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WRDA > WRDA 2000 Programmatic Authority Projects > Lake Istokpoga
WRDA 2000 Programmatic Authority Project:
Lake Istokpoga Regulation Schedule Modification
(source: Final Feasibility Report and PEIS, April 1999, Section 9.1.1.5, page 9-5)
This feature includes development of a plan to address water resource problems in the Lake Istokpoga Basin. Lake Istokpoga is a natural lake located in Highlands County, a tributary of Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. The major focus of this plan is to create a balance between the environmental needs, water supply and flood control in the Lake Istokpoga drainage basin.
The purpose of this plan is to examine the Lake Istokpoga Basin with a view towards enhancing fish and wildlife benefits and developing a long-term comprehensive management plan. It has been noted that operation of S-68, beginning in 1962, reduced the maximum annual fluctuation of the Lake (SFWMD, 1978). While the littoral zone expanded, the amount of quality habitat was reduced by this formation of extensive floating tussocks and dense cattail communities. Persistently lowered lake levels have reduced the natural frequency of seasonal drying and inundation. Without natural dewatering events, germination of diverse aquatic plant seeds is reduced, consolidation and compaction of organic sediments cannot occur, and the formation and expansion of floating mats of water hyacinths and other species common to tussock communities are promoted. These mats reduce overall productivity and diversity of the marsh.
The plan will also address the need for flood protection to the perimeter and upstream tributaries, and downstream areas west and east of C-41A. Water supply needs for agriculture and the Seminole Tribe of Florida will also be addressed.
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