How do water management districts determine the minimum flows and levels for each water body?
Each water management district has different methods and protocols it uses to set MFL. All water management districts use the best available information and consider the natural processes and uses of the water body. Considerations include fish and wildlife habitats, maintenance of freshwater storage and supply, water quality, and recreation (Florida Administrative Code 62-40.473). Computer simulations are done to identify a range of flows or levels above which water may be permitted for consumptive use, such as for drinking water or irrigation.
