TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters



## Appendix A-8: FDEP’s Be nchmark Lake SummariesTSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-1 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Cassidy

STORET Station 32030104

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.00 and a watershed LDI score of 2.06, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Cassidy (Station 3202 0104) showing watershed vi cinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-2 Photographs of Lake Cassidy

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 134

100m Buffer LDI 1.00

Watershed LDI 2.06

LVI Score 88.6 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.004 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.231 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.661 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 10.3

The habitat assessment scored in the high end of the “O ptimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in Category I, indicating an unusually di verse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Cassidy. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-3 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Pate Lake

STORET Station 32020094

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.86 and a watershed LDI score of 2.02, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright. DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Pate Lake (Station 32020094) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-4 Photographs of Pate Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 119

100m Buffer LDI 1.86

Watershed LDI 2.02

LVI Score 87.0 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.008 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.252 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.871 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 19.3

The habitat assessment scored in the high end of the “O ptimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in Category I, indicating an unusually di verse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Pate Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-5 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Iammonia East

STORET Station 22020055

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.59 and a watershed LDI score of 2.29, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of silviculture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Iammonia East (Stati on 22020055) showing watershed vicinity and land

use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-6 Photographs of Lake Iammonia East

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value

Habitat Assessment 111

100m Buffer LDI 1.59

Watershed LDI 2.29

LVI Score 64.8 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.019 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.843 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.437 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 48.3

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Iammonia East. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of an thropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-7 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Miccousukee

STORET Station 22030054

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.36 and a watershed LDI score of 2.06, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith areas of silviculture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Miccousukee (Station 22 020054) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-8 Photographs of Lake Miccousukee

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 123

100m Buffer LDI 1.36

Watershed LDI 2.06

LVI Score 80.1 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.018 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.751 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.169 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 66.4

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Miccousukee. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of an thropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-9 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Turkey Pen Pond

STORET Station 26753

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.54 and a watershed LDI score of 1.98, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, with areas of silviculture and pasture land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Turkey Pen Pond (Station 26 753) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-10 Photographs of Turkey Pen Pond

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 131

100m Buffer LDI 1.54

Watershed LDI 1.98

LVI Score 75.2 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.003 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.178 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.505 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 17.3

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Turkey Pen Pond. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anth ropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-11 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Dunford

STORET Station 32010045

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.69 and a watershed LDI score of 2.00, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, with areas of residential and pasture land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Dunf ord (Station 32010045) showing wate rshed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-12 Photographs of Lake Dunford

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 120

100m Buffer LDI 1.69

Watershed LDI 2.00

LVI Score 86.2 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.003 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.479 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.982 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 25.7

The habitat assessment scored in upper end of the “Op timal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in the Category I, indicating an unusually di verse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Dunford. Based on our analy ses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-13 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Rattlesnake Lake

STORET Station 32030099

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.53 and a watershed LDI score of 1.68, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural with an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Rattlesnake Lake (Station 3203 0099) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-14 Photographs of Rattlesnake Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 124

100m Buffer LDI 1.53

Watershed LDI 1.68

LVI Score* 76.1 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.004 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.162 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.698 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 7.1

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Rattlesnake Lake . Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anth ropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-15 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Merial Lake

STORET Station 14441

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.48 and a watershed LDI score of 1.83, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural with some residential uses and an extensive forested riparian
buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Merial Lake (Station 14 441) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-16 Photographs of Merial Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 119

100m Buffer LDI 1.48

Watershed LDI 1.83

LVI Score* 80.1 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.004 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.102 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.773 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 4.7

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Merial Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-17 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Otter Lake

STORET Station 22020090

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.36 and a watershed LDI score of 1.37, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural with an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Otter La ke (Station 22020090) showing wate rshed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-18 Photographs of Otter Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 121

100m Buffer LDI 1.36

Watershed LDI 1.37

LVI Score* 71.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.020 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.718 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.070 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 186.9

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Otter Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-19 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Gore Lake

STORET Station 20030339

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.76 and a watershed LDI score of 2.18, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Gore Lake (Station 200303 39) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-20 Photographs of Gore Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 114

100m Buffer LDI 1.76

Watershed LDI 2.18

LVI Score* 64.0 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.010 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.522 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.832 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 163.7

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the high end of the “O ptimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sens itive aquatic vegetation, fu lly supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Gore Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-21 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Ashby

STORET Station 20010492

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.56 and a watershed LDI score of 2.04, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Ashby (Station 20010 492) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-22 Photograph of Lake Ashby

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 112

100m Buffer LDI 1.56

Watershed LDI 2.04

LVI Score* 43.6 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.076 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.819 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.389 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 121.3

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the high end of the “O ptimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in Category III, indicating a lack of sensitive aquatic ve getation, which does not fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Ashby. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors; however, it does not currently maintain a healthy biological assemblage of aquatic macrophytes. T hus, while the nutrient concentrations are reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, there are other stressors th at preventing the site from fully supporting its most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, we ll-balanced population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-23 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Harney

STORET Station 20010026/ 20010376/ 20010378

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.72 and a watershed LDI score of 1.93, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Harney (Station 20010026/ 20010376/ 20010378) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-24 Photographs of Lake Harney

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value

Habitat Assessment 122

100m Buffer LDI 1.72

Watershed LDI 1.93

LVI Score* 51.8 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.074 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.366 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 3.101 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 139.5

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Harney. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-25 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Fox Lake

STORET Station 20010865

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.93 and a watershed LDI score of 1.58, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Fox Lake (Station 20010 865) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-26 Photographs of Fox Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 118

100m Buffer LDI 1.93

Watershed LDI 1.58

LVI Score 48.0 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.042 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.640 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 6.120 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 93.8

The habitat assessment scored in the high end of the “O ptimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Index scored in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sens itive aquatic vegetation, fu lly supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Fox Lake. Based on our analyses, th e Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-27 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Blue Cypress Lake

STORET Station 20010099

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.23 and a watershed LDI score of 1.04, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Blue Cypress Lake (Station 20010099) showing wa tershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-28 Photographs of Blue Cypress Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 120

100m Buffer LDI 1.23

Watershed LDI 1.04

LVI Score* 59.5 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.113 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.397 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.826 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 211.1

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Blue Cypress Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of an thropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-29 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Annie

STORET Station 26011159

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.77 and a watershed LDI score of 2.89, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Annie (Station 26011 159) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-30 Photographs of Lake Annie

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value

Habitat Assessment 136

100m Buffer LDI 1.77

Watershed LDI 2.89

LVI Score* 85.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.009 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.461 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 3.603 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 61.3

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Annie. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-31 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Russell

STORET Station 26010239

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.11 and a watershed LDI score of 2.02, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Russe ll (Station 26010239) showing wate rshed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-32 Photographs of Lake Russell

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value

Habitat Assessment 120

100m Buffer LDI 1.11

Watershed LDI 2.02

LVI Score* 71.5 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.107 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.775 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.966 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 444.2

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Russell. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-33 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Low Lake

STORET Station 21020065

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.53 and a watershed LDI score of 2.24, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Low Lake (Station 21020 065) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-34 Photographs of Low Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 113

100m Buffer LDI 1.53

Watershed LDI 2.24

LVI Score 66.4 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.095 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.966 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 16.730 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 180.0

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Low Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-35 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Swift Creek Pond

STORET Station 21030066

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.02 and a watershed LDI score of 1.47, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Swift Creek Pond (Station 21 030066) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-36 Photographs of Swift Creek Pond

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 116

100m Buffer LDI 1.02

Watershed LDI 1.47

LVI Score* 78.8 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.055 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.452 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 5.641 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 296.3

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Swift Creek Pond. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anth ropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-37 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Palestine

STORET Station 19010044

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.03 and a watershed LDI score of 1.44, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Palestine (Station 1901 0044) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-38 Photographs of Lake Palestine

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 126

100m Buffer LDI 1.03

Watershed LDI 1.44

LVI Score* 92.5 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.019 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.714 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.680 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 44.9

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Palestine. Based on our analy ses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-39 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Ocean Pond

STORET Station 21010011

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.54 and a watershed LDI score of 1.19, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Ocean Pond (Station 210100 11) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-40 Photographs of Ocean Pond

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 119

100m Buffer LDI 1.54

Watershed LDI 1.19

LVI Score* 88.7 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.037 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.452 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.419 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 25.2

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Ocean Pond. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-41 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Orange Lake

STORET Station ALA306NL

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.70 and a watershed LDI score of 1.99, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Orange Lake (Station ALA 306NL) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-42 Photographs of Orange Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 113

100m Buffer LDI 1.70

Watershed LDI 1.99

LVI Score 39.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.130 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.913 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 20.997 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 122.7

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. The Lake Vegetation Inde x scored in Category III, indicating a lack of sensitive aquatic vegetation, wh ich does not fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Orange Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors; however, it does not currently maintain a healthy biological assemblage of aquatic macrophytes. T hus, while the nutrient concentrations are reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, there are other stressors th at preventing the site from fully supporting its most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, we ll-balanced population of fish and wildlife)TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-43 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Disston

STORET Station 20030402

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.44 and a watershed LDI score of 1.69, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Disston (Station 200304 02) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-44 Photographs of Lake Disston

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 117

100m Buffer LDI 1.44

Watershed LDI 1.69

LVI Score 72.6 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.034 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.138 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.432 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 464.0

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Disston. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-45 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Eton

STORET Station 20020393

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.42 and a watershed LDI score of 1.18, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Eton (Station 2002039 3) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-46 Photographs of Lake Eton

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 119

100m Buffer LDI 1.42

Watershed LDI 1.18

LVI Score 48.0 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.069 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.506 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.036 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 501.0

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Eton. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrati ons reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are

associated with biota which demonstrate fu ll support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-47 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Charles

STORET Station 20020430

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.00 and a watershed LDI score of 1.69, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Charles (Station 20020430) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-48 Photographs of Lake Charles

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value

Habitat Assessment 116

100m Buffer LDI 1.00

Watershed LDI 1.69

LVI Score 76.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.093 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.840 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.786 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 457.9

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Charles. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-49 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Redwater Lake

STORET Station 20020460

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.01 and a watershed LDI score of 1.69, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, w ith small areas of pasture and residential land use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Redwater Lake (Station 20020460) showing wa tershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-50 Photographs of Redwater Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 116

100m Buffer LDI 1.01

Watershed LDI 1.69

LVI Score 72.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.122 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.728 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 0.758 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 414.9

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Redwater Lake . Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anth ropogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-51 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Wildcat Lake

STORET Station 20020504

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.31 and a watershed LDI score of 1.13, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, la nd use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian
buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Wildcat Lake (Station 2002 0504) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-52 Photographs of Wildcat Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 123

100m Buffer LDI 1.31

Watershed LDI 1.13

LVI Score* 91.2 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.023 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.390 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.548 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 78.2

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Wildcat Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-53 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Sellers Lake

STORET Station 20020496

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.44 and a watershed LDI score of 1.23, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, la nd use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian
buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Sellers Lake (Station 20020496) showing wa tershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-54 Photographs of Sellers Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 123

100m Buffer LDI 1.44

Watershed LDI 1.23

LVI Score* 80.1 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.007 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.199 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.230 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 10.9

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category I, indicating an unusually diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegetation, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Sellers Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-55 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Buck Lake

STORET Station 20010080

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.37 and a watershed LDI score of 1.23, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, la nd use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian
buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Buck Lake (Station 200100 80) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-56 Photographs of Buck Lake

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 127

100m Buffer LDI 1.37

Watershed LDI 1.23

LVI Score 72.3 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.010 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.457 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 2.285 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 30.3

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Buck Lake. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-57 Nutrient Benchmark Site Summary 

## Lake Norris

STORET Station 20010355

Land Use

This station was considered to be a candidate refe rence site based on a 100m buffer Landscape Development Intensity Index (LDI) score of 1.49 and a watershed LDI score of 2.53, suggesting benign human influences in the watershed. During the site visit, aerial photographs were examined and direct observations confirmed that the majority of the watershed land use was forest/natural, la nd use observed beyond an extensive forested riparian
buffer zone.

Image Removed Due to Copyright.

DOQQ 2004 aerial photograph of Lake Norris (Station 20010355) showing watershed vicinity and land use.TSD for U.S. EPA’s Proposed Numeric Nutrient Criteria for FL Inland Surface Fresh Waters

A8-58 Photographs of Lake Norris

Habitat, Biological and Water Quality Data

Parameter Value
Habitat Assessment 113

100m Buffer LDI 1.49

Watershed LDI 2.53

LVI Score 68.0 Total Phosphorus Geometric Mean (mg/L) 0.053 Total Nitrogen Geometric Mean (mg/L) 1.557 Chlorophyll-a Geometric Mean ( ų g/L) 1.313 Geometric Mean Color (PCU) 329.3

*LVI Score is the average of the two most recent assessments.

The habitat assessment scored in the “Optimal” range. Th e Lake Vegetation Index score d in Category II, indicating a diverse assemblage of sensitive aquatic vegeta tion, fully supporting the Class III designation.

Overall Reference Site Conclusion:

Experienced FDEP scientists conducted a series of obser vations and measurements (habitat assessment, hydrology, local land use, and aquatic vegetation) at Lake Norris. Based on our analyses, the Department concluded that the site was influenced only by very low levels of anthro pogenic stressors and that it clearly maintained healthy biological assemblages. Thus, not only are the nutrient concentrations reflective of minimally disturbed conditions, they are associated with biota which demonstrat e full support of the most sensitive designated 

### use (propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanc ed population of fish and wildlife).