Section 2 presents a general description of water chemistry and trophic states of Florida waters along with physical characteristics like depth, sediment types and composition, and wind and wave action. There are also discussions on the various uses and functions of these waters and how conflicts can arise among user groups with different objectives for plant management in the same water body. Each of these attributes influences the decision process in developing aquatic plant management programs and can profoundly affect the outcomes of aquatic plant control efforts.