This weekend SFOO reported problems with the spillway barrier at S-77 and releases had to be reduced for a short time this weekend. Current inflows to Lake Okeechobee are about 20,000 cfs. Total S-10 discharge is approximately 2500 cfs. Water Conservation Area 2 - Water levels are still above the normal regulation schedule but below the temporary regulation deviation. 2A due to the S-10 releases.
Water levels are still above regulation schedule.
ENP is home to the endangered Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow, which is sensitive to water levels during its nesting period, March through June. Rainfall during the dry season can set up unfavorable nesting conditions, and further threaten this sensitive species. Therefore, it was agreed that it is necessary to deviate from Test Iteration 7 of the Experimental Program of Water Deliveries to Everglades National Park in order to protect the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow. See discussion below on actions to protect the sparrow. 1000 cfs, which was being discharged when the emergency was declared.