Understanding the ups and downs: application of hydrologic restoration measures for a large subtropical lake

Julian P II, Welch Z. 2022. Understanding the ups and downs: application of hydrologic restoration measures for a large subtropical lake. Lake Reserv Manage. 38:304–317.Hydrologic regimes in shallow lakes strongly influence system’s function ecology. Changes water levels can have nonlinear, disproportionate effects these low-gradient systems. High submerge upper elevation littoral areas, degrade benthic habitats, redistribute sediments nutrients throughout When are low, wetland areas dried out, prompting shifts plant communities. Okeechobee, lake, is diverse complex ecosystem managed multiple purposes. Currently, within lake based on Okeechobee Regulation Schedule 2008, which being replaced as projects now complete. The new regulation schedule, System Operating Manual (LOSOM), updates management rules while attempting to balance needs downstream systems; salinity quality Caloosahatchee Saint Lucie estuaries; more southern Everglades. This study evaluates LOSOM relative ecologically significant performance Overall, proposed schedule expected cause deeper average levels, increased occurrence damaging high-stage events, reduced frequency low-stage events. While decreases severity low stages will be beneficial, increases high may affect long-term ecology system. As optimize efforts around upstream become critical building improving resilience this central South Florida ecosystem.