Current through Reg. 50, No. 187; September 24, 2024
(1) Minimum Flows for
the Lower Hillsborough River.
(a) For the
purposes of Minimum Flows, the Lower Hillsborough River is defined as the River
downstream of Fletcher Avenue. A tributary of the Lower Hillsborough River is
Sulphur Springs, an artesian spring which enters the River via a short spring
run at a point 2.2 miles downstream of the City's dam.
(b) The Minimum Flows for the Lower
Hillsborough River are based on extending a salinity range less than 5 ppt from
the Hillsborough River Dam toward Sulphur Springs. The Minimum Flows for the
Lower Hillsborough River are 20 cubic feet per second ("cfs") freshwater
equivalent from July 1 through March 31 and 24 cfs fresh water equivalent from
April 1 through June 30 at the base of the dam as adjusted based on a
proportionate amount that flow at the United States Geological Survey Gauge No.
0203000 near Zephyrhills, Florida ("Gauge") is below 58 cfs. The adjustment is
that for each one cfs that Hillsborough River flow at the Gauge is below 58
cfs, when 20 cfs freshwater equivalent is otherwise required, the Minimum Flow
is adjusted by reducing it by 0.35 cfs; when 24 cfs freshwater equivalent is
otherwise required, the Minimum Flow is adjusted by reducing it by 0.40 cfs.
For purposes of this paragraph
40D-8.041(1)(b),
F.A.C., freshwater equivalent means water that has a salinity concentration of
0.0 ppt for modeling purposes.
(2) Minimum Flows for the upper Hillsborough
River.
(a) The Minimum Flows are to ensure
that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of
the natural systems associated with the river are met.
(b) Minimum Flows for the upper Hillsborough
River at the USGS Hillsborough River near Morris Bridge Gage USGS #02303330
("Morris Bridge Gage") are set forth in Table 8-12 below. The long-term
compliance standards set forth in Table 8-13 are established based on the
application of the Minimum Flows to the lowest anticipated natural flow
conditions. Minimum Flows for the upper Hillsborough River are both seasonal
and flow dependent. Two standards are flow based and applied continuously
regardless of season. The first is a Minimum Low Flow threshold of 52 cfs at
the Morris Bridge Gage. The second is a Minimum High Flow threshold of 470 cfs
at the Morris Bridge Gage. The Minimum High Flow is based on changes in the
number of days of inundation of floodplain features. There are also three
seasonally dependent or Block specific Minimum Flows. The Block 1 and Block 2
Minimum Flows are based on potential changes in habitat availability for fish
species and macroinvertebrate diversity. The Block 3 Minimum Flow is based on
changes in the number of days of connection with floodplain features.
|
Table 8-12 Minimum Flow for
Upper Hillsborough River at USGS Hillsborough River near Morris Bridge
Gage
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=52 cfs
>52cfs and <470 cfs
>=470 cfs
|
52 cfs
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 1
|
April 20 to June 24
|
<=52
>52cfs and <470 cfs
>=470 cfs
|
52 cfs
previous day flow minus 10%
Previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 28 to April 19
|
<=52
>52cfs and <470 cfs
>=470 cfs
|
52 cfs
previous day flow minus 11%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 3
|
June 25 to October 27
|
<=52 cfs
>52 cfs and <470cfs
>=470 cfs
|
52 cfs
previous day flow minus 13%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
(c)
Compliance - The Minimum Flows are met when the flows in Table 8-13 are
achieved.
|
Table 8-13 Compliance Standards
for the Hillsborough River near Morris Bridge Gage
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
190
96
149
74
|
|
Block 1
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
74
62
57
52
|
|
Block 2
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
153
89
105
72
|
|
Block 3
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
287
150
235
107
|
(3) Minimum Flow for Sulphur Springs - The
Minimum Flow for Sulphur Springs is based on minimization of salinity
incursions into the Upper Sulphur Springs Run ("Upper Run") from the Lower
Hillsborough River ("LHR") and to moderate temperature levels within the
manatee protection zone of the LHR.
(a) As of
October 1, 2012, the City of Tampa shall maintain a Minimum Flow for Sulphur
Springs of:
1. 18 cfs, as measured at the
United States Geological Survey Sulphur Springs Gauge No. 02306000 at Sulphur
Springs, Florida, or;
2. 13 cfs
when water levels in the Hillsborough River reservoir fall below 19 feet NGVD;
and
3. 10 cfs during low tide
stages in the LHR, provided that salinity incursions from the LHR into the
upper spring run do not occur. Salinity incursions shall be defined as when
salinity values in the upper spring run as measured at the United States
Geological Survey Gauge Sulphur Springs Run at Sulphur Springs, Florida
(#023060003) are greater than 1 ppt than the concurrent salinity value in the
spring pool as measured at the United States Geological Survey Gauge Sulphur
Springs Run at Sulphur Springs, Florida (#023060000) for a period of greater
than 1 hour.
(b)
Notwithstanding paragraph
40D-8.041(2)(a),
F.A.C., above, and beginning the effective date of this rule, when spring flow
is available, a Minimum Flow of 18 cfs shall be required if the temperature of
either surface or bottom waters in the LHR near the Spring Run's outlet is
below 15° C.
(c) The City of
Tampa may propose to the District modifications to the weirs and gates located
within the upper and lower spring run that affect the flow rates and salinity
levels in the Upper Run and the LHR. The District shall evaluate the
modifications to determine whether the flow resulting from the operating
capabilities of the modifications and modeling simulations of the resulting
salinity incursions into the Upper Spring Run achieve the salinity goal of the
Minimum Flow for Sulphur Springs. If the District determines that flows
different from the Minimum Flows ("Different Flows") will achieve the salinity
goal and otherwise protect the resources of the Upper Spring Run, the District,
upon request by the City, will recommend to the Governing Board revision of the
Minimum Flow to reflect the Different Flow.
(4) The Minimum Flow for the Tampa Bypass
Canal at structure 160 shall be 0 cfs.
(5) Minimum Flows for Middle Peace River.
(a) The Minimum Flows are to ensure that the
minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of the
natural systems associated with the river are met.
(b) Minimum Flows for the Middle Peace River
at the USGS Peace River Arcadia Gage ("Arcadia Gage") are set forth in Table
8-6 below. The long-term compliance standards set forth in Table 8-7 are
established based on the application of the Minimum Flows to the lowest
anticipated natural flow conditions. Minimum Flows for the Middle Peace River
are both seasonal and flow-dependent. Two standards are flow-based and applied
continuously regardless of season. The first is a Minimum Low Flow threshold of
67 cfs at the Arcadia Gage. The second is a Minimum High Flow threshold of
1,362 cfs at the Arcadia Gage. The Minimum High Flow is based on changes in the
number of days of inundation of floodplain features. There are also three
seasonally dependent or Block-specific Minimum Flows. The Block 1 and Block 2
Minimum Flows are based on potential changes in habitat availability for fish
species and macroinvertebrate diversity. The Block 3 Minimum Flow is based on
changes in the number of days of connection with floodplain features.
|
Table 8-6 Minimum Flow for Middle Peace River
at USGS Peace River at Arcadia Gage
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is:
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=67
<=67 cfs and []1,362
>1,362
|
67 cfs
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 1
|
April 20 to June 25
|
<=67
>67 cfs and []75 cfs
>75 cfs and []1,362
>1,362
|
67 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 10%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 27 to April 19
|
<=67
>67 cfs and []82 cfs
>82 cfs and []1,362
>1,362
|
67 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 18%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 3
|
June 26 to October 26
|
<=67 cfs
>67 cfs and []73 cfs
>73 cfs and []1,362 cfs
>1,362
|
67 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 13%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Table 8-7 Compliance Standards
for Middle Peace River at Arcadia Gage
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow (January 1 through December 31)
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
547
243
534
196
|
|
Block 1 (April 20 through June 25)
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
219
121
160
64
|
|
Block 2 (October 27 through April 19)
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
359
182
300
122
|
|
Block 3 (June 26 through October 26)
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
977
631
790
382
|
(c)
Compliance - The Minimum Flows are met when the flows in Table 8-7 are
achieved.
(6) Minimum
Flows for Myakka River.
(a) Upper Myakka
River.
1. The Minimum Flows are to ensure that
the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of the
natural systems associated with the river are met.
2. Minimum Flows for the Myakka River at the
USGS Myakka River near Sarasota Gage USGS #02298830 ("Sarasota Gage") are set
forth in Table 8-10 below. The long-term compliance standards set forth in
Table 8-B are established based on the application of the Minimum Flows to the
lowest anticipated natural flow conditions. Minimum Flows for the Myakka River
are both seasonal and flow dependent. Two standards are flow-based and applied
continuously regardless of season. The first is a Minimum Low Flow threshold of
0 cfs at the Sarasota Gage. The second is a Minimum High Flow threshold of 577
cfs at the Sarasota Gage. The Minimum High Flow is based on changes in the
number of days of inundation of floodplain features. There are also three
seasonally dependent or Block specific Minimum Flows. The Block 1 and Block 2
Minimum Flows are based on potential changes in habitat availability for fish
species and macroinvertebrate diversity. The Block 3 Minimum Flow is based on
changes in the number of days of connection with floodplain features.
|
Table 8-10 Minimum Flow for
Myakka River at USGS Myakka River near Sarasota Gage
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
0 cfs
0 cfs
|
0 cfs
Seasonally dependent see Blocks below
|
|
Block 1
|
April 20 to June 25
|
0 cfs
>0 cfs
|
0 cfs
previous day flow minus 15%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 27 to April 19
|
0 cfs
>0 cfs
|
0 cfs
previous day flow minus 5%
|
|
Block 3
|
June 26 to October 26
|
0 cfs
>0 cfs and >577 cfs
>577 cfs
|
0 cfs
previous day flow minus 16%
previous day flow minus 7%
|
3.
Compliance - The Minimum Flows are met when the flows in Table 8-11 are
achieved.
|
Table 8-11 Compliance Standards
for Myakka River at USGS Myakka River near Sarasota Gage
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
172
12
149
5
|
|
Block 1
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
23
0
4
0
|
|
Block 2
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
28
4
15
3
|
|
Block 3
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
324
181
241
133
|
(b) Lower Myakka River.
1. The Minimum Flows are necessary to ensure
that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of
the natural systems associated with the Lower Myakka River are met. The Lower
Myakka River extends from the outlet of Lower Myakka Lake to the mouth of the
river at Charlotte Harbor.
2. The
Lower Myakka River receives flows from the Upper Myakka River sub-basin at the
location of the USGS gage Myakka River near Sarasota No. 02298830 (the "Myakka
Gage") that are in excess of the naturally occurring flows. The District will
remove the excess flows at rates between 0 and 130 cfs in the upper river
sub-basin in order to restore natural flows.
3. The Minimum Flows for the Lower Myakka
River at the Myakka Gage is 90% of the adjusted flow, when the adjusted flow
exceeds 400 cfs. The adjusted flow at the Myakka Gage shall be calculated by
adding the flows measured at the Myakka Gage and the excess flows removed by
the District from the Upper Myakka River.
(7) Minimum Flows for upper Peace River.
(a) Over the last several decades there has
been a significant decline in flow in the upper Peace River, especially during
the dry season. One of the major contributing factors is the elimination of
baseflow as a result of ground water withdrawals that have lowered the
potentiometric surface of the upper Floridian aquifer. In addition,
surface-water drainage alterations, reduction in surface storage, long-term
cyclical declines in rainfall and karst openings in the riverbed have played
significant roles in reducing flow in the upper Peace River.
(b) The minimum flows are to ensure that the
minimum hydrologic requirements of fish and natural systems associated with the
river are met and not jeopardized by withdrawals. At this time only Minimum Low
Flows are being established. It is anticipated that mid- and high-minimum flows
will be established once the controlling factors that affect those flows are
better understood.
(c) The Minimum
Low Flows for the upper Peace River are set forth in Table 8-8 below. The
Minimum Low Flows are established based on the lowest acceptable flow under the
lowest anticipated flow conditions. This is determined by providing for the
hydrologic requirements of biological communities associated with the upper
Peace River system, as well as considering non-consumptive uses including
fishing, wildlife observation, general recreation, aesthetic enjoyment,
canoeing and boating. This determination uses professional experience and
judgment to identify key habitats and hydrologic requirements for specific
biotic assemblages. This approach results in establishing Minimum Low Flows for
the upper Peace River based on maintaining the higher of the water elevations
needed for fish passage (0.6 feet or 7.2 inches) or the lowest wetted perimeter
inflection point (as much stream bed coverage as possible for the least amount
of flow) as set forth below. A ninety-five percent annual exceedance occurs
when the flow is greater than the Minimum Low Flow at least ninety-five percent
of the days, or 350 days, of a calendar year.
|
Table 8-8 Minimum Flows for the
upper Peace River
|
|
Location/Gage:
|
Minimum Flow (cubic feet per second):
|
|
Bartow / USGS Bartow River Gage No. 02294650
|
Annual 95% exceedance flow of 17 cfs
|
|
Ft. Meade / USGS Ft. Meade River Gage No.
02294898
|
Annual 95% exceedance flow of 27 cfs
|
|
Zolfo Springs / USGS Zolfo Springs River Gage No.
02295637
|
Annual 95% exceedance flow of 45 cfs
|
(d)
Compliance - The Minimum Low Flow is achieved when the measured flow rate is at
or above the Minimum Low Flow for three consecutive years. Once the Minimum Low
Flow has been achieved for three consecutive years, the Minimum Low Flow is not
met when the measured flow rate is below the Minimum Low Flow for two out of
ten years commencing the year after achievement. If the two years below the
minimum flow occur anytime before the ten year period is complete, the upper
Peace River is deemed below its Minimum Low Flow and the three consecutive
years above the Minimum Low Flow is again required for compliance. Once the
ten-year period is complete, the period will roll forward one year each
year.
(8) Minimum Flows
for the lower Peace River.
(a) For purposes of
this rule, the lower Peace River in DeSoto County, FL and Charlotte County, FL
includes the watercourse from U.S. Geological Survey Peace River at SR 70 at
Arcadia, FL Gage #02296750 to Charlotte Harbor.
(b) Minimum Flows for the lower Peace River
are based on the sum of the daily average, combined, adjusted flows of the USGS
Peace River Arcadia, FL Gage ("Gage No. 02296750"), the flow at the U.S.
Geological Survey Joshua Creek at Nocatee, FL Gage ("Gage No. 02297100"), and
the U.S. Geological Survey Horse Creek at SR 72 near Arcadia, FL Gage ("Gage
No. 02297310") as set forth in Table 8-20. Adjusted flow is defined as flow
that would exist in the absence of withdrawal impacts. Minimum Flows for the
lower Peace River are flow dependent, and were developed based on the daily
average, combined flow at Gage No. 02296750, Gage No. 02297100 and Gage No.
02297310 adjusted for withdrawals for the period of record from January 1, 1950
through December 31, 2018. There are seven flow dependent Minimum Flows.
Permitted withdrawals shall cease when the sum of the mean daily flows for the
three gages denoted above is below 130 cfs. Also, the total permitted maximum
withdrawals on any day from the lower Peace River shall not exceed 400 cfs.
|
Table 8-20 Minimum Flow for
Lower Peace River Based on the Combined (i.e., summed) Flows from the USGS
Peace River at SR 70 at Arcadia, FL, Joshua Creek at Nocatee, FL, and Horse
Creek at SR 72, near Arcadia, FL Gages Adjusted for Upstream
Withdrawals
|
|
If Adjusted Combined Flow in cubic feet per second
(cfs) on the previous Day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<=130 cfs
|
Combined flow on the previous day
|
|
>130 cfs and <=149 cfs
|
130 cfs
|
|
>149 cfs and <= 297 cfs
|
87% of combined flow on the previous day
|
|
> 297 cfs and <= 335 cfs
|
258 cfs
|
|
> 335 cfs and <= 622 cfs
|
77% of combined flow on the previous day
|
|
> 622 cfs and <= 798 cfs
|
479 cfs
|
|
> 798 cfs
|
60% of combined flow on the previous day
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the lower Peace River will be
completed to determine whether the flow is below or projected to fall below the
Minimum Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and not a
determination of water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit
compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the
scope of this subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will
use the following approach:
1. The District
will evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the
flow of the lower Peace River has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the
date of each status assessment at Gage No. 02296750, Gage No. 02297100 and Gage
No. 02297310. The annual evaluation will be completed through a review of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flows every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(9) Minimum Flows for the Braden River.
(a) The Minimum Flows are to ensure that the
minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of the
natural systems associated with the river are met.
(b) Minimum Flows for the Braden River at the
USGS Braden River near Lorraine Gage USGS #02300032 ("near Lorraine Gage") are
set forth in Table 8-14 below. The long-term compliance standards set forth in
Table 8-15 are established based on the application of the Minimum Flows to the
lowest anticipated natural flow conditions. Minimum Flows for the Braden River
are both seasonal and flow dependent. Two standards are flow based and applied
continuously regardless of season. The first is a Minimum Low Flow threshold of
7 cfs at the near Lorraine Gage. The second is a Minimum High Flow threshold of
54 cfs at the near Lorraine Gage. The Minimum High Flow is based on changes in
the number of days of inundation of floodplain features. There are also three
seasonally dependent or Block specific Minimum Flows. The Block 1 and Block 2
Minimum Flows are based on potential changes in habitat availability for fish
species and macroinvertebrate diversity. The Block 3 Minimum Flow is based on
changes in the number of days of connection with floodplain features.
|
Table 8-14 Minimum Flow for
Braden River at USGS Braden River near Lorraine Gage
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=7 cfs
>7cfs and <54 cfs
>=54 cfs
|
7 cfs
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Previous day flow minus 10%
|
|
Block 1
|
May 7 to June 19
|
<=7
>7 cfs
|
7 cfs
previous day flow minus 10%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 25 to May 6
|
<=7
>7 cfs and <54 cfs
>=54 cfs
|
7 cfs
previous day flow minus 11%
previous day flow minus 10%
|
|
Block 3
|
June 20 to October 24
|
<=7 cfs
>7 cfs and <54 cfs
>=54 cfs
|
7 cfs
previous day flow minus 19%
previous day flow minus 10%
|
(c)
Compliance - The Minimum Flows are met when the flows in Table 8-15 are
achieved.
|
Table 8-15 Compliance Standards
for Braden River near Lorraine Gage
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
31
3
26
2
|
|
Block 1
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
5
1
2
0
|
|
Block 2
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
20
3
10
1
|
|
Block 3
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
65
23
43
7
|
(10) Minimum Flows for Crystal Springs
Located Within the Hillsborough River Basin, Hillsborough County, Florida.
(a) The Minimum Flows are to ensure that the
minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of the
natural systems associated with the upper Hillsborough River are met.
(b) The Minimum Flow for Crystal Springs is
stated as the flow measured by USGS physical measurements. Flows from Crystal
Springs are calculated as the difference between upstream flow measurements at
USGS Gage No. 02301990 - Hillsborough River Above Crystal Springs near
Zephyrhills, FL and downstream flow measurements at USGS Gage No. 02302010 -
Hillsborough River Below Crystal Springs near Zephyrhills, FL measurements and
constitute the combined flow of the main spring vent and numerous smaller vents
in the river channel. The minimum flow for the Crystal Springs complex is 46
cfs based on a 5-year running mean and median.
(11) Minimum Flows for Alafia River -
Freshwater Segment.
(a) The Minimum Flows are
to ensure that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or
ecology of the natural systems associated with the river are met.
(b) Minimum Flows for the Alafia River at the
USGS Alafia River at Lithia Gage USGS # 02301500 ("Lithia Gage") are set forth
in Table 8-16 below. The long-term compliance standards set forth in Table 8-17
are established based on the application of the Minimum Flows to the lowest
anticipated natural flow conditions. Minimum Flows for the Alafia River are
both seasonal and flow dependent. Two standards are flow-based and applied
continuously regardless of season. The first is a Minimum Low Flow threshold of
59 cfs at the Lithia Gage. The second is a Minimum High Flow threshold of 375
cfs at the Lithia Gage. The Minimum High Flow is based on changes in the number
of days of inundation of floodplain features. There are also three seasonally
dependent or Block specific Minimum Flows. The Block 1 and Block 2 Minimum
Flows are based on potential changes in habitat availability for fish species
and macroinvertebrate diversity. The Block 3 Minimum Flow is based on changes
in the number of days of connection with floodplain features.
|
Table 8-16 Minimum Flow for
Alafia River at USGS Alafia River at Lithia Gage
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=59 cfs
>59 cfs and <374 cfs
>374 cfs
|
59 cfs
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 1
|
April 20 to June 25
|
<=57 cfs
>57 cfs and <66 cfs
>66 cfs and <374 cfs
>374 cfs
|
59 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 10%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 27 to April 19
|
<=59 cfs
>59 cfs and <69 cfs
>69 cfs and <374 cfs
>374 cfs
|
59 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 15%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 3
|
June 26 to October 26
|
<=59 cfs
>59 cfs and <64 cfs
>64 cfs and <374 cfs
>374 cfs
|
59 cfs
67 cfs
previous day flow minus 13%
previous day flow minus 8%
|
(c)
Compliance - The Minimum Flows are met when the flows in Table 8-17 are
achieved.
|
Table 8-17 Compliance Standards
for Alafia River at Lithia Gage
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
192
101
163
86
|
|
Block 1
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
85
35
53
27
|
|
Block 2
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
137
82
110
66
|
|
Block 3
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
318
179
276
163
|
(12) Minimum Flow for Lower Alafia River
System.
(a) For purposes of this rule, the
Lower Alafia River System includes the watercourse downstream of the USGS Gage
No. 02301500 Alafia River at Lithia, FL (the "Alafia River at Lithia Gage")
including Lithia Springs, Buckhorn Spring, and their associated spring
runs.
(b) The Minimum Flow is to
ensure that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or
ecology of the natural systems associated with the Lower Alafia River System
are met. Daily flows to the Lower Alafia River System are calculated by
multiplying mean daily flow values at the Alafia River at Lithia Gage by a
factor of 1.117, then adding the mean daily flows from Lithia Spring Major and
Buckhorn Spring. Flows are calculated in the absence of withdrawals and are
based on mean flows at the Alafia River at Lithia Gage from the previous day
and the most recently recorded periodic values from Lithia Spring Major and
Buckhorn Spring. The Minimum Flow for the Lower Alafia River System is intended
to preserve 81% of the natural flow to the Lower Alafia River System when flows
exceed a low-flow threshold of 120 cfs.
(c) The Minimum Flow is 81% of the daily flow
to the Lower Alafia River System that is above 120 cfs.
(d) Minimum five-year and ten-year moving
average values are set forth in Table 8-19 as a tool to assess whether flows to
the Lower Alafia River remain above flow rates that are expected to occur with
implementation of the Minimum Flow. These values represent minimum values of
the averages of yearly mean and median flows to the Lower Alafia River System
calculated over moving five-year and ten-year periods. These values were
calculated by applying the potential maximum withdrawals that do not violate
the Minimum Flow to historic flow records. It is, therefore, expected that
flows to the Lower Alafia River System will not go below these values if
compliance with the Minimum Flow is maintained. However, future climatic
conditions or structural alterations in the watershed of the Lower Alafia River
System could potentially affect surface water or ground contributions to the
Lower Alafia River System's flow regime. The District will, therefore,
periodically evaluate whether these minimum moving average values expected with
application of the Minimum Flow, or other factors, have possibly caused flows
in the Lower Alafia River System to decline.
|
Table 8-19 Minimum Values of
Five-year and Ten-year Moving Averages of Yearly Mean and Median Flows to the
Lower Alafia River System
|
|
Value
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Minimum 10-Year Moving Average (Based On Yearly Mean
Flows)
|
247
|
|
Minimum 10-Year Moving Average Median (Based On
Yearly Median Flows)
|
150
|
|
Minimum 5-Yearly Mean Flows (Based on Yearly Mean
Flows)
|
217
|
|
Minimum 5 Year Moving Average (Based On Yearly Median
Flows)
|
120
|
Flows to the Lower Alafia River System were estimated for the
period of record at the Alafia River at Lithia Gage. The period from 1987 to
2003 was used to create a relationship between daily flows at the Gage and
total flows to the Lower Alafia River System. Five-year and ten-year moving
average statistics were then calculated for estimated long-term flows to the
Lower Alafia River System that were derived from the Alafia River at Lithia
Gage.
(13)
Minimum Flows for Weeki Wachee River System located within Hernando County,
Florida.
(a) The Minimum Flows are to ensure
that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water resources or ecology of
the natural systems associated with the Weeki Wachee River System are met. The
Minimum Flow for the Weeki Wachee River System is intended to maintain 90% of
the natural flow of the Weeki Wachee River System. For purposes of this rule,
the Weeki Wachee River System includes the watercourse from the Weeki Wachee
Spring to the Gulf of Mexico including Twin Dees Spring, Mud River (including
Salt Spring) from Mud Spring to the confluence with the Weeki Wachee River and
Jenkins Springs and associated spring run.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Weeki Wachee
River System is 90% of its natural flow. This Minimum Flow is inclusive of
spring flow, the freshwater and the estuarine portion of the Weeki Wachee
River.
(c) The Minimum Flow applies
upstream of the USGS Gage No. 02310525 at Weeki Wachee River near Brooksville
("Brooksville Gage") to the Weeki Wachee Spring vent and downstream of the
Brooksville Gage to the Gulf of Mexico. The Minimum Flow shall be met
continuously and is evaluated on a daily basis.
(d) Because climatic variation can influence
river flow regimes, five and ten year mean and median standards have been
developed and are set forth in Table 8-18 ("Means and Medians") as a tool to
assess whether compliance with the Minimum Flow maintains 90% of the natural
flow of the Weeki Wachee River System. The Means and Medians are hydrologic
statistics that represent flows expected to occur during long-term periods when
the Minimum Flows are being met. The Means and Medians are generated from flow
records that are representative of a period devoid of significant anthropogenic
impacts. The District will periodically evaluate the Means and Medians. These
are evaluated as the mean and medians of annual means and medians, evaluated
from January 1 through December 31 of each year. The evaluation is for both the
flow at the Brooksville Gage and at the USGS Weeki Wachee Well No.
283201082315601. The flow at the Brooksville Gage is evaluated directly against
Table 8-18. The well data is converted to flow with the relation Q (cfs) =
-47.487 + 12.38 (well level) (ft) and then evaluated against Table 8-18. The
Means and Medians were developed using the Minimum Flow and the presumed
historic flow records. Therefore, it is expected that the Means and Medians
will be met if compliance with the Minimum Flow is maintained. However, since
future structural alterations could potentially affect surface water or
groundwater flow characteristics within the watershed and additional
information pertaining to Minimum Flows development may become available, the
District is committed to periodic review and revision of the Minimum Flows, as
necessary.
|
Table 8-18 Five and Ten Year
Means and Medians for the Weeki Wachee River System
|
|
Criterion
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Minimum 10 Year Moving Average (Based On Annual
Average Flows)
|
141
|
|
Minimum 10 Year Moving Average (Based On Annual
Median Flows)
|
131
|
|
Minimum 5 Year Moving Average (Based On Annual
Average Flows)
|
136
|
|
Minimum 5 Year Moving Average (Based On Annual Median
Flows)
|
128
|
(e)
Water Use Permits issued after May 10, 2009 that authorize surface water
withdrawals from, or ground water withdrawals that impact Mud Spring, Salt
Spring or Jenkins Spring, shall gauge the flow of the applicable spring and
report the flow to the District as provided in the Water Use Permit.
(14) Minimum Flows for the Dona
Bay/Shakett Creek System below Cow Pen Slough located within the Manasota
Basin, Sarasota County, Florida.
(a) The
Minimum Flows are to ensure that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the
water resources and ecology of the natural systems associated with the Dona
Bay/Shakett Creek System are met. For purposes of this rule, the Dona
Bay/Shakett Creek System includes the watercourse and its tributaries from the
most downstream control structure on Cow Pen Slough, known as CPS-2 and
operated by Sarasota County (hereinafter referred to as "CPS-2") to the Gulf of
Mexico including Shakett Creek, Salt Creek, Fox Creek and Dona Bay.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Dona Bay/Shakett
Creek System is 100% of the natural flow of the system contributed by the
watershed below CPS-2. This Minimum Flow is exclusive of flow, which is
generated from the channelized watershed above CPS-2. Flow generated from the
channelized watershed above CPS-2 shall be based on the flow records from
CPS-2.
(15) Minimum
Flows for the Anclote River.
(a) The Minimum
Flows are to ensure that the minimum hydrologic requirements of the water
resources or ecology of the natural systems associated with the freshwater and
estuarine reaches of the Anclote River are met.
(b) Minimum Flows for the freshwater and
estuarine reaches of the Anclote River are based on the natural flow at the
USGS Anclote River near Elfers Gage No. 02310000 (the "Elfers Gage") and are
set forth in Table 8-22 (estuarine reach downstream of the Elfers Gage) and
Table 8-23 (freshwater reach upstream of Elfers Gage). Natural flow is defined
as flow that would exist in the absence of withdrawal impacts. There are three
seasonally dependent or Block specific Minimum Flows for each reach. In
addition, the Minimum Flows for the freshwater reach are flow-based. The
Minimum Low Flow Threshold for the freshwater reach is applied continuously
regardless of season. No surface water withdrawal from the freshwater reach
will be permitted that would cumulatively cause the natural flow to be reduced
below the Minimum Low Flow Threshold of 12 cfs. Additionally, permitted
withdrawals shall cease when flows are below the Minimum Low Flow Threshold of
12 cfs. In addition, the total permitted maximum withdrawals from the
freshwater reach on any given day from July 22 through April 11 shall not
exceed eight percent of the previous day's flow when natural flow equals or
exceeds 138 cfs at the Elfers Gage.
|
Table 8-22 Minimum Flow for
Anclote River below USGS Anclote River near Elfers Gage USGS No. 02310000
(Estuarine Reach)
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Block 1
|
April 12 through July 21
|
Previous day's flow minus 12%
|
|
Block 2
|
October 15 through April 11
|
Previous day's flow minus 16%
|
|
Block 3
|
July 22 through October 14
|
Previous day's flow minus 18%
|
|
The Minimum Flow at any given point below the Elfers
Gage is based on the previous day's natural flow at that point minus the
percentage specified above corresponding to the applicable Block.
|
|
Table 8-23 Minimum Flow for
Anclote River above USGS Anclote River near Elfers Gage USGS No. 02310000
(Freshwater Reach)
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where Flow on Previous Day Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=12 cfs
>12 cfs and <138 cfs
>=138 cfs
|
Actual flow
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
|
|
Block 1
|
April 12 through July 21
|
<=12 cfs
>12 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's flow minus 11% but not less than 12
cfs
|
|
Block 2
|
October 15 through April 11
|
<=12 cfs
>12 cfs and <138 cfs
>=138 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's flow minus 14% but not less than 12
cfs
Previous day's flow minus 8%
|
|
Block 3
|
July 22 through October 14
|
<=12 cfs
>12 cfs and <138 cfs
>=138 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's flow minus 18% but not less than 12
cfs
Previous day's flow minus 8%
|
(c)
Minimum five-year and ten-year moving annual average values are set forth in
Table 8-22 as a tool to assess whether flows to the Anclote River remain above
flow rates that are expected to occur with implementation of the Minimum Flow
described in Table 8-24. The Means and Medians are based on evaluation of daily
flow records for the Elfers Gage, adjusted for withdrawal impacts for the
period 1955 through 2006. Yearly means and medians are computed for January 1
through December 31 of each year. Therefore, the Means and Medians are
hydrologic statistics that represent the flows that will be met or exceeded if
compliance with the Minimum Flow is maintained during hydrologic conditions
similar to the 1955-2006 period. However, since changes in the watershed such
as future structural alterations and climatic change could potentially affect
surface water or groundwater flow characteristics and additional information
relevant to Minimum Flows development may become available, the District is
committed to periodic re-evaluation of the Minimum Flows.
|
Table 8-24 Minimum Five-Year and
Ten-Year Moving Mean and Median Flows for the Anclote River above USGS Anclote
River near Elfers Gage USGS No. 02310000
Based on Application of the
Table 8-23 Minimum Flow on Adjusted Flows at USGS 02310000
|
|
Minimum Flow
|
Hydrologic Statistic
|
Flow (cfs)
|
|
Annual Flow
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
48
17
36
15
|
|
Block 1
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
13
7
11
6
|
|
Block 2
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
25
17
21
15
|
|
Block 3
|
10-Year Mean
10-Year Median
5-Year Mean
5-Year Median
|
92
64
81
56
|
(16) Minimum Flow for the Chassahowitzka
River System.
(a) For purposes of this rule,
the Chassahowitzka River System includes the watercourse from the
Chassahowitzka Main Springs Complex to the Gulf of Mexico, including
contributing tributaries and all named and unnamed springs that discharge to
the Chassahowitzka River, and Blind Springs.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Chassahowitzka
River System is 92% of the natural flow as measured at the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Gage Chassahowitzka River near Homosassa Gage No.
02310650. Natural flow is defined for the purpose of this rule as the flow that
would exist in the absence of water withdrawal impacts. The Minimum Flow is
based on an 8% reduction from the natural flow of 61 cubic feet per second,
which was adjusted for groundwater withdrawals using hydrologic modeling for
the period of record from February 20, 1997, through October 15, 2018, at the
USGS Chassahowitzka River near Homosassa, FL Gage No. 02310650.
(c) Status assessments of the Minimum Flow
for the Chassahowitzka River System will be completed to determine whether the
flow is below or projected to fall below the Minimum Flow. Each status
assessment is independent from and not a determination of water use permit
compliance or environmental resource permit compliance. Permit compliance is a
regulatory function that is not within the scope of this subsection. As part of
each status assessment, the District will use the following approach:
1. The District will evaluate the Minimum
Flow annually to determine the extent to which the flow of the Chassahowitzka
River System has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the date of each status
assessment at the USGS Chassahowitzka River near Homosassa, FL Gage No.
02310650. The annual evaluation will be completed through a review of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flow every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flow is being met based on
the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(d) The District will reevaluate the Minimum
Flow by December 2029.
(17) Minimum Flow for the Homosassa River
System.
(a) For purposes of this rule, the
Homosassa River System includes the watercourse from the Homosassa Main Springs
Complex to the Gulf of Mexico, including the southeast fork of the Homosassa
River, Halls River, Hidden River and all named and unnamed springs that
discharge to the Homosassa River.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Homosassa River
System is 95% of the combined natural flow as measured at the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Homosassa Springs at Homosassa Springs, FL Gage No.
02310678, and the USGS SE Fork Homosassa Spring at Homosassa Springs, FL Gage
No. 02310688. Natural flow is defined for the purpose of this rule as the flow
that would exist in the absence of water withdrawal impacts. The Minimum Flow
is based on a 5% reduction from the combined natural flow of 149 cubic feet per
second, which was adjusted for groundwater withdrawals using hydrologic
modeling for the period of record from October 1, 2000, through October 1,
2018, at the USGS Homosassa Springs at Homosassa Springs, FL Gage No. 02310678
and the USGS SE Fork Homosassa Spring at Homosassa Springs, FL Gage No.
02310688.
(c) Status assessments of
the Minimum Flow for the Homosassa River System will be completed to determine
whether the flow is below or projected to fall below the Minimum Flow. Each
status assessment is independent from and not a determination of water use
permit compliance or environmental resource permit compliance. Permit
compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the scope of this
subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will use the
following approach:
1. The District will
evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the flow of
the Homosassa River System has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the date
of each status assessment at the USGS Homosassa Springs at Homosassa Springs,
FL Gage No. 02310678 and the USGS SE Fork Homosassa Spring at Homosassa
Springs, FL Gage No. 02310688. The annual evaluation will be completed through
a review of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flow every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flow is being met based on
the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(d) The District will reevaluate the Minimum
Flow by December 2029.
(18) Minimum Flow for Gum Slough Spring Run.
(a) For purposes of this rule, Gum Slough
Spring Run includes the watercourse from the Gum Slough Springs Group
headspring to the Withlacoochee River, including all named and unnamed springs
that discharge to the spring run.
(b) The Minimum Flow for Gum Slough Spring
Run is 94% of the natural flow as measured at the United States Geological
Survey Gum Springs near Holder, FL Gage (Gage No. 02312764), or as measured at
any point downstream from this Gage. Natural flow is defined for the purpose of
this rule as the flow that would exist in the absence of water withdrawal
impacts.
(c) The Minimum Flow for
Gum Slough Spring Run also includes a flow-based Minimum Low Flow Threshold of
43 cfs at this Gage. No surface water withdrawal shall be permitted that would
individually or cumulatively cause the natural flow to be reduced below the
Minimum Low Flow Threshold of 43 cfs.
(d) The District will re-evaluate the Minimum
Flow within ten years of adoption of this rule.
(19) Minimum Flow for the Crystal River/Kings
Bay System.
(a) For purposes of this rule, the
Crystal River/Kings Bay System includes the watercourse from Kings Bay to the
Gulf of Mexico, including contributing tributaries, Kings Bay, and all named
and unnamed springs that discharge to the river or bay.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Crystal
River/Kings Bay System is a long-term tidally-filtered average flow of 406
cubic feet per second ("cfs") at the United States Geological Survey Crystal
River at Bagley Cove near Crystal River, FL Gage ("United States Geological
Survey Gage No. 02310747"). The Minimum Flow is based on an 11% reduction from
the long-term tidally-filtered average flow of 456 cfs adjusted for groundwater
withdrawals for the period of record from 2002 through 2015 at the United
States Geological Survey Gage No. 02310747.
(c) Status assessments of the Minimum Flow
for the Crystal River/Kings Bay System will be completed to determine whether
the long-term tidally-filtered average flow is below or projected to fall below
the criteria adopted in this section. Each status assessment is independent
from and not a determination of water use permit compliance or environmental
resource permit compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is
not within the scope of this subsection. As part of each status assessment, the
District will use the following approach:
1.
The District will evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to
which the long-term tidally-filtered average flow of the Crystal River/Kings
Bay System has been reduced due to withdrawals for the period of record from
2002 to the date of each status assessment at the United States Geological
Survey Gage No. 02310747.
2. The
District will also evaluate the Minimum Flow every five years as part of the
regional water supply planning process.
3. If the Minimum Flow is being met based on
long-term tidally-filtered average flows adjusted for withdrawals, then no
further actions are required beyond continued monitoring.
(d) The District will re-evaluate the Minimum
Flow within ten years of adoption of this rule.
(20) Minimum Flows for the Lower
Pithlachascotee River.
(a) For purposes of
this rule, the Lower Pithlachascotee River in Pasco County, FL includes the
watercourse from the bridge across the river at Rowan Road (Pasco County Road
77) to the Gulf of Mexico, and tributaries to the watercourse
segment.
(b) Minimum Flows for the
Lower Pithlachascotee River are based on the adjusted flow at the U.S.
Geological Survey Pithlachascotee River near New Port Richey, FL Gage ("Gage
No. 02310300") and are set forth in Table 8-25. Adjusted flow is defined as
flow that would exist in the absence of withdrawal impacts. There are two
flow-based Minimum Flows that were developed using average four-day flows at
Gage No. 02310300 adjusted for withdrawals, with a long-term average of 27
cubic feet per second ("cfs") for the period of record from June 22, 1989
through December 31, 2000. The total reduction in flow from the adjusted flow
shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the previous four day's average
adjusted flow when the previous four-day's adjusted flow is less than or equal
to a Minimum High Flow Threshold of 60 cfs at Gage No. 02310300, and shall not
exceed thirty-five percent of the previous four day's average adjusted flow
when the previous four-day's adjusted flow exceeds a Minimum High Flow
Threshold of 60 cfs at Gage No. 02310300.
|
Table 8-25 Minimum Flows for the
Lower Pithlachascotee River at the U.S. Geological Survey Pithlachascotee River
near New Port Richey, FL gage (No. 02310300)
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where the Adjusted Average Flow for the Preceding
Four Days Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is:
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=60 cfs
|
Previous four day's average adjusted flow minus
25%
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
>60 cfs
|
Previous four day's average adjusted flow minus
35%
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the Lower Pithlachascotee River
will be completed to determine whether the long-term, four-day average flow is
below or projected to fall below the criterion adopted in this rule. Each
status assessment is independent from and not a determination of water use
permit compliance or environmental resource permit compliance. Permit
compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the scope of this rule
subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will use the
following approach:
1. The District will
evaluate flows in the Lower Pithlachascotee River annually to: determine the
extent to which the long-term average of four-day average flows in the Lower
Pithlachascotee River has been reduced due to withdrawals for the period of
record from June 22, 1989 to the date of each status assessment at Gage No.
02310300.
2. The District will also
evaluate flows in the Lower Pithlachascotee River every five years as part of
the regional water supply planning process.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the long-term average of the four-day average flows at Gage No. 02310300,
then no further actions are required beyond continued monitoring.
(21) Minimum Flows for
the Upper Pithlachascotee River.
(a) For
purposes of this rule, the Upper Pithlachascotee River in Pasco County, FL
includes the watercourse from the outlet of Crews Lake to the bridge across the
river at Rowan Road (Pasco County Road 77), and tributaries to the watercourse
segment.
(b) Minimum Flows for the
Upper Pithlachascotee River are based on the adjusted flow at the U.S.
Geological Survey Pithlachascotee River near New Port Richey, FL Gage ("Gage
No. 02310300") and are set forth in Table 8-26. Adjusted flow is defined as
flow that would exist in the absence of withdrawal impacts. There are three
seasonally dependent, i.e., block-specific, Minimum Flows that were developed
based on daily average flows at Gage No. 02310300 adjusted for withdrawals,
with a long-term average of 27 cubic feet per second ("cfs") for the period of
record from June 19, 1989 through December 31, 2000. In addition, the Minimum
Flows are flow-based. The Minimum Low Flow Threshold is applied continuously
regardless of season. No surface water withdrawal will be permitted that would
cumulatively cause the adjusted flow to be reduced below the Minimum Low Flow
Threshold of 11 cfs. Additionally, permitted surface withdrawals shall cease
when flows are below the Minimum Low Flow Threshold of 11 cfs. In addition, the
total reduction in flow from the adjusted flow on any given day from June 24
through October 16 shall not exceed sixteen percent of the previous day's
adjusted flow when the adjusted flow is less than a Minimum High Flow Threshold
of 50 cfs at Gage No. 023103300 and shall not exceed nine percent of the
previous day's adjusted flow when the adjusted flow equals or exceeds a Minimum
High Flow Threshold of 50 cfs at Gage No. 02310300.
|
Table 8-26 Minimum Flows for the
Upper Pithlachascotee River at the U.S. Geological Survey Pithlachascotee River
near New Port Richey, FL Gage (No. 02310300)
|
|
Period
|
Effective Dates
|
Where the Adjusted Flow on the Previous Day
Equals:
|
Minimum Flow Is:
|
|
Annually
|
January 1 to December 31
|
<=11 cfs
>11 cfs and <50 cfs
>= 50 cfs
|
Actual flow
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
Seasonally dependent - see Blocks below
|
|
Block 1
|
April 25 through June 23
|
<=11 cfs
>11 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's adjusted flow minus 18% but not less
than 11 cfs
|
|
Block 2
|
October 17 through April 24
|
<=11 cfs
>11 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's adjusted flow minus 17% but not less
than 11 cfs
|
|
Block 3
|
June 24 through October 16
|
<=11 cfs
>11 cfs and <50 cfs
>=50 cfs
|
Actual flow
Previous day's adjusted flow minus 16% but not less
than 11 cfs
Previous day's adjusted flow minus 9% but not less
than 11 cfs
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the Upper Pithlachascotee River
will be completed to determine whether the long-term, daily average flow and
the daily average flows are below or projected to fall below the criteria
adopted in this rule. Each status assessment is independent from and not a
determination of water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit
compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the
scope of this rule. As part of each status assessment, the District will use
the following approach:
1. The District will
evaluate flows in the Upper Pithlachascotee River annually to: determine the
extent to which the long-term average of the daily average flows of the Upper
Pithlachascotee River has been reduced due to withdrawals for the period of
record from June 19, 1989 to the date of each status assessment at Gage No.
02310300; and to determine whether daily average flows at Gage No. 02310300
have been reduced below 11 cfs due to surface water withdrawals.
2. The District will also evaluate flows in
the Upper Pithlachascotee River every five years as part of the regional water
supply planning process.
3. If the
Minimum Flows are being met based on the long-term average of the daily average
flows at Gage No. 02310300, and based on the determination that surface water
withdrawals have not reduced daily average flows at Gage No. 0230300 below 11
cfs, then no further actions are required beyond continued
monitoring.
(22) Minimum Flow for the Rainbow River
System.
(a) For purposes of this rule, the
Rainbow River System includes the watercourse from the Rainbow Springs Group
headsprings to the Withlacoochee River, including contributing tributaries, and
all named and unnamed springs that discharge to the river.
(b) The Minimum Flow for the Rainbow River
System is 95% of the natural flow as measured at the United States Geological
Survey Rainbow River at Dunnellon, FL Gage No. 02313100. Natural flow is
defined for the purpose of this rule as the flow that would exist in the
absence of water withdrawal impacts. The Minimum Flow is based on a 5%
reduction from the natural flow of 683 cubic feet per second, which was
adjusted for groundwater withdrawals using hydrologic modeling for the period
of record from 1965-2015 at the United States Geological Survey Rainbow River
at Dunnellon, FL Gage No. 02313100.
(c) Status assessments of the Minimum Flow
for the Rainbow River System will be completed to determine whether the flow is
below or projected to fall below the Minimum Flow. Each status assessment is
independent from and not a determination of water use permit compliance or
environmental resource permit compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory
function that is not within the scope of this subsection. As part of each
status assessment, the District will use the following approach:
1. The District will evaluate the Minimum
Flow annually to determine the extent to which the flow of the Rainbow River
System has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the date of each status
assessment at the United States Geological Survey Rainbow River at Dunnellon,
FL Gage No. 02313100. The annual evaluation will be completed through a review
of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flow every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flow is being met based on
the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(d) The District will re-evaluate the Minimum
Flow by December 2027.
(23) Minimum Flows for the lower Shell Creek.
(a) For purposes of this rule, the lower
Shell Creek in Charlotte County, FL, includes the watercourse from the base of
the downstream side of the Hendrickson Dam to its confluence with the Peace
River.
(b) Minimum Flows for the
lower Shell Creek are based on the daily average flow at the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Shell Creek near Punta Gorda, FL Gage, No. 02298202,
adjusted for withdrawals and agricultural runoff, for the period of record from
January 1, 1972, through December 31, 2018, as set forth in Table 8-27.
|
Table 8-27 Minimum Flows for
Lower Shell Creek Based on flow at the USGS Shell Creek near Punta Gorda, FL
Gage Adjusted for Surface Withdrawals from the Shell Creek Reservoir and
Agricultural Runoff to the Reservoir.
|
|
If adjusted flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) on
the previous day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<=56 cfs
|
87% of adjusted flow on the previous day
|
|
>56 cfs and <=137cfs
|
77% of adjusted flow on the previous day
|
|
>137 cfs
|
60% of adjusted flow on the previous day
|
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the lower Shell
Creek will be completed to determine whether the flow is below or projected to
fall below the Minimum Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and
not a determination of water use permit compliance or environmental resource
permit compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is not
within the scope of this subsection. As part of status assessment, the District
will use the following approach:
1.
The District will evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to
which the flow of the lower Shell Creek has been reduced due to withdrawals as
of the date of each status assessment at Gage No. 02298202. The annual
evaluation will be completed through a review of:
a. Flow data;
b. Water withdrawals data;
c. Agricultural runoff data;
d. Rainfall and evaporation data;
and
e. Hydrologic
modeling.
2. The
District will also evaluate the Minimum Flows every five years as part of the
regional water supply planning process. This evaluation will include the use of
hydrologic modeling.
3. If the
Minimum Flows are being met based on the annual evaluation or the evaluation
performed as a part of the regional water supply planning process, then no
further actions are required beyond continued monitoring.
(24) Minimum Flows for the Upper
Little Manatee River.
(a) For purposes of this
rule, the Upper Little Manatee River in Hillsborough County, FL and Manatee
County, FL includes the watercourse from its headwaters to the Environmental
Protection Commission of Hillsborough County Water Quality Monitoring Station
No. 1616 located at 82.40557 W, 27.66662 N, and tributaries to the
watercourse.
(b) Minimum Flows for
the Upper Little Manatee River are based on the daily average flow at the
United States Geological Survey (USGS) Little Manatee River at US 301 near
Wimauma, FL Gage No. 02300500, adjusted for withdrawals, for the period of
record from April 1, 1939, through December 31, 2021, as set forth in Table
8-28.
|
Table 8-28 Minimum Flow for the
Upper Little Manatee River Based on the Flows from the USGS Little Manatee
River at US 301 near Wimauma, FL Gage No. 02300500 Adjusted for Upstream
Withdrawals
|
|
If Adjusted Flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) on
the previous Day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<=29 cfs
|
Flow on the previous day
|
|
>29 cfs and <= 96 cfs
|
29 cfs or 88% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
>96 cfs and <= 224 cfs
|
85 cfs or 87% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
>224 cfs
|
90% of flow on the previous day
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the Upper Little Manatee River will
be completed to determine whether the flow is below or projected to fall below
the Minimum Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and not a
determination of water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit
compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the
scope of this subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will
use the following approach:
1. The District
will evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the
flow of the Upper Little Manatee River has been reduced due to withdrawals as
of the date of each status assessment at Gage No. 02300500. The annual
evaluation will be completed through a review of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flows every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(25) Minimum Flows for the Lower Little
Manatee River.
(a) For purposes of this rule,
the Lower Little Manatee River in Hillsborough County, FL includes the
watercourse from the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission
Water Quality Monitoring Station No. 1616 located at 82.40557 W, 27.66662 N, to
Tampa Bay, and tributaries to the watercourse.
(b) Minimum Flows for the Lower Little
Manatee River are based on the daily average flow at the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Little Manatee River at US 301 near Wimauma, FL Gage
No. 02300500, adjusted for withdrawals, for the period of record from April 1,
1939, through December 31, 2021, as set forth in Table 8-29.
|
Table 8-29 Minimum Flow for the
Lower Little Manatee River Based on the Flows from the USGS Little Manatee
River at US 301 near Wimauma, FL Gage No. 02300500 Adjusted for Upstream
Withdrawals
|
|
If Adjusted Flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) on
the previous Day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<= 29 cfs
|
Flow on the previous day
|
|
> 29 cfs and <= 96 cfs
|
29 cfs or 87% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
> 96 cfs
|
84 cfs or 68% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for the Lower Little Manatee River will
be completed to determine whether the flow is below or projected to fall below
the Minimum Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and not a
determination of water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit
compliance. Permit compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the
scope of this subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will
use the following approach:
1. The District
will evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the
flow of the Lower Little Manatee River has been reduced due to withdrawals as
of the date of each status assessment at Gage No. 02300500. The annual
evaluation will be completed through a review of:
(a) Flow data;
(b) Water withdrawals;
(c) Aquifer water levels;
(d) Rainfall data; and
(e) Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flows every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(26) Minimum Flows for Horse Creek
(a) For purposes of this rule, Horse Creek in
Hardee County, FL and Desoto County, FL includes the watercourse from the
headwaters to the confluence with the Peace River and tributaries to the
watercourse.
(b) Minimum Flows for
Horse Creek are based on the daily average flow at the United States Geological
Survey (USGS) Horse Creek at SR 72 near Arcadia, FL Gage No. 02297310, adjusted
for withdrawals, for the period of record from May 1, 1950, through December
31, 2021, as set forth in Table 8-30.
|
Table 8-30 Minimum Flow for Horse
Creek Based on the Flows from the USGS Horse Creek at SR 72 near Arcadia, FL
Gage No. 02297310 Adjusted for Water Withdrawals
|
|
If Adjusted Flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) on
the previous Day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<= 15 cfs
|
Flow on the previous day
|
|
> 15 cfs and <= 78 cfs
|
15 cfs or 88% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
> 78 cfs and <= 172 cfs
|
69 cfs or 86% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
> 172 cfs and <= 644 cfs
|
88% of flow on the previous day
|
|
> 644 cfs
|
92% of flow on the previous day
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for Horse Creek will be completed to
determine whether the flow is below or projected to fall below the Minimum
Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and not a determination of
water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit compliance. Permit
compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the scope of this
subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will use the
following approach:
1. The District will
evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the flow of
Horse Creek has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the date of each status
assessment at Gage No. 02297310. The annual evaluation will be completed
through a review of:
a. Flow data;
b. Water withdrawals;
c. Aquifer water levels;
d. Rainfall data; and
e. Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flows every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
(27) Minimum Flows for Charlie Creek
(a) For purposes of this rule, Charlie Creek
in Polk County, FL and Hardee County, FL includes the watercourse from the
headwaters to the confluence with the Peace River and tributaries to the
watercourse.
(b) Minimum Flows for
Charlie Creek are based on the daily average flow at the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Charlie Creek near Gardner, FL Gage No. 02296500,
adjusted for withdrawals, for the period of record from May 1, 1950, through
December 31, 2021, as set forth in Table 8-31.
|
Table 8-31 Minimum Flow for Charlie
Creek Based on the Flows from the USGS Charlie Creek near Gardner, FL Gage No.
02296500 Adjusted for Upstream Withdrawals
|
|
If Adjusted Flow in cubic feet per second (cfs) on
the previous Day is:
|
Minimum Flow is:
|
|
<= 27 cfs
|
Flow on the previous day
|
|
> 27 cfs and <= 120 cfs
|
27 cfs or 86% of flow on the previous day, whichever
is greater
|
|
> 120 cfs and <= 316 cfs
|
88% of flow on the previous day
|
|
> 316 cfs and <= 945 cfs
|
91% of flow on the previous day
|
|
> 945 cfs
|
93% of flow on the previous day
|
(c)
Status assessments of the Minimum Flows for Charlie Creek will be completed to
determine whether the flow is below or projected to fall below the Minimum
Flows. Each status assessment is independent from and not a determination of
water use permit compliance or environmental resource permit compliance. Permit
compliance is a regulatory function that is not within the scope of this
subsection. As part of each status assessment, the District will use the
following approach:
1. The District will
evaluate the Minimum Flow annually to determine the extent to which the flow of
Charlie Creek has been reduced due to withdrawals as of the date of each status
assessment at Gage No. 02296500. The annual evaluation will be completed
through a review of:
a. Flow data;
b. Water withdrawals;
c. Aquifer water levels;
d. Rainfall data; and
e. Hydrologic modeling.
2. The District will also evaluate the
Minimum Flows every five years as part of the regional water supply planning
process. This evaluation will include the use of hydrologic modeling.
3. If the Minimum Flows are being met based
on the annual evaluation or the evaluation performed as a part of the regional
water supply planning process, then no further actions are required beyond
continued monitoring.
Rulemaking Authority
373.044,
373.113,
373.171 FS. Law Implemented
373.036,
373.042,
373.0421
FS.
New 10-5-74, Amended 12-31-74, Formerly 16J-0.15,
40D-1.601, Amended 10-1-84, 8-7-00, 2-6-06, 4-6-06, 1-1-07, 11-25-07, 2-18-08,
3-2-08, 5-12-08, 5-10-09, 3-23-10, 3-28-10, 7-12-10, 8-2-10 (8), 8-2-10 (15),
10-16-12, 3-20-13(16), 3-20-13(17), 6-20-16, 3-15-18, 6-19-18, 4-15-20, 8-9-20,
4-12-21, 4-7-22, 3-27-24.
