Aquatic Plant Management
Agencies in Florida

MAIN INDEX | Lakes | Rivers | Springs | Wetlands | Marshes | Swamps | Canals |

THE AGENCY RESPONSIBILE FOR AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL ACTIVITIES IN YOUR WATER BODY depends on the type of activity proposed, the local and downstream resources affected, and the size and location of the water body.

  • The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Invasive Plant Management is the primary plant management permitting agency for the state's waters, and also helps pay for plant management that benefits the public. Here is the list of lakes by county that qualify for reimbursement from the state for plant management costs. This DEP Bureau is authorized under state legislation.

  • The US Army Corps of Engineers' ACE Jacksonville District is the federal government's plant management permitting agency for Florida's navigable waters, including certain rivers, canals and lakes. It is authorized under the federal Clean Water Act, section 404 and the federal Rivers and Harbors Act (section 10).

  • Five large Florida water management districts manage rivers, lakes and canals and govern water management issues in their districts. They are authorized under state legislation.

  • Approximately 100 smaller "special districts" govern certain canals and lakes in Florida and manage water and plants in these units of local special-purpose government. See also the Florida Association of Special Districts.

  • County and city agencies also have authority over a variety of plant and water management activity in and around Florida's waters. They are authorized by local ordinances.

  • The Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society is the professional society for aquatic plant management personnel in Florida.

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    This project is a collaboration of
    the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida,
    and the Bureau of Invasive Plant Management, Florida Department of Environmental Protection

    CAIP-WEBSITE@ufl.edu
    Copyright 2003 University of Florida