The Post Volume 7, Issue 23

Lower Lake Levels Provide Environmental Benefits

Lake Okeechobee is at 8.99 feet, approximately four feet lower than the usual average at this time of year. Despite the record low levels and the severe drought conditions, water managers are witnessing environmental benefits that are affecting the lake and its fauna.

“During this time of water shortage and conservation we have the opportunity to carry out some restoration activities that will improve the Lake’s condition when the water returns,” said Jerry Brooks, Assistant Director of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Water Resource Management. “It is important to recognize the environmental benefits a dry season provides.”

Stilt Sandpiper

Low lake levels can be beneficial to many aquatic plant species. Prior to the drought submerged plants, which provide oxygen and habitat for fish in Lake Okeechobee, were at low numbers. The associated heavy rainfall from recent hurricanes churned up sediment and increased the amount of stormwater entering the lake resulting in poor water quality, murky water, high water levels and limited sunlight -- all endangering the ecological health of the lake. This life-giving vegetation now has a chance to re-grow in the low water levels. Water managers are also removing some of the phosphorus-laden muck and invasive exotic species such as torpedo grass from the lake bed.

Long-billed Dowitcher

In addition, a recent survey of shorebirds around the Lake Okeechobee area was conducted to see how many, if any, were nesting in the newly exposed shores. The low water levels make it easy for the wading birds to forage for food and create abundant shorebird habitats. The Audubon survey team counted more than 10,000 birds in a single day. Most of the birds were peeps, also known as shorebirds, including more than 400 Stilt Sandpipers and more than 600 Long-billed Dowitchers.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper

Additionally, the survey team spotted a few rarities by the lake -- a Red Knot and five Buff-breasted Sandpipers – both rarely seen this far inland. Other birds observed enjoying the copious amount of shoreline were Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Gull-billed Terns and more than 1,000 Black Skimmers.

Rookery Bay to Protect Threatened Bird Species

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR), in cooperation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), is closing a small portion of the beach on the south end of Key Island during the nesting season for the Least Tern, a migratory bird species. ...more

DEP Celebrates National Trails Day

The Department’s Office of Greenways & Trails (OGT) joined in America’s largest celebration of trails and the outdoors last Saturday by participating in the 15th annual National Trails Day® with a work party and appreciation lunch at the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. ...more

Lower Lake Levels Provide Environmental Benefits

Legendary Marine Earns Clean Marina Designations

DEP Submits Revised Gas Station Report to Governor Crist and the Florida Legislature

DEP Agents Initiate Joint Investigation

DEP Employees Win Productivity Awards

Rookery Bay to Protect Threatened Bird Species

The Hilton in the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort Receives Green Lodging Certification

DEP Awards Loan to Citrus County for Drinking Water Upgrades

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month in Florida State Parks

DEP Dedicates Fishing Platforms on Historic Bridge

DEP Celebrates National Trails Day