WRDA 2000 Initially Authorized Projects:
C-44 Basin Storage Reservoir
C&SF Restudy Component - "B"
Description
A 10,000 acre reservoir in Martin County with a capacity of 40,000 acre-feet to capture excess runoff and regulatory releases from Lake Okeechobee that would otherwise flow to the estuary. Stored water could be returned to the canal when there is a shortage or high demand, as well as provide water for agricultural and other needs in the dry season. It is expected that this project will help maintain optimal salinity conditions in the estuary in order to support a range of aquatic vegetation, seagrass, invertebrates, and fish communities. If subdivided into multiple reservoirs, it may also improve Lake Okeechobee water quality to the west.
In addition, residents of Martin County have shown strong support for the Comprehensive Plan by passing a 1-percent sales surtax referendum in late 1998 to generate a funding source for land acquisition for environmental restoration in the county.
Incomplete portions of this feature were de-authorized in WRDA 2007. However, this feature was incorporated with additional reservoir features into the Indian River Lagoon - South project PIR which was authorized for construction by Congress in WRDA 2007.
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