Watershed chemistry staff analyze surface water and wastewater for water quality parameters including nutrients, chlorophyll, color, turbidity, bacteria, and biochemical oxygen demand. Data generated by the laboratory supports permit assessment, grant projects and basin rotation monitoring throughout the Northwest District.

Results from chemical sampling and analysis are stored within the  Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) database know as STORET.  This database functions as a STOrage and RETrieval system and is utilized nationwide for water quality data. The Clean Water Act requires each state, including Florida, to conduct water quality surveys to determine whether or not its waterways are healthy enough and of sufficient quality to meet their designated uses. USEPA uses this information to prepare a biennial report to Congress called the National Water Quality Inventory. This is the principle means by which the USEPA, Congress, and the public can evaluate existing water quality and track environmental progress. The section of the Clean Water Act requiring this process is 305(b), and the state reports are often referred to as 305(b) reports. 

Florida Storet (FDEP Storet Retrieval Internet Site)

Watershed Management Section

Return to Northwest District

For more information, contact: barbara.ruth@dep.state.fl.us