performed on Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer . . . . . . . . . 1211 Algae Bloom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2212 Collection of Algae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2213 2000 TSI Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2414 2000 WQI Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2515 Peace River in Bartow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2616 Peace River in Bartow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2617 Peace River in Homeland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2718 Withlacoochee River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2719 Saddle Creek at Hwy. 540 at Lake Hancock Outfall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2720 Stream Sample Location Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2821 Lake Thomas Boat Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3122 Staff Gage on Lake Ina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3123 Lake Wales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3224 Lake Starr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3225 Lake Hollingsworth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3326 Canal from Lake Mirror to Lake Cannon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3327 Lake Alfred Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4128 Lake Annie Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4129 Lake Arietta Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4230 Lake Blue Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4231 Lake Bonny Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4332 Lake Buffum Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4333 Crooked Lake Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4434 Lake Deer Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4435 Lake Deeson Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4536 Eagle Lake Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4537 Lake Garfield Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4638 Lake Lowery Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4639 Lake Otis Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4740 Lake Thomas Lake Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report III
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE No. PAGE
1 Florida Trophic State Index (TSI) Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Water Quality Index (WQI) Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 2000 Mean Chemical Lake Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 2000 Lake Water Quality Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 2000 Mean Chemical Stream Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296 2000 Stream Water Quality Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307 Lake Levels for 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report IV
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Water Resources’ staff wish to thank all who assisted with the compilation of this report and whose namesmay have been inadvertently left out.
Cover Michele Medani
Primary Authors Joe King and Michele Medani
Contributing Authors Bob Kollinger, Diane Gibson, Mark Mikolon, Sheryl Taggart
Charts & Data Michele Medani
Maps C. Mike Smith
Art Work, Photos Michele Medani, Joe King, Mark Mikolon, Bob Kollinger, Kate Orellana
Field and Laboratory Diane Gibson, Hong Nguyen, Conley Whiddon, Mark Mikolon, WillHarboe, Joe King, Michele Medani
Special thanks are extended to all who have collected data used in this report. Contributors include variousdepartments of Polk County Government, State agencies, Water Management Districts, and citizens of PolkCounty. Without their help and dedication this report would not be possible.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report
SECTION I
MISSION&
SCOPE OF WORK
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -1-
Figure 1Environmental Tech prepares to collect a lake water
sample with a Kemmerer
Mission Statement
To monitor, manage, protect and improve the groundwater and surface water resources of Polk County for
the benefit of Polk County citizens and natural systems.
Introduction
The Water Resources Section of the Natural Resources Division consists of three groups: the Laboratory,
Lakes and Streams Management, and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The
programs implemented by the Water Resources Section are mandated by federal or state regulations, Countyordinances, the County Comprehensive Plan, or as directed by the Board of County Commissioners. This
annual report provides a brief description of each of these programs.
Laboratory and Water Quality Assessments
The laboratory is responsible for the collection
and analysis of water samples. The laboratory
has adopted the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (FDEP) Standard
Operating Procedures (SOP) for sample
collection and National Environmental
Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC)
Standards for lab operations. The laboratory
participates in annual performance evaluations
and system audits conducted by the Florida
Department of Health. Continued State
Certification for Safe Drinking Water Act and
Clean Water Act depends upon successful completion of these annual audits. Additionally, all lab results are
subject to quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) according to the NELAC Quality Systems Manual.
In 2000, the Water Resources Division also received CompQAP approval from USEPA for collection and
analyses for the Lake Mariana Project which includes atomospheric deposition sampling for nutrients, and
collection and testing for Enterococci bacteria.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -2-
Figure 2Water Analyses being performed
In 2000, samples were collected from approximately one hundred public access lakes and twelve streams in
Polk County. These lakes and streams are sampled twice a year to observe temporal and spatial ambient
water quality. Two numeric tools are used to alert staff to the water quality and also to evaluate the success
of water quality improvement efforts. They are the Florida Trophic State Index (TSI) (Huber, 1982) and the
Water Quality Index (WQI) (King, 1993).
The TSI, which was developed by the University of Florida Water Resources Research Center for FDEP,
is a tool used to describe relative productivity of a lake by summarizing the following water quality
measurements: nitrogen, phosphorus, chlorophyll a, and water clarity (Table 1). Although, the FDEP no longer
uses the secchi disc measurement for water clarity, all TSI calculations in this report included water clarity.
The Water Quality Index (WQI) published in 1993 (King, 1993) for South Florida waters, has been modified
for use in Polk County, see Table 2. The WQI is a linear, and parameter weighted index based on Florida
Class III Water Quality Standards. The index compares a derived water quality number to a formula using
a Class III Standard baseline number. A WQI number above the baseline indicates the waterbody does not
meet Class III Standards and a number below the baseline indicates it meets or exceeds the Standard. The
WQI is more sensitive to small changes in water quality than the TSI.
The laboratory also collected and analyzed
samples for various stormwater projects
including Jan Phyl Retrofit, Lake Mariana
Water Quality Improvement Project, the
investigation of a metric model for qualifying
human sewage contamination, and the
Atmospheric Deposition for the Winter Haven
Chain of Lakes. In addition, Division staff
collected pollution investigation regulatory
samples that were analyzed by the lab. During
the calendar year 2000, a total of 875 samples
were collected with 10,534 analyses
completed. The lab is staffed by a Laboratory
Manager, a part-time Chemist, two Environmental Technicians, and one QA/QC Data Manager.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -3-
0 - 49 (BEST) Oligotrophic50 - 59 (GOOD) Mesotrophic60 - 69 (FAIR) Eutrophic70 - Above (POOR) Hypereutrophic
Table 1
Florida Trophic State Index Equations*
TSI CHL a = 10 x (1.68 + 1.44 x LN (CHL a))TSISD = 10 x (6.0 - 3.0 x LN (SD))TSITP = 10 x (2.36 x LN (TP x 1000) - 2.38)TSITN = 10 x (5.96 + 2.15 x LN(TN))TSITNB = 10 x (5.6 + 1.98 x LN(TN))TSITPB = 10 x (1.86 x LN(TP x 1000) - 1.84)TSINUTR = 0.5 x (TSITNB + TSITPB)
Phosphorus Limited Lakes (PLL) TN/TP > 30 :TSIAVG = 1/3 x (TSICHL a + TSISD + TSITP)Nitrogen Limited Lakes (NLL) TN/TP < 10 :TSIAVG = 1/3 x (TSICHL a + TSISD + TSITN)Nutrient Balanced Lakes (NBL) > 10 TN/TP < 30 :TSIAVG = 1/3 x (TSICHL a + TSISD + TSINUTR)Where:TSICHL a = Trophic State Index Based on Chlorophyll aCHL a = Chlorophyll a concentration (mg/m3)TSISD = Trophic State Index Based on Secchi Disk DepthSD = Secchi Disk Depth (m)TSITP = Trophic State Index Based on Total PhosphorusTP = Total Phosphorus Concentration (mg/l)TSITN = Trophic State Index Based on Total NitrogenTN = Total Nitrogen Concentration (mg/l)TSITNB = Trophic State Index Based on Total Nitrogen BudgetTSITPB = Trophic State Index Based on Total Phosphorus BudgetTSINUTR = Trophic State Index Based on Total Nutrient BudgetTSIAVG = Average Trophic State Index
* Huber, et al (1982)
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -4-
Table 2
Water Quality Index Equations *
Parameter
A Dissolved Oxygen, in mg/L
B Turbidity, in NTU
C Ammonia Nitrogen, in mg/L
D Total Nitrogen, in mg/L
E Total Phosphorus, in mg/L
F Chlorophyll a, in mg/m3
G Total Organic Carbon, in mg/L
Baseline Value = 6.00
The baseline closely approximates Florida Class III Criteria for Surface Water Quality. Class III waters are
for propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanced population of fish and wildlife. WQI values more
than 6.00 do not meet the criteria and values less than 6.00 meet or exceed the criteria.
Starting in 1999, the Division started running Total Organic Carbon (TOC). The WQI was modified in 2000
to incorporate TOC into the equation, thus, changing the baseline from 6.50 in 1999 and previous years to 6.00
starting in 2000.
*King, J., Technical Report Series, TR 93-06, Broward County DNRP, Florida
Water Quality Index = [1.5*(4/A + 0.001)] + [0.5*(B/10) +[0.75*(C/0.1)] + [1*(D/1.5)] +[1*(E/0.05)] + [2*(F/40)]+[0.75*(G/16)]
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -5-
The laboratory participated in projects with local agencies including Lake Region Lakes Management District
(LRLMD) the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), Highlands County, Southwest
Regional Ambient Monitoring Program (SWRAMP), South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD),
the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), and the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary
Program (CHNEP) . Samples from 48 LRLMD lakes were analyzed in June, July, September, and
December. Samples were collected at the Jan Phyl stormwater retrofit project to determine pollutant
reduction efficiencies of the storm water treatment ponds. Analysis of enterococci in storm water and
surface water was performed on samples collected by Highlands County. Inter-laboratory calibration samples
were analyzed by members of the SWRAMP and results discussed in an effort to provide comparable water
quality data among different agencies. Monthly samples are collected on the Upper Kissimmee River, and
the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes for SFWMD. Monitoring is also performed at Kissimmee Park and Lake
Weohyakapka groundwater wells as part of the FDEP Groundwater Monitoring Program.
The Water Resources Section produces an Annual Hydrologic Report which summarizes information on
rainfall, lake levels, groundwater well levels, and evaporation rates. Currently, there are more than 140
rainfall stations, with more than 200 databases of daily and/or monthly rainfall data. There are approximately
45 volunteers who supply this data. Most stations report rainfall on a daily basis and provide a summary at
the end of each month. The periods of record for the rainfall stations range from less than one year to more
than 90 years. It should be noted that Polk County is located at the summit of the “hydrologic hill” of
Peninsular Florida. Rivers and streams flow outward in all directions; the center of the potentiometric high
of the Floridan Aquifer is located a few miles east of Polk City in the Green Swamp. Thus, water naturally
flows outward in all directions from Polk County into surrounding areas. Where the water resources of
surrounding areas are based not only on rainfall, but also on the natural flow of ground water and surface
water INTO these areas, Polk County must rely on rainfall alone for replenishment of this resource.
This Section also receives lake and ground water levels from SWFWMD and SFWMD. This office
maintains lake level information on 189 lakes within Polk County, with the period of record ranging from a
few years to more than 30 years. Additionally, groundwater level information on the Floridan and Surficial
aquifer is collected from several wells around Polk County. During 2000, approximately 145 requests for
water quality, lake information, rainfall, hydrologic reports and lake reports were filled.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -6-
Figure 3Wet / Dry Atmospheric Collector
This Division also produces a Boat Access Directory, which is a compilation of maps showing locations and
conditions of public boat ramps. In 2000 a total of 45 copies of the Boat Access Directory was requestedby the public. Additionally, data such as rainfall, historical lake level, and lake and stream water quality isprovided on request to engineers and scientists from private engineering firms and government agencies.
LAKES MANAGEMENT / WATER QUALITY PROJECTS
The Board of County Commissioners entered into inter local-agreements with the Southwest Florida WaterManagement District, the South Florida Water Management District, the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection, and the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program on various water qualitymanagement projects that affects watersheds, lakes and streams. A brief description of some of the projectsfollows:
Atmospheric Deposition
In 1998, the Water Resources Section installedan atmospheric deposition wet/dry sampling
station, Figure 3, to quantify the amount ofnitrogen and phosphorus in rainfall. The stationis located at Lake Cannon in the Winter Haven
Chain of Lakes. Major funding was providedby the SWFWMD SWIM Program. PolkCounty Water Resources Laboratory conducts
the chemical analyses on a monthly basis andthe nutrient loading from rainfall is beingcalculated by staff. The first technical report
for the project should be released in thesummer of 2001.
Lake Mariana Water Quality Assessment - Cooperative Project with Charlotte Harbor National
Estuary Program (CHNEP) and the SWFWMD Peace River Basin Board
With funding from the CHNEP and the Basin Board, Polk County is assessing the nutrient inputs to Lake
Mariana from stormwater runoff, atmospheric deposition, groundwater, and human sewage resulting frommalfunctioning septic systems in the immediate area. The lake was classified as a eutrophic system by the
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -7-
Figure 4Aerial of Lake Mariana
Figure 5Banana Lake System
SWFWMD and has been a concern
because it is one of the headwaters for the
C h a i n o f L a k e s w h i c h
ultimately flows through the Peace River
watershed. The study was published in
2000 with the CHNEP and is available
through the NEP and Polk County Water
Resources.
The human sewage impact study (The
Smoking Gun Model) is continuing to
calibrate the model for identifying potential
human sewage impacts. Lack of rainfall
over the past 22 months has prevented
sampling of the surficial wells used for the
study and the project is on hold until rainfall replenishes the surficial aquifer. The Smoking Gun model was
developed (King, 1999) to provide the evidence for human sewage that is contributing to the pollution of
lakes, streams, and the groundwater. The Smoking Gun uses nitrogen isotope ratios, enterococci bacteria,
and caffeine testing to identify “human” pollutant sources. The Florida Department of Environmental
Protection is partially funding this effort by conducting the initial caffeine analyses of the surficial waters. A
preliminary technical report was completed by Water Resources the summer of 2000. Additional updates
will be made as the information becomes available.
Banana Lake Post Dredging Evaluation
Project
Banana Lake experienced poor water quality and
loss of the habitat for many years due to
stormwater runoff and the direct discharge of
wastewater from a City of Lakeland Wastewater
Treatment Plant (WWTP). The WWTP
discontinued discharging in 1986, but water quality
remained a problem. Additionally, the ecosystem
has been so altered by the nutrient
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -8-
Figure 6Lakes Manager identifying algae
Figure 7Jan Phyl Stormwater Pond
loadings from the sediments and runoff that the lake
has had a major shift in the biota. Green algae andCyanobacteria have developed into year-aroundblooms which has negatively impacted the aquatic
macrophytes, and the fishery. The accumulatedsediments from the discharges were suspected to bea major source of the internal pollution. In 1990-91,
the lake was dredged to remove the sludge from thebottom of the lake. In late 1999, Polk County
Natural Resources began a one year study todetermine if the water quality had improved sincethe dredging. Monthly water chemistry samples
were collected and analyzed by the WaterResources Laboratory. Quarterly benthic
macroinvertebrates and phytoplankton samples were also collected and enumerated for species diversity
calculations. The SWFWMD SWIM Program provided the funding to have the organisms identified andspecies diversity calculated. The post dredging water quality draft report was completed and is presentlybeing edited. The final report will be published by Polk County Water Resources in the summer of 2001.
Jan Phyl Stormwater Retrofit Project
Stormwater samples where collected fromJanuary 1, 1999 through September 25,
2000 to determine the treatmentefficiencies of the Jan Phyl retrofit ponds.The stormwater is treated from the
Jan Phyl subdivision prior to discharging toLake Howard in the Winter Haven Chain
of Lakes. Preliminary results for pollutantremoval are: total suspended solids 82%,organic nitrogen 61%, inorganic nitrogen
91% and total phosphorus 78%. Atechnical report will be produced in 2001.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -9-
Figure 8Northern Section of Lake Hancock
Alafia River Process Water Spill
On December 7, 1997, approximately 53 million gallons of low pH process water from Mulberry Phosphate
Inc. entered the Alafia River at Skinned Sampling Creek in Mulberry. During the next several days the spill
traveled down the North Prong to Tampa Bay. Approximately 377 acres of marsh habitat were damaged
and more than 55,000 kilograms of fish were killed from the river during the days after the spill. Polk County,
along with four other government agencies are acting as the Trustees, directing the Alafia spill assessment
and restoration plan. Presently, this process is continuing and could take several years to complete. The Alafia
should be a much improved riverine system when restoration is complete. Restoration proposals have been
drawn up for the damages assessment to the river and negotiations have continued throughout 2000.
Lake Hancock / Upper Peace River Enhancement Project
Lake Hancock is part of the watershed which constitutes the headwaters of the Peace River. The Peace
River is clearly a regional system of statewide importance. Beneficial uses include wildlife habitat, drainage,
natural resource recreation, and potable water supply. Impacts from the discharge of poor water quality from
Lake Hancock have been observed as far south as the Peace River / Manasota Water Supply Authority
Potable Water Facility, just north of
Charlotte Harbor. The Peace River
flows through Polk, Hardee, Desoto,
and Charlotte Counties and
discharges to the Gulf of Mexico at
Charlotte Harbor. Charlotte Harbor
and the entire Peace River
watershed, including Lake Hancock,
are a federally designated National
Estuary. Improvement of Lake
Hancock’s water quality is an
objective of the Charlotte Harbor
National Estuary Program (NEP) and
is included in their Comprehensive
Conservation and Management
Plan.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -10-
A grant was awarded to Polk County by the Governor’s Water Advisory Panel in March of 2000 in the
amount of $750,000 to initiate the restoration effort. Five goals were established for this project which include:
T Improve the quality of the water discharged from Lake Hancock by reducing Total Maximum Daily
Loads (TMDL’S).
T Preserve and, where feasible, enhance the natural greenway/ wildlife corridor (Peace River/ Green
Swamp) through Polk County.
T Maintain the exceptional wildlife values on Lake Hancock.
T Enhance the diversity of the fishery.
T Provide habitat compatible public access for nature-based recreational activities and commercial
fishing.
Implementation of the project involves a four-phased approach which addresses Land Acquisition, Wetland
Restoration and Monitoring, In-Lake Restoration, and Management.
Garden Grove Pines Stormwater Retrofit Project
This project will improve the quality of water discharged to the Peace River providing a positive impact to
the Charlotte Harbor watershed. It involves retrofitting an existing drainage system within the Garden Grove
Pines Subdivision which drains to the Peace Creek Canal. Approximately 4 ½ acres of an abandoned 10 ten
acre wastewater treatment plant site will be utilized for construction of a wet detention pond system to treat
stormwater runoff. Total cost of the project is projected at $420,000 with $202,500 being funded through an
EPA Section 319 grant which is administered through the FDEP. The remaining costs are funded
cooperatively between the SWFWMD, Peace River Basin Board, and Polk County. Construction is
anticipated to occur by the end of 2001.
Stephenson Avenue Stormwater Retrofit Project
Crooked Lake is a designated Outstanding Florida Waterbody located in the Lake Wales Ridge area of the
County. This project will help to maintain water quality standards through construction of two retention ponds
to treat stormwater runoff from U.S. Alternate 27 along Stephenson Ave. in Babson Park. Construction is
expected to begin mid-year in 2001 with total project cost estimated at $300,000. Funding is being provided
cooperatively between the SWFWMD Peace River Basin Board and Polk County.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -11-
Figure 9Kiosk at Banana Lake Park
EDUCATION PROJECTS
Public Education Presentations
The Natural Resources Division participates in
many environmental education events as part of
the County’s stormwater program for the NPDES
permit. The goals of the public education efforts
are to provide Polk County citizens with
information concerning the environmentally-related
services provided by the Division and to raise
environmental awareness (Figure 9). Water
Resources staff travel to many Polk County
schools for presentations on environmental and
water related issues. These programs reach
hundreds of Polk County students from
kindergarten through high school.
Events in which the Division participated in 2000
included Lakes Education/Action Drive (LE/AD) Annual Conference, Polk County Schools Alpha Program,
the Regional Envirothon, the County Extension Services Water School, and the Haines City Heritage Days.
Several technical papers were presented at statewide conferences including the Florida Academy of
Sciences, and the FDEP Ambient Monitoring Conferences.
Polk County Lakes Atlas
In 2000, the County contracted with the University of South Florida (USF) to develop a Web based atlas of
Polk County lakes to provide the public with information via the Internet. USF has produced a prototype
which can be viewed at www.polk.wateratlas.usf.edu and will be completed by the end of 2001. The Atlas
is a tool to provide water quality data for each of the public access lakes monitored within Polk County and
as a resource for lakes related publications. Information on public recreational opportunities will be added in
2001 under Phase II of the project. The design and implementation of the Atlas was funded cooperatively
between the SWFWMD, Peace River Basin Board, the City of Lakeland, the City of Winter Haven, and Polk
County.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report
SECTION II
LAKE
&
STREAM
WATER QUALITY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -12-
Figure 10Heavy Metals analysis being performed on Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometer
LAKE MONITORING
In an effort to consistently provide quality data, all laboratory data are subjected to quality
assurance/quality control (QA/QC) in accordance with our NELAC Quality System
Manual. Water quality results are incorporated into the Division’s computer database.
All surface water data will be loaded into the USEPA’s new STORET data repository
as soon as the system is fully functional. County staff is being trained on new
STORET system.
Approximately 120 lakes were sampled in 2000. Public access lakes included in the routine lake sampling
program are usually sampled at mid-depth twice a year at the middle of the lake. Starting in July 2000, the
Environmental Technicians collected samples at both mid-depth and 0.5 meters below the surface. This
project will continue for one year, after
which statistical analyses will be
performed on water quality data to
determine if sampling depth affects
results.
Water quality parameters tested include
field measurements and laboratory
analyses, see Table 3. Table 3 also
provides the mean value and their
ranges for each parameter routinely
tested. The 1999 values are included
for comparison purposes. Table 4 lists
each lake tested in 2000 with the
averaged water quality results of each
parameter. Appendix A has general
information, levels, historical water
quality data and charts for each lake
monitored in 2000.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -13-
Table 3
2000 Mean Chemical Lake Parameters
Parameter 2000 Mean Value*
2000 Range 1999 Mean Value*
Unit
Temperature 23.8 16.1-31.6 24.1 Deg C
Secchi Disk 1.1 0.2-3.7 1.2 m
pH 7.79 5.68-9.62 7.78 SU
Specific Conductivity 231 84-442 201 umhos/cm
Dissolved Oxygen 7.82 1.91-13.90 7.45 mg/l
Color 32 7-300 29 CPU
Turbidity 8.76 0.56-52.0 7.1 NTU
TOC 10.801 3.840-32.730 9.618 mg/l
Ammonia 0.033 ND-1.052 0.017 mg/l
Kjeldahl Nitrogen 1.446 0.279-5.920 1.157 mg/l
NO2 + NO3 0.067 ND-5.154 0.043 mg/l
Total Nitrogen 1.51 0.51-5.92 1.20 mg/l
Total Phosphorus 0.128 0.002-3.734 0.070 mg/l
Chlorophyll a 27.50 0.90-177.60 23.91 mg/m3
TSI 59 12-99 56 TSI
WQI 6.89 1.48-80.71 5.13 WQI
* Actual values below the laboratory detection limits were extrapolated to one-half the method
detection level.
ND - Not DetectedMean value is arithmetic
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
Chlor aTPTNNO2+NO3TKNNH3TURBTOCCOLORSECCHICONDpHDOTEMP
mg/m3mg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lNTUmg/lCPUMumhos/cmSUmg/lDeg C
AGNES
ALFRED
ANNIE
ARBUCKLE
ARIANA
BANANA
BANANA (N PIT)
BANANA (S PIT)
BESS
BLUE (WH)
BONNY
BUCKEYE
BUFFUM
CANNON
CLINCH
CONFUSION
CONINE
CROOKED
CRYSTAL (LKLD)
DAISY
DEER
DEESON
DEXTER
EAGLE
EAST PIT
ECHO
ELBERT
ELOISE
ENGLE
EVA N
EVA S
FANNIE
FLORENCE
GARFIELD
GEM (WH)
17.500.0540.690.0060.6840.0033.604.144161.71436.737.8223.6
15.350.0281.900.0061.8910.0087.0515.327241.03177.628.6622.6
1.730.0120.930.0130.9150.0061.6012.177162.32367.328.6524.9
17.040.0661.360.0781.2810.0177.5516.0601250.61587.337.7923.7
12.820.0270.860.0050.8550.0034.075.549111.22417.218.0423.3
167.491.0514.330.0084.3250.01942.2018.902450.22319.6210.8425.9
24.030.4701.370.0071.3610.0135.20350.82177.425.0930.0
15.220.1131.530.0071.5220.0205.60200.82069.378.5631.6
1.600.0090.690.0030.6830.0061.247.098122.13867.818.9825.2
71.370.0972.850.0022.8440.01021.9017.920310.31878.817.4822.7
125.820.3114.990.0054.9870.00834.0018.945340.21537.565.4323.1
12.260.0230.890.0040.8890.0054.587.690141.13348.037.7923.4
15.890.0460.750.0010.7460.0046.808.257270.71526.688.1424.6
27.350.1501.380.0041.3730.0086.109.046140.62407.897.8925.0
7.740.0090.720.0290.6890.0102.176.550131.91497.697.3426.1
2.670.0120.780.0140.7650.0401.299.912132.12547.357.5423.9
24.070.0421.110.0031.1040.0105.509.558250.92278.018.8022.3
0.900.0020.560.0070.5540.0030.937.215163.0847.728.0525.9
68.480.1142.100.0042.0910.00617.5011.470230.41877.985.9422.1
6.090.0200.510.0110.4980.0082.214.433141.82126.247.3923.5
17.020.0401.760.0031.7550.0047.6515.413240.72147.467.8424.0
16.020.1002.130.0062.1240.00712.5010.640250.51618.408.6223.9
1.200.0100.520.0000.5200.0190.56152.52757.158.5518.3
10.630.0220.770.0020.7680.0033.506.060111.22947.558.3020.5
37.530.0641.670.0071.6650.02714.50201928.7911.3824.7
12.820.0190.680.0080.6760.0004.505.332101.22677.948.8116.1
5.170.0140.570.0040.5690.0071.835.26792.71807.678.1523.6
28.620.0371.470.0021.4690.0027.7310.268140.63078.669.1021.6
108.180.2292.640.0032.6400.00916.5010.210300.32678.487.9321.9
22.940.0321.100.0111.0880.0734.238.716301.61567.395.3524.7
8.540.0240.990.0130.9720.0882.388.666232.01437.306.3224.8
10.500.0481.030.0161.0120.0185.8610.240340.82987.988.8221.3
13.620.0710.650.0000.6520.0004.00201.32807.026.2029.5
33.440.1741.830.0001.8250.01043.3518.2201750.31906.997.8623.9
5.610.0280.590.0100.5840.0151.17202.9876.901.9127.9
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
Chlor aTPTNNO2+NO3TKNNH3TURBTOCCOLORSECCHICONDpHDOTEMP
mg/m3mg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lNTUmg/lCPUMumhos/cmSUmg/lDeg C
GIBSON
GROSS (GRASSY)
HAINES
HAMILTON
HANCOCK
HARTRIDGE
HATCHINEHA
HENRY
HICKORY
HOLLINGSWORTH
HORSESHOE
HOWARD
HUNTER
IDA (WH)
IDYL (WH)
IDYLWILD
INA (WH)
JESSIE
JOHN
JULIANA
KEN
LENA
LEONORE
LINK
LIVINGSTON
LONG
LOWERY
LTL CROOKED
LTL EAGLE
LTL ELBERT
LTL HAMILTON
LULU
MARIAM
MARIANA
MARIE N
3.910.1620.600.0050.5910.0043.606.417231.51686.757.7123.6
11.220.0710.970.0020.9680.0002.40451.91886.154.4629.0
30.360.0561.440.0011.4440.0037.5012.750300.72268.428.8023.6
2.400.1271.000.0820.9180.0118.3011.265580.92167.378.2822.5
130.170.2974.840.0044.8390.02144.0032.730480.33508.165.4620.5
10.210.0260.690.0030.6860.0073.985.701131.12358.008.6220.3
2.400.0181.240.0001.2440.0150.6922.8951101.31708.597.3222.0
2.800.1641.550.2391.3090.02631.4017.7952100.31787.407.9025.0
58.210.0172.460.1592.3010.01219.5312.530130.44118.206.7125.7
149.200.5874.600.0044.5940.01652.0014.410290.21629.429.9523.5
29.000.2182.470.0582.4110.2599.10252188.7412.0023.7
37.600.0372.030.0022.0280.0029.8012.640150.42588.398.4719.9
146.180.2674.110.0104.0960.01032.5011.060200.22397.946.4022.4
11.210.0291.140.0051.1380.0002.90201.52617.707.7527.7
19.220.0411.150.0071.1420.0035.30250.82467.787.8927.4
20.820.0421.010.0021.0130.0265.687.167150.82357.948.0923.3
8.810.0381.000.0700.9280.0674.00200.91706.304.8229.6
24.030.0490.960.0020.9590.0036.287.138210.82118.188.6719.9
32.440.2961.410.0001.4040.0027.307.915240.61787.639.2019.8
24.830.0161.090.0061.0810.0055.877.902180.72458.909.3823.7
93.450.6603.550.0333.5171.05218.00271498.9013.9024.5
66.860.0602.840.0042.8370.00417.7014.327150.32317.989.3123.2
1.600.0255.435.1540.2790.0050.693.840152.73427.719.5219.3
15.220.0341.250.0001.2500.0005.00200.92587.427.4329.4
8.300.3211.800.0041.7980.02612.4529.5153000.31516.957.2926.0
45.453.7342.210.0122.2000.01111.4012.470263838.135.7122.9
4.010.0201.260.0211.2400.0522.7615.397271.31657.328.3023.9
6.410.0351.220.0681.1530.0119.7317.1201330.61116.837.0525.7
10.950.0240.800.0030.7980.0033.475.768131.22947.737.9020.4
7.740.0250.670.0030.6650.0072.045.613132.61677.386.9023.4
13.380.0341.000.0050.9970.0043.9010.180231.02267.398.0224.8
28.420.0651.580.0021.5760.0039.289.890190.53067.618.5319.9
6.680.0471.090.0461.0390.02115.1313.7301080.42437.097.6823.7
16.820.0321.130.0021.1280.0047.907.466140.82227.217.2021.8
16.290.0190.860.0540.8070.0014.206.489181.11568.288.3424.4
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
Chlor aTPTNNO2+NO3TKNNH3TURBTOCCOLORSECCHICONDpHDOTEMP
mg/m3mg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lNTUmg/lCPUMumhos/cmSUmg/lDeg C
MARIE S
MARION
MARTHA
MATTIE
MAUDE
MAY
MC LEOD
MDL HAMILTON
MENZIE
MIRROR
MOODY
MUD
NED
OTIS
PANSY
PARKER (LKLD)
PIERCE
REEDY
RING
ROCHELLE
ROSALIE
ROUND
ROY
RUBY
SEARS
SHIPP
SILVER
SMART
SOMERSET
SPRING
STAR
SUMMIT
SURVEYORS
SWOOPE N
SWOOPE S
12.550.0281.260.0251.2370.0693.978.631181.21557.837.6324.3
17.890.0441.250.0031.2430.0017.0310.375220.82308.358.8625.4
5.050.0270.660.0100.6530.0072.098.789122.32748.029.4819.0
29.240.0811.510.0121.5030.02211.8315.1501080.52297.398.1123.5
15.220.0341.020.0021.0190.0024.658.425130.92618.388.5924.0
40.550.0712.040.0102.0250.06113.1712.325180.52858.068.8822.1
10.680.0160.550.0020.5490.0023.504.439131.42748.048.2920.2
19.490.0781.450.0101.4410.0055.3315.593870.81876.876.9425.2
15.750.0361.110.0231.0890.0132.839.454201.12087.826.1224.5
27.840.0351.600.0031.5970.0127.3010.625150.62388.018.3420.5
26.430.0412.580.3392.1790.00513.5010.74070.44028.269.7419.5
35.640.0751.980.0061.9690.00610.8012.463400.41368.209.0723.5
14.410.0211.100.0381.0600.0165.038.773201.82887.427.3923.5
8.010.0260.860.0000.8590.0003.70181.42397.627.4429.3
4.410.0210.690.0080.6830.0032.787.659311.31496.967.8624.3
177.550.2745.920.0045.9200.00934.0025.337300.22238.957.1723.1
8.140.0280.960.0010.9610.0052.329.119181.51908.398.5825.7
9.610.0161.050.0740.9790.0133.408.161101.32718.168.1925.9
11.210.0471.360.1171.2450.10310.40250.72818.945.7829.1
21.470.0491.170.0021.1640.0076.0010.430240.92017.917.9222.7
13.070.0220.790.0430.7480.0134.7010.730521.11317.858.2926.0
17.620.0261.620.0001.6150.0014.90170.94307.792.3828.8
17.590.0351.100.0031.0990.0033.758.847130.92738.288.3221.8
40.050.0252.220.0362.1850.01920.3012.433150.43928.227.8924.9
10.000.0300.660.0030.6600.0071.596.832231.61685.686.3621.1
48.200.0562.440.0022.4400.00513.6013.260200.32948.559.0419.7
8.070.0130.730.0070.7200.0001.80203.21717.965.6327.7
23.180.0351.430.0041.4900.0046.6411.512200.62508.088.3222.1
55.670.3881.910.0111.8910.0187.108.585230.62337.898.7120.6
16.620.0311.030.0400.9890.0204.658.153151.22247.767.9821.2
41.250.0501.200.0001.1950.0006.207.808170.71838.188.0728.1
11.760.0351.020.0011.0230.0022.859.153141.22857.977.9922.0
6.670.0761.250.3270.9250.0174.4711.1401050.81656.657.0625.2
2.930.0110.840.0080.8290.0041.1211.270172.43028.207.8025.5
5.340.0180.940.0060.9370.0091.5211.247182.42998.287.5625.9
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
Chlor aTPTNNO2+NO3TKNNH3TURBTOCCOLORSECCHICONDpHDOTEMP
mg/m3mg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lNTUmg/lCPUMumhos/cmSUmg/lDeg C
TENNESSEE
THOMAS (WH)
TIGER
TRACY
WAILES
WEOHYAKAPKA
WINTERSET
X PIT
Y PIT
AVERAGE
MINIMUM
MAXIMUM
TOTAL NUMBER
OF LAKES
117
9.610.0110.740.0090.7270.0213.824.93771.12647.267.9023.5
4.810.0140.810.0180.7940.0111.439.694192.22068.057.7322.0
4.810.0541.200.1001.1000.1796.4010.900650.81337.226.0126.0
9.340.0210.910.0100.9030.0052.928.576261.31517.397.0324.6
2.000.0100.630.0010.6290.0040.646.363143.71448.007.1726.3
5.340.0100.610.0030.6060.0072.299.091311.61468.228.2625.8
18.510.0271.070.0021.0720.0013.939.257110.93048.538.6221.6
22.030.4090.790.0070.7780.0182.358.255331.04427.015.9120.1
159.200.6854.750.0264.7200.83534.0014.170200.22547.015.4019.9
27.440.1261.510.0681.4400.0338.7210.826331.12297.787.7923.80.900.0020.510.0000.2790.0000.563.84070.2845.681.9116.1
177.553.7345.925.1545.9201.05252.0032.7303003.74429.6213.9031.6
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
WQITSITSITSITSITSITSILimitingNP
2000AVGNUT.TPTNSDChlor aNutrientRatio
2000
AGNES
ALFRED
ANNIE
ARBUCKLE
ARIANA
BANANA
BANANA (N PIT)
BANANA (S PIT)
BESS
BLUE (WH)
BONNY
BUCKEYE
BUFFUM
CANNON
CLINCH
CONFUSION
CONINE
CROOKED
CRYSTAL (LKLD)
DAISY
DEER
DEESON
DEXTER
EAGLE
EAST PIT
ECHO
ELBERT
ELOISE
ENGLE
EVA N
EVA S
FANNIE
FLORENCE
GARFIELD
GEM (WH)
3.5851.4452.2255.8048.6544.0858.02NBL12.784.4256.9954.8460.0056.13PLL67.862.3431.3834.8434.5924.72PLL77.335.1164.5960.8159.5362.0975.3257.63NBL20.612.9954.2953.9855.3753.53PLL31.85
35.9796.6491.11108.2890.54NLL4.1213.0565.2066.3466.6962.58NLL2.915.1763.2266.9769.5364.4166.6956.01NBL13.531.8329.9528.0538.2223.57PLL76.22
10.2282.0371.7066.6976.7296.1278.26NBL29.3519.5994.2788.0988.3687.83108.2886.42NBL16.053.0753.6450.2057.8352.89PLL38.833.7159.1551.5252.8150.2269.3256.63NBL16.246.8468.7766.5275.3264.45NLL9.202.3638.5328.0541.2746.27PLL79.892.5234.6634.8438.2230.93PLL64.924.2660.1254.5951.1258.0763.1662.61NBL26.431.6111.63-7.4427.0415.28PLL281.509.5778.4470.1869.6970.6687.4977.66NBL18.392.2441.5839.9737.3242.6341.9542.82NBL25.454.7364.2263.2671.7957.62PLL44.006.0968.8869.1167.2670.9780.7956.74NBL21.301.4827.4730.5432.5119.37PLL52.202.6951.5149.1554.5350.84PLL35.005.7365.7862.5558.9666.1569.00NBL26.092.6351.2545.6954.5353.53PLL36.002.0536.3838.4830.2040.46PLL40.794.7067.7161.4276.6065.10PLL39.76
13.8886.4478.9482.6775.2296.1284.25NBL11.534.8155.0657.9945.2961.91PLL34.343.7046.0351.2039.2147.69PLL41.043.7657.9955.0753.6056.5368.2350.66NBL21.403.7052.2950.3452.1354.41NLL9.15
10.2380.5572.7377.5667.91101.5967.34NBL10.494.5538.0944.5743.5845.5528.0641.63NBL21.07
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
WQITSITSITSITSITSITSILimitingNP
2000AVGNUT.TPTNSDChlor aNutrientRatio
2000
GIBSON
GROSS (GRASSY)
HAINES
HAMILTON
HANCOCK
HARTRIDGE
HATCHINEHA
HENRY
HICKORY
HOLLINGSWORTH
HORSESHOE
HOWARD
HUNTER
IDA (WH)
IDYL (WH)
IDYLWILD
INA (WH)
JESSIE
JOHN
JULIANA
KEN
LENA
LEONORE
LINK
LIVINGSTON
LONG
LOWERY
LTL CROOKED
LTL EAGLE
LTL ELBERT
LTL HAMILTON
LULU
MARIAM
MARIANA
MARIE N
5.1244.4848.5148.5036.43NLL3.694.0950.1758.1460.8955.4040.7451.61NBL13.665.2866.2359.8356.4763.1972.9265.95NBL25.685.0850.7259.6063.1629.41NLL7.87
20.6791.9587.3687.5087.22101.5986.91NBL16.302.7151.4045.4042.2048.6058.5450.26NBL26.463.3542.3844.4153.3129.41PLL69.117.8164.7768.9593.7231.64NLL9.427.4469.4943.0690.0775.32PLL144.76
26.2799.4092.41116.9188.88NLL7.8410.3671.5677.8381.7573.9065.29NBL11.335.7872.6561.4287.4969.03PLL54.86
18.5593.8784.7585.5283.99108.2888.58NBL15.392.8251.7055.6747.8451.60PLL39.313.6060.2654.7250.6758.7766.6959.37NBL28.054.1260.4853.7051.1256.2867.2260.52NBL24.143.8254.6452.6349.2656.0063.1648.13NBL26.324.1961.6154.6153.9955.2367.6562.58NBL19.639.8870.5866.9177.9466.90NLL4.753.6358.9541.6372.1563.05PLL67.94
29.4684.4986.8482.14NLL5.388.6781.0472.8392.9977.32PLL47.335.0935.5052.1730.7623.57PLL217.323.3359.5359.4263.1656.01PLL36.76
11.0671.8872.2496.1247.27NLL5.6180.7174.1876.6071.76NLL0.593.4245.0246.9051.3836.79PLL63.054.0659.6660.1175.3243.55PLL34.942.7952.0651.2053.7251.26PLL33.462.6240.7844.7341.4747.9831.3346.27NBL26.683.4754.9351.6147.1956.0259.0354.15NBL29.445.4368.8262.1459.2465.0479.3365.00NBL24.294.3463.2255.4253.2157.6390.0744.15NBL23.113.8460.7157.9966.6957.44PLL35.313.0153.2745.6957.1456.98PLL45.32
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
WQITSITSITSITSITSITSILimitingNP
2000AVGNUT.TPTNSDChlor aNutrientRatio
2000
MARIE S
MARION
MARTHA
MATTIE
MAUDE
MAY
MC LEOD
MDL HAMILTON
MENZIE
MIRROR
MOODY
MUD
NED
OTIS
PANSY
PARKER (LKLD)
PIERCE
REEDY
RING
ROCHELLE
ROSALIE
ROUND
ROY
RUBY
SEARS
SHIPP
SILVER
SMART
SOMERSET
SPRING
STAR
SUMMIT
SURVEYORS
SWOOPE N
SWOOPE S
3.9454.4854.8455.3753.23PLL45.114.1360.8256.1751.9960.3567.9658.33NBL28.322.4440.3145.3742.9047.8335.4540.10NBL24.526.3070.6763.7763.3464.2082.8465.41NBL18.683.4660.1059.4264.8856.01PLL30.007.1873.1865.4860.8970.0783.9670.12NBL28.662.3447.2541.6349.2150.90PLL34.445.4063.5163.0062.6363.3767.9659.57NBL18.603.9158.1460.7757.1456.50PLL30.894.8367.1460.1176.6064.70PLL45.775.6971.7663.8487.4963.95PLL62.886.4373.8265.7061.9169.5087.4968.26NBL26.363.4748.5548.0542.3755.22PLL52.292.4949.9253.0949.9146.76PLL33.082.3945.9248.0551.5638.16PLL32.86
22.1097.9088.6186.0091.22113.6991.38NBL21.622.8950.1154.8448.5047.00PLL34.362.8947.4641.6351.3849.38PLL65.814.7459.9857.6553.2162.0970.7051.60NBL28.944.4360.4456.5153.9959.0463.8460.96NBL23.803.1853.0749.1556.2553.81PLL36.005.2658.1253.0963.1658.11PLL62.313.6660.4560.1163.1658.09PLL31.436.4969.8652.1787.4969.94PLL88.842.9447.1946.3344.8647.8045.2949.96NBL22.037.1679.1771.2093.7272.61PLL43.592.3136.2436.7325.1146.87PLL56.154.4466.1760.1176.3462.06PLL40.97
13.4075.3673.4677.9474.68NLL4.913.6556.1457.2453.9157.27PLL33.195.2866.0056.9554.3659.5370.7070.36NBL23.903.3153.4052.0947.7356.4555.8152.29NBL29.234.4157.3861.3062.1560.4566.6944.13NBL16.472.3132.9432.7933.7432.29PLL76.092.7239.8344.4134.1540.92PLL52.33
LAKE NAME
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY
2000 LAKE WATER QUALITY RESULTS
WQITSITSITSITSITSITSILimitingNP
2000AVGNUT.TPTNSDChlor aNutrientRatio
2000
TENNESSEE
THOMAS (WH)
TIGER
TRACY
WAILES
WEOHYAKAPKA
WINTERSET
X PIT
Y PIT
AVERAGE
MINIMUM
MAXIMUM
TOTAL NUMBER
OF LAKES
117
2.5346.1432.7956.2549.39PLL67.002.4538.2338.4836.8039.41PLL58.075.2955.0357.7255.8059.6467.9639.41NBL22.262.9449.4748.0551.3848.98PLL43.431.9226.1130.5421.0226.78PLL63.202.2038.9230.5445.2940.93PLL61.003.5259.2353.9864.8858.82PLL39.78
11.4658.5854.4060.0061.33NLL1.9234.5697.0693.08108.2889.81NLL6.93
6.8458.7760.9053.1564.6264.1455.7737.461.4811.6339.97-7.4442.6321.0215.280.59
80.7199.4088.6188.3693.08116.9191.38281.50
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -22-
Figure 11Algae Bloom
Figure 12Collection of Algae
The Natural Resources Division utilizes
the Florida Trophic State Index (TSI)
and the Water Quality Index (WQI) as
assessment tools. The TSI is used by
lake managers to describe one aspect of
water quality, the relative eutrophication
(aging) of the lake. The TSI is a relative
m e a s u r e m e n t a n d i n d i c a t e s
eutrophication based on measurements
of chlorophyll, nitrogen, phosphorus, and
light penetration. The WQI is an index
used to indicate how well a waterbody
satisfies Florida Class III Surface
Water’s classification. All the lakes in
Polk County are Class III. Like all
indices, the TSI and WQI are methods of summarizing a
complex system, and can be misleading. But used
together they can help to identify water quality problems
and evaluate management projects.
Lakes can be classified or described according to their
evolution or aging. The three major categories or stages
are: Oligotrophic, Mesotrophic, and Eutrophic. This
process of aging is called eutrophication. An Oligotrophic
lake is typically a young lake with few dissolved nutrients,
little or no organic sediment, and the lack of littoral
vegetation. The water clarity is high and there are no
suspended solids or algal blooms. Biological productivity
is low, therefore, few fish and other aquatic organisms
are present. Typically, this is the type of lake people like
to have for swimming and waterskiing. A Eutrophic lake
is an older, much more biologically productive waterbody.
Eutrophic lakes in their final stage will eventually convert
to a swamp, wetland, or bog if natural conditions persist.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -23-
Eutrophic lakes have a high nutrient concentration, a thick layer of organic sediments and poor light
penetration. The littoral zone is heavily covered with vegetation and there may be frequent algal blooms. Fish
and other aquatic life may be in abundance, at least until the final stages of eutrophication. Recreation,
because of aesthetic reasons, may be limited to fishing and hunting. A Mesotrophic lake is the relative middle
stage between the Oligotrophic and Eutrophic. This life cycle of lakes is a natural one. Human activities may
speed the process up and management activities may slow down the progression to the final stages of
eutrophication, in some instances. Lakes that did not have two or more critical water quality analytes
reported were not characterized and the water quality boxes were labeled, insufficient data .
Federal Clean Water Act (CWA)
In 1972, the CWA was passed and addressed both point and nonpoint sources of pollution and water quality
in the United States. Section 303(d) of the CWA requires that states report streams and waterbodies that do
not meet ambient water quality standards and will require a calculation(s) of the “Total Daily Maximum
Loads” or TMDLs. The TMDL’s will be the concentrations or sum of waste load allocations (point sources),
load allocations (nonpoint sources), background loads, and a margin of safety factors. The TMDL’s will then
be based on the natural assimilation of all the loadings in that waterbody. Waterbodies will not be allowed
to exceed the TMDL and may in some cases be required to reduce loadings to a lower assimilation rate to
improve water quality.
The 303(d) list, commonly referred to as the Impaired Waters List, is prepared by the FDEP and forwarded
to the USEPA roughly every two years. The FDEP Rule for identifying impaired waters is in development
at this time. Polk County has several waterbodies on the original 303(d) list and those are identified on the
individual data sheet for each waterbody in Appendix A.
Water Resources’ staff also calculates the nutrient ratios which can be helpful in identifying the nutrient input
that is contributing to the eutrophication of the lake or stream. The ratios of nitrogen to phosphorus can be
calculated, and using the appropriate formula, the nutrient balance can be determined, see Tables 3 and 4.
In 2000, 43 lakes proved to be nutrient balanced lakes, 15 were nitrogen limited, and 56 were phosphorus
limited. Figure 13 graphically displays each lake tested and is color coded based upon the TSI value. Figure
14 shows the WQI for each lake tested in 2000.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -26-
Figure 15Peace River in Bartow
Figure 16Peace River in Bartow
STREAM MONITORING
There are six major rivers which influence Polk
County’s watersheds: the Alafia, Hillsborough,
Kissimmee, Palatlakaha, Peace, and Withlacoochee.
Additionally, there are approximately 30 streams,
commonly referred to as creeks, that flow through
Polk County. These streams collect and transport
water for the rivers and some lakes and act as
natural drainage conveyances. Streams provide a
link between wildlife habitats. Some streams also
provide recreation, such as canoeing and fishing.
A total of 19 stream segments were sampled on the
following 12 streams and rivers in Polk County in
2000: Gator, Horseshoe, Itchepackesassa, Lena
Run, Marion, Peace, Reedy, Saddle, and Tiger Creeks,
Alafia River - North and South Prongs, and the
Withlachoochee Rivers. Due to the drought, there
were several stream portions that were not tested
because of no flow, see Figures 15 through 19. Routine
analyses of these streams include field measurements
of temperature, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen,
and pH in situ. Color, turbidity, chlorophyll a, ammonia,
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -27-
Figure 19Saddle Creek at Hwy 540 at Lake Hancock Outfall
Figure 17Peace River in Homeland
Figure 18Withlachoochee River
kjeldahl nitrogen, total phosphorus, nitrate/nitrite
nitrogen, total nitrogen, and total coliform are
analyzed in the laboratory.
Table 5 provides the mean value and range for
each water quality parameter routinely tested and
the WQI range for streams in 2000 and 1999. The
TSI cannot be calculated for streams. Table 6
provides the mean water quality results for each
stream/creek that was tested in 2000. Appendix B
has some historical water quality values as well as the
WQI charts for each sampling station. The photos in
Figures 15 through 19 were taken in May and June
2000.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -29-
Table 5
2000 Mean Chemical
Stream Parameters
Parameter 2000 Mean
Value *
2000Range 1999 Mean
Value *
Unit
Temperature 21.7 18.2-23.9 23.1 Deg C
pH 7.08 6.17-7.94 7.02 SU
Specific Conductivity 361 124-793 316 umhos/cm
Dissolved Oxygen 5.23 0.88-10.70 4.49 mg/l
Color 125 35-425 147 CPU
Turbidity 6.6 0.8-39.5 8.1 NTU
TOC 18.327 7.236-37.680 23.011 mg/l
Ammonia 0.309 ND-3.631 0.239 mg/l
Kjeldahl Nitrogen 1.758 0.598-6.118 1.607 mg/l
NO2 + NO3 0.382 0.005-1.403 0.253 mg/l
Total Nitrogen 2.14 0.76-6.20 1.84 mg/l
Total Phosphorus 0.537 0.022-2.937 0.755 mg/l
Chlorophyll a 9.18 ND-94.12 9.57 mg/m3
WQI 16.85 2.72-60.99 20.98 WQI
* Actual values below the laboratory detection limits were extrapolated.ND - Not DetectedMean value is arithmetic
POLK COUNTY NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION LABORATORY2000 STREAM WATER QUALITY RESULTS
WQILimitingNPChlor aTPTNNOxTKNNH3TURBTOCCOLORCONDpHDOTEMPLOCATIONSITE
2000NutrientRatiomg/m3mg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lmg/lNTUmg/lCPUumhos/cmSUmg/lDeg C
60.99NLL0.500.802.9371.460.8380.6250.0161.511.000357937.025.7920.5ALAFIA N
4.23PLL31.501.420.0461.450.5010.9480.0421.814.6901151516.713.2121.9HWY 547 N AT RR TRESTLE DAVENPORTHORSESHOE CREEK
17.40NLL2.490.800.6431.600.3221.2750.2804.512.802654416.905.4218.2BRIDGE ON WALKERD RD S OF HWY 582ITCHEPACKESASSA CREEK
13.36NBL13.5113.210.2223.000.8392.1630.6428.715.280785477.025.9623.2N SIDE OF 655 ON THE W SIDE OF FL DIST.LENA RUN CREEK
7.24NLL6.280.800.2421.520.4171.1080.0585.512.660784037.579.4321.71 MILE S OF 540 ON E SIDE OF THORNHILLLENA RUN
3.36PLL31.103.610.0491.520.3831.1390.0181.217.4751052107.576.0720.4N OF 542 - BRIDGE ON POINCIANA PKWMARION CREEK
41.70NBL17.086.210.3636.200.0856.1183.6318.128.4852006726.842.5422.2100YDS E FINE HART MART HWY 60 E N SIDEP.C. CANAL3
5.85NBL20.660.800.0901.860.0091.8490.0486.337.6804251246.172.8620.0ALTURAS RD CUTOFF +520 YDS S OF RR WP.C. CANAL4
7.61NBL11.011.200.1972.170.5781.5910.0995.325.6852004957.015.1822.7BRIDGE @HWY 60 W 2/10 MILE W OF RRP.C. CANAL5
10.81NLL4.421.340.3941.740.3901.3510.0514.810.310801886.755.5720.719TH ST W OF HWY 655 3/10 MILE DIRT RDP.C. CANAL6
4.85NBL18.051.580.0761.370.4360.9360.1296.211.533662436.535.6822.2HWY 655 N + 100 YDS N OF 12TH ST EP.C. CANAL7
13.99NLL2.961.230.5221.550.1631.3820.0373.223.7382403677.272.9623.6P.C. BRIDGE ON 91 MINE RD N OF HWY 60P.C. CANAL8
24.57NLL3.1841.160.9012.860.0052.8570.02417.622.5231313687.603.9423.81 MILE W OLD BARTOW/EAGLE LK CUTOFF RDP.C. CANAL9
21.41NLL1.801.800.8791.590.1571.4390.0543.422.3481604067.222.8523.7BRIDGE ON HWY 60 W OF KINCADE MARINEP.C. CANAL10
31.31NLL0.961.201.4461.390.2071.1850.0442.119.2571005207.436.2023.9BRIDGE ON HWY 640 E OF SR 17 HOMELANDPEACE RIVER
3.22PLL30.782.400.0451.390.4610.9260.0332.410.315752387.016.6222.4ARBUCKLE RD TO RUCKS DAIRY RD AT BRIDGEREEDY CREEK
32.80NLL9.5194.120.5485.210.0425.1670.64339.530.795633326.900.8821.3HWY 540 E (WINTER LAKE RD) ON N SIDESADDLE CREEK
12.68NLL1.320.820.5740.760.0250.7390.0001.914.4101001827.9410.7019.1TENOROC OUTFALL
2.72PLL90.910.000.0222.001.4030.5980.0140.87.236601847.147.4921.7ON WALK IN WATER RD CALL 813-678-1551TIGER CREEK 3
16.859.180.5372.140.3821.7580.3096.618.3271253617.085.2321.7AVERAGE
60.9994.122.9376.201.4036.1183.63139.537.6804257937.9410.7023.9MAXIMUM
2.720.000.0220.760.0050.5980.0000.87.236351246.170.8818.2MINIMUM
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report
SECTION III
POLK COUNTY
LAKE LEVELS
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -31-
Figure 21Lake Thomas Boat Landing
Figure 22Lake Ina’s Staff Gage
LAKE LEVELS
The Water Resources Section receives lake
levels from SWFWMD which are used to
update the Division’s databases. For
projects requiring more detailed information,
daily level readings are obtained from
SWFWMD or read directly by Division staff.
At present, this office has lake level
information on 189 lakes within the County.
The period of level data collection ranges
from a few years to more than 30 years.
The SWFWMD has automated equipment
which records water levels on some lakes.
With the current drought we are unable to
take readings on lakes with staff gages
simply because the gages are no longer
in the lake.
As the drought continues, many lakes
have reached record lows. There are
actually good points to lake levels
dropping. It is Mother Nature’s way of
drying out bottom sediments. However,
it makes it harder for the public to enjoy
the lakes for boating and fishing. Figures
19 through 23 show the drought’s effects
on several area lakes.
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -32-
Figure 24Lake Starr
Figure 23Lake Wales
To maintain a healthy lake ecosystem, it is
important that lake levels fluctuate.
Therefore, it is necessary to
determine what elevation is too high or too
low and what elevations constitute a
desirable range of water fluctuation. The
SWFWMD has a Lake Level Program to
track these levels on a number of lakes in
their district. The objectives of the Lake
Level Program are:
1. Provide guidelines for
development of bordering lakes.
2. Obtain modeling data to
determine the water storage and
recharge capabilities of lakes.
3. Provide levels for operation
of lake control structures.
4. Provide information for
District water use permitting
(WUP) activities (Lake
Levels Program Annual
Report, SWFWMD).
Lake levels that are established for
each lake consists of a ten (10) year
Flood Warning, Minimum Flood,
Minimum Water Level (Low
Management), and Extremely Low
Management Levels. As of October
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -33-
Figure 26Canal from Mirror to Cannon
Figure 25Lake Hollingsworth
1995, the SWFWMD has adopted
levels on 154 Polk County lakes in
their district.
Lake levels are averaged each month
and those averages are then put into a
spreadsheet, see Table 7. Although
lake levels are affected by rainfall and
drainage, the correlations may not be
direct. Many different factors can
affect the water level in a lake. In the
upper Peace River Basin of Polk
County, the changes in lake levels can
be attributed to fluctuations in water levels of the
Floridan Aquifer over the past several years. Ground
water withdrawals therefore have shown to have an
effect on lake levels.
All of the photos on pages 31 through 33 were taken in
June 2000. As the drought has continued into the
present, the conditions of these lakes and canals have
worsened. Canals are now dry, and much more
shoreline on lakes is being exposed every day, thus
making it almost impossible to use boat ramps or
landings.
Lake Levels
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
132.87 134.30 131.584 27 25 135.20 136.40 135.75 132.75 130.75 135.00 135.90 08/29/95 131.58 10/26/00 0.00-1.60Agnes
127.78 129.47 126.5530 27 26 132.30 134.20 130.75 128.25 126.25 130.25 132.76 03/26/98 122.40 05/24/77 4.15-3.29Alfred
114.90 116.22 113.2011 30 27 122.60 123.40 122.50 120.00 118.00 122.00 121.34 01/26/98 112.60 05/14/91 0.60-5.12Altamaha
112.61 114.12 111.543 29 27 122.10 124.40 119.00 116.00 114.00 118.50 117.36 03/25/98 108.36 6/1990 3.18-3.24Annie
133.87 134.98 133.003 28 25 137.10 138.30 137.00 134.50 132.50 136.75 137.90 08/28/46 131.28 05/06/76 1.72-2.92Ariana
139.66 140.80 138.5927 27 25 144.00 144.80 144.00 141.00 138.00 143.00 143.54 12/18/97 136.50 05/25/77 2.09-2.74Arietta
114.97 116.96 113.7911 30 27 123.60 120.00 117.00 115.00 119.00 118.60 03/31/98 109.62 06/02/94 4.17-1.64Belle
113.93 114.33 113.3129 28 24 119.70 115.42 09/21/98 113.00 1995 0.31-1.09Bentley
122.78 123.82 121.7418 29 27 125.50 126.20 125.25 123.00 121.00 125.00 125.62 09/22/94 121.15 05/20/90 0.59-1.80Bess
90.91 92.20 89.3026 29 28 95.10 96.00 95.00 92.00 89.00 94.50 95.54 09/30/98 87.08 06/22/91 2.22-3.34Big Gum
147.42 148.06 146.5013 28 25 149.80 150.90 149.00 146.50 144.50 148.50 149.56 07/27/95 146.50 05/31/00 0.00-1.50Blue
110.28 112.41 108.7424 30 27 118.00 125.30 117.00 114.00 112.50 116.00 114.59 10/05/98 103.38 05/22/82 5.36-2.18Blue(LW)
144.42 144.93 144.1414 28 23 146.40 147.20 145.00 145.00 142.50 147.50 146.62 11/23/88 142.10 05/30/97 2.04-1.69Bonnet (Lkld)
127.40 129.57 125.8820 28 24 130.90 132.40 130.50 128.00 126.00 130.00 132.40 01/02/98 123.12 07/10/56 2.76-2.83Bonny (Lkld)
126.72 127.84 125.5422 28 26 130.10 131.60 129.00 126.00 124.50 128.75 129.12 08/14/92 125.54 06/28/00 0.00-1.28Buckeye
129.85 131.38 128.8412 31 26 132.75 133.40 132.25 129.25 126.75 132.00 132.42 02/24/98 123.90 06/19/91 4.94-1.04Buffum
130.55 131.92 129.7420 27 26 133.40 133.90 134.50 132.00 130.00 134.00 133.38 02/18/98 129.74 6/29/00 0.00-1.46Camp
129.65 130.80 128.7219 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Cannon
140.67 142.50 139.375 27 25 146.20 148.50 143.50 141.00 139.00 143.00 146.06 08/28/94 139.35 05/22/94 0.02-3.56Clearwater
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
103.70 104.87 102.8031 31 28 108.00 110.40 106.75 104.00 102.50 106.00 110.21 10/10/48 100.10 06/19/91 2.70-5.34Clinch
126.48 127.92 125.249 28 26 129.70 130.50 128.75 126.50 124.50 128.50 129.28 02/24/98 125.24 12/22/00 0.00-1.36Conine
120.18 121.40 119.242 30 27 124.20 125.30 123.50 121.00 119.00 123.00 122.32 11/16/94 119.24 4/19/00 0.00-0.92Cooper
116.85 118.29 115.811 31 27 122.60 125.80 122.00 118.50 117.00 121.00 123.98 10/08/48 106.10 05/20/91 9.71-5.69Crooked
133.16 135.83 131.6021 28 24 140.00 140.62 09/20/96 131.25 12/22/00 0.35-4.79Crystal (Lkld)
111.29 113.12 108.942 30 27 121.40 123.00 121.25 118.00 115.00 121.00 119.86 03/25/98 108.94 5/25/00 0.00-6.74Crystal (LW)
128.01 129.56 127.0631 27 26 131.50 133.50 131.00 127.50 125.50 129.50 131.20 03/23/98 127.06 7/20/00 0.00-1.64Cummings
93.13 94.74 92.0036 29 28 100.20 101.80 98.50 95.00 93.00 98.00 98.60 03/25/98 89.52 06/25/91 2.48-3.86Cypress
127.95 128.63 127.956 29 27 130.90 131.70 130.00 127.00 126.00 129.75 129.86 10/02/90 125.75 06/20/00 2.20-1.23Daisy
138.62 138.88 138.3425 28 25 141.30 142.20 140.75 138.50 136.50 140.50 142.40 03/30/98 138.00 11/18/98 0.34-3.52Deer (WH)
121.86 124.78 119.6129 27 24 129.50 133.10 135.49 09/28/54 119.61 12/19/00 0.00-10.71Deeson
121.78 123.30 119.9228 28 27 125.70 126.00 123.75 121.50 119.50 123.50 124.30 09/21/94 119.96 6/30/00 -0.04-1.00Dell
129.42 130.26 128.062 29 26 132.20 132.70 132.00 129.00 127.50 131.50 131.38 12/19/97 128.06 06/28/00 0.00-1.12Dexter
127.12 129.00 125.981 29 25 131.00 131.90 130.75 128.50 126.50 130.50 131.50 09/23/96 118.76 05/10/76 7.22-2.50Eagle
104.55 106.34 103.2619 30 28 115.50 115.25 113.00 111.00 115.00 108.88 03/25/98 102.25 06/07/94 1.01-2.54Easy
128.00 128.88 127.085 28 26 132.30 134.00 131.00 128.00 126.00 130.50 130.65 08/14/90 127.08 04/28/00 0.00-1.77Echo
131.68 133.30 130.5622 28 26 137.50 138.60 135.50 133.00 131.50 135.00 136.36 03/26/98 128.78 06/19/89 1.78-3.06Elbert
129.65 130.80 128.723 29 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Eloise
128.06 129.71 126.7529 27 26 132.30 134.70 131.50 129.00 127.00 131.00 132.06 03/11/98 126.75 6/29/00 0.00-2.35Eva
122.50 124.06 121.4311 28 26 127.00 128.10 125.75 123.50 120.00 125.50 126.16 02/24/98 118.67 05/27/77 2.76-2.10Fannie
126.29 127.08 124.8435 28 26 128.80 129.50 128.50 127.00 125.00 128.50 128.20 09/27/94 124.84 06/28/00 0.00-1.12Florence
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
100.32 101.68 99.105 30 26 105.70 107.90 104.75 101.00 100.00 103.50 105.91 09/30/79 97.50 04/18/76 1.60-4.23Garfield
129.61 129.61 129.616 28 26 130.70 131.00 130.00 127.50 125.50 129.50 130.64 12/31/97 129.00 09/03/98 0.61-1.03George
141.72 142.39 141.2925 27 23 144.20 145.50 143.50 141.50 141.50 143.00 145.40 09/08/88 140.40 06/06/85 0.89-3.01Gibson
109.02 111.32 107.1416 28 27 121.30 119.00 116.00 114.00 118.00 116.64 03/25/98 107.14 6/30/00 0.00-5.32Gordon
127.07 128.57 126.212 29 25 134.80 136.40 129.00 126.50 125.50 128.50 136.59 09/21/60 123.10 06/06/91 3.11-8.02Grassy (EL)
129.43 130.68 128.2530 27 26 132.30 134.70 131.50 129.00 127.00 131.00 132.54 05/14/98 128.25 7/20/00 0.00-1.86Griffin
132.81 134.02 131.8414 29 26 138.50 140.00 136.00 133.50 132.00 135.75 137.40 10/12/95 131.84 06/28/00 0.00-3.38Gross
130.73 131.90 129.9617 27 26 132.60 133.00 131.00 128.50 126.00 130.50 133.22 02/18/98 127.92 06/07/79 2.04-1.32Gum
126.76 127.91 126.0033 27 26 129.70 130.60 128.75 126.50 124.50 128.50 129.32 08/25/66 125.70 12/19/00 0.30-1.41Haines
118.89 120.12 118.0618 28 27 122.50 123.70 121.50 119.00 117.25 121.25 124.34 10/03/48 116.98 11/25/72 1.08-4.22Hamilton
96.72 97.90 95.578 29 25 102.10 102.40 99.00 96.00 94.00 95.50 101.88 09/16/60 93.98 05/23/68 1.59-3.98Hancock
129.65 130.80 128.728 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Hartridge
141.47 143.11 140.1034 26 25 144.80 147.20 144.00 141.00 139.00 143.00 146.42 03/23/98 138.54 05/11/68 1.56-3.31Helene
155.10 156.49 154.2116 31 26 160.10 160.40 159.00 156.00 154.00 158.50 158.60 01/29/96 152.74 06/22/88 1.47-2.11Henry
123.91 125.22 122.9936 27 26 127.00 127.50 126.50 124.00 122.50 126.00 127.03 08/26/67 121.96 12/09/81 1.03-1.81Henry (HC)
94.24 96.71 93.0117 32 28 98.50 99.30 98.50 96.00 94.00 98.00 98.01 08/30/95 91.80 06/11/86 1.21-1.30Hickory (FP)
127.55 129.79 126.0230 28 24 134.20 134.80 133.21 07/13/91 125.72 6/9/00 0.30-3.42Hollingsworth
137.47 138.27 136.5021 28 24 141.00 140.32 07/24/98 136.25 6/23/00 0.25-2.05Holloway
129.65 130.80 128.7230 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Howard
161.43 161.93 160.9124 28 23 162.30 163.00 162.75 160.25 159.00 162.25 163.20 06/26/95 159.59 02/23/96 1.32-1.27Hunter
132.39 133.78 131.5217 28 26 136.70 137.90 135.25 132.00 130.50 135.00 136.17 08/14/92 131.52 06/28/00 0.00-2.39Ida (WH)
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
131.93 132.22 131.2916 28 26 134.90 136.90 134.00 133.50 131.50 133.50 133.26 07/13/91 131.28 06/28/00 0.01-1.04Idyl
129.65 130.80 128.7218 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Idylwild
129.65 130.80 128.7212 28 25 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Jessie
108.07 108.38 107.8031 28 24 112.60 111.00 11/14/91 107.28 4/16/99 0.52-2.62John
108.14 110.06 106.4227 28 27 124.10 127.70 121.50 118.00 116.50 121.00 114.86 11/28/95 106.42 6/30/00 0.00-4.80Josephine (D)
109.70 111.68 108.3613 30 27 121.30 120.00 116.50 114.50 119.50 116.52 03/25/98 107.94 06/07/94 0.42-4.84Josephine (LW)
130.01 131.26 129.1015 27 25 134.70 136.30 132.50 130.00 127.50 132.00 134.10 03/21/98 126.20 05/07/76 2.90-2.84Juliana
112.96 114.84 111.9010 29 27 122.10 124.40 119.00 116.00 114.00 118.50 117.24 03/05/98 110.18 05/24/90 1.72-2.40Lee
114.55 116.94 112.8816 28 27 123.50 123.50 121.50 120.00 123.25 121.90 03/25/98 112.88 7/22/00 0.00-4.96Lee (LH)
134.06 134.98 133.379 28 25 137.10 138.30 137.00 134.50 132.50 136.75 136.66 02/15/83 131.85 05/05/76 1.52-1.68Lena
85.37 85.37 85.3710 31 28 87.40 88.40 87.00 84.50 83.00 86.50 85.94 05/13/93 82.94 06/11/86 2.43-0.57Leonore
123.38 124.93 122.0027 28 26 128.70 129.90 128.00 125.00 123.00 127.00 127.32 10/24/95 121.52 6/29/89 0.48-2.39Link
128.64 130.18 127.3514 27 26 132.00 134.80 133.32 06/11/60 125.12 05/24/77 2.23-3.14Lowery
133.42 134.52 132.564 27 25 135.20 136.40 136.00 133.00 131.00 135.25 136.00 08/21/95 132.38 06/01/94 0.18-1.48Ltl Agnes
93.20 95.28 92.0013 30 28 103.30 100.50 98.00 96.00 100.00 97.16 03/25/98 91.71 06/01/94 0.29-1.88Ltl Aurora
116.97 118.48 115.9023 31 27 122.60 125.80 119.00 10/18/99 112.80 06/13/91 3.10-0.52Ltl Crooked
127.12 129.00 125.981 29 25 131.00 133.80 130.75 130.50 131.50 09/23/96 118.76 05/10/76 7.22-2.50Ltl Eagle
131.68 133.30 130.5622 28 26 137.50 138.60 135.50 135.00 136.10 11/17/95 128.78 06/19/89 1.78-2.80Ltl Elbert
92.70 94.10 91.6235 29 28 96.80 97.80 95.50 94.00 92.00 96.00 96.86 04/06/98 89.39 06/25/91 2.23-2.76Ltl Gum
118.89 120.12 118.065 28 27 122.50 123.70 121.50 119.00 117.25 121.25 124.34 10/03/48 116.98 11/25/72 1.08-4.22Ltl Hamilton
136.55 136.87 135.8426 27 25 141.40 142.00 139.00 136.50 135.50 138.50 138.68 08/19/82 135.84 6/19/00 0.00-1.81Ltl Van
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
129.65 130.80 128.724 29 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Lulu
101.89 103.88 100.7011 29 27 114.50 117.00 110.75 107.00 105.00 110.00 108.20 03/25/98 99.30 05/23/90 1.40-4.32Mabel
122.94 124.22 121.8627 28 26 125.60 126.30 124.75 122.75 121.00 124.50 125.80 08/13/95 120.72 05/10/90 1.14-1.58Mariam
135.82 136.54 134.921 28 25 138.60 139.60 137.50 135.00 133.00 137.00 138.58 09/15/60 133.90 07/01/56 1.02-2.04Mariana
107.72 109.40 105.8427 28 27 122.30 124.30 121.00 118.00 116.00 120.00 114.48 11/28/95 105.84 06/30/00 0.00-5.08Marie
107.72 109.40 105.8427 28 27 122.30 124.30 121.00 118.00 116.00 120.00 114.48 11/28/95 105.84 06/30/00 0.00-5.08Marie
139.18 140.54 138.2721 28 26 142.50 143.80 142.00 139.00 137.00 141.50 142.62 10/27/95 137.06 05/10/90 1.21-2.08Martha
138.11 139.46 136.9421 28 26 141.70 143.30 140.50 137.50 136.00 140.00 140.08 2/19/99 136.66 05/27/86 0.28-0.62Maude
129.65 130.80 128.7229 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30May
127.55 129.00 126.667 29 26 133.10 134.60 132.00 129.50 128.00 131.50 131.98 09/28/98 115.11 05/12/76 11.55-2.98Mc Leod
118.89 120.12 118.067 28 27 122.50 123.70 121.50 119.00 117.25 121.25 124.34 10/03/48 116.98 11/25/72 1.08-4.22Mdl Hamilton
134.87 136.05 134.0036 27 25 140.40 141.40 138.00 134.50 133.00 137.00 139.75 03/26/98 134.00 12/18/00 0.00-3.70Medora
117.64 119.00 116.2028 28 27 127.00 128.80 122.00 120.00 118.00 121.75 123.38 10/12/95 116.20 06/30/00 0.00-4.38Menzie
122.08 122.90 121.2311 29 25 125.30 126.20 123.50 121.00 119.00 123.00 124.82 09/21/94 119.58 05/15/81 1.65-1.92Millsite
177.92 178.21 177.4518 28 24 180.02 1988 177.38 5/24/00 0.07-1.81Mirror (Lkld)
129.65 130.80 128.7220 28 27 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Mirror (WH)
89.09 89.99 88.2917 31 28 92.80 94.10 93.50 91.00 89.00 93.00 92.26 03/26/98 86.20 06/04/85 2.09-2.27Moody
177.53 178.07 176.9619 28 24 180.47 1991 176.30 1955 0.66-2.40Morton
138.80 140.06 137.846 27 25 141.80 142.50 141.50 137.75 136.00 141.00 141.24 12/18/97 137.39 05/25/94 0.45-1.18Mud (PC)
139.38 140.67 138.5032 27 25 141.70 142.40 141.00 138.50 136.50 140.50 141.68 02/18/98 136.66 06/05/86 1.84-1.01Myrtle (A)
101.74 103.28 100.071 30 27 116.80 120.30 115.00 112.00 110.00 114.50 110.16 03/25/98 100.00 08/19/81 0.07-6.88N Wales
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
128.18 129.20 127.001 29 26 130.60 130.90 128.50 126.00 124.00 127.75 129.50 10/22/98 126.04 06/10/93 0.96-0.30Ned
123.38 124.93 122.0028 28 26 128.70 133.70 128.00 125.00 123.00 127.00 129.12 09/10/60 119.58 05/15/76 2.42-4.19Otis
126.33 127.88 125.108 28 26 130.00 130.60 129.00 126.50 124.50 128.50 129.70 07/15/91 125.10 06/28/00 0.00-1.82Pansy
128.71 129.78 128.088 28 24 131.60 133.50 131.00 128.75 127.50 130.75 131.91 06/26/82 127.02 06/09/86 1.06-2.13Parker (Lkld)
118.92 120.28 117.4232 29 27 122.50 123.30 122.00 119.50 117.50 121.50 122.30 02/24/98 114.62 06/23/92 2.80-2.02Parker (LW)
101.19 101.88 100.5036 29 28 104.50 105.20 102.50 100.00 98.00 102.00 103.80 03/23/98 97.40 05/12/91 3.10-1.92Parks
140.68 141.54 139.8027 30 26 142.40 143.50 142.00 139.50 137.50 141.50 142.80 09/26/94 137.30 06/02/86 2.50-1.26Polecat
77.85 78.40 77.4135 31 28 80.00 81.10 79.75 77.25 75.25 79.50 80.66 10/01/60 76.89 06/01/67 0.52-2.26Reedy
134.51 136.14 133.191 29 26 141.60 142.60 139.50 136.00 134.00 139.00 140.56 11/28/95 133.19 6/29/00 0.00-4.42River
126.48 127.92 125.244 28 26 129.70 130.60 128.75 126.50 124.60 128.50 130.05 09/16/60 125.24 12/22/00 0.00-2.13Rochelle
129.65 130.80 128.7234 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Roy
122.65 123.58 121.5612 29 26 125.50 126.20 125.25 123.00 121.00 125.00 125.62 09/22/94 117.41 05/04/76 4.15-2.04Ruby
110.50 112.22 108.1428 28 27 123.50 126.30 121.50 117.50 115.50 120.50 117.16 11/14/95 108.14 6/30/00 0.00-4.94Ruth (D)
165.86 166.69 165.2818 29 24 168.60 172.20 168.00 165.00 164.25 167.50 169.19 09/13/60 159.29 11/18/72 5.99-2.50Scott
137.51 138.92 136.7036 28 25 143.20 144.30 141.00 138.00 136.00 140.50 142.48 09/20/95 136.00 04/30/91 0.70-3.56Sears
129.65 130.82 128.7832 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 132.28 12/22/97 128.78 06/28/00 0.00-1.46Shipp
100.79 101.60 100.195 32 28 105.00 105.80 103.00 100.50 98.50 102.50 105.74 10/25/95 97.35 06/11/86 2.84-4.14Silver (FP)
142.27 141.34 143.9020 28 26 147.10 147.90 146.50 144.00 142.00 146.00 146.80 08/29/95 140.34 05/27/86 3.56-5.46Silver (WH)
126.48 127.92 125.249 28 26 129.70 130.50 128.75 126.50 124.50 128.50 129.62 09/11/47 125.24 12/22/00 0.00-1.70Smart
127.16 128.70 125.9635 28 25 134.10 135.20 131.50 129.00 127.00 131.00 133.38 04/06/98 122.36 05/15/91 3.60-4.68Spirit
129.65 130.80 128.7220 28 27 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.19 09/11/60 128.28 05/14/76 0.44-2.39Spring
WaterbodyMean Max Min
S T R 10 Year Flood Level
100 Year Flood Level
Min Flood Level
Min Low Level
Min Ext Low Level
Record High Record LowMax Desire. Level
2000 Levels 2000 Min / Record Low Diff.
2000 Max /
Record Hi Diff.
90.43 92.37 89.3914 30 28 97.50 96.00 93.00 91.00 95.50 94.67 04/04/98 88.87 05/29/92 0.52-2.30St Anne
99.68 101.80 98.3014 29 27 115.50 117.40 113.00 110.00 108.00 112.50 106.10 03/25/98 97.68 02/26/91 0.62-4.30Starr (W)
129.65 130.80 128.7234 28 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Summit
130.51 131.26 129.5426 30 26 133.60 134.70 133.00 130.75 128.50 132.75 132.68 04/01/87 127.00 03/14/91 2.54-1.42Surveyors
128.87 130.47 127.8529 27 26 133.00 133.50 132.50 130.00 128.00 132.00 133.56 02/16/98 125.00 10/08/81 2.85-3.09Swoope
128.87 130.47 127.8529 27 26 133.00 133.50 132.50 130.00 128.00 132.00 133.56 02/16/98 125.00 10/08/81 2.85-3.09Swoope
129.61 130.48 128.669 27 25 134.70 136.30 134.00 130.00 128.00 133.00 133.26 04/05/93 128.66 06/19/00 0.00-2.78Tennessee
96.10 97.70 94.801 30 28 104.20 105.60 99.50 97.00 94.50 99.00 99.72 09/29/98 90.20 06/12/91 4.60-2.02Thomas
126.49 128.30 125.3335 28 25 135.60 136.90 132.00 128.00 126.00 131.00 133.05 03/21/98 124.05 04/09/92 1.28-4.75Thomas (WH)
121.28 122.98 120.1214 30 27 125.00 123.25 121.00 119.00 123.00 124.20 09/28/98 115.95 06/07/94 4.17-1.22Tractor
115.54 118.26 113.0011 30 27 124.10 127.70 123.75 120.00 118.00 123.50 124.70 02/24/98 111.64 05/22/90 1.36-6.44Twin Lakes E
131.77 132.72 130.9325 27 25 133.00 134.70 132.75 130.00 128.00 132.00 134.45 02/18/98 130.93 6/19/00 0.00-1.73Van
116.69 118.30 115.609 29 27 126.10 127.00 125.00 122.00 120.00 124.50 122.70 03/25/98 114.64 02/26/91 0.96-4.40Venus
102.02 103.82 100.801 30 27 114.10 120.30 112.50 110.00 108.00 112.00 110.09 12/31/51 97.09 05/21/90 3.71-6.27Wailes
139.05 141.18 137.7621 30 26 143.00 141.00 137.00 135.00 140.00 144.24 10/26/98 129.43 09/01/77 8.33-3.06Walker
113.32 115.08 111.3011 30 27 124.60 127.80 123.50 121.00 119.00 123.00 122.10 03/25/98 109.56 05/14/91 1.74-7.02Warren
118.20 120.00 116.103 30 27 122.00 123.40 121.75 119.00 117.00 121.25 120.84 09/17/92 116.10 6/30/00 0.00-0.84Weader
134.98 136.40 125.6033 27 25 140.90 141.50 137.50 135.00 133.75 136.75 138.12 04/10/83 134.50 05/08/76 -8.90-1.72Whistler
129.65 130.80 128.7211 29 26 132.60 133.40 132.00 129.50 127.00 131.50 133.10 09/11/60 128.36 05/14/76 0.36-2.30Winterset
193.91 194.78 192.5813 28 23 198.22 1959 192.28 6/9/00 0.30-3.44Wire
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -42-
Figure 27
Figure 28
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -43-
Figure 29
Figure 30
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -44-
Figure 31
Figure 32
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -45-
Figure 33
Figure 34
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -46-
Figure 35
Figure 36
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -47-
Figure 37
Figure 38
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report -48-
Figure 39
Figure 40
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report
APPENDIX C
GLOSSARY
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G1
10 YEAR FLOOD LEVELThat elevation, in feet above mean sea level, which approximates the level of flooding expected on afrequency of not less than a ten (10) year recurring interval, or on a frequency of not greater than a tenpercent (10%) probability of occurrence in any given year, as determined from analysis of best available data.
100 YEAR FLOOD LEVELThat elevation, in feet above mean sea level, which approximates the level of flooding expected on afrequency of not less than one hundred (100) year recurring interval, or on a frequency of not greater thana one percent (1%) probability of occurrence in any given year, as determined from analysis of best availabledata.
AQUATIC MACROPHYTES (VEGETATION)Plants visible to the naked eye (not microscopic) that live on or in water.
AQUIFERAn underground geological formation which contains water and is usually composed of gravel or porous stone.
BACTERIAMicroscopic, primitive one celled organism without cell organelles. Many are beneficial, but a few areharmful. Blue-green algae are bacteria related organisms, see Cyanobacteria.
BATHYMETRIC MAPA map which shows the bottom contour of the lake in feet or meters.
BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMANDB.O.D. - an indirect measurement of the amount of oxygen used in the biochemical oxidation of organicmatter in water. Used to indirectly indicate the level of contamination in water or contamination potential ofa waste.
BIOTAAll the plant and animal life of a particular region or natural system.
CHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMANDC.O.D. - a measure of the oxygen consuming capacity of inorganic and organic matter present in water. Itis expressed as the amount of oxygen consumed from a chemical oxidant in a specific test. COD does notnecessarily correlate with B.O.D.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G2
CHLOROPHYLL aA green pigment found in plants and blue-green algae and are an essential component in the process ofconverting light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll a in a water sample is a useful indicator ofphytoplankton biomass, especially when used in conjunction with analysis concerning algal growth potentialand species abundance.
COLORColoration of water as compared to an artificial color scale. Color can be a factor of natural decompositionor pollution. Industrial discharges may change water color.
CONTAMINANTSImpurities, pollutants, pathogens or debris that makes water unhealthy for living things.
CONTROL STRUCTUREAs used in this report, a manmade structure located at the outfall or downstream of the outfall of the lake thatis used to regulate the water level of the lake.
CPUChloroplatinate Units, color units.
DISCHARGES/WITHDRAWALSPermitted (by FDEP and WMD's) surface water discharges and withdrawals to/from the lake. Certainwithdrawals (i.e. irrigation) may not require a permit due to the low rate of withdrawal.
DISSOLVED OXYGEND.O. - the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water, an essential component in the aquatic environment, lowlevels of dissolved oxygen create fish kills. High levels can cause stress for certain biota.
DIVERSITY INDEXStatistical method which produces a single number summary describing the health of a biotic community.Good diversity includes many species with good, even abundance throughout all species present.
DOMINANT VEGETATIONThe most prominent macrophytic population established in the lake.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G3
DRAINAGE BASIN AREAThe area of land enclosed by a topographic divide within which direct surface runoff from precipitationnormally drains by gravity into a body of water. Drainage areas herein include all closed basins ornoncontributing areas.
DRAINAGE BASINRefers to which hydrologic watershed the lake lies within and should not be confused with the politicallyestablished water basins.
DROUGHTA long period of time without enough rain.
ELEVATIONThe elevation of the lake's water surface, in feet above mean sea level, as shown on the USGS TopographicMaps. Most lakes fluctuate naturally through a range of several feet. Current levels probably differ fromlisted levels.
EROSIONThe action of cutting into or washing away soil.
ENTEROCOCCI BACTERIAA harmless subgroup of streptococci bacteria that live in the gut of warm-blooded animals. This bacteria isa good tracker of human pathogenic viruses and other bacteria.
ENTEROCOCCI BACTERIA TESTA method used to determine the subgroup of streptococci. A very useful indicator of human pathogens.
EUTROPHICA descriptive term for lakes with high nutrient levels. Lake bottom contains organic sediments. Overall bioticproductivity is high, but may lack a healthy species diversity. A dying lake.
EVAPORATIONWhen water changes from a liquid to a vapor (gas).
EXOTIC VEGETATIONPlants which are not native to an area, usually imported or escaped. Usually they out compete all other plantsand become a monotypic culture.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G4
FECAL COLIFORM BACTERIA TESTA method used to determine the presence of fecal coliform in the water column. Fecal coliform is producedby all warm blooded animals and eliminated through the digestive tract.
FLOODToo much rain water at one time so the water is unable to soak into the ground.
FLOODPLAINFlatlands periodically covered by flood waters.
FLORIDAN AQUIFERThe main source of ground water for most of the state of Florida; this aquifer is composed mostly of limestonethat is very permeable.
GROUNDWATERA body of water which exists within the internal passageways of aquifers and which flows in response togravitational forces.
HAZARDOUS WASTESChemical and biological products, such as insecticides, pesticides, bacteria, oils, paints, petroleum, biotoxins,and manufacturing process waters which can harm or kill animals or humans.
HEAVY METALSMetals such as cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, and chromium, which can harm aquatic life in smallconcentrations when they become dissolved in water and bio-accumulated.
HERBICIDESSpecific chemicals used to kill or control plants.
HOLDING PONDA pond or reservoir usually made of earth and built to store stormwater runoff or effluent such as industrialwastewater.
HYDROLOGIC CYCLEWater moves from the air to the ground as rain, snow or hail into lakes, streams and oceans, and back intothe air again.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G5
HYDROLOGIC RECORDThe period of time during which information exists on lake water level (stage).
IMPERMEABLEWater cannot penetrate in measurable quantities, such as water through concrete or clay.
IMPURITIESSoil and other pollutants which make water unsafe to drink.
INFORMATION SOURCESAgencies which have conducted studies or have developed information on the lakes and streams. CWH - City of Winter Haven PCNRD - Polk County Natural Resources Division USGS - United States Geological Survey US EPA - United States Environmental Protection Agency FDEP - Florida Department of Environmental Protection SWFWMD - South West Florida Water Management District SFWMD - South Florida Water Management District SJRWMD - St John's River Water Management District LRLMD - Lake Region Lakes Management District (Canal Commission) FFFWCC - Florida Freshwater Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission CFRPC - Central Florida Regional Planning Council ACOE - United States Army Corps of Engineers IONSIons (chloride, sulfate, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium) are atoms or groups of atoms which havea positive or negative charge. Ions in the proper ratio are necessary for many biological functions within anorganism. They are dissolved from rocks and soils in contact with the lake or inflowing waters. Some ionsmay also be carried in the air and be deposited by rainfall or stormwater runoff. Calcium and magnesium arethe cause of most of the hardness measured in waters.
LAKE TYPEType of lake as follows: Has streams flowing in; Has streams flowing out; Has streams flowing in and out;is Landlocked
LAKE VOLUMEThe volume of water (measured in acre-feet) in the lake determined from the most recent Bathymetric map.Values will vary with changing water levels.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G6
LAND USEPrevalent land use within the drainage basin of the lake. In general, land use is categorized into urban(residential and commercial) forest, agriculture, water, and wetlands.
LITTORAL ZONEThe lakeshore zone where rooted emergent vegetation typically flourishes and sunlight can penetrate to thebottom. It functions as an important breeding and/or nursery area for many aquatic species especially fish.
LOCATIONThe location of the approximate center of the lake is identified by section number, township, and range. Alllakes are located in or adjacent to Polk County, Florida.
mMeters, 1 meter = 3.281 feet.
MAXIMUM DEPTHMaximum lake depth observed during the development of the most recent Bathymetric map.
MEAN DEPTHCalculated value obtained by dividing the lake volume by the lake surface area. Final increments are in feet.
MEANDEREDLakes were meandered in the original land survey of Florida. If a lake was navigable, under Federal law atthe time statehood was granted, title to bed was vested in the State (as 'sovereignty lands'). However, thefact that a lake was not meandered does not determine navigability or state sovereignty. Excerpted fromHydrologic Almanac of Florida, Open File Report 81-1107 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
MESOTROPHICA descriptive term relating to a lake with a moderate nutrient and biological productivity level. The nutrientand sediment deposition increases, algal blooms occur, terrestrial plants begin to flourish and the littoral zonewidens.
MILLIGRAMS PER LITER (mg/L)A unit of concentration indicating the number of milligrams of a solute in one liter of solution. Also can beexpressed as parts per million (ppm).
mg/m3
milligrams per cubic meter
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G7
NATIVE VEGETATIONPlants which historically occur in a given geographic location.
NITROGENOne of the primary nutrients which is necessary for the growth of algae and aquatic plants in lakes. In mostlakes it may limit the growth of algae, and in abundance it can cause accelerated eutrophication of a lake.When the concentrations consistently exceed the natural levels, undesirable changes in the aquatic communitymay occur.
N/P RATIOThe ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus.
NTUNephelometric Turbidity Unit.
NUTRIENT LIMITINGCarbon, Phosphorus and Nitrogen are basic elements for plant growth. In general N or P are in short supplyand can limit the growth of plants in a lake. The ratio of N or P determines which is the key limiting element.This is an important factor because to reduce plant productivity or improve water clarity in lake restoration,activities generally target limiting nutrients.
NLL = Nitrogen limited lakesPLL = Phosphorus limited lakesNBL = Nutrient balanced lakes
NUTRIENTSSubstances that provide the chemical building blocks, as a food source, for living plants and animals. In termsof water bodies, nutrients are phosphorus, nitrogen, and carbon.
OLIGOTROPHICA descriptive term referring to a water body (usually a lake) which is low in nutrient concentrations. TheOligotrophic lakes are generally associated with good water quality. They have low levels of phosphorus,nitrogen, and chlorophyll a and have very little sediment deposition. They are also known to have none orvery narrow zones of shoreline vegetation (littoral zone) and a sparse fish population.
PESTICIDESSpecific chemicals used to eliminate undesirable species.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G8
pHAn expression which denotes the hydrogen ion activity, based on the negative logarithm of hydrogen ion
concentration.The scale is 0 to 14. pH below 7 is acidic; pH 7 is neutral; pH above 7 is basic.
PHOSPHORUS
One of the primary nutrients which is necessary for the growth of algae and aquatic plants in lakes. In manylakes it may limit the growth of algae, and in abundance it can cause accelerated eutrophication of the lake.
When the concentrations consistently exceed the natural levels, undesirable changes in the aquatic communitymay occur.
PHYSIOGRAPHIC UNIT
Physiographic subdivision in which the lake lies as identified by the Physiographic Map of Polk County(PCNRD, 1985).
PRECIPITATION
Water droplets or ice particles condensed from atomospheric water vapor and sufficiently massive to fall tothe earth’s surface.
PRODUCTIVITY
The rate of formation of organic matter (living) by biological process over a defined period of time.
PUBLIC ACCESS
States whether there is access to a lake for the general public.
RECHARGEThe act of water seeping through soils to replenish water in an aquifer.
RECORD HIGH
The highest level (measured in feet above mean sea level) the lake surface has reached during the period ofrecord.
RECORD LOW
The lowest level (measured in feet above mean sea level) the lake surface has reached during the period ofrecord.
RESTORATION for water bodies
Clean up of damaged or polluted water bodies.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G9
SECCHI DEPTHMeasurement of water clarity by recording the depth at which a black and white disc becomes
indistinguishable when viewed from the water’s surface.
SECCHI DISKA black and white disk, 20cm in diameter, used to measure water clarity (lower disk into water until it is no
longer visible and note distance measurement).
SEDIMENTOrganic and inorganic solids which have settled to the bottom of a body of water.
SHORELINE LENGTH
The length of the lake shoreline, measured in miles. Measurements were obtained from the bathymetric map,if available, or recent aerial photographs. Shoreline lengths do not include islands. Shoreline length varies
as lake levels and surface areas fluctuate.
SINKHOLEA land surface feature that usually develops during times of low groundwater levels; occurs when the weight
of sediments above an empty cavern causes the cavern's ceiling to collapse, creating a depression in the landor a hole in the bottom of a lake or other surface water body.
SPECIFIC CONDUCTANCEA measurement of the ability of water to conduct an electrical current.
SPORT FISHERIES
A general statement as to the condition of the sport fisheries of the lake as assessed by the Florida Game andFreshwater Fish Commission.
STORMWATER RUNOFF
The water flowing over the land during and immediately after a heavy rainfall that is usually full of pollutants,sediments, and nutrients.
S-T-R
Section, Township, Range - used for locating areas on the map.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G10
SURFACE AREATaken from the Florida Gazetteer of Lakes, published in 1969 by the Florida Board of Conservation. Areais recorded in acres. Marsh areas adjacent to the lakes were included in the lake area measurements.Surface areas expand and contract as the lake level rises and falls. The current surface area will thereforeprobably differ from the listed value.
SURFACE WATERThe water on the surface of the land in lakes, streams, rivers, oceans, puddles, etc.
SWFWMDSouthwest Florida Water Management District
SWIMSurface Water Improvement and Management
TEMPERATUREAn important factor in controlling chemical interactions and reactivity in the water column; also it affectsbiological activity, since many aquatic organisms have strict temperature requirements.
TOTAL ALKALINITYThe capacity of water to neutralize acids, a property impaired by the water's content of carbonates,bicarbonates, hydroxides, and occasionally borates, silicates, phosphates. It is expressed in milligrams per literof equivalent calcium carbonate.
TOTAL COLIFORM BACTERIAFacultative anaerobic, gram negative, rod-shaped bacteria. The majority live in soils most are beneficial. Apoor indicator of human health or water quality.
TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDST.D.S. - is the mass of nonvolatile dissolved salts in a solution.
TOTAL KJELDAHL NITROGENTKN - test method used to measure the organic nitrogen and ammonia.
TOTAL NITROGENTotal N - combined measurements of nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and organic nitrogen found in water.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G11
TOTAL ORGANIC CARBONT.O.C. - a measurement of the concentration of carbon found associated with organic (living) compoundsand carbon dissolved in the water.
TOTAL SUSPENDED SOLIDST.S.S. - solids that are in suspension in the water column.
TROPHIC STATE INDEX - TSIA single numeric value condensed from several individual water quality constituents to assess lake waterquality - 0 to 59 = good, 60 to 69 = fair, 70 to 100 = poor water quality. This is a relative scale.
TURBIDITYA physical characteristic of water that reduces light penetration. The condition is caused by the presenceof suspended solids.
WASTEWATER EFFLUENTWater which has been treated in a wastewater treatment plant, and returned to a waterbody (pond, lake,stream, or river) or used as part of a reuse program.
WATER POLLUTIONContamination of any water which will create or is likely to create a nuisance or to render such watersharmful, detrimental or injurious to public health, livestock, aquatic life, or other animals, includingcontamination by alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of such waters, change intemperature, taste, color, or odor.
WATER QUALITYA summary of the most recent water quality data with regards to the degree of eutrophication and informationon recent water quality trends, if available.
WATER QUALITY INDEX - WQI (Polk County)The Water Quality Index is a numerical index using the reported water chemistry values in a linear, parameterweighted formula. The index baseline closely approaches Florida Class III water quality standards. TheWQI compares the water quality of the lake or stream to the baseline. Above the baseline, Class IIIstandards are not being met.
WATER RESTRICTIONRules devised to limit water use as a means of conservation during periods of drought.
GLOSSARY
Polk County Natural Resources Division2000 Lake Report G12
WATER TABLEThe upper surface of the zone of saturation in an unconfined aquifer at which the pressure is equal toatmospheric pressure.
WELLA hole drilled into the ground, used to bring water from an aquifer to the surface for use.
WETLANDAn area where fresh or salt water covers or soaks the ground for a period of time. Wetlands generallyinclude swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. There is no universal accepted definition at this time.