Water Sustainability in Florida―Issues Of Development, Population, and the Environment with Special Reference to the Everglades

摘要

Florida is a water-rich state. The geological framework formed over millions of years created the aquifer systems upon which man relies for water resources. It is estimated that more than two quadrillion gallons of freshwater are in the state's aquifers. Approximately four trillion gallons of water recharge the Floridan aquifer system each year. Three trillion gallons are naturally discharged annually, mostly via Florida's more than 320 springs. One trillion gallons per year are withdrawn by pumping. Surface-water discharge from the major rivers is more than 14 trillion gallons per year. Many areas of the state do not have the needed freshwater supplies. Alternative supplies from mineralized waters and subsurface storage of excess water are being used. The Florida Everglades are a vast wetland in southern Florida. The Everglades formed over thousands of years as a result of freshwater sheet flow. Man has dramatically altered the Everglades through attempts to control water. The ecosystem was drastically altered. Now, man is attempting to restore the ecology of the Everglades. The restoration requires a restructuring of water policy and use in southern Florida. Congress has passed legislation to provide funds for the restoration. Many water-sustainability questions arise. These include: 1) What is the level of infrastructure development and population growth that is supportable by the state's water resources? 2) Should mineralized waters be considered as part of a sustainable water supply? 3) How much impact on the environment is acceptable? 4) How do we balance ecological sustainability with human needs and economic growth?