The executive directors and technical staff from the Suwannee River and Northwest Florida water management districts recently conducted a site inspection of the Wacissa River to investigate ways to collaborate on developing  minimum flows and levels (MFLs).

 

The crew set out at the head spring and paddled to Goose Pasture, a 10-12 mile stretch of the river. Technical staff from both districts discussed methodology for MFLs as well as possible cross-boundary effects for establishing the MFL for the Wacissa River.

 

“Even though the Wacissa River is within the Suwannee District, we believe the groundwater flow from the springs along the river is possibly sourced in both districts,” said SRWMD Executive Director Ann Shortelle. “Therefore we are collaborating with the Northwest District as we plan to develop the MFL for that water body.”

 

The SRWMD is scheduled to begin the data collection phase to establish the MFL for the Wacissa River in 2014, and the MFL is scheduled for adoption in 2015.

 

MFLs determine the amount of water that can be removed from the natural system without causing significant harm to the resources and the ecology. They are used in water supply planning, water use permitting, and other decisions.

 

“Combining the knowledge and expertise of the talented scientists and engineers from both districts will allow us to ensure a sustainable supply of water for the citizens and resources of both our Districts,” said NWFWMD Executive Director Jon Steverson. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Suwannee District as they develop this MFL and look forward to more collaboration in the future.”

 

“Our District will continue its commitment to establish MFLs for the protection of our springs, rivers, and groundwater resources,” said Shortelle.