Plant Management in Florida Waters : An Integrated Approach

Bathymetric Maps

To improve the cost-effectiveness of submersed aquatic plant management in Florida public lakes, FWC initiated an ongoing bathymetric mapping project. To date, maps have been generated for approximately 150 waterbodies. Those with a history of large-scale hydrilla problems or management programs received first priority, followed by waters in which hydrilla has only recently been introduced. Mapping of additional waters will occur as funding and water levels allow.

Bathymetric data are collected when water levels are high, and water volumes are calculated for one-foot contours. Water acreage and average lake volume at the time of data collection are provided for each waterbody.

These measurements are crucial for accurately applying herbicides to submersed aquatic plants. Managers must have accurate water depth information to calculate the appropriate amount of active ingredient to apply. Too much herbicide is not only wasteful; it can result in unintended control of non-target plants. Too little herbicide can result in no control at all.

Click on a waterbody below (or from the A-Z listing) to see the corresponding bathymetric map.