CCA News: FLORIDA BAY RELIEF (finally!)

[conocean]

As reported by CCA Florida in August 2016, the South Florida Water Management District (the District) proposed a plan designed to bring much needed fresh water to Florida Bay. The District applied for permits to make some rather minor changes to existing infrastructure in Miami-Dade County which, when completed, will provide additional clean fresh water to the headwaters of Taylor Slough, a primary source of fresh water to Florida Bay in Everglades National Park.

         

 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved permits in December 2016 which could double flows of fresh water to Taylor Slough and ultimately increase water flows to Florida Bay. On January 12, 2017, the District Governing Board approved several significant construction contracts as part of this plan, specifically including:

•         Rebuilding a section of the L-31 West Levee and Weir,
•         Installing 10 plugs in the L-31 West Canal, and
•         Sealing the discharge basin at the S-332D Pump Station to reduce seepage.

 

          Once completed, these important projects will move billions of gallons of fresh, clean water each year from the C-111 canal to the L-31 West Canal and into the headwaters of Taylor Slough.  Phosphorus content of the water to be delivered into the slough is below federal standards.  This will provide much needed relief to Florida Bay where high salinity levels have led to seagrass die-offs and other habitat degradation.

 

          CCA Florida continues to support these District plans and is hopeful these projects can commence immediately.  CCA encourages any individuals and groups who support the health of Everglades National Park and Florida Bay to back these important projects.  Vital seagrass, marine habitat, and several species of fish in Florida Bay will be immediate beneficiaries.