# Executive Summary (revised)

This report was prepared by the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program (CHNEP) and local scientists for FL Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), to support the development of numeric nutrient criteria for the estuaries comprising the CHNEP. The primary purpose of the proposed numeric nutrient criteria is to protect healthy, well

-balanced natural populations of flora and fauna from the effects of excess nutrient enrichment.

CHNEP is located in southwest Florida in the eastern Gulf of Mexico and is the second largest estuarine system in Florida, encompassing over 735 km 2

# . Eight interconnected estuaries, bays and lagoons, 3 major river systems and over 20 tidal creeks form a series of unique waterbodies with defining bathymetry, Gulf

-riverine connections, land:water ratios and resource management challenges. These individual estuaries include: Dona/Roberts Bays, Lemon Bay, Charlotte Harbor/Cape Haze, Tidal Myakka River, Tidal Peace River, Pine Island Sound/Matlacha Pass, Tidal Caloosahatchee River, and San Carlos/Estero Bays. Six of these estuaries are Florida Aquatic Preserves. The CHNEP watershed is greater than 12,000 km 2



# Primary emergent and submerged habitats within the CHNEP include: mangroves (>24,000 hectares), submerged aquatic vegetation (>24,000 hectares), saltmarsh (>5,000 hectares), oysters (>100 hectares), and invertebrate rich interand sub

-tidal mudflats and sand bars. These habitats support over 385 fish species, 330 bird species, and listed species including small tooth sawfish, manatee, American crocodile, bald eagle, and wood stork. , supporting over 1.2 million people, concentrated in the fragile coastal corridor which is subject to potential sea level rise effects. The watershed includes a great diversity of land uses, including about 45% open lands (pasture, range, forests), 25% wetlands and freshwater, 15% urban, 10% agriculture and 5% extractive mining. Most of the estuary and island shoreline (>45%) is set aside as conservation land through national, state, local & nonprofit programs.

Seagrass distribution varies temporally and spatially throughout the CHNEP. From 1945 to 1999 seagrass acres decreased about 35%. Anthropogenic affects of decreased water clarity (due to increased nutrient loadings), alteration of freshwater inflows, and dredge and fill activities (i.e. Intracoastal Waterway and Sanibel bridge causeway) contributed to the losses. In the last decade, seagrass distribution has stabilized overall, but responds to seasonal and annual changes in rainfall. CHNEP recently adopted seagrass protection and restoration targets for each estuary, totaling 25,100 hectares for protection and 1,600 hectares for restoration. Water clarity targets have been developed for each CHNEP estuary based on seagrass light requirements and key light attenuating factors (color, chlorophyll a and turbidity).

Chlorophyll, nitrogen, phosphorus and dissolved oxygen conditions vary spatially and temporally throughout the estuarine waters of the CHN EP. Donna/Roberts and Lemon Bays are not impaired for chlorophyll or dissolved oxygen, and appear to have decreasing nitrogen conditions, with some areas of increasing phosphorus. Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Tidal Caloosahatchee River, San Carlos Bay and Estero Bay are also not impaired for chlorophyll (some tidal tributaries are) or dissolved oxygen, but show some increases in nitrogen with some decreases in phosphorus levels. The remaining three estuaries, Tidal Myakka River, Tidal Peace River and Upper Charlotte Harbor, have chlorophyll impairments, with some increases in nitrogen and phosphorus. Bottom water hypoxia has been documented in Charlotte Harbor, but the extent and duration varies, making it difficult to distinguish between natural

and anthropogenic causes. However, these 3 estuaries are not listed for dissolved oxygen impairments. Additional evaluation of chlorophyll, dissolved oxygen and nutrient trends, concentrations and loadings is currently being undertaken by the CHNEP, to be completed in fall 2010. The results will be used to develop nutrient targets that support the water clarity and seagrass targets for each CHNEP estuary.

The regional biological data suggests that the designated aquatic life uses are being fully supported throughout the CHNEP. However, the CHNEP seagrass targets identify some seagrass restoration needs in 7 of the 8 CHNEP estuaries, ranging from about 1% to 50%

, especially in the Tidal Myakka River, Dona/Roberts Bays, Matlacha Pass and Estero Bay.
Restoration schemes will vary by estuary, but will include both improvements in hydrologic as well as water quality conditions to restore natural salinity, color, and dissolved oxygen levels, as well as nutrients.

Contributors: Dr. Lisa Beever (CHNEP), Mr. Tony Janicki (Janicki Environmental), Ms. Judy Ott (CHNEP), Mr. Phil Stevens (FWC) and Mr. Mike Wessel (Janicki Environmental).Response Variable Dona & Roberts Bays Lemon Bay Myakka River Peace River Charlotte Harbor & Cape Haze Pine Island Sound & Matlacha Pass Tidal Caloosahatche River & San Carlos Bay Estero Bay

Observed Historically or Currently? No No Possibly Yes Yes No No No

Explanation Not listed as impaired for DO. Not enough data to establish trends. Not listed as impaired for DO. One of 6 stations has improving trends. Not listed as impaired for DO, however, the decreasing trends in 2 of 10
stations. Recurrent wet season bottom water hypoxia documented in numerous studies. Surface water is not listed as impaired for DO. Several stations in tidal Peace show improving trends. Recurrent wet season bottom water hypoxia documented in numerous studies. Surface water is not listed as impaired for DO. Some improving trends. Not listed as impaired for DO. Improving trends are shown throughout. Not listed as impaired for DO. Improving trends in San Carlos Bay. No trends in Caloosahatchee. Not listed as impaired for DO. Some improving trends.

Source CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. Turner et. al. Paleo-indicators & water quality change in the Charlotte Harbor Estuary, 2006. SWFWMD Charlotte Harbor SWIM Plan, 2000. Camp, Dresser & McKee Study of Seasonal & Spatial Patterns of Hypoxia in Upper Charlotte CHNEP, 1998. Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. Turner et. al. Paleo-indicators & water quality change in the Charlotte Harbor Estuary, 2006. SWFWMD Charlotte Harbor SWIM Plan, 2000. Camp, Dresser & McKee Study of Seasonal & Spatial Patterns of Hypoxia in Upper Charlotte CHNEP, 1998. Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007.

Observed Historically or Currently? Yes Yes, upper Lemon Bay Yes No No. No No. No

Explanation Water clarity trends down, based on sechhi depth. Water clarity trends down in upper Lemon Bay for 2 of 5 stations, based on sechhi depth. No trends for both Lower Lemon Bay stations. Water clarity trends down in 2 of 5 stations, based on sechhi depth. No secchi depth trends for the four stations in the tidal Peace River. Mixed results in the freshwater tributaries. No secchi depth trends for the station in Charlotte Harbor. No secchi depth trends for both stations in Matlacha Pass. Secchi depth improvement in 2 of 3 stations in San Carlos Bay. Secchi depth improvement for the
station in Matazas Pass..

Source CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 3: Water Clarity Target development, 2009 established methods only. Additional analysis pending from Janicki Environmental, Inc.

Observed Historically or Currently? Insufficent data. Insufficient data. Insufficient data. Insufficient data. No Yes Yes Insufficient data.

Explanation Spatial analysis of red tide between 1954-1963 and 1994-2003 suggests Charlotte Harbor one of few places Red Tide has decreased. Trichodesmium and Lyngya blooms in estuaries (Pine Island Sound, San Carlos Bay) Blue-green algae blooms in river – predominately Microcystis in recent years (could shift to other species e.g. Anabaena, Cylindrospermopsis, etc.)

Source Larry Brand, University of Miami. Caloosahatchee River Watershed Existing Water Quality Monitoring Inventory and Hot Issues List for Caloosahatchee River Estuary, 2008 Caloosahatchee River Watershed Existing Water Quality Monitoring Inventory and Hot Issues List for Caloosahatchee River Estuary, 2008 CHNEP Estuary Segment Table 1a. Checklist of nutrient enrrichment symptoms for each estuary within the CHNEP watershed (revised).

Low dissolved oxygen (DO) (hypoxia/anoxia):

Reduced clarity:

Phytoplankton blooms (nusiance or toxic):Response Variable Dona & Roberts Bays Lemon Bay Myakka River Peace River Charlotte Harbor & Cape Haze Pine Island Sound & Matlacha Pass Tidal Caloosahatche River & San Carlos Bay Estero Bay CHNEP Estuary Segment Table 1a. Checklist of nutrient enrrichment symptoms for each estuary within the CHNEP watershed (revised).

Observed Historically or Currently? Insufficient data. No Yes Yes No Yes, Matlacha only Unlikely Yes

Explanation No statistically signficant change. Some improvement measured. Statistically significant (.001 level) increase of ephyphye load on

seagrasses. Statistically significant (.001 level) increase of ephyphye load on

seagrasses. No statistically signficant change in Gasparilla Sound and Upper West Charlotte Harbor but some improvement measured. Statistically significant (.05 level) decrease of ephyphye load on seagrasses Lower East Charlotte Harbor. Statistically significant (.05 level) increase of ephyphye load on seagrasses in Matlacha Pass. No change in Pine Island Sound. No statistically signficant change. Some degredation measured. Measures not taken in Tidal Caloosahatchee. Epiphyte load heaviest of all strata as shown in report. Period of record begins in 2004, so not enough data to establish a trend.

Source No source of data. Dona and Robert’s Bay Second Annual Watershed and Estuary Analysis, 2004 reports epiphytes measured but no analyses are provided. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010. Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve Seagrass Transect monitoring Program 1996-2006, 2007. Analysis of raw data by L. Beever, 2010.

Observed Historically or Currently? Insufficient data. Insufficient data. Insufficient data. Insufficient data. Insufficient data. Yes Insufficient data. Insufficient data.

Explanation Drift Algae (multiple species) – Has been a reported problem on beaches, seagrass beds, offshore reefs, and in shrimp nets offshore.

Source Caloosahatchee River Watershed Existing Water Quality Monitoring Inventory and Hot Issues List for Caloosahatchee River Estuary, 2008

Observed Historically or Currently? Yes Yes Unlikely Yes Yes, East and West Walls only Yes, Matlacha only Likely, Tidal Caloosahatchee only Yes

Explanation 19% loss of seagrasses between 1950 and mean mapped coverage between 1988 and 2006. Late 1960's drainage project more than tripled the watershed area, changing salinity and water clarity to the detriment of

seagrass. 7% loss of seagrasses between 1950 and mean mapped coverage between 1988 and 2006. Most of loss found is in lower Lemon Bay. Only one year (2004) within the six mapping years had a lower extent than the 1950's era map. No restoration target is set because of the 40% gain,however, it is acknowledged that highCDOM waters are difficult to map from aerials. 60% loss of seagrasses between 1950 and mean mapped coverage between 1988 and 2006. It is acknowledged that high-CDOM waters are difficult to map from aerials. 10% loss on East and West Walls. Cape Haze and Bookeelia segments show gains between 1950 and each of the six mapping years between 1988 and
2006. Matlacha had a 10% loss between1950 and mean mapped coverage between 1988 and 2006. However, extent has increased during every mapping year for both Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Pass. No restoration target has been set for San Carlos Bay, which has increased in extent for every mapping year between 1999 and 2006. Localized with seasonal & annual variability; some natural & some anthropogenic causes; related to dredge & fill activities & changes in salinity & water clarity (color, chlorphyll & turbitity).

Source CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SWFWMD Seagrass Aerial Photography. Dona Bay Watershed Management Plan, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SWFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SWFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SWFWMD& SFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999- 2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Target Refinement Interim Report 2: Seagrass Target Development, 2009. SFWMD Sesagrass Aerial Photography. Boswell/SCCF "Seagrass Species Composition & Distribution Trends in Relation to Salinity Fluctuations in Charlotte Harbor, FL", 2006. FDEP "Seagrass Annual Data Summary from the Charlotte Harbor & Estero Bay Aquatic Preserves Seagrass Transect Monitoring Program 1999-2006, 2007. Problematic macroalgal growth:

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) community changes or loss: Problematic epiphyte growth:Response Variable Dona & Roberts Bays Lemon Bay Myakka River Peace River Charlotte Harbor & Cape Haze Pine Island Sound & Matlacha Pass Tidal Caloosahatche River & San Carlos Bay Estero Bay CHNEP Estuary Segment Table 1a. Checklist of nutrient enrrichment symptoms for each estuary within the CHNEP watershed (revised).

Observed Historically or Currently? No No No Possibly No Possibly Possibly No

Explanation Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Excess nutrients can change slat marsh vegetation, increasing cattails over bull rush and juncus. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Excess nutrients can change slat marsh vegetation, increasing cattails over bull rush and juncus. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Excess nutrients can change slat marsh vegetation, increasing cattails over bull rush and juncus. Cattails are in evident associated with the North Spreader Waterway, adjacent to Matlacha Pass Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Excess nutrients can change slat marsh vegetation, increasing cattails over bull rush and juncus. Over the years dredge-and-fill has eliminated about 25% of mangrove and significant areas of salt marsh throughout the study area. Nutrient pollution has not contributed significantly to this loss. Excess nutrients can change slat marsh vegetation, increasing cattails over bull rush and juncus.

Source CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. CHNEP Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, 2008. Emergent or shoreline vegetation community changes or loss:Response Variable Dona & Roberts Bays Lemon Bay Myakka River Peace River Charlotte Harbor & Cape Haze Pine Island Sound & Matlacha Pass Tidal Caloosahatche River & San Carlos Bay Estero Bay CHNEP Estuary Segment Table 1a. Checklist of nutrient enrrichment symptoms for each estuary within the CHNEP watershed (revised).

Observed Historically or Currently? No No No No No No No No

Explanation No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. Boca Grande Pass has limestone shelf exposures with corals. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico. Pather Isalnd Pass has limestone shelf exposures with intermittent corals. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico.San Carlos Pass off Punta Rass and Point Ybel has limestone shelf exposures with intermittent corals, on side seaward of the causeway. No extensive hardbottom communit exists within the CHNEP estuaries. Vermitiid worm shell reefs found off barrier islands in Gulf of Mexico.

Source CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007

Observed Historically or Currently? Yes Yes No Yes Likely Yes, in Matlacha Pass Yes, in Caloosahatchee No

Explanation High diversity and Low abundance of benthic macro-invertebrates. High diversity and low abundance of benthic macro-invertebrates. Good diversity and high abundance of benthic macro-invertebrates. Low diveristy and high abudannce of benthic macro-invertebrates. High diversity in seagrass and lowabudannce of benthic macroinvertebrates. Good abundance in both Sound and Pass; high diversity in Sound and low in Pass of benthic macro-invertebrates.. Abundance of bethic macroinvertebrates highest found in literature, around San Carlos Bay. Abundance very low in Caloosahatchee. High diversity and good anundance of benthic macro-invertebrates.

Source CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007 CHNEP/Photo Science Historic Benthic Habitat Maps, 2006. CHNEP/Mote Marine Laboratory Technical Report No. 1169: Benthic Invertebrate species Richness & Diversity at Different Habitats in the Greater Charlotte Harbor System, 2007

Observed Historically or Currently? Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized. Yes - localized.

Explanation Localized and no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 4 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (all from red tide), as well as others from cold weather & unknown

causes. Localized and no statistically significant increase. From 1972 - 2010 16 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (12 red tide & 4 DO), as well as others from cold weather & unknown causes. In 2008, a fish with tumors was found in Stump Pass. Of the fish disease categories, all were related to red tide. Localized & no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 3 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (all red tide), as well as others from cold weather & unknown causes. Localized and no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010, 3 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (2 red tide & 1 DO), as well as others from Hurricane Charlie, cold weather & unknown causes. Localized & no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 17 red tide/low DO related fish kill events were reported (8 red tide & 9 DO), as well as others from Hurricane Charlie, cold weather & unknonwn causes. Fish with parasites found on the west wall
in 2009 Localized & not statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 12 red tide/low Do fish kill events were reported (10 red tide & 2 DO), as well as others from Hurricane Charlie, cold weather & unknown causes. In 2002 and 2003 fish with lesions were reported. Localized & no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 6 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (1 red tide & 5 DO), as well as others from cold weather & unknown causes. Caloosahatchee River shows history of fish kills related to disease and lesions. Localized & no statistically significant increase. From 1972-2010 11 red tide/low DO fish kill events were reported (9 red tide & 2 low DO), as well as others from cold weather & unknow sources. Also, 2008 fish kill related to lesions.

Source FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Personal Observation. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Personal Observation. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Personal Observation. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Personal Observation. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Personal Observation. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. FWC Fish Kill Hotline Data. Fish kills: Coral/hardbottom community changes or loss:

Impacts to benthic community:Nutrient Factors Dona & Roberts Bays Lemon Bay Myakka River Peace River Charlotte Harbor & Cape Haze Pine Island Sound & Matlacha Pass Tidal Caloosahatche River & San Carlos Bay Estero Bay

Observed? No No No No No No No No Explanation Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of
2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010. Comparisons between 1990 and 2005 analysis show decreases. CHNEP Management Conference will evaluate comparisons by end of 2010.

Source Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010. Synthesis of Existing Information 1999. CHNEP/Janicki Pollutant Loading Technical Report, 2010.

Observed? Unlikely Possibly Yes Yes Yes Possibly Possibly Yes Explanation Not impaired for Chlorophyll a. Decreasing trends for total nitrogen and increasing total phosphorous trends. Not impaired for Chlorophyll a. Upper Lemon Bay shows increasing trends for ammonia. Decreasing nitrate+nitrite and total nitorgen trends. Mixed trends for total phophorous. Impaired for Chlorophyll a. Increasing chlorophyll a, ammonia, and total nitrogen trends. Decreasing total phosphorous trends Impaired for Chlorophyll a. No trends for chlorophyll a, ammonia, total nitrogen, . Decreasing trends for nitrate+nitrite, Increasing trend for orthophosphate and total phosphorous. Upper Charlotte Harbor impaired for Chlorophyll a. No Chlorophyll a trends. Increasing trend of orthophosphate and total nitrogen off of Bokeelia. Not impaired for Chlorophyll a. Improving trends for chlorophyll a and orthophosphate in Pine Isalnd Sound. Increasing trend of orthophosphate in Matlacha pass. Increasing trend of total nirtogen Not impaired for Chlorophyll a. San Carlos Bay has no Chlorophyll a and orthophosphate trends Increaing trend for nitrate+ nitrite, total nitrogen Estero Bay not listed as impaired for Chlorophyll a. Some tidal tributaries are listed as impaired. No Chlorophyll a and orthophosphate trends. Several stations have increasing trend for ammonia, total nitrogen. Some stations show decreasing trend for total phosphorous.

Source CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007. CHNEP Maps of FDEP 303(d) listing of impairments, 2010. CHNEP/Janicki Water Quality Data Analysis & Report for CHNEP, 2007.

Observed? Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Unsknown at this time. Explanation
Source

Observed? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Explanation Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll. Color Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) is a confounding factor in determining relationships between nutrients and chlorophyll levels. CDOM dampens expression of chlorophyll.

Source Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes and lakes
with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes

and lakes with color. Tomasko, 2008. Analysis of clear lakes
and lakes with color.

Observed? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Explanation Localized. Construction of ICW & "hardening" of shorelines. Localized. Construction of ICW & bridge causeways & "hardening" of shoreline. Localized. Construction residential canals & "hardening" of shoreline. Localized. Construction residential canals & "hardening" of shoreline. Localized. Construction of residential canals, water control structures on Coral Creek & "hardening" of
shorelines. Construction of ICW, Sanibel Causeway, residential canals, water control
structures on Caloosahatchee R & "hardening" of shorelines. Connection to Lake Okeechobee and Kissimmee basin coupled with
construction of S-79 barrier which alternatively expand and contract the watershed, dramatically affecting hydrology. Construction of ICW, Sanibel Causeway, residential canals & "hardening" of shorelines. Construction water control structures on Caloosahatchee R & "hardening" of
shorelines.

Source

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Observed? Unknown at this time. Unknown at this time. Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown at this time. Explanation Hurricane Charlie 2004. Hurricane Charlie 2004. Hurricane Charlie 2004. Hurricane Charlie 2004. Hurricane Charlie 2004.
Source

--- --- --- --- --- Natural high-nutrient episodes (e.g., seasonal or event driven): Table 1b. Checklist of additional factors for each estuary within the CHNEP watershed. CHNEP Estuary Segment

Increased nutrient loading:

Difference between nearshore & offshore levels:

Mitigating factors that could prevent nutrient expression:

Other significant stressors to biological communitors: Increased nutrient concentrations: