Highlights
- System of 19 interconnected lakes, made up of two major groups with 5 in the Northern chain and 14 in the Southern chain
- Lakes were interconnected though the construction of canals to promote recreational access
- Located in Polk County
- 32-square-mile watershed
Challenges
Two main challenges exist in the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes watershed:
- Nutrient loading from urban runoff
- Destruction of natural systems
Strategies
Through cooperation with other government agencies, these challenges are met by:
- Developing projects aimed at the reduction of non-point source pollutant loadings through pollutant reduction goals and stormwater management
- Restoring upland and aquatic habitats while preserving plant and wildlife populations
- Implementing ecologically and environmentally sound land use practices
Success indicators
Successful project implementation is indicated by:
- Water quality improvements including a reduction in non-point source loading of phosphorus
- An increase in native aquatic and upland vegetation and decreases in non-native or undesirable species
Future goals are then developed through an adaptive management process, always striving to help restore Florida’s natural ecosystems.
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