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Recent intense development pressures in the Lake Apopka basin have created
demands for increased water usage. Decreased spring flows have been well
documented as a result, and a recent long-term drought followed by record
rainfall created major surface water quality problems. Proposals for withdrawal
from Lake Apopka create major concerns. However, potential solutions must
consider the alternative: the negative effects of groundwater use. The following
are recommendations and concerns expressed by the Friends of Lake Apopka:
- 1. Lake Apopka is a shallow lake with an average depth of
5.5 feet. Major withdrawals could lower water levels to a point
where boating and fishing would be reduced, phosphorous
concentrations would be increased and shoreline wetlands would
be dry up increasing invasion by noxious species such as
cattails. If withdrawals are considered, they should be
regulated by the determination of minimal levels and flows.
- 2. Existing Consumptive Use Permits have already reduced flow in Gourd Neck
Springs and will undoubtedly continue to do so. More data should be available
prior to issuance of more CUP’s and greater enforcement of restrictions should
be imposed on existing permits.
- 3. Since 90% of lake waters are derived from rainfall and groundwater flow, no
withdrawals should be discharged from the Apopka basin.
- 4. If withdrawal permits are issued, there will be a problem determining who
will receive them and who will be denied. Enforcement will be an on-going
problem.
- 5. Utilization of wet detention ponds for supplies of irrigation water should be
encouraged in lieu of direct withdrawals from the lake.
- 6. One possible compromise solution could be the construction of storage
reservoirs in the north shore restoration area. Possibilities could include the
northern areas of the restoration areas and the acreage immediately north of the
flow-way. Design of a reservoir could maximize habitat value.
- 7. SJRWMD should continue to expand their current educational programs on water
conservation, xeriscaping and other water-related programs.
In summary, Friends of Lake Apopka has concerns about approvals for
withdrawals from the lake because of potential impacts to the lake ecosystem and
the difficulty of controlling these withdrawals once begun.
SJRWMD and local governments should strengthen rules and regulations
governing water use and before lake withdrawals are considered, a more efficient
use should be made of existing water resources within each jurisdiction.
Open this document in a PDF file with a petition
form to sign and mail in to us to present to SJRWMD.
Water Withdrawal PETITION
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