Stream Bioreconnaissance Report Alachua County, Florida 2008

Water & Air Research, Inc.

6821 S.W. Archer Road

Gainesville, Florida 32608

Stream Bioreconnaissance Report Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010

Stream Bioreconnaissance Report Alachua County, Florida

2008 - 2010

Prepared for

Alachua County Environmental Protection Department Gainesville, Florida

Prepared by

Water & Air Research, Inc. 6821 S.W. Archer Road

Gainesville, Florida 32608

July 2011 10-5278-06

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Acknowledgments Many thanks to: Sally Adkins, Gainesville Clean Water Partnership (City of Gainesville Public Works, Alachua County Public Works, and Florida Department of Transportation), for her administrative work on the project, and to Justin Kise for his help with the Land Use Table. Robin Hallbourg, Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (ACEPD), for her guidance, edits, support staff, and to ACEPD for financial support of the project. Greg Owen, ACEPD, for helping with all of the field work and also editing the Biorecon Summaries. Sebastian Lopez, ACEPD, for creating the figures, and editing and combining tables. Jim Myles, ACEPD, for his meticulous work on the Land Use Table. Linda Krause, St. Johns River Water management District Watershed Action Volunteer (WAV) Coordinator for Alachua County, for her help rounding up volunteers and working herself to make this a successful educational, as well as scientific project. Alan Obaigbena, Florida Department of Transportation, and the Gainesville Clean Water Partnership for financial support of this project. Alice Rankeillor, Gainesville Regional Utilities, for her support of biological monitoring. All of the many Watershed Action Volunteers who showed up, rain or shine, hot or cold, to help with the many tasks associated with the BioRecon monitoring. To the staff at Water & Air Research, Inc. who helped me with preparing for the field trips, entering data, and editing. Laura Line Aquatic Ecologist Water & Air Research, Inc.

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Table of Contents....................................................……Page Introduction.......................................................................................................... 1 Purpose ................................................................................................................ 2 Basin Descriptions……………………………………………………………….…… 2 Site locations ....................................................................................................... 3 Methodology ........................................................................................................ 3

Physical and Chemical Characterization ....................................................... 3 Habitat Sketch ................................................................................................4 Habitat Assessment Sheet ............................................................................ 4 Macroinvertebrate Sampling.......................................................................... 4 BioRecon Scoring...........................................................................................4 Three Metric Method ..................................................................................... 5 Six Metric Method .......................................................................................... 5 Artificial Substrate Method............................................................................. 5 Explanation of Indices............................................................................................. 6

Results and Discussion ...................................................................................... 7 Land Use ....................................................................................................... 7 Physical/Chemical Data................................................................................. 8 Habitat Assessment Data .............................................................................. 10 BioRecon Data .............................................................................................. 11 BioRecon Summaries .................................................................................... 13 Appendices.................................................................................................... 13 Artificial Substrate Sampling Results ............................................................. 14

Summary and Recommendations ...................................................................... 14 References ........................................................................................................... 15

Figures BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Sampling Locations 1. Orange Creek and Santa Fe Basins………………………………………………….……… 16 2. Hogtown Creek Watershed…………………………………………………………………… 17 3. Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch……………………………………….………… 18 4. Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek………………………………….………… 19 5. Santa Fe Basin and Stream-to-Sink Watersheds……………………………...…………… 20

Tables 1. Location Information and GPS Coordinates for BioRecon and Hester-Dendy

Sampling 2008-2010 ……………………………………………………………………...…… 21 2 Physical and Chemical Data for Stream BioReconnaisance 2008-2010………………… 23 3. Land Use Percentage Summaries, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010…….……… 24 4. Average of Land Use Percentages of Creek Sites by Watershed, Stream

BioReconnaissance 2008-2010……………………………………………………………… 26 5. Habitat Assessment Results, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010…………...……… 27 6a. BioRecon Index Results, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010…………….…………. 31 6b. BioRecon 3-Metric and 6-Metric Analysis Index Results, Stream

BioReconnaissance 20082010………………………………………………………….….…... 33 7. Comparison of Shannon-Weaver, Pielou's Evenness, and Florida Index

Values for Artificial Substrate (Hester-Dendy) Samples from Three Sampling Events (1996, 2000 and 2009)………………………………………………………….…….. 35

8. Comparison of Density Values in number per square meter for Artificial Substrate (Hester-Dendy) from Three Sampling Events (1996, 2000 and 2009)……..… 36

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BioRecon Summaries (Alphabetically by watershed) Hogtown Creek Watershed Beville Creek Summary………………………………………………………………………… 37 Elizabeth Creek Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 41

Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink Summary………………………………….……………….…. 45 Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. Summary …………………………………………………. 50 Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. Summary ………………………………………………….. 55 Millhopper Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 60 Monterrey Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 64 Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave. Summary …………………………………………………. 68 Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. Summary …………………………………………………… 72 Rattlesnake Creek Summary………………………………………………………………….. 76 Ridgeview Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 80 Springstead Creek West of US 441 Summary………………………………………………. 84 Springstead at NW 2nd St. Summary………………………………………………………… 88 Three Lakes Creek Summary ………………………………………………………………… 92

Paynes Prairie Watershed Boulware Spring Run Summary………………………………………………………………. 96 Calf Pond Creek Summary ……………………………………………………………………. 100 East Tumblin’ Creek Summary ………………………………………………………………. 104 Rosewood Branch Summary …………………………………………………………………. 108 Sweetwater Branch at Landfill Summary…………………………………………………….. 112 Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street Summary……………………………………………… 116 Sweetwater Branch at ACP Sweetwater Preserve Summary……………………………… 120 Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie Summary …………………………………………… 124 Sweetwater Branch Duckpond at NE 7th Ave. Summary ………………………………….. 128 Still Branch Summary………………………………………………………………………….. 132 Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. Summary…………………………………………………… 136 Tumblin Creek West of US 441 in the wooded area Summary……………………………. 140

Newnans Lake and Lochloosa Lake Watershed Bee Tree Creek Summary………………………………………………………………………144 Hatchet Creek at CR 225 Summary ………………………………………………………….. 148 Hatchet Creek at Sinkhole Summary ………………………………………………………… 153 Lake Forest Creek at 329B Summary………………………………………………………… 157 Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Summary…………………………………………………161 Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. Summary………………………………………………… 165 Little Hatchet Cr. at Airport Summary………………………………………………………… 169 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. Summary ……………………………………………. 173 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave. Summary ……………………………………………. 177 Lochloosa Creek Summary……………………………………………………………………. 181

Santa Fe River and Stream-to-sink Watersheds Blues Creek Summary ………………………………………………………..…………………… 186 Cellon Creek Summary ……………………………………………………………………………. 190 Hornsby Spring Run Summary …………………………………………………………………... 194 Mill Creek Summary……………………………………………………………………………. 198 Pareners Branch Summary……………………………………………………………………. 202 Poe Spring Run Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 206 Turkey Creek Summary…………………………………………………………………………210

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Appendices A Macroinvertebrates Identified in the BioReconnaissance

A1 Hogtown Creek Watershed, 2008-2010 A2 Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch, 2008-2010 A3 Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek, 2008-2010 A4 Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink Watersheds, 2008-2010

B Macroinvertebrate 6-Metric Taxa Stream BioReconnaissance B1 Hogtown Creek Watershed 2008-2010 B2 Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch, 2008-2010 B3 Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek, 2008-2010 B4 Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink Watersheds, 2008-2010

C Macroinvertebrate Results by Watershed C1 Artificial Substrate Results: Macroinvertebrate Data by Station C2 Macroinvertebrate Results: Raw Data Report C3 Macroinvertebrate Results: Clinger Taxa C4 Macroinvertebrate Results: Long-lived Taxa C5 Macroinvertebrate Results: Sensitive Taxa C6 Macroinvertebrate Results: Very Tolerant Taxa C7 Macroinvertebrate Results: Suspension Feeder Taxa

D Hogtown Creek Watershed Field Sheets and Score Calculators Beville Creek Elizabeth Creek Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Ave Millhopper Creek Monterrey Creek Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. Rattlesnake Creek Ridgeview Creek Springstead Creek at NW 2nd St. Springstead Creek West of US 441 Three Lakes Creek

E Paynes Prairie Watershed Field Sheets and Score Calculators Boulware Spring Run Calf Pond Creek East Tumblin Creek at Bivens Arm Nature Park Rosewood Branch near SE 7th Ave. and SE 10th Terr. Still Branch Sweetwater Branch upstream of the Duckpond at NW 7th Ave. Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street Sweetwater Branch at the Landfill Sweetwater Branch at Sweetwater ACF Preserve Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. Tumblin Creek west of US 441 in the wooded area

F Newnans and Lochloosa Lake Watershed Field Sheets and Score Calculators Bee Tree Creek Hatchet Creek at CR 225 Hatchet Creek at Sinkhole Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. Lake Forest Creek at 329B Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. Little Hatchet Creek at NW 39th Ave.

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Little Hatchet Creek at Airport Lochloosa Creek

G Santa Fe River and Stream-to-sink Watersheds Field Sheets and Score Calculators Blues Creek Cellon Creek Hornsby Spring Run Mill Creek Pareners Branch Poe Spring Run Turkey Creek

Page 1

Stream BioReconnaissance

Report

2008-2010

Prepared for: Alachua County

Environmental Protection Department by:

Water & Air Research, Inc.

Introduction

Alachua County is located in north central

Florida. In this area of Florida, water

drains from a central ridge north and west

toward the Suwannee River and south and

east toward the St. Johns River.

Gainesville is the largest urban area, over

50 square miles, in Alachua County and

the influences of development, water

quality degradation and increased

stormwater flows, can be observed

throughout the city. Numerous creeks

carry the water through a variety of

ecological communities and land use

types that are influenced by differences in

topography and geology. The Alachua

County Environmental Protection

Department (ACEPD) has collected water

quality data on many creeks since the

early 1970’s, and began routinely

collecting in-stream biological data in

1996.

Hogtown Creek on Hogtown Prairie upstream of

Haile Sink.

The Florida Department of Environmental

Protection (FDEP) developed a rapid

bioassessment method (BioRecon) (FDEP

2002) which uses the presence or

absence of various species of

macroinvertebrates in a creek to assess its

overall health. This includes a sampling of

the bugs, or benthic macroinvertebrates,

that live in and on the water and in the

sediments. A habitat assessment of the

stream segment is also included (Barbour

and Stribling 1994, Barbour et al. 1996).

which This assessment evaluates habitat

quality for macroinvertebrates on the sides

of the stream, referred to as the “riparian

buffer zone,” along the banks, and “in-

stream” within the streambed. Field

chemical constituents (i.e. dissolved

oxygen) of the creek are measured,

physical habitat characteristics are

observed, stream velocity is estimated,

and the land use in the watershed draining

to the creek is assessed. In 2008-2010,

ACEPD used the BioRecon to assess the

water and habitat quality of the county’s

creeks.

The Isopod Caecidotea, about 8 mm long, is found

in Alachua County streams and is a sensitive

organism.

Benthic macroinvertebrates are organisms

that are large enough to see with the

naked eye and include clams, snails,

aquatic worms, aquatic insects, and

crustaceans. Many prefer specific types of

water quality and habitat characteristics.

For instance, many of the mayfly and

caddisfly species require high levels of

dissolved oxygen and flowing water, while

other macroinvertebrates are tolerant of

low dissolved oxygen and contamination

by sewage.

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By looking at the communities of benthic

macroinvertebrates in each creek, we gain

information about the water environment

and the effects of the surrounding habitat.

If a community is unbalanced, with very

few types of organisms, it is a warning, like

a canary in a coalmine, that the

environment is unhealthy.

Purpose

The ACEPD sponsored a study of creeks

(or streams) in the county from the years

2000 to 2004 in an effort to understand

their biological health. This was the first

study using a systematic method, and

gave the ACEPD baseline data which

could be used in the future to determine if

the health of the creeks was improving,

declining or remaining stable.

The current study began in 2008,

repeating the same procedure used

previously at several of the same locations

so that the new data could be compared

with that collected in 2000-2004. Some

stations were added which had not been

sampled before and those results are also

included. This study was supported by the

Gainesville Clean Water Partnership, a

collaboration of agencies including the City

of Gainesville, the Alachua County Public

Works Department, the Florida

Department of Transportation (which

helped with funding) and the Alachua

County Environmental Protection

Department. Alachua County Watershed

Action Volunteers, funded by the

Gainesville Clean Water Partnership, the

Alachua County Environmental Protection

Department, and the St. Johns River

Water Management District assisted with

the field assessments.

Planners and scientists may use this

information when making decisions in

regard to improving impaired waters and

protecting and preserving existing water

bodies. Bioassessments may be used to

comply with FDEP water quality

standards.

Results may help water quality experts

and engineers decide whether action is

needed in the surrounding watershed to

improve the water quality and the

macroinvertebrate community. Habitat

Assessment and BioRecon data may be

used to address the question “What

factors most affect the quality of the creek

communities in Alachua County?” The

data may also raise questions that can be

used to guide future research.

Basin Descriptions

Alachua County covers an area of

approximately 961 square miles in north-

central peninsular Florida. There are two

major surface water basins in Alachua

County: the Orange Creek Basin (OCB) in

central and southeastern area of the

county and the Santa River Basin in the

north (Figure 1). The OCB covers

approximately 425 square miles in

Alachua County and is part of the larger

Ocklawaha basin and the greater St.

Johns River watershed. Streams are

concentrated in the eastern and northern

portions of Alachua County. The western

part of Alachua County is generally devoid

of streams due to absence of the

Hawthorn Group formations. In this area of

Alachua County the karst geology

dominates and even the Santa Fe River

flows underground.

The creeks assessed as part of this study

were concentrated in the Gainesville urban

area. The creeks can be grouped by

watershed and include: (1) Hogtown and

Possum creeks in the Hogtown Creek

Watershed; (2) Tumblin Creek,

Sweetwater Branch and Calf Pond Creek

in the Paynes Prairie Watershed; (3) Lake

Forest, Hatchet, and Little Hatchet creeks

in the Newnans Lake Watershed; and (4)

the Santa Fe River tributaries and closed

or stream-to-sink watersheds in the

northern portion of Alachua County.

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Poe Springs shown flowing into the Santa Fe River

Site locations

Site locations are described by their

proximity to landmarks such as street

crossings and also by their corresponding

global positioning system (GPS) points

(Table 1). Figures 1 - 5 show the

BioRecon station locations. Figure 1

shows the Santa Fe River Basin in the

northern portion of the county and the

Orange Creek Basin covering most of the

southeastern part of the county. All of the

BioRecon sampling stations are shown on

this map.

Figure 2 shows the Hogtown Creek

Watershed and sampling locations. The

water from these streams flows generally

southwest into a sinkhole called Haile

Sink. The Paynes Prairie Watershed is

shown in Figure 3 with the sampling

locations identified. Still Branch (inset), a

wetland stream near Paynes Prairie, is

included with the Paynes Prairie

Watershed due to its proximity. The

streams assessed in the Paynes Prairie

Watershed flow into Alachua Sink on the

prairie. Figure 4 is comprised of the

Newnans Lake Watershed and the

Lochloosa Creek Watershed. Finally,

Figure 5 shows the Santa Fe River

Watershed and the Stream-to-Sink

watersheds in the region. These maps

show the deployment locations of artificial

substrate (Hester-Dendy) samplers, also a

part of this project.

Methodology

The BioRecons were performed using

FDEP Standard Operating Procedures

(DEP-SOP-001/01, FT 3000, FS 7300,

and LT 7100). First, a 100-meter section of

the creek was identified as representative

of that creek, or in the case of long creeks,

several sections were identified. The 100-

meter segment of the creek was assessed

for physical and chemical characteristics,

productive habitat for macroinvertebrates,

and finally sampled for benthic organisms.

These procedures are explained in greater

detail below.

Samplers are measuring a 100 meter reach on

Cellon Creek.

Physical/Chemical Characterization

A Physical/Chemical Characterization

Field Sheet (Form FD 9000-3) was

completed which included water velocity,

pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), specific

conductivity, and temperature (Table 2).

Readings were taken with a YSI multi-

parameter meter. An electronic version of

each Physical/Chemical Data Sheet is

included for each station in Appendices D,

E, F, and G.

Land use in the watershed upstream of the

site was estimated from digitized GIS data

from the water management district. The

relative amount of natural, silvicultural,

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agricultural, residential, commercial, and

industrial land use categories that drain

upstream into each creek site was

estimated and noted as percentages of

land area (Table 3). The average percent

land use area upstream of all creek sites

within a watershed were also estimated

(Table 4).This data was compiled

separately from the field sampling and is

not entered on the field sheets.

Habitat Sketch

A Stream/River Habitat Sketch Sheet (FD

9000-4) is a map of the creek bottom,

showing the width of the creek and the

location and amount of various habitat

types for benthic macroinvertebrates.

These habitats include roots, leaf packs,

submerged logs, rocks, and submerged

plants. Plant communities, pools,

sinuosity, habitat smothering, bank

stability, and current velocity were noted.

The Habitat Sketch is included for each

station in Appendices D-G.

Habitat Assessment Sheet

The Stream/River Habitat Assessment

Field Sheet (FD 9000-5) was completed

during the site visit (Table 5). Habitat

diversity and amount of habitat available

were scored. Also, water velocity and

habitat smothering by silt or sand were

scored, and a primary score for that

section was totaled.

A sampler measures water depth and evaluates

sand smothering during a habitat assessment.

Next, channelization, bank stability, and

the amount and quality of the vegetation

on each side of the creek were scored. A

secondary score was totaled and both

primary and secondary scores were added

for a total habitat assessment score.

A score of zero to 43 points represents

poor habitat, 44 - 80 points is considered

marginal, 81- 123 points is a suboptimal

rating, and a score of 124 – 160 points is

considered optimal habitat. The highest

possible score for a habitat assessment is

160 points. An electronic version of the

Habitat Assessment Sheet is included in

Appendices D-G for each station.

Macroinvertebrate Sampling

The most productive habitats (i.e.

rock/shell rubble, snags, leaf packs,

aerobic leaf mats, and fine submerged

roots) were sampled using a 600 micron d-

frame dipnet. Four 1/2-meter sweeps of

the net were taken in the different types of

habitat. The debris containing the

organisms were placed in 2-liter

containers with creek water and picked

and sorted on site. A BioRecon Field

Sheet (FD 9000-1) which was modified to

target organisms found in Alachua County

was completed.

Field identifications were verified in the

laboratory using dissecting and compound

microscopes. The References section

includes the taxonomic references used to

determine the identities of the

macroinvertebrates found in the BioRecon

sampling. Some sensitive organisms were

sent off for verification by experts.

BioRecon Scoring

The FDEP has changed its scoring

methods for the BioRecon since the first

round of sampling events based on

statistical analysis (Fore, L. 2004, Fore, L.

et al. 2007) and collaboration of benthic

ecologists (FDEP 2006). However, the

collection method has not changed.

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Therefore, the previous data may be re-

interpreted using the most recent scoring

methods, and the recent sampling events

may also be analyzed using the previous

scoring methods. Both were utilized in the

analysis of these creeks (Tables 6a & b).

Three Metric Method

The previous method of BioRecon

determination was based on three metrics:

1) The total number of unique organisms

or taxa.

2) Those within a group defined as

sensitive to pollution, called the Florida

Index (Beck, 1955, 1964), given 1 or 2

points according to the index.

3) The number of taxa within the insect

orders of mayfly (Ephemeroptera), stonefly

(Plecoptera), or caddisfly (Trichoptera),

called EPT.

The results of the biometrics (total number

of unique taxa, Florida Index, and EPT

Index) determined whether the creeks

were designated as Healthy, Suspect, or

Impaired.

Six Metric Method

The latest FDEP method of BioRecon

determination is based on six metrics

found to be correlated with human

disturbance (Brown, and Vivas. 2004.,

Fore, L. 2004, Fore, L. et al. 2007).

1) The total number of unique organisms

or taxa.

2) Number of Ephemeroptera (Mayfly)

Taxa (sensitive to human disturbance,

heavy metals).

3) Number of Trichoptera (Caddisfly) Taxa

(sensitive to human disturbance, flow

disturbance).

4) Number of Long-lived Taxa (require one

year to complete life cycle).

5) Number of Clinger Taxa (requiring

stable flow, sensitive to alterations in flow).

6) Number of Sensitive Taxa (sensitive to

pollution).

Lists of these taxa may be found in the

FDEP SOP LT 7000. Lists of those groups

of taxa found in the study are listed in

Appendix B, and raw counts are found in

Appendices C2-C7. The results determine

whether the creeks score as Exceptional,

Healthy, or Impaired.

A common crayfish, Procambarus, is a long-lived

organism. These can reach over 10 cm. in length,

depending on the species.

The final BioRecon score is regionally

adjusted and normalized to a range from 0

to 10 points. Scores of 6 to 10 are

“exceptional,” scores from 4 to 6 are

considered “healthy,” and scores of 3 and

below indicate impairment.

Artificial Substrate Methodology

Artificial substrates (Hester-Dendy

samplers) are a method used to measure

biodiversity by providing a quantitative

method of analysis for Biological Integrity

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Criterion. Hester-Dendy analysis of

Alachua County streams was conducted in

1996 and again in 2000. The 2009 study is

repeated at some of these locations.

Three Hester-Dendy (masonite multi-disk)

samplers were attached to a concrete

block for each of the six locations (Table

1) on September 30, 2008. Guidelines

found in FDEP SOP FS 7430 were used.

Hester-Dendy artificial substrate samplers.

The samplers were left in the streams for

28 days. During this time, benthic

macroinvertebrates climbed onto the

samplers and lived between the plates,

some forming cases, filtering food debris

passing by, and scraping and eating

periphyton and other algae and diatoms

that may grow on the sampler. Predatory

insects find this a wonderful opportunity to

get a meal, as well. The samplers were

collected on October 28, 2008 in good

condition at all locations, except at

Tumblin Creek, where the samplers were

partially sand-smothered, but still

populated, at Springstead Creek, where

they were completely buried, and Possum

Creek, due to apparent removal by City of

Gainesville personnel while dredging the

channel.

Samplers were re-deployed in February at

Possum Creek in the same location and at

Springstead Creek, a little farther

downstream, west of US 441. The Possum

Creek sampler was collected in March in

good condition, but the Springstead Creek

sampler was again buried and re-

deployed. It was successfully recovered in

April 2009. All Samples were processed

by Water & Air Research, Inc.

The Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index

(SWDI), Pielou’s Evenness, and Florida

Index (FI) results are provided in Table 7

to compare data previously collected in

1996 and 2000 with that collected in 2008-

2009.

Explanation of Indices

Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index

The SWDI is determined by two

components, the degree of evenness in

the distribution between species (or

distinct taxonomic groups) and the number

of species (or distinct taxonomic groups).

Values generally range from 0 to 5, with

the highest values occurring where the

taxa richness and evenness are high. The

equation is as follows:

Values of: 3-5 indicate clean water

conditions, 0-2 are characteristic of

stressed waters.

The index can be skewed by naturally

occurring patchy distribution. The

presence (or absence) of sensitive species

Page 7

is important in assessing the significance

of SWDI as a water quality indicator.

(APHA. 1995d; Barbour et al. 1996).

Pielou’s Evenness

Pielou’s Evenness (Pielou 1966) is

calculated using the number of taxa per

sample, abundance (total number of

organisms/sample), and SWDI.

Pielou’s Evenness was calculated using

the following equation:

Values range between 0 and 1. A value of

1 denotes that all taxa are represented by

an equal number of individuals (the closer

a value is to 1, the better the distribution).

Florida Index

The Florida index (or Beck’s index) was

specifically designed for use in Florida

freshwater streams and rivers, especially

with reference to the impact of organic

pollution on community composition. Class

1 organisms are “sensitive or intolerant to

pollution”; Class 2 organisms are

“facultative” and, thus, can tolerate varied

conditions, perhaps including moderate

levels of pollution. A high value indicates

presence of a large number of pollution

sensitive organisms. The index is

calculated as follows:

2*(number of Class I Organisms) +

(number of Class II Organisms) = Biotic

Index

0-2 = gross pollution

3-5 = moderate pollution,

6-9 = clean but poor habitat and

10 and above is clean

Results and Discussion

Land Use

The land use in the watershed draining to

each location is listed in Table 3. The

percentage land use was estimated using

2004 land use maps from the water

management districts. The land use has

become increasingly developed, so some

of the natural land area may be over-

estimated. The results of an earlier

BioRecon study (Water & Air Research,

Inc., 2004) not surprisingly showed that

healthy results correlated to natural land

and natural buffers, whereas impaired

results correlated to large amounts of high

density residential or commercial land

uses, high in impervious surface which

historically drained into the creeks.

Information on each station may be found

in the BioRecon Summaries.

Three Lakes Creek flows into Hogtown Creek in a

northwest Gainesville residential area.

In Hogtown Creek Watershed all of the

stations had at least 50% residential land

use and all but two had at least 5% natural

land. Those with no natural land in the

watershed were found to have an impaired

BioRecon result. Many factors affect the

aquatic organisms in a stream but some

natural land in proximity to the stream

seems to be critical for a healthy system.

Several urban streams that were built

many years ago in old, downtown

Gainesville flow into Paynes Prairie and

Page 8

Alachua Sink. The headwaters of the

streams today can be found underground

in culverts flowing beneath roads and

sidewalks or in open channelized or

ditched sections of the creek. Sweetwater

Branch, Rosewood Creek and Tumblin

Creek have received stormwater and have

been depositories for garbage since the

early 1900's. These typically have mainly

residential and commercial land uses in

their sub-basins.

Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. is in a watershed

dominated by residential and commercial land use.

Boulware Spring Run, an early source of

water and recreation in Alachua County,

was channelized as it flowed through the

neighborhood at the sampling station. Calf

Pond Creek suffers from occasional

drought, and the aquatic life must be able

to respond to desiccation.

Still Branch was lumped into this group

due to its proximity to Paynes Prairie, but

has its own sub-basin which has mainly

natural land and pine plantations.

Newnans and Lochloosa Lake

Watersheds have natural land and

silviculture as the prevalent land uses. The

Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink

Watersheds all have a fair amount of

natural land and more agriculture and

pasture land than the other watersheds.

Physical/Chemical Data

Physical/Chemical Data are shown in

Table 2. Physical and Chemical Data may

vary with time of year, rainfall, and

temperature. To have comparable results

from one sampling event to another, it is

advisable to sample under similar

conditions each time. This is not always

possible due to time and budget

constraints, unexpected storms, drought,

or other unforeseen circumstances.

However, it is a goal to strive for in order

to have comparable data. The 2008 - 2010

readings were taken with a YSI QS multi-

parameter meter which had been

calibrated and checked the morning of

each sampling event.

Increases in water temperature can result

from stormwater running off of hot

pavement directly into creeks. If the water

is directed to a stormwater pond which

then flows into a creek, it may help keep

the temperature lower if the pond is

shaded. Shading the creek itself also can

keep the water temperatures lower.

Temperatures in this study ranged from

8.19 degrees Celsius on a December day

at Hatchet Creek to 24.57 degrees Celsius

taken at Sweetwater Branch in

September.

Cold water can retain more dissolved

oxygen (DO) than warmer water.

Unfortunately, the need for DO increases

as temperature increases. This occurs

because metabolic rate for cold-blooded

animals increases with temperature.

Therefore, if temperatures are very high,

DO drops, while the need increases. This

is why fish kills often happen in the hot

summer months. Many aquatic insects are

sensitive to low DO as well, and may die

off if the water is too warm and does not

Page 9

retain much dissolved oxygen. Good

current velocity helps to oxygenate the

water by creating more contact with the

oxygen in the air. In streams where the

velocity is very low, the water is more

likely to have low DO levels as well.

Specific conductivity measures the amount

of ions in the water available to conduct an

electric current. Groundwater in Florida

from deep limestone aquifers will have

relatively higher specific conductivity

values due to dissolved calcium and

magnesium ions in the water, usually

about 400-500 S/cm. A recent rainfall

event will often lower the specific

conductivity due to the lack of dissolved

ions in rainwater.

The pH of water indicates how acidic or

alkaline it is. A pH of 7.0 standard units

(SU) is neutral, and the lower the number

below 7.0, the more acidic it is. The higher

the number above 7.0, the more alkaline it

is. Rainwater tends to have a lower pH,

sometimes very low when air pollutants

can produce "acid rain", whereas ground

water tends to have a neutral or higher pH,

due to the dissolved limestone

underground which offers buffering to any

acid in the water.

In the Hogtown Creek Watershed, the

creeks all had values on temperature,

dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity,

and pH that are within the normal ranges

(FDEP 2010) with two exceptions.

Elizabeth Creek and Three Lakes Creek

(in 2001) had dissolved oxygen levels

below the state standard of 5 mg/L. Those

stations also had impaired BioRecon

results at that time.

In the Paynes Prairie Watershed a low DO

reading (4.36 mg/L) was taken at

Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th

Ave. The

water there was slightly turbid and tan

colored and the flow was low where the

readings were taken, which may have

influenced the dissolved oxygen reading.

Still Branch which has its own sub-basin

separate from Paynes Prairie, had a very

low DO reading of 2.0 mg/L, but this is a

very natural wetland stream barely flowing,

and one would expect low DO readings in

a wetland, measured on a hot day in

September.

The specific conductivity at Sweetwater

Branch at Sweetwater Preserve which is

downstream of the Gainesville Regional

Utilities (GRU) Main Street Wastewater

Treatment Facility (WWTF) was 1330

S/cm, more than twice the measurement

upstream of the WWTF at Sweetwater

Branch at the Landfill Site, where the

specific conductivity reading was 602

S/cm measured the same day. This

specific conductivity, 1330 S/cm, is in

violation of the Florida Administrative

Code for a Class III water criteria of

greater than 50% above background or

1275 S/cm, whichever is greater, (FDEP

2010). In contrast, Still Branch, a wetland

stream fed by rainwater, had a specific

conductivity Sp C reading of 70 S/cm.

Still Branch, fed by rainwater, has a low specific

conductivity.

All of the streams in the watershed had a

pH with normal ranges, the lowest being

Still Branch (5.08 SU) which had no

limestone in it to offer buffering to the

rainwater which feeds the creek.

In the Newnans Lake Watershed the

dissolved oxygen was low at Bee Tree

Creek. This creek was very dark tannic

with very little flow except in a small

Page 10

segment which was not where the meter

readings were taken. Often, blackwater

streams have naturally occurring low

dissolved oxygen level particularly when

the current velocity is also low. The same

was true for Hatchet Creek in 2001, as

again, the meter readings were not taken

where the current velocity was higher,

which would have resulted in a higher

dissolved oxygen level. Lake Forest Creek

at 329B had a pH level of 3.81 where it

probably indicates that the main source of

the water is rainfall, and the tannic acid

from decomposing leaves reduces the pH,

as well. Groundwater contains dissolved

minerals such as calcium and magnesium

ions which raise specific conductivity and

keep pH levels in a moderate range.

Hornsby Spring Run is fed mainly by groundwater

which buffers the pH. The spring has naturally low

dissolved oxygen and high specific conductivity.

In the Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink

Basins, Hornsby and Poe Springs have

very low dissolved oxygen because the

water is coming directly from underground

and has not had the opportunity to

become oxygenated. These very low DO

readings have a negative impact on the

macroinvertebrates trying to survive,

leaving only those tolerant of low DO

levels or those who can cling to aquatic

vegetation while the plants produce

oxygen during photosynthesis. In addition

to the low DO levels in the springs, an

excess of nutrients settling into the

groundwater has produced an increase in

algae which smothers the underwater

aquatic plants and other surfaces where

macroinvertebrates normally live. If the

velocity is low and the temperature high as

in the 2009 Pareners Branch event (2.58

mg/L), the dissolved oxygen is likely to be

low as well.

Hornsby and Poe Springs are fed by

groundwater as is Cellon Creek and have

higher specific conductivities than Mill

Creek (80 S/cm) or Blues Creek

(120 S/cm). The pH levels were normal,

but lowest in Blues Creek at 5.96 SU.

Habitat Assessment Data

Habitat Assessment results may be found

in Table 5. High Habitat Assessment

scores indicate an area that has little

human impact, with low banks, and a flood

plain where the water can flow over the

banks and slowly seep back into the

ground after a storm. A natural stream has

native vegetation which provides habitat

for aquatic organisms both in the stream

itself in the form of roots, leaf packs,

branches (snags), and on the banks as

cover for emerging aquatic insects.

Streams naturally show sinuosity, with

changes in depth and velocity.

Lower scores reflect alterations to the

stream. For example stormwater inputs

can wash away habitat during high flows.

This limits the types and amounts of

substrate for population by

macroinvertebrates. Current velocity

affects the biotic communities as some

require a steady current for survival.

Habitat smothering may be caused by

stormwater inputs washing sediment

downstream and scouring upstream

portions of the stream. Straightening,

widening or deepening of the natural

channel is another alteration measured on

the Habitat Assessment form which may

have a negative impact on the biotic

community. Bank stability is important for

erosion prevention. The vegetation on the

sides of the stream (riparian buffer) may

be altered with clearing of vegetation

which can result in erosion.

Page 11

Plantings of exotic, invasive plants may

negatively impact the macroinvertebrate

community as well. Our native

macroinvertebrates are adapted to natural

areas with native plants for cover, shade,

and providing leaf litter, roots, plants, and

snags for habitat.

In Hogtown Creek Watershed the site

Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink received the

highest habitat assessment score (141).

The sink is downstream of a prairie

floodplain which is fairly natural. Elizabeth

Creek, close to the UF campus had the

lowest, with only 75 points.

Elizabeth Creek in Hogtown Creek Basin located

near the UF campus had very low Habitat

Assessment and BioRecon scores.

In the Paynes Prairie group, Still Branch

located in Barr Hammock Preserve

received the highest score. Boulware

Spring Run and Tumblin Creek (in the

wooded area before it flows into Bivens

Arm) scored better than the other

urbanized stream segments higher in the

watershed.

Newnans Lake and Lochloosa Lake

Watersheds had three high-scoring

stations including Hatchet Creek Sink in

the Austin Carey Flatwoods Preserve,

Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Rd., and

Lake Forest Creek at 329B (University

Ave. near Newnans Lake). Lake Forest

Creek at Morningside (north of SR 26) was

channelized and had the lowest score for

the watershed.

The Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink

Watershed habitat assessment scores

were moderate as they all have fairly

natural watersheds except for the Turkey

Creek station in Turkey Creek Subdivision.

However, Hornsby Springs and to a lesser

extent Poe Springs had a significant drop

in score mainly due to a decrease in

habitat availability. Hornsby also suffered

from low flow and flocculent sediments

smothering the habitat.

BioRecon Data

BioRecon Data Results are shown in Tables 6a and 6b. The numeric scores

and interpretations are listed for the 6-

metric analysis method (LT 7100-1) in

Table 6a, which is used currently by

FDEP, and for the 3-metric analysis

method in Table 6b, which was used prior

to 2005. The tables show the sample

results from 2000-2004 to compare with

results from this study, 2008-2010. For

more information on each individual

station, please read the BioRecon

Summary for that station.

In the Hogtown Creek Watershed, most of

the creeks had scores very similar to the

scores they received in the earlier study

(within 1 point). There were improvements

in the scores at Hogtown Creek at 29th

Road and at Three Lakes Creek on Glen

Springs Road. The score was lower at

Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink than

previously. Beville Creek, Monterrey

Creek, and Rattlesnake Creek were the

only stations that showed consistency in

impairment for both sampling events.

Elizabeth Creek, which was sampled for

the first time in 2008, was also impaired.

In the Paynes Prairie Watershed all of the

creeks showed impairment except one.

The only station with a score that

improved was Sweetwater Branch in

Paynes Prairie, which was located away

Page 12

from the urban area. The stations in the

older, highly urbanized part of Gainesville

receive large amounts of untreated runoff

during rain events, and act as conduits for

unwanted stormwater rather than as

natural creeks. High water levels and

velocities under stormflow conditions

disturb and smother the in-stream habitat.

Under these circumstances, it is difficult to

have a healthy natural biological

community. Still Branch does not flow

regularly, nor does Calf Pond Creek.

Boulware Spring run is channelized and

suburban with little natural buffer at the

sampling station.

The Newnans Lake Watershed contained

the healthiest creek, Hatchet Creek at CR

225, and at the sink in Austin Carey

Flatwoods Preserve north of the

Gainesville Airport where the entire creek

disappears underground during times of

low flow. This creek had the highest

possible score of 10 giving it a rating of

Exceptional; the only score of that rank of

all creeks sampled in the entire county.

Hatchet Creek at CR 225 had an exceptional

BioRecon score.

Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Nature

Center showed consistent impairment, but

the creek improves farther downstream at

SW 43rd

Street as it picks up flow and then

at 329B near Newnans Lake. Little

Hatchet Creek has different branches

which eventually join. The branch at NE

53rd

Avenue improved from 2002 to 2009,

where the score went from a 2 to a 5.

However, the branch at NE 39th

Avenue

which was sampled for the first time in

2010 showed impairment. Little Hatchet at

the power line downstream from the

airport industrial complex and downstream

from the other stations scored a healthy 6

points.

In the Santa Fe and Stream-to-Sink

Basins the creek that scored the highest

(6) for the six-metric analysis was Cellon

Creek. Mill Creek, Pareners Branch, and

Blues Creek had a Healthy score of 5 for

at least one sampling event. Hornsby

Spring Run, Poe Spring Run, and Turkey

Creek (in the Turkey Creek Subdivision)

had the lowest score of 1 during one

sampling event. Turkey Creek showed

significant improvement from 2003 to

2009. Water quality may have improved

over the years as the conditions in the

neighborhood stabilized with no new

development.

Poe and Hornsby Springs naturally have

low dissolved oxygen as they are coming

up from underground. The water needs to

travel from the spring for a ways to pick up

dissolved oxygen, so they cannot be

compared to other streams fairly until they

have sufficient dissolved oxygen, which

did not occur at these sampling events

due to either the short length of the spring

run as in the case of Poe Springs or poor

flow conditions, as in Hornsby Springs.

The springs are also hindered by nutrients

in the water causing algae to smother the

surfaces of the plants and bottom.

Drought conditions over an extended

period of time may have a detrimental

effect on benthic macroinvertebrates in

Page 13

even the best natural areas. The sampling

protocol requires at least 90 days of

flowing water at a station before sampling

occurs. However, even after 90 days, if

there has been a long period of drought

preceding the 90 days, long-lived taxa and

those requiring good continual flow may

not have enough time to repopulate the

stream as it would have been if there had

been no drought.

BioRecon Summaries

The BioRecon Summaries contain more

information about each station, including

physical and chemical data, habitat

assessment results, a plant list, some

photographs of the stream and

macroinvertebrates, and a detailed table of

the species found. The species list

contains notations of those which belong

to each metric for the 6-metric BioRecon

analysis method and for the 3-metric

BioRecon analysis method. The summary

also compares any previous data collected

in 2000-2004 with the data collected in this

study.

Appendices

Lists of macroinvertebrate species,

including Ephemeroptera (mayfly) and

Trichoptera (caddisfly) Taxa, are given in

Appendix A. They are also found for each

stream in the BioRecon Summaries. The

protocol asks for a range of individuals

found, and the word Present represents 1-

3 individuals, the word Common

represents 4-10 individuals, the word

Abundant 11-100 individuals, and the word

Dominant over 100 individuals. More

details about each stream and the related

scores follow in the individual stream

BioRecon Summaries.

Appendix B identifies the benthic

macroinvertebrates found at each station

by metric used in the BioRecon scoring

system. Clinger Taxa are those species

that need to have a good current velocity.

Long-lived Taxa are those species that live

a year or more in the water. Sensitive

Taxa are those species found to be

sensitive to pollutants. Also included are

lists of Very Tolerant Taxa, which can

tolerate organic pollution such as sewage

discharges, and Suspension Feeders

which filter their food such as sponges,

clams, and insects such as black fly

larvae. These two metrics are not used in

the BioRecon, but may offer some insight

into the aquatic population.

The snail Haitia cubensis is tolerant of poor stream

conditions. It typically grows to about 8 mm long.

Appendix C shows the Artificial Substrate

macroinvertebrate raw data, BioRecon raw

data, and the metric data. Appendices D-G

contain the field sheets for the

Physical/Chemical evaluation, the Habitat

Assessment sheet, and the Stream Sketch

showing the amounts of various in-stream

habitats. The BioRecon Score Calculators

developed by Water & Air Research, Inc.

based on FDEP scoring formulas are also

included for each sampling event. These

Page 14

are used to calculate the FDEP 6-metric

BioRecon score.

Artificial Substrate Sampling Results

The Hester-Dendy sampling results are

shown in Tables 7 and 8. The database

printout of the analysis may be found in

Appendix C1. In general, the results

indicate that the stations are either

improving or staying about the same. The

time of year the sampling takes place can

influence the results. High temperatures

reduce the amount of dissolved oxygen in

the water which stresses the

macroinvertebrate population.

The 1996 samples were collected in

September, and the 2000 samples were

collected in June. The 2008-2009 samples

were collected in October through March.

The SWDI values (Table 7) fell into the

range indicating clean water conditions for

all stations. The lowest score was for Little

Hatchet near the Airport Industrial Park.

The best score was for Springstead Creek

west of US 441 with Hogtown at SW 20th

Avenue a close second.

This immature form of the clam Corbicula, the Asian

clam, is a suspension (filter) feeder found in

Alachua County streams. It can grow to about 2 cm

long, typically, and is eaten by raccoons.

Pielou’s Evenness scores had roughly the

same results with values closer to 1 than

to 0, showing a good distribution of

species. Again, the lowest score was for

Little Hatchet near the Airport Industrial

Park. The best score was for Springstead

Creek west of US 441 and again Hogtown

at SW20th Avenue in second place.

Tumblin Creek had the worst Florida Index

score but within the range of “clean, but

poor habitat.” The other stations scored

well into the “clean” range. Again,

Hogtown at SW 20th

Avenue and

Springstead Creek had the highest scores.

Table 8 was compiled to look at organism

densities of mayflies (Ephemeroptera)

which are generally good indicators of

water quality, and midge larvae

(Chironomidae) many of which can

tolerate poor conditions. Little Hatchet

Creek had a density of over 1,000 mayflies

per square meter, compared to numbers

from 0 to less than 100 at other stations.

Midge larvae density was well over 1,500

per square meter in Hogtown, Sweetwater,

and Possum creeks.

Summary and

Recommendations Continued monitoring of the Alachua

County streams using bioassessments

may help to document the effectiveness of

best management practices and to guide

future scientists, planners and engineers

toward solutions. Habitat assessment and

BioRecon results for individual sites can

effectively target specific restoration

activities needed for a particular site. A

regular schedule of BioRecon monitoring

and reporting, such as every five years,

will keep local governments informed

about the conditions in their waterways.

Creeks and streams have the ability to

recover from disturbance, and these data

may help local governments take the

necessary steps to help Alachua County’s

impaired creeks to recover and to protect

our healthy creeks for future generations

of residents and wildlife.

Page 15

References

APHA. 1995d. Part 10500, Benthic macroinvertebrates. In Standard Methods for the Determination of Water and Wastes, 19th Edition. American Public Health Association, American Water Works Association, and the Water Environment Federation, Washington, D.C., pp. 10-58 - 10-71.

Barbour, M. T., J. Gerritsen, J. S. White. 1996. Development of the Stream Condition

Index (SCI) for Florida. Stormwater and Nonpoint Source Management Section, Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Tallahassee, Florida.

Barbour, M.T. and J.B. Stribling. 1994. A technique for assessing stream habitat

structure. In: Proceedings of Riparian Ecosystems in the Humid U.S.: Functions and Values. U.S. Dept. Agriculture. 15-18 March 1993, Atlanta, GA. 22p.

Brown, Mark T. and Vivas, M. Benjamin. 2004. Landscape Development Intensity Index

(PDF, 359 kb) http://www.floridadep.org/labs/library/index.htm#Reports. FDEP. 2002. Rapid Bioassessment (Biorecon) Method FS 7410. FDEP. 2006. Biological Condition Gradient Workshop, October 24, 2006, FDEP,

Tallahassee, FL. FDEP. 2010. Table: Surface Water Quality Criteria, Surface Water Quality Standards,

Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 62-302, 8-5-10. Fore, L. 2004. Development and Testing of Biomonitoring Tools for Macroinvertebrates

in Florida Streams. The statistical basis for SCI and Biorecon calculation SOPs (.pdf, 475 kb) http://www.floridadep.org/labs/library/index.htm#Reports.

Fore, L. et al. 2007. Development and Testing of Biomonitoring Tools for

Macroinvertebrates in Florida Streams. The statistical basis for SCI and Biorecon calculation SOPs (.pdf, 1.01 MB) http://www.floridadep.org/labs/library/index.htm#Reports.

Pielou, E.C. (1966). The measurement of diversity in different types of biological collections. J. Theor. Biol., 13, 131-144.

Water & Air Research, Inc. 2004. Stream Bioreconnaisance Results, Alachua County, Florida, 2000-2003. Prepared for Alachua County Environmental Protection Department, Gainesville, Florida.

Page 16

Figure 1. BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Station Locations in the Orange Creek and Santa Fe Basins

Page 17

Figure 2. BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Station Locations Hogtown Creek Watershed

Page 18

Figure 3. BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Station Locations Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch

Page 19

Figure 4. BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Station Locations Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek

Page 20

Figure 5. BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Station Locations Santa Fe Basin and Stream-to-Sink Watersheds

Page 21

Table 1. Location Information and GPS Coordinates for BioRecon and Hester-Dendy Sampling 2008-2010

Sample Date Station ID Station Description Latitude Longitude Previous Sample Date

Hogtown Creek Watershed

4/1/2010 Bvlle Beville Creek in Cofrin Nature Park

29.65997 -82.39423 9/11/2003 6/28/2008 Elizbth Elizabeth Creek at NW 7th Road nr. 23rd St.

29.65699 -82.36006 new station

3/10/2009 HogSink Hogtown Creek upstream of Haile Sink

29.62945 -82.41083 3/12/2002 12/6/2008 Hog45 Hogtown Creek north of NW 45th Ave.

29.69591 -82.34500 1/12/2001

12/13/2008 Hog29 Hogtown Creek NW upstream of 29th Rd.

29.67967 -82.34193 2/6/2001 6/14/2008 Millhpr Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way in Foxfire SD

29.69360 -82.38354 5/24/2001

7/12/2008 Montrry Monterrey Creek at NW 44th Dr. nr. NW 33rd Ct.

29.68446 -82.39081 10/25/2002 6/26/2008 Pos53 Possum Creek in Possum Creek Park nr. NW 53rd Ave.

29.70233 -82.38188 11/12/2000

11/22/2008 Pos8Av Possum Creek north of NW 8th Ave.

29.65998 -82.36803 12/ 5/2000 2/26/2010 Rattlsn Rattlesnake Creek upstream of Hogtown Creek

29.66393 -82.35237 4/24/ 2001

6/21/2008 Ridgvw Ridgeview Creek at NW 27th Terr. In Brywood SD

29.66771 -82.36339 6/12/ 2001 1/15/2010 Sprngst Springstead Creek west of US441

29.68517 -82.34021 new station

1/15/2010 Sprstd2 Springstead Creek north of NW 2nd St.

29.68526 -82.326320 6/21/2001 5/29/2008 ThreeLk Three Lakes Creek at Glen Springs Rd. (NW 31s5t Blvd.)

29.68283 -82.37062 5/31/ 2001

Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch

4/17/2009 Boulwr Boulware Spring Run at SE 13th Terr.

29.61648 -82.307870 3/6/2002 4/1/2010 CalfPnd Calf Pond Creek near SE 27th Street

29.63027 -82.29175 new station

3/4/2010 ETumBv East Tumblin’ Creek in Bivens Arm Nature Park

29.62010 -82.33222 new station 12/8/2009 Rosewd Rosewood Branch upstream of SE 9th St. and 9th Pl.

29.64577 -82.31254 new station

9/21/2010 Swblndf Sweetwater Branch at former Landfill

29.63601 -82.32272 new station 9/21/2010 Swbprsv Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve

29.62520 -82.31919 new station

2/10/2009 SwSE4 Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street

29.63807 -82.31797 2/21/ 2001 3/24/2009 Swb331 Sweetwater Branch at SR331 Paynes Prairie

29.62088 -82.32435 5/ 2/2001

12/15/2009 SwDuck Sweetwater Branch NE 7th Ave. north of the Duck Pond

29.65834 -82.32075 new station 9/15/2009 StillBr Still Branch in Barr Hammock Preserve

29.50503 -82.32460 new station

2/16/2010 Tum14 Tumblin Creek upstream of SW 14th Ave.

29.63786 -82.33838 new station 5/12/2009 TumWd Tumblin Creek west of US 441 in the wooded area

29.63056 -82.34278 4/ 7/2000

Page 22

Sample Date Station ID Station Description Latitude Longitude Previous Sample Date

Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek

3/27/2009 BeeTree Bee Tree Creek in Newnans Lake Conservation Area

29.70870 -82.19038 new station 12/1/2009 Hat225 Hatchet Creek at CR 225

29.73462 -82.27620 12/ 4/2001

12/7/2010 HatSink Hatchet Creek at Sink in Austin Carey Forest

29o43'26" 82o13'30" new station 3/17/2009 LFC329 Lake Forest Creek at E. University Ave. (CR 329B)

29.65176 -82.25130 new station

3/4/2010 LFCMrn Lake Forest Creek North of SR 26 at Morningside

29.65543 -82.28388 3/8/ 2001 2/9/2010 LFC43 Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St.

29.64573 -82.27223 4/ 3/2001

2/17/2009 LHTNB Little Hatchet Creek at Airport Industrial Park

29.69086 -82.25581 2/ 6/2003 2/24/2009 LHat53 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave.

29.70250 -82.29555 5/24/ 2001

1/19/2010 LHat39 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave.

29.68657 -82.29191 new station 9/14/2009 Lochlsa Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Road

29.56498 -82.14064 new station

Santa Fe River and Stream-to-Sink Watersheds

4/9/2009 Blues71 Blues Creek at NW 71st St.

29.71533 -82.413833 2/13/2003 4/23/2009 Turkey Turkey Creek at 105th Ave.

29.7512 -82.426816 3/27/2003

4/24/2009 Cellon Cellon Creek West of US 441

29.77 -82.4297 9/18/2003 9/14/2009 MillCr. Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd.

29.845066 -82.501383 10/28/2002

9/16/2009 PrnrsBr Pareners Branch at Mill Creek Preserve North of CR 236

29.88502 -82.50184 4/23/2003 9/17/2009 PoeSpr Poe Spring Run

29.825833 -82.64945 7/19/2001

9/17/2009 Hornsby Hornsby Spring Run

29.85248 -82.59847 8/23/2001

Hester-Dendy Sampling Locations

9/30/2008 HD1 Little Hatchet Creek Airport Industrial Park

29.69086 -82.25581 new station 9/30/2008 HD2 Tumblin Creek west of US 441 in the wooded area

29.63048 -82.34289 6/ 2000

2/17/2009 HD3 Possum Creek at NW 16th Ave.

29.66695 -82.36423 6/ 2000 9/30/2008 HD4 Sweetwater Branch at 331

29.63028 -82.32223 6/ 2000

9/30/2008 HD5 Hogtown Creek at SW 20th Ave.

29.63830 -82.39233 6/1996, 2000 3/17/2009 HD6 Springstead Creek W of US 441

26.68526 -82.34019 9/ 1996

Page 23

Table 2. Physical and Chemical Data for Stream Bioreconnaisance 2008-2010 Station Description Sample

Date Temperature Dissolved Oxygen

Specific Conductivity pH

o Celsius mg/L uS/cm SU Hogtown Creek Watershed Beville Creek at Cofrin Park 4/1/2010 15.05 8.99 224 7.33 Elizabeth Creek at 7th Rd. 6/28/2008 23.37 4.37 276 6.71 Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink 3/10/2009 16.21 8.64 295 6.84 Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. 12/6/2008 14.21 9.13 311 7.53 Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. 12/13/2008 10.65 9.65 272 6.75 Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way 6/14/2008 22.98 5.45 149 6.90 Monterrey Creek at NW 44th Dr. 7/12/2008 25.39 5.06 215 6.39 Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave. 6/26/2008 22.15 7.95 142 7.13 Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. 11/22/2008 8.81 8.20 280 7.31 Rattlesnake Branch at Hogtown Cr. 2/26/2010 9.35 12.12 342 7.54 Ridgeview Creek at NW 27th Terr. 6/21/2008 23.26 8.60 301 7.56 Springstead Creek W of US 441 1/15/2010 11.49 10.13 278 7.59 Springstead Creek at NW 2nd St. 1/15/2010 13.66 9.35 241 7.06 Three Lakes Creek at Glen Sprgs Rd. 5/29/2008 21.09 6.51 314 7.28

Paynes Prairie Watershed and Still Branch

Boulware Spring Run at SE 13th Terr. 4/17/2009 18.82 7.86 515 7.28 Calf Pond Creek W of SE 27th St. 4/1/2010 19.30 8.92 182 7.32 East Tumblin’ Cr. at Bivens Arm Park 3/4/2010 10.80 9.33 266 7.41 Rosewood Creek at SE 9th St. 12/9/2009 17.85 8.88 384 7.82 Still Branch at Barr Hammock Prsrv 9/15/2009 24.06 2.09 70 5.08 Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. 12/15/2009 20.00 4.36 355 7.33 Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th St. 2/10/2009 13.11 9.64 430 6.45 Sweetwater Branch at Landfill 9/21/2010 24.57 7.7 602 7.83 Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve 9/21/2010 25.85 7.34 1330 7.67 Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie 3/24/2009 19.28 7.19 839 7.66 Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. 2/19/2010 12.84 11.26 356 7.85 Tumblin Creek W of US 441 5/12/2009 23.68 6.02 397 7.20

Newnans Lake Watershed and Lochloosa Creek

Bee Tree Creek at NLCA 3/26/2009 18.03 2.03 147 5.76 Hatchet Creek at CR 225 12/1/2009 15.61 7.47 74 6.52 Hatchet Creek at Sink 12/7/2010 8.19 9.63 71 6.98 Lake Forest Creek at 329B 3/17/2009 18.90 9.10 NA 3.81 Lake Forest Cr. at Morningside 3/4/2010 10.93 10.53 225 7.12 Lake Forest Cr. at SE 43rd St. 2/9/2010 12.56 9.00 199 6.96 Little Hatchet Creek at Airport 2/17/2009 12.10 10.49 259 6.86 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave. 1/19/2010 12.43 11.11 274 7.35 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. 2/24/2009 8.82 10.71 301 6.36 Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Rd. 9/14/2009 24.19 6.23 135 7.05

Santa Fe River & Stream-to-Sink Watersheds Blues Creek at NW 71st St. 4/9/2009 15.42 10.30 120 5.96 Cellon Creek at US 441 4/24/2009 17.55 8.84 489 7.47 Hornsby Spring Run 9/17/2009 22.73 0.96 493 7.19 Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. 9/14/2009 24.49 6.99 81 7.14 Pareners Branch at CR 236 9/16/2009 23.80 2.58 406 7.18 Poe Spring Run 9/17/2009 22.53 0.74 442 7.18 Turkey Creek at NW 105th Ave. 4/23/2009 22.12 8.48 274 6.85

Page 24

Table 3. Land Use Percentage Summaries, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010

Percent Land Use in Basin Draining to Creek Site Land Use Categories/SJLU 2004, SRLU 2004

Biorecon Sample Locations % Natural

% % Field/ % % % % Forest Silviculture Pasture Agriculture Residential Commercial Industrial

Hogtown Creek Watershed Beville Creek at Cofrin Park 5.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 90.00 5.00 0.00 Elizabeth Creek at NW 7th Road 4.91 0.00 0.00 0.00 88.50 6.58 0.00 Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. 45.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 40.00 10.00 5.00 Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. 20.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 55.00 20.00 5.00 Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink 40.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 50.00 8.00 0.00 Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way 40.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 50.00 10.00 0.00 Monterrey Creek at NW 44th Dr. 0.00 0.00 5.00 0.00 95.00 0.00 0.00 Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave. 8.00 0.00 15.00 0.00 67.00 7.00 3.00 Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. 15.00 0.00 5.00 0.00 75.00 5.00 0.00 Rattlesnake Creek at Hogtown Creek 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 85.00 15.00 0.00 Ridgeview Creek at NW 26th Way 10.00 0.00 10.00 0.00 80.00 0.00 0.00 Springstead Creek W of US 441 5.00 0.00 5.00 0.00 40.00 30.00 20.00 Springstead Creek at NW 2nd St. 10.05 0.49 0.08 0.16 50.60 36.35 2.27 Three Lakes Creek at Glen Springs Rd. 20.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 80.00 0.00 0.00

Paynes Prairie Watershed Boulware Spring Run at SE 13th Terr. 40.60 0.00 4.30 3.10 37.00 14.20 0.83 Calf Pond Creek W of SE 27th St. 33.96 0.00 7.19 12.04 44.01 2.82 0.00 East Tumblin’ Creek at Bivens Arm Park 34.53 0.00 0.00 0.00 59.00 6.57 0.00 Rosewood Branch at SE 9th St. 1.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 85.91 12.59 0.00 Still Branch at Barr Hammock Preserve 47.63 27.69 17.22 0.00 7.47 0.00 0.00 Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th St. 3.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 60.00 33.00 4.00 Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie 14.00 0.00 2.00 0.00 60.00 20.00 4.00 Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. 13.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 42.23 44.27 0.00 Sweetwater Branch at Landfill 3.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 60.00 33.00 4.00 Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve 14.00 0.00 2.00 0.00 60.00 20.00 4.00 Tumblin Creek W of US 441 10.00 0.00 5.00 0.00 55.00 30.00 0.00

Tumblin' Creek at SW 14th Ave. 5.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 59.61 33.03 2.29

Page 25

Percent Land Use in Basin Draining to Creek Site Land Use Categories/SJLU 2004, SRLU 2004

Biorecon Sample Locations % Natural

% % Field/ % % % %

Forest Silviculture Pasture Agriculture Residential Commercial Industrial

Newnans Lake Watershed Bee Tree Creek at Newnans Lake Conservation Area 34.19 52.27 3.35 2.78 6.70 0.70 0.02 Hatchet Creek CR 225 41.00 50.00 0.00 4.00 5.00 0.00 0.00 Hatchet Creek at Sink 36.00 52.80 4.60 2.20 2.20 1.40 0.70 Lake Forest Creek at Morningside 50.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 10.00 10.00 0.00 Lake Forest Creek SE 43rd St. 53.00 3.00 7.00 12.00 15.00 7.00 3.00 Lake Forest Creek at 329B 60.13 4.19 3.76 0.00 25.50 4.25 2.18 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. 60.00 25.00 0.00 0.00 3.00 0.00 11.00 Little Hatchet Creek at Airport 20.00 20.00 0.00 4.00 22.00 4.00 30.00 Little Hatchet Creek at NW 39th Ave. 17.43 15.63 0.00 0.00 32.56 10.56 23.81 Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Rd. 20.51 60.52 12.32 1.41 3.90 1.34 0.01

Santa Fe River - Stream-to-Sink Watersheds Blues Creek at NW 71st St. 54.27 0.00 8.10 6.23 29.93 0.51 0.94 Cellon Creek at US 441 33.40 2.60 22.70 11.90 11.30 9.30 8.90 Hornsby Spring Run 30.77 9.44 18.50 10.29 14.56 15.54 0.90 Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. 47.87 11.55 4.98 31.50 4.10 0.00 0.00 Pareners Branch at CR 236 70.27 29.73 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Poe Spring Run 23.19 13.90 21.00 5.90 26.89 8.29 0.84 Turkey Creek at NW 105th Ave. 41.73 16.09 9.29 5.47 12.67 5.99 8.77

Page 26

Table 4. Average of Land Use Percentages of Creek Sites by Watershed, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010 Watersheds

Land Use Categories Hogtown Creek Paynes Prairie Newnans Lake Santa Fe River (SJLU 2004, SRLU 2004)

% Natural Forest 15.9 18.4 39.2 43.1

% Silviculture 0 2.3 28.8 11.9

% Field / Pasture 2.9 3.1 4.1 12.1

% Agriculture 0.1 1.3 4.1 10.2

% Residential 67.6 52.5 12.6 14.2

% Commercial 10.9 20.8 3.9 5.7

% Industrial 2.5 1.6 7.1 2.9

Total Number of Creek Sites in Watershed 14 12 10 7

Page 27

Table 5. Habitat Assessment Results, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010

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Beville Creek 2003 13 11 6 11 20 6 6 5 5 7 7 97

2010 17 11 11 10 19 4 4 10 3 5 4 98 Elizabeth Creek 2008 16 8 3 11 13 6 6 2 3 3 4 75 Hogtown Creek Haile Sink 2002 12 12 19 20 20 10 10 9 10 9 10 141

2009 16 20 18 12 20 10 10 10 10 7 7 140 Hogtown Creek NW 45th Ave. 2001 16 13 4 12 20 5 5 10 10 9 9 113

2008 19 14 8 14 20 8 8 8 8 8 8 123 Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. 2001 17 10 13 5 19 5 5 10 10 8 9 111

2008 13 8 13 10 20 7 5 9 3 8 6 102 Millhopper Creek 2001 18 14 7 10 20 5 5 5 5 9 9 107

2008 13 12 13 13 20 7 7 5 5 7 7 109 Monterrey Creek 2002 13 9 15 9 15 5 8 2 7 4 5 92

2008 16 12 10 13 13 7 7 5 3 6 6 98 Possum Creek NW 53rd Ave. 2000 20 12 11 14 18 9 9 10 10 10 10 133 . 2008 18 12 17 17 20 10 10 6 9 9 9 137 Possum Creek NW 8th Ave. 2000 18 14 20 17 15 5 5 10 10 7 7 128

2008 18 8 18 10 13 5 5 9 5 9 9 109 Rattlesnake Branch 2001 16 11 14 6 15 5 5 10* 10* 6 6 104

2010 17 11 13 9 18 5 4 6 3 5 2 93 Ridgeview Creek 2001 17 11 13 10 12 10 7 5 3 9 8 105

2008 13 10 18 16 12 8 8 5 3 8 6 107 Springstead NW 2nd St, 2001 11 11 18 12 19 4 4 6 4 7 7 103

2010 12 8 8 12 19 3 3 5 4 6 4 84

11-43 = Poor 44-80 = Marginal 81-123 = Suboptimal 124-160 = Optimal

Page 28

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Springstead W. of US 441 2010 18 9 15 11 20 4 4 5 9 5 6 106 Three Lakes Creek 2001 15 11 13 10 20 5 5 10 10 10 10 119

2008 15 9 14 17 20 8 8 9 9 7 7 123

Paynes Prairie Watershed

Boulware Spring Run 2002 10 8 15 8 16 6 6 3 3 4 4 83

2009 17 18 15 15 15 9 9 3 3 3 4 111 Calf Pond Creek 2010 16 12 15 15 20 8 8 7 9 8 8 126 East Tumblin Creek 2010 11 12 11 10 5 6 5 10 7 6 7 90 Rosewood Creek 2009 18 13 18 8 18 5 5 2 1 3 2 93 Still Branch 2009 16 20 8 18 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 142 Sweetwater Br. NE 7th Ave. 2009 16 14 8 16 13 7 7 2 2 4 4 93 Sweetwater Br. SE 4th St. 2001 16 13 11 11 12 5 5 8 8 6 6 101

2009 17 9 14 12 13 5 5 4 4 4 4 91 Sweetwater Br. Landfill 2010 16 8 10 11 12 8 8 7 3 5 2 90 Sweetwater Br. Preserve 2010 13 7 18 10 13 5 6 10 9 9 9 109 Sweetwater Br. P. Prairie 2001 16 16 19 3 18 9 9 6 6 5 5 112

2009 13 13 18 8 13 10 10 5 4 4 4 102 Tumblin Creek SW 14th Ave. 2010 13 11 12 14 10 5 5 3 9 5 7 94 Tumblin Creek Woods 2000 19 12 14 7 20 10 10 10 10 5 5 122

2009 18 14 14 12 18 7 7 8 8 6 6 118

11-43 = Poor 44-80 = Marginal 81-123 = Suboptimal 124-160 = Optimal

Page 29

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Newnans Lake Watershed

Bee Tree Creek 2009 14 11 2 14 20 8 8 10 9 10 10 116 Hatchet Creek CR 225 2001 16 18 3 6 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 110

2009 13 9 3 13 15 9 8 10 10 9 9 108 Hatchet Creek at Sink 2010 15 17 14 20 20 9 9 10 10 10 10 144 Lake Forest Creek 329B 2009 17 12 13 8 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 130 Lake Forest Cr. Morningside 2001 10 10 9 8 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 90

2010 16 9 14 8 11 5 5 10 7 7 7 99 Lake Forest Cr. SE 43rd St. 2001 19 20 14 14 14 8 8 10 10 8 8 133

2010 16 8 15 13 18 7 7 9 9 7 7 116 Little Hatchet Airport 2003 11 5 20 8 20 5 5 10 10 6 6 106

2009 13 8 18 13 20 10 10 9 9 7 7 124 Little Hatchet NE 39th Ave. 2010 13 10 18 11 9 7 7 6 3 8 8 100 Little Hatchet NE 53rd Ave. 2002 16 13 15 14 10 10 10 6 8 6 8 116

2009 16 14 6 10 10 4 4 6 8 9 9 96 Lochloosa Creek 2009 13 15 15 18 20 9 9 10 9 10 10 138

Santa Fe River - Stream-to-Sink Watersheds

Blues Creek NW 71st St. 2003 13 8 20 17 20 9 9 10 10 10 10 136

2009 16 10 18 11 20 7 7 9 8 9 8 123 Cellon Creek US 441 2003 20 9 14 15 13 7 7 5 9 6 8 113

2009 18 12 13 13 18 8 7 9 6 9 8 121 Hornsby Spring Run 2001 13 15 12 4 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 124

2009 11 8 8 2 18 10 10 9 9 10 9 104 11-43 = Poor 44-80 = Marginal 81-123 = Suboptimal 124-160 = Optimal

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Mill Creek Old Bellamy Rd. 2002 15 9 14 10 20 10 10 10 10 9 10 127

2009 13 13 8 13 18 8 8 10 10 10 10 121 Pareners Branch 2003 15 13 8 11 8 9 9 5 5 7 7 97

2009 12 7 5 10 11 5 5 10 10 10 10 95 Poe Spring Run 2001 11 18 19 10 16 10 6 10 2 10 3 115

2009 13 8 18 13 18 7 4 9 2 9 2 103 Turkey Creek 2003 17 8 14 8 13 7 4 4 2 9 4 90

2009 19 10 9 12 18 7 7 7 2 6 5 102 11-43 = Poor 44-80 = Marginal 81-123 = Suboptimal 124-160 = Optimal

Page 31

Table 6a. BioRecon Index Results, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010 FDEP BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis (Currently Used)

Creek Name Year Collected Total Taxa Ephemeroptera Trichoptera Longlived Clinger Sensitive Score Interpretation*

Hogtown Creek Watershed Beville Creek at Cofrin Park 4/1/2010 10 0 1 0 2 2 1 Impaired

Elizabeth Creek at 7th Rd. 6/28/2008 19 0 1 2 2 1 2 Impaired

Hogtown Creek Haile Sink 3/10/2009 23 4 3 1 4 3 4 Healthy

Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. 12/6/2008 23 4 1 2 4 3 4 Healthy

Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. 12/13/2008 28 3 2 3 5 5 5 Healthy

Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way 6/14/2008 25 1 2 5 5 3 5 Healthy

Monterrey Creek at NW 44th Dr. 7/12/2008 25 0 1 3 2 1 2 Impaired

Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave. 6/26/2008 21 1 2 7 3 3 4 Healthy

Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. 11/22/2008 24 3 3 5 5 5 6 Healthy

Rattlesnake Branch at Hogtown Cr. 2/26/2010 14 2 1 2 3 2 3 Impaired

Ridgeview Creek at NW 26th Way 6/21/2008 25 2 3 5 5 4 5 Healthy

Springstead W of US 441 1/15/2010 23 3 1 3 4 3 4 Healthy

Springstead at NW 2nd St. 1/15/2010 23 3 1 3 4 3 4 Healthy

Three Lakes Creek at Glen Sprgs Rd. 5/29/2008 26 3 2 3 4 4 5 Healthy

Payne’s Prairie Watershed Boulware Spring Run at SE 13th Terr. 4/17/2009 23 2 1 3 3 2 3 Impaired

Calf Pond Creek W of SE 27th St. 4/1/2010 21 2 0 2 2 2 3 Impaired

East Tumblin’ Cr. at Bivens Arm Park 3/4/2010 21 1 1 3 2 2 3 Impaired

Rosewood Branch at SE 9th St. 12/9/2009 15 0 1 2 2 2 2 Impaired

Still Branch at Barr Hammock Prsrv 9/15/2009 20 0 4 2 2 3 3 Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. 12/15/2009 14 0 1 1 1 0 1 Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th St. 2/10/2009 25 0 1 3 1 0 2 Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at Landfill 9/21/2010 17 1 1 3 1 0 2 Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve 9/21/2010 14 1 1 1 1 1 1 Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie 3/24/2009 23 2 2 4 3 2 4 Healthy

Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. 2/19/2010 7 0 1 1 1 0 1 Impaired

Tumblin Creek W of US 441 5/12/2009 21 1 1 2 2 1 2 Impaired

FDEP BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis (Currently Used)

Page 32

Creek Name Year Collected

Total Taxa Ephemeroptera Trichoptera Longlived Clinger Sensitive Score Interpretation*

Newnans Lake Watershed Bee Tree Creek at NLCA 3/26/2009 23 3 0 2 2 5 4 Healthy

Hatchet Creek at CR 225 12/1/2009 38 6 10 4 6 14 10 Exceptional

Hatchet Creek at Sink 12/7/2010 35 6 8 5 7 9 10 Exceptional

Lake Forest Creek at 329B 3/17/2009 33 3 3 4 3 4 6 Healthy

Lake Forest Creek at Morningside 3/4/2010 18 2 0 3 1 2 2 Impaired

Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. 2/9/2010 26 4 3 2 5 6 6 Healthy

Little Hatchet Creek at Airport 2/17/2009 28 4 3 4 5 4 6 Healthy

Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave. 1/19/2010 25 1 2 1 2 2 3 Impaired

Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. 2/24/2009 23 4 3 3 4 4 5 Healthy

Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Rd. 9/14/2009 27 4 3 3 4 6 6 Healthy

Santa Fe River - Stream-to-Sink Watersheds Blues Creek at NW 71st St. 4/9/2009 18 5 1 2 4 4 4 Healthy

Cellon Creek at US 441 4/24/2009 31 1 3 6 6 4 6 Healthy

Hornsby Spring Run 9/17/2009 18 1 0 2 0 1 1 Impaired

Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. 9/14/2009 24 0 5 2 5 2 4 Healthy

Pareners Branch at CR 236 9/16/2009 22 0 2 2 4 2 3 Impaired

Poe Spring Run 9/17/2009 25 2 1 2 0 1 3 Impaired

Turkey Creek at NW 105th Ave. 4/23/2009 25 2 1 4 3 5 4 Healthy

*Six-Metric Interpretation: [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Ephemeroptera - Mayflies; Trichoptera - Caddisflies; Long-lived - live at least one year; Clinger - require a steady, good current velocity; Sensitive - sensitive to pollution; Total Taxa - the number of different species collected Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera Taxa Verified by M. Pescador and A. Rasmussen

Page 33

Table 6b. BioRecon 3-Metric and 6-Metric Analysis Index Results, Stream BioReconnaissance 2008-2010 3-Metric Analysis (Formerly Used) 6-Metric Analysis

Creek Name Sample

Date Total Taxa Florida Index EPT Interpretation** Interpretation*


Beville Creek 4/1/2010 10 6 1 Impaired Impaired

Elizabeth Creek 6/28/2008 19 7 1 Suspect Impaired

Hogtown Creek Haile Sink 3/10/2009 23 9 7 Suspect Healthy

Hogtown at NW 45th Ave. 12/6/2008 25 12 5 Healthy Healthy

Hogtown at NW 29th Rd. 12/13/2008 28 13 5 Healthy Healthy

Millhopper Creek 6/14/2008 25 12 3 Suspect Healthy

Monterrey Creek 7/12/2008 25 7 1 Suspect Impaired

Possum Creek NW 53rd Ave. 6/26/2008 21 14 3 Suspect Healthy

Possum Creek NW 8th Ave. 11/22/2008 24 15 6 Healthy Healthy

Rattlesnake Creek 2/26/2010 14 11 3 Suspect Impaired

Ridgeview Creek 6/21/2008 25 15 5 Healthy Healthy

Springstead W. of US 441 1/15/2010 23 15 4 Healthy Healthy

Springstead at NW 2nd St. 1/15/2010 23 13 4 Healthy Healthy

Three Lakes Creek 5/29/2008 25 11 5 Healthy Healthy

Paynes Prairie Watershed

Boulware Spring Run 4/17/2009 23 13 3 Suspect Impaired

Calf Pond Creek 4/1/2010 21 8 2 Suspect Impaired

East Tumblin Creek 3/4/2010 21 6 2 Suspect Impaired

Rosewood Creek 12/9/2009 15 11 1 Suspect Impaired

Still Branch Barr Hammock 9/15/2009 20 7 4 Suspect Impaired

Sweetwater Br. NE 7th Ave. 12/15/2009 14 3 1 Impaired Impaired

Sweetwater Br. SE 4th St. 2/10/2009 28 11 1 Suspect Impaired

Sweetwater Branch at Landfill 9/21/2010 17 7 2 Impaired Impaired

Sweetwater Branch Preserve 9/21/2010 14 9 2 Impaired Impaired

Sweetwater Branch P. Prairie 3/24/2009 25 14-16 4 Healthy Healthy

Tumblin Creek SW 14th Ave. 2/19/2010 7 3 1 Impaired Impaired

Tumblin Creek Woods 5/12/2009 21 7 2 Suspect Impaired

Page 34

3-Metric Analysis (Formerly Used) 6-Metric Analysis

Creek Name Sample

Date Total Taxa Florida Index EPT Interpretation** Interpretation*

Newnans Lake Watershed

Bee Tree Creek 3/26/2009 23 3 3 Suspect Healthy

Hatchet Creek at CR 225 12/1/2009 38 22 16 Healthy Exceptional

Hatchet Creek at Sink 12/7/2010 35 15 14 Healthy Exceptional

Lake Forest Creek at 329B 3/17/2009 33 14 6 Healthy Healthy

Lake Forest Cr. Morningside 3/4/2010 18 11 2 Suspect Impaired

Lake Forest Cr. SE 43rd St. 2/9/2010 26 14 7 Healthy Healthy

Little Hatchet Airport 2/17/2009 29 16 7 Healthy Healthy Little Hatchet NE 39th Ave. 1/19/2010 25 10 3 Suspect Impaired Little Hatchet NE 53rd Ave. 2/24/2009 24 13 7 Healthy Healthy Lochloosa Creek 9/14/2009 27 11 6 Healthy Healthy


Blues Creek at NW 71st St. 4/9/2009 18 7 6 Suspect Healthy

Cellon Creek at US 441 4/24/2009 31 16 4 Healthy Healthy

Hornsby Spring Run 9/17/2009 18 1 1 Suspect Impaired

Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. 9/14/2009 24 5 5 Suspect Healthy

Pareners Branch at CR 236 9/16/2009 22 5 2 Suspect Impaired

Poe Spring Run 9/17/2009 25 4 3 Suspect Impaired

Turkey Creek at NW 105th Ave. 4/23/2009 25 13 3 Suspect Healthy

*Six-Metric Interpretation: [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired **Three-Metric Interpretation: Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met EPT - Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Plecoptera (stoneflies), Trichoptera (caddisflies) Ephemeroptera - Mayflies; Trichoptera - Caddisflies; Long-lived - live at least one year; Clinger - require a steady, good current velocity; Sensitive - sensitive to

pollution; Total Taxa - the number of different species collected Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera Taxa Verified by M. Pescador and A. Rasmussen

Page 35

Table 7. Comparison of Shannon-Weaver, Pielou's Evenness, and Florida Index Values for

Artificial Substrate (Hester-Dendy) Samples from Three Sampling Events (1996, 2000 and 2009).

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data***

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data

Station SWDI Pielou's Evenness Florida Index

Hogtown at SW 20th Ave. south of bridge 1996, 2000; north of bridge 2009

3.711 2.607 4.261 0.707 0.727 0.747 16 0 21

Sweetwater Branch at US 331, 1996, 2009; at Paynes Prairie 2000

3.034 2.048 3.458 0.758 0.682 0.654 9 4 19

Little Hatchet Creek, North Branch, Airport Industrial Park

Not Sampled

Not Sampled 3.058 Not

Sampled Not

Sampled 0.606 Not Sampled

Not Sampled 21

Tumblin Creek west of US 441, wooded area upstream of Bivens Arm

1.528 2.393 4.230 0.460 0.554 0.770 2 3 9

Possum Creek 1901 NW 30th Terr. 2000; North of NW 16th Ave. 2009

Not Sampled 4.396 3.919 Not

Sampled 0.888 0.722 Not Sampled 11 17

Springstead Creek 912 NW 36th Rd. 1996, west of US 441 2009

3.671 Not Sampled 4.470 0.811 Not

Sampled 0.824 10 Not Sampled 22

Shannon-Weaver Species Diversity Index (SWDI) Values of: 3- 5 indicate clean water conditions; 0- 2 are characteristic of stressed waters.

Pielou's Evenness Values range between 0 and 1; A value of 1 denotes all taxa are represented by an equal number of individuals (the closer a value is to 1, the better the distribution).

Florida Index Values of 0-2 = gross pollution, 3-5 = moderate pollution, 6-9 clean but poor habitat and 10 and above is clean.

Please note that data were collected during different months in 1996 and 2000. *Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Data - Streams of Alachua County, Florida, Hester-Dendy Samples, September 1996, Water **Biological Stream Assessment, Alachua County, Florida, June 2000, Water & Air Research, Inc.& Air Research, Inc. ***Data collected for Hogtown, Sweetwater , Little Hatchet and Tumblin in Oct. 2008. Possum collected in March 2009, Springstead collected in April 2009.

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Table 8. Comparison of Density Values in number per square meter for Artificial Substrate (Hester-Dendy) from Three Sampling Events (1996, 2000 and 2009).

Please note that data were collected during different months in 1996 and 2000. *Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Data - Streams of Alachua County, Florida, Hester-Dendy Samples, September 1996, Water & Air Research, Inc. **Biological Stream Assessment, Alachua County, Florida, June 2000, Water & Air Research, Inc. ***Data collected for Hogtown, Sweetwater , Little Hatchet and Tumblin in Oct. 2008. Possum collected in March 2009, Springstead collected in April 2009.

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data***

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data

1996 Data*

2000 Data**

2009 Data

Station Mayfly Larvae Density Midge Larvae Density Total Density

Hogtown at SW 20th Ave. south of bridge 1996, 2000; north of bridge 2009

121 0 54 419 185 1890 859 567 2533

Sweetwater Branch at US 331, 1996, 2009; at Paynes Prairie 2000

0 0 0 391 45 1636 547 57 2142

Little Hatchet Creek, North Branch, Airport Industrial Park

Not Sampled

Not Sampled 1372 Not

Sampled Not

Sampled 671 Not Sampled

Not Sampled 2958

Tumblin Creek west of US 441, wooded area upstream of Bivens Arm

0 0 0 1580 14 344 2078 478 925

Possum Creek 1901 NW 30th Terr. 2000; North of NW 16th Ave. 2009

Not Sampled 2 113 Not

Sampled 161 1879 Not Sampled 243 2768

Springstead Creek 912 NW 36th Rd. 1996, West of US 441 2009

0 Not Sampled 36 88 Not

Sampled 741 349 Not Sampled 1110

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BioRecon Summaries (Alphabetically by watershed) Hogtown Creek Watershed Beville Creek Summary………………………………………………………………………… 37 Elizabeth Creek Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 41

Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink Summary………………………………….……………….…. 45 Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Ave. Summary …………………………………………………. 50 Hogtown Creek at NW 29th Rd. Summary ………………………………………………….. 55 Millhopper Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 60 Monterrey Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 64 Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave. Summary …………………………………………………. 68 Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. Summary …………………………………………………… 72 Rattlesnake Creek Summary………………………………………………………………….. 76 Ridgeview Creek Summary …………………………………………………………………… 80 Springstead Creek West of US 441 Summary………………………………………………. 84 Springstead at NW 2nd St. Summary………………………………………………………… 88 Three Lakes Creek Summary ………………………………………………………………… 92

Paynes Prairie Watershed Boulware Spring Run Summary………………………………………………………………. 96 Calf Pond Creek Summary ……………………………………………………………………. 100 East Tumblin’ Creek Summary ………………………………………………………………. 104 Rosewood Branch Summary …………………………………………………………………. 108 Sweetwater Branch at Landfill Summary…………………………………………………….. 112 Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street Summary……………………………………………… 116 Sweetwater Branch at ACP Sweetwater Preserve Summary……………………………… 120 Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie Summary …………………………………………… 124 Sweetwater Branch Duckpond at NE 7th Ave. Summary ………………………………….. 128 Still Branch Summary………………………………………………………………………….. 132 Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. Summary…………………………………………………… 136 Tumblin Creek West of US 441 in the wooded area Summary……………………………. 140

Newnans Lake and Lochloosa Lake Watershed Bee Tree Creek Summary………………………………………………………………………144 Hatchet Creek at CR 225 Summary ………………………………………………………….. 148 Hatchet Creek at Sinkhole Summary ………………………………………………………… 153 Lake Forest Creek at 329B Summary………………………………………………………… 157 Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Summary…………………………………………………161 Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. Summary………………………………………………… 165 Little Hatchet Cr. at Airport Summary………………………………………………………… 169 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. Summary ……………………………………………. 173 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave. Summary ……………………………………………. 177 Lochloosa Creek Summary……………………………………………………………………. 181

Santa Fe River and Stream-to-sink Watersheds Blues Creek Summary ………………………………………………………..…………………… 186 Cellon Creek Summary ……………………………………………………………………………. 190 Hornsby Spring Run Summary …………………………………………………………………... 194 Mill Creek Summary……………………………………………………………………………. 198 Pareners Branch Summary……………………………………………………………………. 202 Poe Spring Run Summary…………………………………………………………………….. 206 Turkey Creek Summary…………………………………………………………………………210

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Beville Creek Biorecon Summary Introduction Beville Creek is a small, first-order suburban creek in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The sampling site is located north of NW 8th Avenue on the 4700 block upstream of the culvert under NW 8th Avenue. Residential neighborhoods account for 90% of the land-use in its watershed with 5% natural and 5% commercial. Beville Creek was sampled on September 11, 2003, and again on April 1, 2010.

Physical and Chemical Characterization The Beville Creek sampling location is an average of 1 meter wide and 0.07 meters deep. The banks are steep, mossy, and about 2-meters high. Non-point source pollution at the site was likely from the residential neighborhoods and obvious from the road into the park. The current velocity was marginal, 0.05 to 0.11 meters per

seconds. The water was clear with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native and non-native plants that lightly shade the stream. Fish and periphyton were common and aquatic macrophytes and iron/sulfur bacteria were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2003 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.16 15.05Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.71 8.99Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 276 224pH (standard units) 7.53 7.33 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates in the stream includes roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, rock rubble, and leaf packs. Erosion was evident in places and some of the habitat was sand or silt-smothered. The riparian zone was dense but quite disturbed and only about five meters wide in some areas. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLiriope Border-grass (E)Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaParthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryPrunus serotina Black CherryRhododendron canescens Sweet Pinxter AzaleaSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSmilax spp. GreenbrierToxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy In addition to the plants listed above, numerous exotic invasive species were found along the bank. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Beville Creek received 97 points in 2003 and 98

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points in 2010 placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2003 2010Substrate Diversity 13 17Substrate Availability 11 11Water Velocity 6 11Habitat Smothering 11 10Primary Score 41 49

Artificial Channelization 20 19Bank Stability Right Bank 6 4Bank Stability Left Bank 6 4Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 5 10Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 5 3Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Bank 7 5Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 7 4Secondary Score 56 49

Total Score 97 9881-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates In Beville Creek we found species that include damselfly, mayfly, blackfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Many adult black-winged damselflies flew above the creek. Worms, snails, and beetles were also present. Beville Creek did not pass any of the biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the Impaired category. Both 2003 and 2010 samples had similar results. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Beville Creek is a small, relatively short creek with low current velocity and human disturbance evident along the banks and in the watershed. The depth

was less than 0.1 meter in most places, but the high water mark reached up to 0.85 meters, indicating a rapid increase in volume during storm events. Construction on the site was beginning during the 2010 sampling event, apparently to stabilize the banks in the upstream portion of the site where retaining walls were leaning into the creek.

Beville Creek

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Beville Creek BioRecons Collected September 11, 2003 and April 1, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Florida Organism Organism Index Prevalence Prevalence Species Points 2003 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Empididae P Simulium sp. 2 P A Tipula sp. P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp. A Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 A A Calopteryx maculata 2 C C Erythemis simplicicollis P Coleoptera (beetles) Microcylloepus pusillus P Oligochaeta (worms) A C Turbellaria-Tricladida A Lepidoptera (moths) terrestrial Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Baetidae P Trichoptera (caddisflies)

Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 D C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Metric

Metric

Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2003 2010 Total Taxa 9 10 Ephemeroptera 1 0 Trichoptera 1 1 Long-lived 0 0 Clinger 2 2 Sensitive 1 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 1 Interpretation Impaired Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2003 2010 Total Taxa 18 9 10 Florida Index Total 10 6 6 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 1 Interpretation Impaired Impaired Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Elizabeth Creek at NW 7th Rd West of 23rd St BioRecon Summary Introduction Elizabeth Creek lies in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a northerly direction from University Avenue towards NW 8th Street, west of NW 23rd Street. The sampling site was located south of NW 7th Place upstream. Approximately 89% of the land use in the basin draining into the site was composed of residential neighborhoods, with 7% commercial and a small amount of natural area. The terrain was hilly by Florida standards. Elizabeth Creek was sampled on June 28, 2008.

Elizabeth Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Elizabeth Creek was an average of 2.2 meters wide and about 0.2 meters deep. It showed signs of human impact all along the reach with invasive exotic landscape plants present. Non-point source pollution was evident from University Avenue and residential areas. The current velocity was slow; the water was slightly turbid and gold in color. The sediment had a musty odor. Temperature, pH, and specific conductivity were all within normal ranges, but dissolved oxygen was a little

low for a clear stream at less than 5 mg/L. Fish and periphyton were present. Physical/Chemical Data 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 23.37Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.37Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 276pH (standard units) 6.71 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf mats, roots of vegetation living on the banks, and rock rubble. Erosion was evident and sand and silt moderately smothered some of the habitat. Plant List (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleAesculus pavia Red BuckeyeArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Fraxinus americana White AshHedera helix L. English Ivy (E)Justicia brandegeeana Shrimpplant (E)Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLiriope sp. Border-grass (E)Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle (E)Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaNephrolepis exaltata Boston FernOphiopogon japonicus Mondo Grass (E)Ostrya virginiana Eastern HophornbeamOxalis debilis Pink Woodsorrel (E)Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryQuercus nigra Water OakRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Ruellia caroliniensis Carolina Wild PetuniaSabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var.canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. Greenbrier The riparian zone was made of residential yards. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Elizabeth Creek received 75 points, placing it in the marginal range.

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Habitat Assessment Scores 2008Substrate Diversity 16Substrate Availability 8Water Velocity 3Habitat Smothering 11Primary Score 38

Artificial Channelization 13Bank Stability Right Bank 6Bank Stability Left Bank 6Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 2Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 3Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Bank 3Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 4Secondary Score 37

Total Score 7544-80 = Marginal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Elizabeth Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Crayfish, snails, worms, leeches, small water striders, and a variety of beetles were also present. No mayflies were present in Elizabeth Creek and the only sensitive organism was one species of beetle. Elizabeth Creek fell into the Impaired category for creeks using the current biorecon analysis method. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Elizabeth Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff may be a cause for concern. Exotic vegetation does not provide natural substrates for macroinvertebrates to populate.

Elizabeth Creek

43

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Beville Creek BioRecons Collected June 28, 2008 Macroinvertebrates Found

Species

Florida Index Points

Metric (LL, S, CL)

Organism Prevalence 2008

Diptera (flies) Bezzia/Palpomyia Complex P Chironomidae A Culex sp. P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A Gastrapoda (snails) Haitia pomilia hendersoni P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Gomphus minutes 1 LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Neoporus clypealis A Platambus sp. P Scirtidae P Tropistemus lateralis nimbatus P Oligochaeta (worms) P

Hirudinea (leeches) Haemopidae (LPIL) P Mooreobdella tetragon P Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Nigronia sp. 2 LL P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp, crabs) Cambaridae LL P Collembola (springtails) P Heteroptera (water bugs) Belostoma sp. P

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Species


Metric (LL, S, CL)


Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S C Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Pseudocloeon frondale C Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P

Current FDEP Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2008 Total Taxa 21 Ephemeroptera 1 Trichoptera 1 Long-lived 3 Clinger 2 Sensitive 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2008 Total Taxa 18 21 Florida Index Total 10 6 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 Interpretation Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Hogtown Creek Upstream of Haile Sink BioRecon Summary Introduction Hogtown Creek lies in western Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek is several miles long and flows in a southwesterly direction from north of NW 53rd Avenue near US 441 to Haile sink southwest of I-75 and SW 20th Avenue. The sampling site was located on a 100-meter stretch upstream of Haile sink, where the creek flows underground to the Floridan aquifer. Land use affecting the site was about 50% residential, 40% natural forest, and 8% commercial. Hogtown Creek at Haile sink was sampled on March 12, 2002, and March 10, 2009.

Hogtown creek looking upstream from the sink Physical and Chemical Characterization Hogtown Creek at this site was rocky-bottomed, with an average of 4-5 meters wide and 0.35 meters deep. The water rises to 0.5 m above the base flow during storms. The banks were low, and no local erosion or non-point source pollution was evident. The canopy was open with rushes, sedges, grasses, and scattered planer and willow trees in the riparian zone. The current velocity was good, about 0.25 m/s, and the water was tea-colored and slightly turbid without

any unnatural odors in the water or sediment. Water quality parameters were within normal ranges. Aquatic macrophytes, periphyton, and filamentous algae were abundant, and fish were common. No iron/sulfur bacteria were observed. Physical/Chemical Data 2002 2009Temperature Degrees Celsius 18.93 16.21Dissolved Oxygen mg/L 10.51 8.64Specific Conductivity µS/cm 261 295pH standard units 7.67 6.84Salinity 0.14 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included mainly rock rubble, but also aquatic vegetation, roots of vegetation living on the banks and a small amount of snag. Green algae of the genus Vaucheria covered much of the habitat in 2009 and a sample was taken for analysis. An adequate amount of habitat was present. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide and contained native, mostly wetland plants. Plant list Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleCirsium sp. ThistleEupatorium sp. DogfennelGeranium carolinianum Carolina CranesbillHydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortHypericum sp. St. John's-wortLudwigia repens Creeping Primrose WillowNephrolepis exaltata Sword Fern, Boston FernPlanera aquatica Waterelm, PlanertreePleopeltis polypodioides var. mResurrection FernQuercus virginiana Live OakRubus sp. BlackberryLinaria sp. ToadflaxStachys floridana Florida BetonyToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyTypha sp. CattailVitis rotundifolia Muscadine Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink received 136 points in 2009, placing it in the optimal range.

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Habitat Assessment Scores 2002 2009Substrate Diversity 12 16Substrate Availability 12 20Water Velocity 19 15Habitat Smothering 20 11Primary Score 63 62


Total Score 141 136124-160 = Optimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hogtown Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, mayfly, blackfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. The amphipod Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy became a dominant taxon in 2009. Worms, crayfish, shrimp, snails and beetles were also present. Hogtown Creek fell into the Healthy category for both sampling events. See the next page for species list and results.

Discussion Hogtown Creek at Haile sink had a very healthy macroinvertebrate population in the 2002 sample event. In 2009 it was not as good, but still rated Healthy by the current analysis method. It dropped to a rating of Suspect by the former rating method. Water quality appeared to be good; however, the increased abundance of periphyton and filamentous algae on the rocks indicates nutrient enrichment.

Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy is an amphipod found abundantly in vegetation at nutrient enriched stations. Total length is about 7 mm.

Hogtown Creek approaching the sink

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Hogtown Creek at Haile Sink BioRecons Collected March 12, 2002 and March 10, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2002 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL D D Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P Planorbella sp. P Pseudosuccinea columella P P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Calopteryx maculata 2 C P Dromogomphus sp. P Enallagma coecum (cardenium) C C Enallagma divagans C C Enallagma sp. P Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S P Bidessonotus sp. P Dubiraphia vittata C C Scirtes sp. P Acariformes (mites) A Oligochaeta (worms) Naididae A Turbellaria-Tricladida P P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P

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Florida

Organism

Organism

Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2002 2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) Hydrometra australis P Mesovelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL P P Palaemonetes paludosus 1 LL P Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy A D Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua A A Caenis diminuta P P Callibaetis floridanus P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A A Pseudocloeon frondale A Pseudocloeon sp. A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C D Hydroptila sp. 2 CL P P Oecetis georgia 1 P Oecetis sp. (not O. georgia) 1 P Triaenodes ignitus S C P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100) LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Metric

Metric

Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2002 2009 Total Taxa 27 23 Ephemeroptera 5 4 Trichoptera 5 3 Long-lived 3 1 Clinger 4 4 Sensitive 4 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 6 4 Interpretation Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2002 2009 Total Taxa 18 27 23 Florida Index Total 10 11 9 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 10 7 Interpretation Healthy Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Hogtown Creek North of NW 45th Avenue BioRecon Summary Introduction Hogtown Creek lies in western Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek is several miles long and flows in a southwesterly direction from north of NW 53rd Avenue near US 441 to Haile sink, southwest of I-75 and SW 20th Avenue. The sampling site was located near the headwaters north of NW 45th Avenue. Land-use in the watershed includes 45% natural forest, 40% residential neighborhoods, 10% commercial and 5% industrial. Hogtown Creek was sampled on January 12, 2001 and again on December 6, 2008.

Hogtown Creek north of NW 45th Ave.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Hogtown Creek was an average of 0.8 meters wide in 2001 and increased to over 2.8 meters wide in 2008. The depth decreased from 0.2 meters deep to about 0.12 meters. The water rose to about 1.6 m above the base flow during storms and that increased to over 2 meters in 2008. Banks were high and mossy with erosion and clay outcroppings in places. Native plants lightly shaded the creek in winter and provided heavy shade in summer. The only exotics near the creek were a few loquat trees in 2001. Honeysuckle and mimosa were noted in 2008. Non-

point source pollution was not evident on site. The current velocity was poor during both sample events, but the water was clear with no odors or oils. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. Fish were common. A small amount of periphyton was present in 2001 which appeared to increase in 2008. Aquatic macrophytes were rare and iron/sulfur bacteria was not observed. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 13.03 14.21Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.71 9.13Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 371 311pH (standard units) 7.62 7.53Alkalinity (mg/L) 232 NA

NA= Not Analyzed

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, and rock rubble. There was a small amount of aquatic vegetation noted in 2008. Erosion was slightly evident and silt and sand smothered some of the habitat. The riparian zone contained mostly native vegetation for over 18 meters on either side of the stream, but there was some evidence of human activity by the occasional small trail near the stream and a small amount of exotic vegetation.

Riparian zone of Hogtown Creek north of NW 45th Ave

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Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleAlbizia julibrissin Mimosa (E)Baccharis sp. Groundsel TreeBidens alba BeggarticksCallicarpa americana American BeautyberryCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Carya glabra Pignut HickoryCinnamomum camphora CamphortreeCornus florida Flowering DogwoodGelsemium sempervirens Carolina JessamineItea virginica Virginia Willow Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle (E)Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaMelanthera nivea Snow SquarestemOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakQuercus nigra Water OakSabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSalix caroliniana Coastal Plain WillowSmilax spp. GreenbrierStachys floridana Florida BetonyTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressTilia americana var. caroliniana Carolina BasswoodVitis rotundifolia Muscadine

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Avenue received 113 points in 2001 and 123 in 2008, placing it in the high suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2008Substrate Diversity 16 19Substrate Availability 13 14Water Velocity 4 8Habitat Smothering 12 14Primary Score 45 55


Total Score 113 12381-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hogtown Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, dobsonfly,

blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Crayfish, amphipods, clams, snails, and beetles were also present. Hogtown Creek at NW 45th Avenue scored five points in 2001 and 4 in 2008, placing it in the healthy category using the current biorecon analysis method and also using the former method. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Hogtown Creek had a healthy macroinvertebrate population at this location even though the current velocity was low. The results were a bit lower in the 2008 sampling event than they were in 2001. Development upstream of this station may be causing some negative impact on the biological community. However, the presence of only one tolerant caddisfly may also be a reflection of the sensitivity of the creek to drought.

Hogtown creek

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Hogtown Creek North of NW 45th Avenue BioRecons Collected Jan. 12, 2001 and Dec. 6, 2008 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.

Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Diptera (flies) Cecidomyiidae P Chironomidae D D Empididae S C Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C A Tipula sp. C C Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae C Haitia cubensis C Hebetancylus excentricus P Melanoides sp. P Planorbella sp. P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sp. 2 P Calopterygidae 2 P Calopteryx maculata 2 P Libellulidae P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL P Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P Coleoptera (beetles) Dubiraphia vittata P Dytiscidae P Microcylloepus pusillus P P Neoporus sp. C Peltodytes sp. P Stenelmis sp. CL P P Turbellaria-Tricladida P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL C P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S, CL) 2001 2008 Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corbicula fluminea 2 LL P Hemiptera (water bugs) Microvelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P C Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. 1 S P Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. 1 S A Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Caenis diminuta P C Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A A Pseudocleoen propinquum P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2008 Total Taxa 24 23 Ephemeroptera 2 4 Trichoptera 2 1 Long-lived 5 2 Clinger 5 4 Sensitive 6 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 5 4 Interpretation (single event) Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2008 Total Taxa 18 24 25 Florida Index Total 10 18 12 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 5 Interpretation Healthy Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Hogtown Creek Upstream of NW 29th Rd. BioRecon Summary Introduction Hogtown Creek lies in western Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek is several miles long and flows in a southwesterly direction from north of NW 53rd Avenue near US 441 to Haile sink southwest of I-75 and SW 20th Avenue. The sampling site was located downstream of the confluence of Springstead Creek with Hogtown Creek. Land use draining into the creek is dominated by residential at 55%, with commercial and natural forest each at 20%. A small 5% is industrial use. Hogtown Creek was sampled at this site on February 6, 2001 and again, a little farther downstream on December 13, 2008.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Hogtown Creek was sand-bottomed, and averaged 2.5 meters wide and 0.1 meter

deep at the 2001 site. The 2008 site was downstream a little from the other one. Here, the stream width was nearly 5 meters and the banks were not as high. The water rose to 1.3 m above the base flow at the first station and over 2 meters at the second during storms. Banks were eroded and there were clay outcroppings in places. Native and a few exotic plants lightly shade the creek in winter and provide heavy shade in summer. Sources of non-point pollution were the residences backing up to the creek and local businesses on US 441 with roads and parking lots draining directly into the creek. The current velocity was good, abut 0.2 m/s, and the water was clear with no unnatural odors in the water or sediment. Water quality parameters were within normal ranges. Fish and periphyton were common. No aquatic macrophytes or iron/sulfur bacteria were observed. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 15 10.65Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) NA 9.65Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 272pH (standard units) NA 6.75

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, and roots of vegetation living on the banks. What appeared to be rock was actually clay. Habitat was moderately smothered with sand and silt. As is common near many creeks in Gainesville and other urban or residential areas, the upper story vegetation was dominated by native trees. However, exotic plants are commonly found in the under-story.

56

Plant List (E=Exotic) Scientific Name Common Name

Acer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleBidens alba BeggartickCarpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaNandina domestica Heavenly Bamboo (E)Ostrya virginiana Eastern HophornbeamPinus taeda Loblolly PinePlatanus occidentalis American SycamoreQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakQuercus nigra Water OakRubus sp. BlackberryRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax spp. GreenbrierToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyTradescantia fluminensis Small-leaf Spiderwort (E) The riparian zone was about 5-15 meters wide. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Hogtown Creek after the confluence with Springstead Creek received 111 points at the 2001 station and 102 points at the 2008 station, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2008Substrate Diversity 17 13Substrate Availability 10 8Water Velocity 13 13Habitat Smothering 5 10Primary Score 45 44


Total Score 111 10281-123 = SuboptimalThe 2008 event was a little downstream of the 2001 event. This may have meant less smothering of the habitatas it was further down from the stormwater inflows from Springstead and 441.

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hogtown Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, dobsonfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Worms, crayfish and a variety of beetles were also present. Hogtown Creek biorecon results showed improvement from 2001 to 2008, however, the 2008 station was slightly downstream. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Hogtown Creek has a fairly healthy macroinvertebrate population at this site in spite of commercial and residential runoff. Water quality during storm events may be a cause for concern; and erosion and sand deposition were affecting the habitat. However, the riparian zone shades the creek and provides habitat for macroinvertebrates.

Hellgrammite (Dobsonfly larva) collected from the sampling site. These can grow up to 7 cm.

57

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008- 2010 Hogtown Creek Upstream of NW 29th Rd. BioRecons Collected February 6, 2001 and December 13, 2008 Data interpretation by Water & Air Research, Inc.

Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2008 Diptera (flies) Tipula sp. C P Gastropoda (snails) Amnicola sp. C Haitia cubensis P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 A Argia sedula 2 C Argia sp. 2 A Calopteryx maculata 2 A A Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P Coleoptera (beetles) Ancronyx variegata S C Dubiraphia vittata P Enochrus sp. P Macronychus glabratus S, CL C Microcylloepus pusillus P A Neoporus sp. P Peltodytes sp. P Stenelmis sp. CL C Acariformes (mites) P Oligochaeta (worms) P P Turbellaria-Tricladida P P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL C Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P P

58

Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2008 Collembola C Hemiptera (water bugs) Hebridae P Rhagovelia sp. C Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P C Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy C Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Caenis sp. P Ephemerellidae P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A D Pseudocleoen propinquum A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C A Triaenodes sp. S P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

59

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2008 Total Taxa 19 28 Ephemeroptera 2 3 Trichoptera 1 2 Long-lived 4 3 Clinger 3 5 Sensitive 2 5 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 5 Interpretation (single event) Impaired Healthy* [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

* The higher score from 2008 may have been because the station was a little downstream from the 2001 event. Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2002 2009 Total Taxa 18 19 28 Florida Index Total 10 13 13 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 3 5 Interpretation Suspect Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way in Foxfire BioRecon Summary Introduction Millhopper Creek is a small tributary to Possum Creek in northwestern Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The sampling site was located east of NW 43rd Street and north of NW 39th Avenue on NW 39th Way in a residential neighborhood. Residential areas accounted for 50% of the land-use in its watershed, while 40% was forest/natural and 10% was commercial. Millhopper Creek was sampled upstream of the culvert on May 24, 2001 and on June 14, 2008.

Millhopper Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Millhopper Creek was an average of 0.5 meters wide in 2001 and widened to 0.65 meters with in 2008. Many downed trees from the 2004 hurricanes made it difficult to navigate. The steep banks were moderately eroded in places. Non-point source pollution may run off from the residential yards along the creek and NW 43rd Street. The water velocity was about 0.2 meters per second. The water was clear and colorless, with no unnatural odors or oils in the water or sediments. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were all within

normal ranges. Fish were common and iron/sulfur bacteria, and periphyton were absent. Aquatic macrophytes, which were present in 2001 were absent in 2008, as the stream became more heavily shaded. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18 22.98Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.4 5.45Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 149pH (standard units) 6.7 6.94Alkalinity (mg/L) 76 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, rock rubble, and a few aquatic plants. Erosion was evident, and some of the habitat was slightly sand and silt-smothered. The riparian zone was disturbed and only about six meters wide in some areas. Plan list

Scientific Name Common NameArisaema triphyllum Jack-in-the-pulpitCarpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryItea virginica Virginia Willow Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherrySabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSambucus canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. GreenbrierViola sp. VioletVitis aestivalis Summer Grape English ivy, spiderwort, and lantana were present on the banks in 2001, but the only exotic noted in 2008 was Tradescantia fluminensis. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Millhopper Creek received 109 points in 2008, placing it in the suboptimal range.

61



Total Score 107 10981-123 = Suboptimal

Millhopper creek facing downstream Benthic Macroinvertebrates Millhopper Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Snails, clams, worms, crayfish, and a variety of beetles were also present. Millhopper Creek scored in the healthy category for both types of analysis in 2001, and although the score was higher in 2008 using the 6-metric analysis, it scored as Suspect using the 3-metric analysis because of one less

mayfly taxon. See the next page for species list and results.

The Asian Clam Corbicula fluminea is very common in Gainesville creeks. They can grow up to 4 cm in length, but are commonly collected at about 1-2 cm.

Discussion Millhopper Creek has a healthy macroinvertebrate population, and has not had human disturbance affecting it as much or over such a long time as other urban and suburban creeks in Gainesville.

62

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Millhopper Creek at NW 39th Way in Foxfire

BioRecons Collected May 24, 2001 and June 14, 2008 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.

Macroinvertebrates Found

Florida

Organism Organism

Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence

Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Diptera (flies)

Chironomidae

A C Myxosargus sp.

P

Tipula sp. P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis

A

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2

C

Argia sp. 2

C Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P P

Calopterygidae 2

P Enallagma sp.

P

Gomphus minutus 1 LL

P Gomphus sp. 1 LL P

Libellulidae

P Progomphus obscurus 2 LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Curculionidae

P

Dubiraphia vittata

P P Dytiscidae

C

Helichus sp.

CL P P Hydaticus bimarginatus

P

Hydrocanthus sp.

P Hydrophilidae

P

Macronychus glabratus

S, CL

P Microcylloepus pusillus

C C

Stenelmis sp. CL A C

Oligochaeta (worms) C

Hirudinea (leeches) C

Turbellaria-Tricladida P A

Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P C Pisidiidae P P

63

Florida Organism Organism


Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia sp. C

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P C

Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Baetidae

P

Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL C P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P C Traenodes sp. S P P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP

Values Values

BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2008 Total Taxa

24 25

Ephemeroptera

2 1 Trichoptera

2 2

Long-lived

5 5 Clinger

2 5

Sensitive 2 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 4 5 Interpretation Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric

Values Values

BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value

2001 2008 Total Taxa 18

25 25

Florida Index Total 10

10 12 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 3 Interpretation Healthy Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

64

Monterey Creek at NW 44th Drive Near NW 33rd Court BioRecon Summary Introduction Monterey Creek is a small tributary to Possum Creek in northwestern Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The sampling site was located west and upstream of NW 43rd Street and south of NW 39th Avenue. Residential neighborhoods accounted for 95% of the land-use in its watershed. Monterey Creek was sampled on October 25, 2002 and a little farther upstream at NW 44th Dr. July 12, 2008.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Monterey Creek averaged 1.1 meters wide and 0.07 meters deep. The banks were stabilized by concrete riprap in some areas, but it seems to have mostly recovered from previous channelization. Non-point source pollution at the site was likely from the residential yards along the creek. The current velocity

was 0.1 meters per seconds. The water was slightly turbid, tea-colored, with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native and non-native plants that moderately shaded the stream. Fish and iron/sulfur bacteria were common, aquatic macrophytes and periphyton were present but rare. In 2008, it was noted that soap suds were floating on the water. Physical/Chemical Data 2002 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.5 25.39Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 6.1 5.06Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 149 215pH (standard units) 6.56 6.39 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, rock rubble, and leaf packs. Erosion was slight and there was moderate silt smothering. The riparian zone was quite disturbed and only about three meters wide in some areas. Plant list (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameColocasia esculenta Taro, Elephant ear (E)Itea virginica Virginia willowPersea sp. Bay

Quercus michauxiiSwamp chestnut oak or basket oak

Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMyrica cerifera Wax myrtleSabal minor Dwarf palmettoPinus taeda Loblolly pineCarya glabra HickoryAmpelopsis arborea PeppervineDecumaria barbara Climbing hydrangeaOrontium aquaticum Golden ClubRhus radicans Poison ivy

65

A few invasive exotic plants such wild taro and mimosa were present. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Monterey Creek received 98 points in 2008, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2002 2008Substrate Diversity 13 16Substrate Availability 9 12Water Velocity 15 10Habitat Smothering 9 13Primary Score 46 51


Total Score 92 9881-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Monterey Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, clams, worms, leeches, crayfish, and a variety of beetles were also present. Mayflies were absent and only one Sensitive taxon was present in 2008.

Monterey Creek scored in the Impaired range for the 6-metric analysis and in the Suspect category for the 3-metric analysis for both sampling events. See the next page for species list and results.

The Megalopteran Chaluliodes was present in Monterey Creek. This insect larva becomes an adult fishfly. The larvae can reach up to 38 mm in length. Discussion Monterey Creek was obviously disturbed upstream of the sampling station and along the reaches sampled. The presence of soap suds and iron/sulfur bacteria are indicative of human-caused disturbances that could be impairing the macroinvertebrate population.

66

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Monterrey Creek at NW 44th Drive Near NW 33rd Court

BioRecons Collected October 25, 2002 and July 12, 2008 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism



Chironomidae

C C Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A A Tipulidae sp. P Gastropoda (snails) Ferrissia sp.

C

Haitia cubensis P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia sedula 2

A C

Calopteryx maculata 2

C P Enallagma pollutum

A

Ischnura ramburii

P C Libellulidae P Coleoptera (beetles) Dubiraphia vittata

P P

Helichus fastigiatus

CL A Hydrovatus sp.

A

Microcylloepus pusillus

C P Suphisellus sp.

C

Pelonomus obscurus

P Stenelmis sp. CL C Oligochaeta (worms) Lumbriculidae

C C

Oligochaeta

A Hirudinea (leeches) Helobdella triserialis

P

Mooreobdella tetragon

P Philodbella gracilis P Turbellaria-Tricladida P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea

LL C P

Pisidiidae

P Piscidium adamsi P

67



Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2002 2008 Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Chauliodes rastricornis

LL

P

Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P Turbellaria (Flatworms)

P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostoma lutarium P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL C C Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. 1 S C

Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Baetidae P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


21 25

Ephemeroptera

1 0 Trichoptera

1 1

Long-lived

3 3 Clinger

4 2

Sensitive 2 1 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 2 Interpretation Impaired Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Values Values


2002 2008 Total Taxa 18

21 25


10 7 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 1 Interpretation Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

68

Possum Creek in Possum Creek Park Near NW 53rd Avenue BioRecon Summary Introduction Possum Creek lies in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from north of NW 53rd Avenue to south of NW 8th Avenue, where it joins Hogtown Creek. The sampling site was located south of NW 53rd Avenue at Possum Creek Nature Park. Upstream of the site, the watershed contains 67% residential neighborhoods, with 15% field, 8% natural, 7% commercial and 3% industrial land use areas. Possum Creek was sampled at NW 53rd Avenue on November 12, 2000 and June 26, 2008.

Possum Creek at NW 53rd Ave.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Possum Creek was an average of 1.25 meters wide and less than 0.1 meter deep. The banks were low with a slight amount of erosion, and moderately shaded with native plants. Non-point source pollution was likely from NW 53rd Ave, a nearby shopping center, and an electricity transfer station. The current velocity was good at .25 meters per second, the water was clear and no unnatural odors or oils were present. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. Fish and aquatic macrophytes were present.

Periphyton and iron and sulfur bacteria were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2000 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 19 22.15Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.6 7.95Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 142pH (standard units) 6.7 7.13Alkalinity (mg/L) 84 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, aquatic plants, and rock rubble. Erosion was not observed; sand and silt smothering was slight. Plant list Scientific Name Common NameAcer sacharrum subsp. floridanum Florida MapleAcer rubrum Red MapleIlex opaca American HollyItea virginica Virginia WillowMagnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaNyssa sp. TupeloOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetOsmunda regalis Royal FernQuerus nigra Water OakSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySaururus cernuus Lizard's TailToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVitis aestivalis Summer Grape The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide over most of the reach except for trails. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Possum Creek received 133-137 points, placing it in the optimal range.

69

Possum Creek Park Habitat Assessment Scores 2000 2008Substrate Diversity 20 18Substrate Availability 12 12Water Velocity 11 17Habitat Smothering 14 17Primary Score 57 64

Artificial Channelization 18 20Bank Stability Right Bank 9 10Bank Stability Left Bank 9 10Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 10 6Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 10 9Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Ban 10 9Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 10 9Secondary Score 76 73

Total Score 133 137124-160 = Optimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Possum Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, dobsonfly, fishfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, worms, and beetles were also present. Possum Creek had many long-lived taxa meaning that conditions were good for a period of over a year for those invertebrates. The scores were nearly identical for 2000 and 2008 sample events. See the next page for species list and results.

Discussion Possum Creek appeared to have a healthy habitat at this location. One more type of mayfly or caddisfly would have placed it in the healthy category for the three metric analysis method. Possum Creek supports a healthy population of macroinvertebrates.

Boyeria vinosa, a dragonfly nymph commonly found in Possum Creek. The light spot on the dorsal side of the abdomen is a diagnostic character for identification. The nymphs reach about 3.3 cm in length.

70

Stream Bioassessment Study Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010

Possum Creek in Possum Creek Park Near NW 53rd Avenue BioRecons Collected Nov. 12, 2000 and June 26, 2008

Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2000 2008 Diptera (flies)

Chironomidae

A P Tipula sp. P P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2

P

Argia sp. 2

P Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P C

Calopteryx maculata 2

C P Gomphus sp. 1 LL P P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL

P

Progomphus sp. 2 LL C P Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus sp.

P

Dytiscidae


P

Stenelmis sp. CL P A Oligochaeta (worms) P P Turbellaria-Tricladida P A Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea

LL A A

Elliptio sp.

LL

P Pisidium sp.

P

Sphaerium sp. P Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Chauliodes sp. LL P Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia sp. C Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P C

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Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2000 2008 Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Agarodes sp.

A

Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A Triaenodes ignitus S C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


21 21

Ephemeroptera

1 1 Trichoptera

2 2

Long-lived

7 7 Clinger

3 3


Target


Values Values


2000 2008 Total Taxa 18

21 21



72

Possum Creek North of NW 8th Avenue BioRecon Summary Introduction Possum Creek lies in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from north of NW 53rd Avenue to south of NW 8th Avenue, where it joins Hogtown Creek. The sampling site was located in Loblolly Woods Nature Park, north of NW 8th Avenue. Upstream of the site, the watershed drains mainly residential neighborhoods (75%), with small amounts of natural, field, and commercial land use areas. Possum Creek was sampled on December 5, 2000 and again on November 22, 2008.

Sampling Possum Creek on a very cold November day. Physical and Chemical Characterization Possum Creek at NW 8th Avenue showed signs of human impact with eroded banks, sanitary sewer pipes, and even a manhole in the middle of the creek. It was shaded with native plants, but some non-native invasive plants grew in the understory. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential areas, however, the riparian zone here was a wide floodplain. The current velocity was optimal, and the water was clear with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, and dissolved

oxygen were all within normal ranges. Fish and periphyton were present. Iron and sulfur bacteria and aquatic macrophytes were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2000 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 11.13 8.81Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 11.69 8.2Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 188 280pH (standard units) 7.81 7.31 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, and rock rubble. Erosion was evident and sand smothered some of the habitat. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleAmpelopsis arborea PeppervineArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Arundinaria gigantea SwitchcaneCarpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Euonymus americanus American StrawberrybushJuniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaPinus taeda Loblolly PinePrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakQuercus nigra Water OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax spp. GreenbrierToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVitis sp. Grape

The riparian zone contained some invasive exotic plants and had trails along it. The stream at this point receives excessive amounts of runoff from the large amount of land in the watershed upstream before it joins Hogtown Creek. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Possum Creek received 128 points in 2000, dropping to 109 points in 2008 with the difference being in an

astoppe

Cross-Out

73

increase in sand smothering which leads to a decrease in habitat availability. Habitat Assessment Scores 2000 2008Substrate Diversity 18 18Substrate Availability 14 8Water Velocity 20 18Habitat Smothering 17 10Primary Score 69 54


Total Score 128 109Optimal Suboptimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Possum Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, dobsonfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Isopods, crayfish, Asian clams and beetles were also present. Possum Creek BioRecon scores improved from 2000 to 2008 and it scored in the healthy category for both events using both methods of analysis. See the next page for species list and results.

This caddisfly larva of the Genus Oecetis makes itself a unique case of plant fragments. These are small, about 6 mm in length.

Discussion Possum Creek had a fairly healthy habitat at this location even in the presence of sanitary sewer pipes and non-native plants. This stream supports a healthy macroinvertebrate community.

A Watershed Action Volunteer at Possum Creek

74

Stream Bioassessment Study Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010

Possum Creek at NW 8th Ave. Biorecons Collected Dec. 5, 2000 and Nov. 22, 2008



Organism Organism

Florida Metric Prevalence Prevalence

Species Index (LL,S,CL) 2000 2008 Diptera (flies)

Ceratopogonidae

P Chironomidae

A A

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A D Tipula sp. P


P


A

Argia sedula 2

P Argia sp. 2

P

Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P P Calopteryx maculata 2

A

Cordulegaster sp.

LL

P Enallagma coecum

P

Epicordulia princeps regina

P Hetaerina sp 2

P

Progomphus sp. 2 LL P C

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancronyx variegata

S

C


S, CL P C Microcylloepus pusillus

P

Stenelmis sp.

CL

P

Oligochaeta (worms) Naididae

P

Turbellaria-Tricladida P P

Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea

LL P C

Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P

Lepidoptera (moths) P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia choreutes

P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp.

LL P C

75

Organism Organism

Florida Metric Prevalence Prevalence

Species Index (LL,S,CL) 2000 2008 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

C

Baetidae

C Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A A

Pseudocleoen propinquum

A

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A Oecetis georgia 1

P

S P P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


20 24

Ephemeroptera

2 3 Trichoptera

2 3

Long-lived

5 5 Clinger

4 5


Target


Values Values


2000 2008 Total Taxa 18

20 24


15 15 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 6 Interpretation Healthy Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

76

Rattlesnake Creek Upstream of Hogtown Creek BioRecon Summary Introduction Rattlesnake Creek lies in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a westerly direction from NW 8th Avenue and NW 8th Street almost to NW 22nd Street where it joins Hogtown Creek. The sampling site was located north of NW 8th Avenue upstream of the confluence with Hogtown Creek. Approximately 85% of the land use in the basin draining into the site was composed of residential neighborhoods, with commercial areas making up the remainder. The terrain was hilly by Florida standards. Rattlesnake Creek was sampled on April 24, 2001 and February 26, 2010.

Rattlesnake Creek facing upstream Physical and Chemical Characterization Rattlesnake Creek was an average of one meter wide and about 0.05 meter deep as it approached Hogtown Creek. It showed signs of human impact upstream with steep, eroded banks exposing clay outcroppings, and invasive exotic landscape plants present. The water appears to rise quickly, almost one meter during storms. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential areas and from NW 8th Avenue and NW 13th Street. The current velocity was

good; the water was clear with no unnatural odors but there was a sheen on the surface in low velocity areas. The sediment had a sulfur odor. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. Fish and periphyton were present and iron bacteria were common. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 20.5 9.35Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.4 12.12Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 342pH (standard units) 7.7 7.54Alkalinity (mg/L) 168 NANA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included a suboptimal amount of snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, and rock rubble. Erosion was evident and sand and silt lightly smothered some of the habitat. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Cinnamomum camphora Camphortree (E)Clematis sp. Leather-flowerColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumNandina domestica Heavenly Bamboo (E)Prunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherrySambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberryVitis aestivalis Summer Grape The riparian zone was made of residential backyards. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Rattlesnake Creek received 104 points, placing it in the suboptimal range.

77


Artificial Channelization 15 18Bank Stability Right Bank 5 5Bank Stability Left Bank 5 4Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 10* 6Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 10* 3Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Bank 6 5Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 6 2Secondary Score 57 43

Total Score 104 93* 2010 station was slightly upstream of 2001 station 81-123 = Suboptimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Rattlesnake Creek contained a low number of benthic macroinvertebrates. Those present including dragonfly, damselfly, blackfly, cranefly, mayfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Crayfish, worms, and one beetle were also present. Rattlesnake Creek scored as Impaired using the 6-metric analysis and Suspect using the three-metric analysis method. See the next page for species list and results.

Rattlesnake Creek facing downstream

Discussion Rattlesnake Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff may be a cause for concern, but high flows during storm events may also be washing out macroinvertebrates that would otherwise tolerate the conditions.

78

Stream Bioassessment Study Alachua County, Florida 2008 -2010 Rattlesnake Creek Upstream of Hogtown Creek

Biorecons Collected April 24, 2001and February 26, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Diptera (flies)

Chironomidae

A C Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A C Tipula (Yamatotipula) sp.

C P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp.

P

Planorbella sp.

P


P

Argia sedula 2

A Argia sp. 2

A

Calopteryx sp. 2

P C Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P

Coleoptera (beetles) Microcylloepus pusillus

P

Oligochaeta (worms) P P

Hirudinea (leeches) P

Turbellaria-Tricladida P

Bivalvia (clams) Pisidiidae

P

Collembola P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Veliidae

P


LL P P

Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. 1 S P

79

Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

P

Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL

P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


16 14

Ephemeroptera

0 2 Trichoptera

1 1

Long-lived

2 2 Clinger

2 3


Target


Values Values


2001 2010 Total Taxa 18

16 14



80

Ridgeview Creek at NW 27th Terrace In Brywood BioRecon Summary Introduction Ridgeview Creek is a small tributary to Possum Creek in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek flows from NW 31st Avenue south to NW 16th Avenue where it converges with Possum Creek. The sampling site was located on NW 26th Way. Residential areas accounted for 80% of the land-use in its watershed, while 10% was forest/natural and 10% was commercial. Ridgeview Creek was sampled on June 12, 2001 and June 21, 2008 .

Ridgeview Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Ridgeview Creek was an average of 1.25 meters wide and 0.05 meters deep at this 100-meter reach. The banks were slightly eroded in places. Non-point source pollution may run off from the residential yards. The water current

velocity was good, about 0.2 m/s. The water was clear and colorless with no unnatural odors or oils present there or in the sediments. Dissolved oxygen was good and pH was within the normal range. The riparian zone was vegetated with a variety of trees that heavily shaded the stream. Fish were common and aquatic plants were rare. Iron/sulfur bacteria and periphyton were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) NA 23.26Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.2 8.6Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 301pH (standard units) 7.2 7.56Alkalinity (mg/L) 118 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, rock rubble and leaf packs. The riparian zone was narrow and residential with exotic plants present in the under story. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer saccharum subsp. floridanum Florida MapleAcer negundo BoxelderArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carpinus caroliniana American HornbeamClerodendrum sp. Glorybower (E)Colocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Itea virginica Virginia WillowLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sambucus nigra var. canadensis Elderberry

Sapium sebiferum Chinese Tallowtree (E)Zingiber sp. Ginger (E) Native trees, dominated the canopy. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Ridgeview Creek received

81

107 points in 2008, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2008Substrate Diversity 17 13Substrate Availability 11 10Water Velocity 13 18Habitat Smothering 10 16Primary Score 51 57



Benthic Macroinvertebrates Ridgeview Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, caddisfly, cranefly and midge larvae. Clams, mites, crayfish, amphipods, small water striders and a variety of beetles were also present. Biorecon scores for Ridgeview Creek improved between 2001 and 2008. It placed in the Healthy range for both 3- and 6- metric analysis methods. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Ridgeview Creek supports a healthy macroinvertebrate population.

This is a larva of the crane fly Tipula which is founding the top layer of sandy sediments. Mature larvae may range from 12-60 mm.

Crane fly adults resemble large, slow mosquitoes. Adults can be as small as a mosquito or up to 60 mm.

82

Stream Bioassessment Study Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Ridgeview Creek at NW 27th Terrace in Brywood BioRecons Collected June 12, 2001 and June 21, 2008 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism



Chironomidae

A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL

A

Tipula sp. P C


C

Argia sedula 2

C Argia sp. 2

P

Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P C Calopteryx maculata 2

C A

Gomphus sp. 1 LL C P Libellulidae

P

Macromia sp. 2 S, LL P Progomphus obscurus 2 LL

C

Coleoptera (beetles) Enochrus sp.

P

Helichus fastigiatus

CL

C Helichus sp.

CL P


S, CL

A Microcylloepus pusillus

P C

Stenelmis sp. CL P C

Acariformes (mites) P


Turbellaria-Tricladida A

Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P P

Hemiptera (water bugs) P Microvelia sp.

P P

Rhagovelia sp. C A

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL P C

83



Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. 1 S C

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

P

Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A A

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL

P

Oecetis persimilis 1

P Triaenodes ignitus

S

A

Triaenodes sp. S C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values

BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis

2002 2009 Total Taxa

19 25

Ephemeroptera

1 2 Trichoptera

1 3

Long-lived

5 5 Clinger

3 5


Target


Values Values


2002 2009 Total Taxa 18

19 25


10 15 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 5 Interpretation Suspect Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

84

Springstead Creek West of US 441 BioRecon Summary Introduction Springstead Creek lies in western Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek flows in a westerly direction from the North Main St. Commercial Park under N. Main St., NW 6th St. and under US 441. The sampling site was located upstream of the confluence with Hogtown Creek just west of US 441. Land use draining into the creek is 40% residential, 30% commercial, 20% industrial with small amounts of field and natural forest. Springstead Creek was sampled at this site on January 15, 2010.

Springstead Creek west of US 441 Physical and Chemical Characterization Springstead Creek was sand-bottomed, and averaged 2 meters wide and 0.15 meters deep. Banks were eroded and there were clay outcroppings in places. Native and a few exotic plants lightly shade the creek in winter and provide moderate shade in summer. Sources of non-point pollution were US 441, historic discharges of pine tars and contaminated stormwater from the Cabot- Koppers Superfund Site, and the residences backing up to the creek east of US 441 and industrial and commercial land farther upstream. The current

velocity was good, about 0.25 meters/sec., and the water was clear with a slight sheen on the surface and chemical odor in the sediment. Water quality parameters were within normal ranges. Periphyton and iron/sulfur bacteria were common. No aquatic macrophytes were observed. Fish were not seen but were likely present. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 11.49Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 10.13Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 278pH (standard units) 7.59 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, and roots of vegetation living on the banks and rock rubble. Habitat was moderately smothered with sand. Plants List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carpinus caroliniana American HornbeamDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Eriobotrya japonica Loquat (E)Hedera helix English Ivy (E)Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaQuercus nigra Water OakRuellia caroliniensis Carolina Wild PetuniaSambucus canadensis ElderberrySerenoa repens Saw Palmetto As is common near many creeks in Gainesville and other urban or residential areas, the upper story vegetation was dominated by native trees. However, exotic plants are commonly found in the under-story. The riparian zone was about 6-18 meters wide. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Springstead Creek scored 106 points placing it in the suboptimal range.

85



Total Score 10681-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Springstead Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, dobsonfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Worms, crayfish and a variety of beetles were also present. The biorecon results scored in the Healthy range. See the next page for species list and results.

Progomphus obscurus is a dragonfly common in Springstead Creek. This nymph is found burrowing through the soft sand as it preys on other organisms. The middle set of legs are close together, a diagnostic character for the genus. Mature larvae grow up to about 3 cm in length.

Discussion Springstead Creek has a fairly healthy macroinvertebrate population at this site in spite of commercial, industrial and residential runoff. High flows during storm events may be a cause for concern; and erosion and sand deposition were affecting the habitat. However, the riparian zone shades the creek and provides habitat for macroinvertebrates.

Adult Progomphus obscurus, photographed by Michael Drummond.

86

Stream Bioassessment Study Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Springstead Creek West of US 441

BioRecons Collected January 15, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism

Index Metric Prevalence

Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2009 Diptera (flies)

Chironomidae

A Empididae

S P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL D Tipula sp. P

Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae

P


C

Argia sedula 2

C Calopterygidae 2

A

Coenagrionidae

P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL P Progomphus sp. 2 LL C


C

Stenelmis sp.

CL C


Oligochaeta (worms) P



LL P

Collembola P

Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy C

87

Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2009 Ephemeroptera (mayflies)

Acentrella alachua

A Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL D Pseudocloeon propinquum

A

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Current FDEP

Values

BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2009 Total Taxa

23

Ephemeroptera

3 Trichoptera

1

Long-lived

3 Clinger

4

Sensitive 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 4 Interpretation Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

Metric Previous FDEP Metric

Values


2009 Total Taxa 18

23


15 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 Interpretation Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

88

Springstead Creek North of NW 2nd Street BioRecon Summary Introduction Springstead Creek lies in the northern part of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a westerly direction from North Main Street and NE 34th Place under US 441 where it joins Hogtown Creek. The sampling site was located downstream of NW 2nd Street. The land use in the basin draining into the site was composed mainly of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, with a small amount of forest and open field. Springstead Creek was sampled on June 21, 2001 and January 15, 2010.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Springstead Creek was a sand-bottomed stream, averaging 3 meters wide and about 0.2 meters deep. The water appears to rise more than 1 meter during storms and moderate to heavy erosion of the banks was noted. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential, commercial, historic discharges of pine tars and contaminated stormwater from the Cabot- Koppers Superfund site. The current velocity was slow; the water was slightly turbid and lightly tea-colored, with no unnatural odors but an occasional light, oily sheen on the surface. Dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, and pH were within normal

ranges. Fish and aquatic macrophytes were rare and periphyton was abundant. Iron-sulfur bacteria were also found in several places. The bacteria can indicate a disturbance of the land in the past, such as buried trash. Physical/Chemical Data 6/26/2001 1/15/2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) NA 13.66Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 5.6 9.35Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 241pH (standard units) 6.9 7.06Alkalinity (mg/L) 108 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, and rock rubble. Roots of plants on the banks were in poor condition. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Cinnamomum camphora CamphortreeEriobotrya japonica Loquat (E)Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLigustrum sp. Privet (E)Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia

Myriophyllum aquaticumParrot Feather Watermilfoil

Pinus taeda Loblolly pineQuercus nigra Water oakQuercus virginiana Live oakSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySerenoa repens Saw palmetto Erosion, sand, and silt smothering affected some of the habitat. The riparian zone was made up of mainly residential backyards. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Springstead Creek received 103 points, placing it in the suboptimal range in 2003 and it dropped to 84 in 2009. The change was mainly due to poor water velocity and habitat availability.

89



Total Score 103 8481-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Springstead Creek contained mayfly, damselfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Blackflies which were absent in 2001 were dominant in 2010. Crayfish, amphipods, snails, worms, beetles, and small water striders were also present. The Biorecon results improved from 2001 to 2010 just enough to move it from the Impaired to the Healthy category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results. Discussion Springstead Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population somewhat but not as badly as may be expected. The BioRecon results improved from the 2001 event, and time of year may have had an influence on the difference in results. Low rainfall and reduced stormwater flows may also have been a factor. The water quality may have improved over that time period.

The black fly larva is very small, about 3-5 mm long. There is definitely room for improvement in most all of the streams in Gainesville. Pollution from runoff can add fertilizer and toxins that cause algae growth and can prevent sensitive insects from living there. The high flows during storm events may also be washing out macroinvertebrates that would otherwise tolerate the conditions.

90

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Springstead Creek North of NW 2nd St. BioRecons Collected June 26, 2001 and January 15, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL D Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp. P Melanoides turricula C Viviparus georgianus P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sedula 2 A Argia sp. 2 C Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2 P Enallagma cardenium P Gomphus sp. 1 LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S P P Dubiraphia vittata C Microcylloepus pusillus C Stenelmis sp. CL A P Oligochaeta (worms) P Lumbriculidae C P Hirudinea (leeches) Mooreobdella tetragon P Turbellaria-Tricladida C P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P

91

Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia choreutes P Rhagovelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL C Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P C Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. S P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua C Caenis sp. P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL P A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2010 Total Taxa 16 23 Ephemeroptera 1 3 Trichoptera 1 1 Long-lived 2 3 Clinger 3 4 Sensitive 3 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 4 Interpretation Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2010 Total Taxa 18 16 23 Florida Index Total 10 8 13 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 4 Interpretation Impaired Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

92

Three Lakes Creek at Glen Springs Road (NW 31st Blvd.) BioRecon Summary Introduction Three Lakes Creek is a small tributary to Possum Creek in Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. The creek flows from northeast of NW 39th Avenue (SR 222) and NW 34th St. southwest under Glen Springs Road (NW 31st Blvd.) and NW 34th Street, where it converges with Possum Creek. The sampling site was located on the upstream side of Glen Springs Road. Residential areas account for 80% of the land-use in its watershed, while 20% is forest/natural. Three Lakes Creek was sampled on May 31, 2001 and again on May 29, 2008.

Three Lakes Creek looking upstream from Glen Springs Rd. Physical and Chemical Characterization Three Lakes Creek was a sand-bottomed stream with outcroppings of Hawthorne Group clay and limestone; it averaged one meter wide and 0.1 meter deep in this 100-meter reach. The banks were moderately eroded in places. Non-point source pollution may run off from roads and the residential areas draining into the creek. The water current velocity was good, about 0.2 m/s. The water was clear and colorless with an oily sheen in some places, probably from decomposing leaf littler. No unnatural odors

were present there or in the sediments except for the anaerobic pools. Dissolved oxygen was better in 2008 than in 2001, and pH and temperature were within the normal range. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide, and vegetated with a variety of trees such as water oak and sweet gum that moderately shaded the stream. Fish were common and aquatic plants, and periphyton were rare. Iron/sulfur bacteria was absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2008Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22 21.09Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.6 6.51Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 314.2pH (standard units) 6.9 7.28Alkalinity (mg/L) 120 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs and a small amount of aquatic vegetation. Some of the habitat was slightly sand-smothered. The riparian zone vegetation was composed of mostly native plants. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleAcer saccharum var. floridanum Florida MapleArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E)Begonia sp. BegoniaBroussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry (E)Colocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E) Iris sp. IrisLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaParthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPinus taeda Loblolly PineQuercus virginiana Live OakSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySapium sebiferum Chinese Tallowtree (E)Serenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax spp. GreenbrierWedelia trilobata Creeping OxeyeUlmus sp. ElmViola sp. Violet

93

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Three Lakes Creek received 119 points in 2001 and 123 in 2008 placing it in the high suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2008Substrate Diversity 15 15Substrate Availability 11 9Water Velocity 13 14Habitat Smothering 10 17Primary Score 49 55


Total Score 119 12381-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Three Lakes Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, caddisfly, cranefly, blackfly, dobsonfly, and midge larvae. Snails, crayfish, amphipods, small water striders and beetles were also present. Three Lakes Creek improved in its biorecon scores from 2001-2008 and went from a score of 3- Impaired to 5- Healthy. See the next page for species list and results.

Megaloptera larva Corydalus cornutus is found in Three Lakes Creek on submerged logs. It grows up to 70 mm in length. These hellgrammites reportedly make good fishing bait.

Discussion Three Lakes Creek has a rather healthy macroinvertebrate population.

Three Lakes Creek facing downstream.

This is a female adult Corydalus cornutus.

94

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Three Lakes Creek at Glen Springs Road (NW 31st Blvd.) Biorecons Collected May 31, 2001and May 29, 2008 Data provided by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

A P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A C Tipula sp.

P P

Gastropoda (snails)

Haitia cubensis P

Odonata (dragonflies, damselflies) Argis sedula 2

C

Argia sp. 2

P Argia tibialis

C

Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P P Calopteryx maculata 2

P P

Cordulegaster sp.

LL P Libellula incesta

P

Progomphus obscurus 2 LL

P

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancronyx variegata

S

P

Dytiscidae


P

Stenelmis sp.

CL

P

Hirudinea (leeches) Mooreobdella tetragon P




Collembola P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Mesovelia sp.

P

Microvelia sp.

P Notonecta irrorata

C

Rhagovelia choreutes

A Rhagovelia sp.

P

95

Florida

Organism

Organism


Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2001 2008 Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL C P

Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

P

Baetidae

P Maccaffertium smithae

S, CL

C

Pseudocleoen propinquum

C Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A Triaenodes ignitus S P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


16 26

Ephemeroptera

1 3 Trichoptera

1 2

Long-lived

4 3 Clinger

2 4

Sensitive 2 4 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 5 Interpretation Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Values Values


2001 2008 Total Taxa 18

16 25



96

Boulware Spring Run Biorecon Summary Introduction Boulware Spring Run flows out of Boulware Spring in southeastern Gainesville in Alachua County, Florida. Boulware Spring, which discharges 300,000 gallons of water per day, was a meeting and swimming place and source of drinking water for Alachua County residents for many years. The City of Gainesville lured the University of Florida to Gainesville with the promise of free water from Boulware Spring. Boulware Spring has been designated as an American Water Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The spring run flows through upland mixed forest and a residential area before flowing into Paynes Prairie State Preserve. The water continues into Alachua Sink, which discharges into the Floridan aquifer. The sampling site is located in Robinson Heights Subdivision, a medium-density residential area. Upstream of the site, the watershed drains natural forest, residential neighborhoods, pasture, and a small amount of commercial land. Boulware Spring Run was sampled on March 6, 2002 and April 17, 2009.

Boulware Spring Run looking upstream. Physical and Chemical Characterization Boulware Spring Run was an average of 1 meter wide and 0.08 meters deep. The current velocity was good at 0.25 meters per second. Silt and sand smothering was slight. The water was clear with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native and exotic plants that provided light to moderate shade. Fish and aquatic macrophytes were common; periphyton was minimal. Physical/Chemical Data 3/6/2002 4/17/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 15 18.82Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.9 7.86Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 515pH (standard units) 7.85 7.28Alkalinity (mg/L) 236 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, and aquatic vegetation. Erosion was only slight. Exotic were common along the banks; however, Hydrilla, which was observed in 2002, was not seen in 2009.

http://artiestempeh.com/images/boulware_main.jpg

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Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAlternanthera philoxeroides Alligatorweed (E)Ardisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Arundinaria gigantea SwitchcaneCitrus x aurantium Sour Orange (E)Colocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Elodea canadensis Canadian WaterweedLigustrum sp. Privet (E)Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumPrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryQuercus nigra Water OakSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberryZingiber sp. Ginger (E) Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Boulware Spring Run received 83 points in 2002, and increased to 111 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range. The increase in score was due to more stable banks, less smothering, and an increase in habitat diversity and availability. Habitat Assessment Scores 2002 2009Substrate Diversity 10 17Substrate Availability 8 18Water Velocity 15 15Habitat Smothering 8 15Primary Score 41 65


Total Score 83 11181-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Boulware Spring Run contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates, including many different dragonfly and damselfly larvae. Blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, midge larvae, worms, exotic clams, and crayfish were also present. The low numbers of mayfly and caddisfly species indicate some disturbance. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

The snail Viviparus georgianus is found in Boulware Spring Run. It is approximately 1 cm long. Discussion Boulware Spring Run has a suboptimal habitat for macroinvertebrates at this location which is likely due to human activity. Water quality may also be impaired by runoff from the residential area. Boulware Spring Run, like many creeks, does not fall into the Healthy category because of very few sensitive mayfly and caddisfly species.

This section of Boulware Spring Run is in a residential neighborhood.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Boulware Springs Run at SE 13th Terrace BioRecons Collected March 6, 2002 and April 17, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2002 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A C Simulium sp. 2 S, CL P C Tipulidae P Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae C Hebetancylus excentricus C Melanoides sp. A Planorbella sp. C P Viviparus georgianus P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 P Argia sedula 2 A A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P C Calopteryx sp. 2 A C Dromogomphus sp. P Enallagma sp. P Ischnura sp. P Libellulidae P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL P Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P Coleoptera (beetles) Dytiscidae P Macronychus glabratus S, CL P Microcylloepus pusillus C Oligochaeta (worms) P C Turbellaria-Tricladida P C Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL D A Pisidiidae P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2002 2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) Paraplea sp. P Ranatra australis P Rhagovelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Pseudocloeon propinquum P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2002 2009 Total Taxa 20 23 Ephemeroptera 0 2 Trichoptera 1 1 Long-lived 5 3 Clinger 2 3 Sensitive 2 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 3 Interpretation for Boulware Spring Run Impaired Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2002 2009 Total Taxa 18 20 23 Florida Index Total 10 13 13 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 3 Interpretation Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

100

Calf Pond Creek Biorecon Summary Introduction Calf Pond Creek is a small, first-order creek in southeast Alachua County, Florida. Residential neighborhoods accounted for 44% of the land-use in its watershed with 34% natural and 12% agricultural. Calf Pond Creek originates north of Hawthorne Rd. and ends at Calf Pond on the east side of SE 27th St. The upstream portion of the creek is underground and part of the stormwater system. The sample area tested was less than 1,000 feet from where the creek passes under SE 27th Street and enters into Calf Pond. The creek was sampled on April 4, 2010.

Calf Pond Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Calf Pond Creek is an average of 1.2 meters wide and 0.2 meters deep. The banks are low, and the water goes over the banks into a natural flood plain from significant rainfall events. Non-point source pollution upstream was likely from Hawthorne Rd. An organic blueberry farm and a school are also upstream of the site. The current velocity was good, at 0.25 meters per seconds. The water was clear but tannic with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and

conductivity were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants that lightly shade the stream. Fish and aquatic macrophytes were common and iron/sulfur bacteria was absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 19.3Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.92Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 182pH (standard units) 7.32 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, macrophytes, and leaf packs. In some places, sand on the bottom was covered with moss. Erosion was slight. The riparian zone was in the process of being restored to one with only native vegetation and minimal human impact. Plant List Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleCicuta maculata Water hemlockIlex cassine Dahoon HollyIlex vomitoria Yaupon HollyLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumPersea sp. BayPinus taeda Loblolly PineQuercus nigra Water OakSambucus canadensis ElderberrySaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoStachys floridana Florida BetonyVitis sp. Grape

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Calf Pond Creek received 126 points in 2010 placing it in the optimal range.

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Total Score 126124-160 = Optimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates In Calf Pond Creek we found species that include damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, blackfly, and midge larvae. Many adult black-winged damselflies flew above the creek. Worms, snails, clams, crayfish, and a variety of beetles were also present. The lack of caddisfly larvae could indicate interruption in flow regime, such as periodic drought. However, the creek had been flowing for the past four to five months before the sample event. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Calf Pond Creek is a small, relatively short creek which drains to Calf Pond, and occasionally will stop flowing. There are three primary branches of Calf Pond Creek that converge into one stream within the borders of the Gainesville Organic Blueberry Farm. Two of the branches pass under SE 15th Street and the third branch forms from water flowing under SE 15th Avenue. There has been a long-term and ongoing problem of street and yard runoff, trash,

litter, and exotic plants flowing down these waterways towards SE 27th Street. Clean up of the natural areas’ deterioration and pollution previously described is ongoing, but the problems will continue unless measures are set in place to prevent and mitigate degradation. These factors, and the intermittent nature of the creek during drought conditions, may be the reasons this creek did not have quite enough diversity and sensitivity of organisms to score in the healthy range. The riparian buffer zone, habitat, and water quality at the sampling location appear to be conducive to a healthy macroinvertebrate population.

Calf Pond Creek

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Calf Pond Creek

BioRecon Collected April 4, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL D Orimarga sp. P


A

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 P Calopteryx sp. 2

A

Erythemis simplicicollis P Progomphus obscurus 2 LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S C Curculionidae

P

Dubiraphia vittata P Helichus sp.

CL C

Microcylloepus pusillus C Scirtes sp.

P


Turbellaria-Tricladida C

Bivalvia (clams) Pisidium sp.

P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Pelocoris sp.

P


LL P

103

Florida Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Caenis diminuta

P

P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Current FDEP

Values

Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010 Total Taxa 21 Ephemeroptera

2

Trichoptera 0 Long-lived

2

Clinger 2 Sensitive

2

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Metric Previous FDEP Target

Values

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2010 Total Taxa 18 21 Florida Index Total 10

8

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 Interpretation Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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East Tumblin Creek at Bivens Arm Nature Park BioRecon Summary Introduction East Tumblin Creek is a short, residential creek in the southern part of the City of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southwesterly direction from its source, Colclough Pond on the east side of South Main Street, to Bivens Arm Nature Park, and then into Paynes Prairie. The sampling site was located in Bivens Arm Nature Park. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 59% residential and 7% commercial, and 35% forest. East Tumblin Creek was sampled on March 4, 2010.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Tumblin Creek was about 1.25 meters wide and about 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was possible from roads, the pond that feeds the creek, and residential areas. The creek had been attempted to be sampled previously, but had been completely dry for several months. After it had been flowing again, and waiting for at least four months, the creek was sampled. The current velocity was slow at 0.1 meters per second; the water was clear to with no unnatural odors or oils there or in the sediment. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, specific conductivity, and pH were within normal ranges. Periphyton and fish were rare,

Iron/sulfur bacteria were absent, and aquatic plants were common in the creek. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 10.8Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.33Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 266pH (standard units) 7.41 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates consisted mainly of leaf packs, with snags of fallen tree branches, aquatic plants, and a very small amount of roots. Erosion was slight, and smothering was not an issue, but the banks were steep. The riparian zone was from mostly greater than 18 meters wide except for a boardwalk crossing it and the visitor's area with native trees and palms and a few exotic plants. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Callicarpa americana American BeautyberryCarpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Sugarberry, HackberryDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia virginiana SweetbayMorus rubra Red MulberryOnoclea sensibilis Sensitive FernPhytolacca americana American PokeweedQuercus nigra Water OakQuercus virginiana Live OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. GreenbrierToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVitis sp. Grape The creek did not score well in any area of the habitat assessment. It had been channelized and was missing pools. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, East Tumblin Creek received 90 points placing it in the suboptimal range.

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Total Score 9081-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates East Tumblin Creek contained and abundance of midge, blackfly, and beetle larvae. Mayfly, mosquito, dragonfly, and caddisfly larvae were present as well as amphipods, crayfish, snails, leeches, and water bugs. It scored 3 using the 6-metric biorecon method which is interpreted as impaired. See the next page for species list and results.

East Tumblin Creek

This beetle larva, about 6mm in length called Tropisternus, was found in East Tumblin Creek. Discussion East Tumblin Creek was impacted by disruption in flow, which may have negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff appears to be minor. It would be interesting to know about the water quality of the pond from which it flows.

This is the adult Tropisternus, about 7 mm but some species grow to 12.5 mm long. The long setae on the middle and hind legs help them swim, and make them difficult to catch!

106

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 East Tumblin Creek at Bivens Arm

Biorecon Collected March 4, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Bezzia/Palpomyia Complex P Chironomidae

A

Culex sp. P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia pomilia hendersoni

P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Gomphus minutus 1 LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Neoporus clypealis A Platambus sp.

P

Scirtidae P Tropisternus lateralis nimbatus

P


Hirudinea (leeches) Haemopidae (LPIL) P Mooreobdella microstoma

P

Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Nigronia sp. 2 LL P

Collembola P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostoma sp.

P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae

LL P

Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S C Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy

P

107

Florida Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Pseudocloeon frondale

C

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric

Values

Current FDEP Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010 Total Taxa

21

Ephemeroptera

1 Trichoptera

1

Long-lived

3 Clinger

2

Sensitive

2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 Interpretation Impaired

Target

Metric

Metric

Values

Previous FDEP Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2010 Total Taxa 18

21


6 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 Interpretation Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

108

Rosewood Creek Biorecon Summary Introduction Rosewood Creek is a small urban creek in the City of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southwesterly direction from Waldo Rd. (SR 24) and NE 5th Avenue south under University Avenue (SR26) and southwest under SE 11th St. The land use affecting the creek includes 13% commercial, 86% residential, and a small amount of natural land. Rosewood Creek flows into Sweetwater Branch near SE 8th Avenue and 9th St. The sampling site was located upstream of SE 9th Street and SE 9th Place.

Rosewood Creek at SE 9th St. and SE 9th Pl.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Rosewood Creek was a sand-bottomed stream, averaging 1.5 meters wide and about 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential yards, roads, and commercial areas. The current velocity was good at 0.25 meters per second; the water was clear and colorless, with a slight chemical odor and oil in the sediment. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, specific conductivity, and pH were within normal ranges. Fish, iron/sulfur bacteria, and

periphyton were common, and there were a few aquatic plants in the creek.

Physical/Chemical Data 2009 Temperature ( degrees Celsius) 17.85 Dissolved Oxygen ( mg/L) 8.88 Specific Conductivity ( µS/cm) 384 pH standard units 7.82

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and rock rubble. Erosion was moderate, and sand and silt smothered some of the habitat. The riparian zone was about 1-3 meters wide with native trees, palms, and exotic plants. Plant list (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common Name Acer negundo L. Box-elder Allium ascalonicum L. Wild onion Ampelopsis arborea Peppervine Ardisia crenata Coral ardisia (E) Bidens alba Romerillo/ Beggarticks Broussonetia papyrifera Paper mulberry (E) Carya illinoinensis pecan Celtis laevigata Hackberry; Sugarberry Chamaemelum dogfennel Clematis terniflora sweet autumn virginsbower (E) Colocasia esculenta Elephant ear (E)/ Taro Crinum L. swamplily Dioscorea bulbifera Air potato (E) Eriobotrya loquat (E) Galium tinctorium stiff marsh bedstraw Mirabilis four o'clock (E) Morus rubra Red Mulberry Nandina domestica Heavenly bamboo (E) Ophiopogon japonicus Mondo grass (E) Oxalis sp. Woodsorrel Phyllanthus urinaria L. chamber bitter Polystichum hollyfern(E) Prunus caroliniana Carolina laurelcherry Ruellia brittoniana Mexican petunia (E) Salvia lyrata L. Lyreleaf sage Serenoa repens Saw palmetto Smilax spp. Greenbrier Stachys floridana Betony/Florida hedgenettle Toxicodendron radicans L. Poison ivy Tradescantia fluminenses Wandering jew (E) Tradescantia L. Spiderwort (E) Woodwardia chain fern Youngia japonica Oriental false hawksbeard (E) Zingiber sp. Ginger (E) Magnolia virginiana Sweet bay

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Habitat Assessment Scores 2009 Substrate Diversity 18 Substrate Availability 13 Water Velocity 18 Habitat Smothering 8 Primary Score 57

Artificial Channelization

18 Bank Stability Right Bank 5 Bank Stability Left Bank 5 Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 2 Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 1 Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Bank 3 Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 2 Secondary Score 36 Total Score

93

81-123 = Suboptimal

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Rosewood Creek received 93 points, placing it in the suboptimal range.

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Rosewood Creek contained a few damselfly, dragonfly, midge, cranefly, caddisfly and blackfly larvae, exotic snails, crayfish, and worms. It scored a low 2 points placing it in the Impaired category for the 6-metric analysis and Suspect for the 3-metric analysis. No mayflies were found at this station. See the next page for species list and results.

Discussion Rosewood Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff and lack of a naturally vegetated riparian zone were probable causes. High flows during storm events may also be washing out some macroinvertebrates that would otherwise tolerate the conditions at this site.

Cheumatopsyche is very common in Gainesville creeks. It is apparently tolerant of some pollution from stormwater. Larvae in Gainesville attained a length of 10 mm. The adult Cheumatopsyche looks like a small moth with hair-like antennae.

110

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 – 2010 Rosewood Creek

BioRecon Collected December 9, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Species

Florida Index

Points Metric

(LL, S, CL)

Organism Prevalence

2009

Diptera (flies) Chironomidae C Hemerodromia sp.

S P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C Tipula sp.

P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia pomilia hendersoni P Micromenetus dilatatus

P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies)

Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sedula 2

P

Calopteryx Sp. 2 C Progomphus obscurus 2 LL C



Amphipoda (scuds) Talitridae C

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100)

LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Metric

Current FDEP

Value Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2009 Total Taxa 15 Ephemeroptera

0


2

Clinger 2 Sensitive

2

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 2 Interpretation

Impaired

[7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Value

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2009 Total Taxa 18 15 Florida Index Total 10

11


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Sweetwater Branch at Former Landfill BioRecon Summary Introduction Sweetwater Branch originates in the center of the city of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from NW 2nd Street and NW 23rd Avenue under Main Street and south through commercial, residential, and industrial areas. The Gainesville Regional Utilities Main Water Reclamation Facility (wastewater treatment plant) discharges treated wastewater effluent into Sweetwater Branch near Williston Road. Sweetwater Branch finally flows into Paynes Prairie and Alachua Sink. A BioRecon was performed at this location to assess the biological health of the stream. The sampling site was located in the area of a former landfill and where banks were stabilized by fencing filled with rock (gabion baskets) and gabion mattresses on the bottom of the stream. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 60% residential and 33% commercial, 3% forest/natural and 4% industrial. Sweetwater Branch at the Landfill was sampled on September 21, 2010.

Sweetwater Branch at the Landfill Site looking downstream. The gabions (bank stabilizing structures) are located farther downstream from where this photograph was taken.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Sweetwater Branch at the Landfill was a sand and silt-bottomed stream, averaging 4.5 meters wide and about 0.2 meters deep. The water appears to rise about 0.7 meters during storms. Because the banks were stabilized in about 40% of the reach, erosion in that area was not visible. In the remainder of the reach, banks were vegetated, but quite steep. Non-point source pollution was not visible on site, but was likely from residential, commercial, and industrial areas upstream. A large sewer pipe ran across the stream about halfway. The typical current velocity was a sluggish 0.1 meters per second but some narrow, shallow areas had good current velocity. The water was slightly turbid. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, and pH were within normal ranges. Specific Conductance was elevated, as it is in many urban areas. Exotic plants Hydrilla and Wild Taro were present in large patches in the gabion area. Algae and diatoms were observed to be abundant, and fish were commonly observed. A patch of iron bacteria was also noted on the left bank. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 24.57Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.7Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 602pH (standard units) 7.83

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, vegetation in the water, snags of fallen tree branches, rocks, and leaf packs. The stream bottom was partially covered with fencing and the remainder was vegetation, silt and sand. The portion of the stream without stabilization was deeper and narrower with a large pool. The land along the banks (riparian zone) was disturbed, with exotic vegetation and a vehicle path. Sand smothering from upstream erosion affected some of the

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habitat. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Sweetwater Branch received 90 points, placing it in the suboptimal range. The following table shows the Aquatic Habitat Characterization Scores attained using the FDEP Standard Operating Procedure FT3100. Alachua County Bioassessment StudySweetwater Branch at the Landfill above GRU WWTPCollected September 21, 2010



Total Score 9081-123 = Suboptimal

The banks were typically covered by exotic invasive vegetation, like the Air Potato and Mexican Petunia shown here, with some native trees and plants.

Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAlternanthera philoxeroides Alligatorweed (E)Baccharis sp. Groundsel TreeBidens alba BeggarticksColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Eupatorium capillifolium DogfennelHydrilla verticillata Hydrilla (E)Ruellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSalix caroliniana Coastal Plain WillowSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberryZingiber sp. Ginger (E) Benthic Macroinvertebrates Sweetwater Branch at this station contained mayfly, damselfly, dragonfly, caddisfly, beetle, and midge larvae. A leech, clam, flatworms, and small water striders were also present. The variety of aquatic organisms was low, and those sensitive to pollution were missing. The Biorecon scored in the Impaired category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results. Discussion Sweetwater Branch at the landfill site was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff can add fertilizer that causes algae growth and toxins can prevent sensitive insects from living there. The high flows during storm events may also be washing out macroinvertebrates that would otherwise tolerate the conditions. This is a photograph of an immature Corbicula clam, They can grow to over an inch in length and were brought to this country from China as a source of food.

114

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Sweetwater Branch at the Landfill above GRU WWTP

Biorecon Collected September 21, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

C

Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae P Haitia cubensis

C

Planorbella trivolvis intertexta P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia sedula 2

A

Calopteryx sp. 2 C Enallagma cardenium

C

Progomphus sp. 2 LL P


P


Hirudinea (leeches) Haemopsis sp.

P



LL P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia sp.

P


LL P

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Pseudocloeon propinquum

P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

115

Metric

Current FDEP

Values

BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010

Total Taxa

17

Ephemeroptera

1

Trichoptera

1

Long-lived

3

Clinger

1

Sensitive

0

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas)

2

Interpretation

Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

Metric

Previous FDEP Metric

Values


2010

Total Taxa 18

17


7

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4

2

Interpretation

Impaired Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met Impaired-0 target values met

116

Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street Biorecon Summary Introduction Sweetwater Branch originates in the center of the city of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from North Main Street and NW 2nd Street and NW 23rd Avenue, under Main Street and south through commercial, residential and industrial areas. A wastewater treatment plant discharges into Sweetwater Branch near Williston Road. Finally, Sweetwater Branch flows into Paynes Prairie and Alachua Sink. The sampling site was located upstream of SE 4th Street in a residential area close to an old industrial area. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 60% residential and 33% commercial, 4% industrial and a small amount of forest. Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street was sampled on February 21, 2001 and again on February 1, 2009.

Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th street Physical and Chemical Characterization Sweetwater Branch was a sand-bottomed stream, averaging 2 meters wide and about 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The current velocity was good at 0.25 meters per second; the water was clear and colorless, with no unnatural odors or oils there or in the sediment. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, specific

conductivity, and pH were within normal ranges. Periphyton was abundant, Iron/sulfur bacteria were common, and there were a few fish and no aquatic plants in the creek. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2009

Temperature ( degrees Celsius) 19 13.11

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.42 9.64

Specific Conductivity (µS/cm) 389 430

pH (standard units) 7.8 6.45

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included a small amount of leafpack, roots from vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and rock rubble. Erosion was moderate, and sand smothered some of the habitat. The riparian zone was from 3 to 9 meters wide with native trees, palms, and exotic plants. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common Name Acer rubrum L. Southern red maple Aescu/us pavia L. Red buckeye Allium asca/onicum L. wild onion Ardisia crenata Coral ardisia (E) Baccharis sp. Saltbush Begonia sp. Begonia Bidens alba Romerillo/Beggar ticks Brassica L. mustard Celtis laevigata Hackberry; Sugarberry Cinnamomum camphora camphortree (E) Dioscorea bulbifera Air potato (E) Elephantopus L. elephant's foot Geranium caro/inianum L. carolina geranium Juniperus virginiana eastern redcedar Ligustrum L. privet (E) Liquidambar styraciflua Sweetgum Lonicera japonica Japanese honeysuckle (E) Nephro/epis spp. Boston Fern (E), Sword fern Osmunda rega/is Royal fern Oxalis debilis Pink woodsorrel Oxalis L. tufted yellow woodsorrel Podocarpus sp. Podocarpus Prunus caroliniana Carolina laurelcherry Pteridium aquilinum var. Southern bracken fern Quercus nigra Water oak Ruel/ia brittoniana Mexican petunia (E) Saba/ palmetto Cabbage palm Salvia Jyrata L. Lyreleaf sage Smilax /aurifolia Catbrier Stachys floridana Florida hedgenettle/ Betony Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering jew (E) Tradescantia L. spiderwort Vitis aestivalis Summer grape

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Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Sweetwater Branch received 101 points in 2001 and 91 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range.

Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2009 Substrate Diversity 16 17 Substrate Availability 13 9 Water Velocity 11 14 Habitat Smothering 11 12 Primary Score 51 52

Artificial Channelization

12

13

Bank Stability Right Bank 5 5 Bank Stability Left Bank 5 5 Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 8 4 Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank 8 4 Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right B k

6 4 Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 6 4 Secondary Score 50 39

Total Score

101

91

81-123 =Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street contained damselfly, dragonfly, midge, cranefly, and caddisfly larvae, snails, crayfish, worms, and beetles. Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th St. did not pass any of the biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the impaired category. See next page for taxa list and results.

Alachua County EPD employee and Watershed Action Volunteer, Marty Anderson, is checking the vegetation.

Discussion Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th Street was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff and lack of a naturally vegetated riparian zone were probable causes. High flows during storm events may also be washing out some macroinvertebrates and depositing sand from upstream which smothers habitat. The damselfly nymph Ischnura posita was found in Sweetwater Branch. They are about 1/2 to 1 inch long. Adult Ischnura posita , photograph courtesy of Michael Drummond.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Sweetwater Branch @ SE 4th St.

BioRecons Collected February 21, 2001 and February 1, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A C Sciomvzidae

P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C Tipulidae

P

Tipula sp. P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P Hebetancyluus excentricus

P

Melanoindes sp A Micromenetus dilatatus P Pseudosuccinea columella P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 P Argia sedula 2

C

Argia sp. 2 A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL

P

Calopteryx sp. 2 P Calopteryx maculata 2

P

Enallagma cardenium P Enallagma signatum

P

Ischnura sp. (posita and ramburii) P Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P

Coleoptera (beetles) Peltodytes sp. P P


Hirudinea (leaches) Hirudinidae P


Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P

Collembola P

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Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2002 2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) Ranatra australis P Veliidae

P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus fallax P Procambarus sp.

C

Isopoda (isopods) Liniidae P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. CL C A


Value Value

Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2009 Total Taxa 12 25 Ephemeroptera

0 0

Trichoptera 1 1 Long-lived

1 3

Clinger 2 1 Sensitive

1 0

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) Impaired Impaired Interpretation [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Value Value

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2002 2009 Total Taxa 18 15 28 Florida Index Total 10

9 11

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 Interpretation Impaired Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve BioRecon Summary Introduction Sweetwater Branch originates in the center of the city of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from NW 2nd Street and NW 23rd Avenue under Main Street and south through commercial, residential, and industrial areas. The Gainesville Regional Utilities Main Water Reclamation Facility (wastewater treatment plant) discharges treated wastewater effluent into Sweetwater Branch near Williston Road. Sweetwater Branch finally flows into Paynes Prairie and Alachua Sink.

Sweetwater Preserve A BioRecon was performed at this location to assess the biological health of the stream. The sampling site was located in Sweetwater Preserve, on the east side of Williston Rd. and is accessible from a road next to Evergreen Cemetery. The land was recently acquired by the Alachua County Forever Program. A Song Bird sign is positioned on the trail next to the creek. This sign marked the downstream end of the 100- meter reach that was sampled. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 60% residential and 20% commercial, 14% forest/natural and 4% industrial. Sweetwater

Branch at Sweetwater Preserve was sampled on September 21, 2010. Physical and Chemical Characterization Sweetwater Branch at Sweetwater Preserve was a sand-bottomed stream, averaging 5 meters wide and about 0.2 meters deep. The water appears to rise one meter during storms and moderate erosion of the banks was noted. Non-point source pollution was not visible in the preserve, but was likely from residential, commercial, and industrial areas, including the waste water treatment plant. The current velocity was good at 0.25 meters per second. The water was slightly turbid, with a chemical smell. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, and pH were within normal ranges. However, specific conductivity was more than twice as high as measured in Sweetwater Branch just upstream of the waste water treatment plant. This reading was also above the standard 1275 µS/cm listed in Chapters 62-302 of the Florida Administrative Code. Hydrilla sp. was present in small patches in the water, algae, diatoms, and fish were commonly observed. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 25.85Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.34Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 1330pH (standard units) 7.67 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and leaf packs. The amount of aquatic vegetation was very small, and not sampled. The stream bottom was almost entirely sand with some clay outcrop. The riparian zone was very wide in the preserve except for a small trail at the beginning of the reach, and the Alachua County Forever volunteers and employees have removed most of the exotic vegetation

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that grew in the area. Unfortunately people have dug in the area for Native American artifacts and fossils for many years so the soil is disturbed. Sand smothering from upstream erosion affected some of the habitat. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Sweetwater Branch received 109 points, placing it in the suboptimal range. Alachua County Bioassessment StudySwetwater Branch at Sweetwater Preserve Biorecon Collected September 21, 2010

Habitat Assessment Scores 2010Substrate Diversity 13Substrate Availability 7Water Velocity 18Habitat Smothering 10

Primary Score 48Artificial Channelization 13Bank Stability Right Bank 5Bank Stability Left Bank 6Riparian Buffer Zone Width Right Bank 10Riparian Buffer Zone Width Left Bank Bank 9Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Right Bank 9Riparian Zone Vegetation Quality Left Bank 9Secondary Score 61


ACEPD employee Greg Owen assisting with the BioRecon. Benthic Macroinvertebrates Sweetwater Branch at the preserve contained mayfly, damselfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. The most abundant invertebrate by far was the exotic

Melanoides tuberculata snail. This snail seems to thrive in areas of good flow and high specific conductivity. Beetles and some hellgrammites worms (good for fish bait), and small water striders were also present. The BioRecon scored in the Impaired category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

A very large hellgrammite (called Corydalus cornuta) was found on a log in the stream. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Carya glabra Pignut HickoryDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia

Discussion Sweetwater Branch at the Sweetwater Preserve was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. The numbers and variety of organisms was low. Pollution from runoff can add fertilizer that causes algae growth and toxins that can prevent sensitive insects from living there. The high flows during storm events may be washing out macroinvertebrates that would otherwise tolerate the conditions, and also smothering habitat with sand. The preserve is a lovely piece of land, and the macroinvertebrate population would probably improve with a reduction in stormwater and improved water quality.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Sweetwater Branch at ACF Preserve

BioRecon Collected September 21, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies)

Chironomidae C

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P Melanoides tuberculata A

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 P Argia sedula 2 C Calopteryx sp. 2 C Enallagma cardenium C

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S P Microcylloepus pusillus P



Hemiptera (water bugs) Rhagovelia sp. P

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Pseudocloeon propinquum P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P


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Metric Current FDEP

Values

BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis

2010 Total Taxa 14 Ephemeroptera 1 Trichoptera 1 Long-lived 1 Clinger 1 Sensitive 1 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7]=Healthy, [0–4]=Impaired

Target


Values

BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2010 Total Taxa 18 14 Florida Index Total 10 9 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 Interpretation Impaired Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met Impaired-0 target values met

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Sweetwater Branch Paynes Prairie at SR 331 BioRecon Summary Introduction Sweetwater Branch originates in the center of the city of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from NW2nd Street and NW 23rd Avenue under Main Street and south through commercial, residential, and industrial areas. The Gainesville Regional Utilities Main Water Reclamation Facility (wastewater treatment plant) discharges treated wastewater effluent into Sweetwater Branch near Williston Road. Sweetwater Branch finally flows into Paynes Prairie and Alachua Sink. The sampling site was located in Paynes Prairie in a wooded area accessed from the FWC entrance. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 60% residential and 20% commercial, 14% forest/natural and 4% industrial. Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie was sampled on May 2, 2001, and again on March 24, 2009.

Sweetwater Branch Physical and Chemical Characterization Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie was sand-bottomed, averaging 1.3 meters wide and about 0.3 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The wastewater treatment plant discharges into the creek less than a mile above the site. The

current velocity was excellent at 0.5 meters per second; the water was clear and colorless with a residual odor from the wastewater treatment process. The sediment had a rusty odor. No oils were observed on the water or sediment. Dissolved oxygen and temperature were within normal ranges. Fish were common and aquatic plants such as taro were abundant in the creek. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.5 19.28Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.2 7.66Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 839pH (standard units) NA 7.19

NA= Not Analyzed

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included an abundance of aquatic vegetation, roots of vegetation living on the banks, and snags of fallen tree branches. The riparian zone was very wide in the state preserve. However, the prairie was plagued with exotic plants that washed in from upstream. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo L. BoxelderAmpelopsis arborea PeppervineCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryCercis canadensis Eastern RedbudClematis terniflora Sweet Autumn Virginsbower (E)Colocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dichanthelium sp. WitchgrassElephantopus sp. ElephantsfootGeranium carolinianum Carolina CranesbillJuniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleOxalis sp. WoodsorrelParthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperQuercus sp. OakRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Rumex crispus Curly DockSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSalvia lyrata L. Lyreleaf SageSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. GreenbrierStachys floridana Florida BetonyToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyTradescantia ohiensis Bluejacket, Ohio Spiderwort Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Sweetwater Branch at this

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location received 112 points in 2001 and 102 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2009Substrate Diversity 16 13Substrate Availability 16 13Water Velocity 19 18Habitat Smothering 3 8Primary Score 54 52


Total Score 112 10281-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Sweetwater Branch at Paynes Prairie contained damselfly, dragonfly, midge, dobsonfly, and caddisfly larvae. Also present were snails, crayfish, shrimp, worms, and beetles. At this location, the creek passed one of the three biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the suspect category. See the next page for species list and results.

This dragonfly larva of the genus Macromia lives in Sweetwater Branch and other streams in Gainesville. It is a long-lived organism, reaching about 2 inches in length.

Discussion Sweetwater Branch was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. However, the creek has improved as far as the macroinvertebrate population, since 2001, and hopefully will continue to improve as new management methods of stormwater and discharges are implemented.

Watershed Action Volunteers help sort the biorecons.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida, 2008-2010 Sweetwater Branch at SR 331 Paynes Prairie

BioRecons Collected May 2, 2001and March 24, 2009


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

C A

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL

A Unidentified Diptera

P

Gastropoda (snails) Hebetancylus excentricus

P

Melanoides turricula

A Unidentified Gastropoda

P

Odonata (dragonflies, damselflies) Argia tibialis 2

C

Argia sedula 2

C Argia sp. 2

A

Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2

P

Enallagma cardenium

P Enallagma sp.

P

Hetaerina sp 2

P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL

P

Progomphus sp. 2 LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Elmidae (larvae - immature)

P

Enochrus ochraceus

P Hydrovatus sp.

P

Microcylloepus pusillus

P


Oligochaeta (worms) C C

Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P P

Collembola P

Lepidoptera (moths) P

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Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp.

LL P P

Palaemonetes paludosus 1 LL

P Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. 1 S P

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

A

Pseudocleoen sp. P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P A Hydroptila sp. 2 CL

P

P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100) LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


14 23

Ephemeroptera

0 2 Trichoptera

1 2

Long-lived

4 4 Clinger

1 3

Sensitive 1 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 2 4 Interpretation Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Values Values

BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2009 Total Taxa 18

14 25



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Sweetwater Branch near the Duckpond at NE 7th Avenue BioRecon Summary Introduction Sweetwater Branch originates in the center of the city of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southeasterly direction from NW 2nd Street and NW 23rd Avenue under Main Street and south through commercial, residential and industrial areas before entering Paynes Prairie. The sampling site was located at NE 7th Ave. in a residential area. The land use in the basin draining into the site was 42% residential and 44% commercial, and a small amount of natural area. Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. was sampled on December 15, 2009.

Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Avenue Physical and Chemical Characterization Sweetwater Branch was sand-bottomed stream, averaging less that 1 meter wide and about 0.2 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was likely from residential, and commercial, areas. The current velocity was fair at 0.2 meters per second; the water was light tan and slightly turbid, with no unnatural odors or oils there or in the sediment. Dissolved oxygen was a little low, specific conductance a little high, but temperature and pH were within normal ranges. Fish were abundant and periphyton and aquatic plants were common. No iron/sulfur bacteria were observed.

Physical/Chemical Data 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 20Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.36Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 355pH (standard units) 7.33

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included a small amount of leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, aquatic vegetation and some rock rubble. The stream was channelized, but some sinuosity was added when it was redesigned about 2002. It flows into what is commonly called the Duck Pond, where it flows over a weir and continues through downtown Gainesville. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAmpelopsis arborea PeppervineBidens alba BeggarticksBidens laevis Smooth BeggartickClematis terniflora Sweet Autumn Virginsbower (E)Commelina diffusa Common Dayflower (E)Crinum sp. SwamplilyHydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortIndigofera spicata Trailing Indigo (E)Juncus sp. RushLudwigia repens Creeping Primrose WillowOphiopogon japonicus Mondo Grass (E)Oxalis sp. WoodsorrelPeltandra sp. Arrow ArumPhyla nodiflora Turkey Tangle FogfruitPhyllanthus urinaria Chamber Bitter (E)Pilea microphylla Artillery PlantPlantago major Common PlantainPlatanus occidentalis American SycamoreQuercus virginiana Live OakRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sagittaria lancifolia Bulltongue ArrowheadSalvia lyrata Lyreleaf SageSpermacoce remota Woodland False ButtonweedStachys floridana Florida BetonyTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressThelypteris kunthii Southern Shield FernViburnum obovatum Walter's ViburnumZamia pumila Coontie

The riparian zone was about 1 meter wide in a manicured park-like setting and mainly consisted of small herbaceous plant as noted in the plant list. Sweetwater Branch received 93 points out of a possible 160, placing it in the suboptimal range.

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Total Score 9381-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. contained damselfly, midge, cranefly, and caddisfly larvae, many snails and crayfish, beetles and worms. Sweetwater Branch at SE 4th St. did not pass any of the biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the Impaired category. See the next page for species list and results.

Crayfish were very common in Sweetwater Branch. The largest were about 6 cm long. Discussion Sweetwater Branch at NE 7th Ave. was impacted by human disturbance, which has

negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff and lack of a naturally vegetated riparian zone were probable causes.

Watershed Action Volunteers helped with the assessment at Sweetwater Branch.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 Sweetwater Branch NE 7th Ave. BioR econs Collected December 15, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida Index Metric

Organism Prevalence

Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

C

Tipula sp.

A

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp.

P

Hebetancylus excentricus

C Melanoides sp.

A

Planorbella trivolvis

P

Coleoptera (beetles) Dytiscidae

P

Peltodytes sp.

P Tropisternus blatchleyi

P

Oligochaeta (worms) Eclipidrilus palustris

P


Odonata (dragonflies, damselflies) Argia sp. 2

P


LL A

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Current FDEP

Metric Values


14

Ephemeroptera

0 Trichoptera

1

Long-lived

1 Clinger

1

Sensitive 0 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

Metric

Previous FDEP Metric

Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2009 Total Taxa 18

14


3 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 Interpretation Impaired Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Still Branch in Barr Hammock Preserve BioRecon Summary Introduction Still Branch is a small wetland stream located in Alachua County Forever’s Barr Hammock Preserve northwest of the Town of Micanopy in southern Alachua County, Florida. Barr Hammock connects Payne's Prairie State Preserve to the Ocala National Forest and Goethe State Forest, keeping intact entire ecosystems, wildlife populations and the largest wetlands in Alachua County. Barr Hammock and its surrounding uplands are some of the most important ecologically intact examples of prairie/lake ecosystems in north central Florida. The sampling site was located within the preserve, so the land use was natural land. It appeared that the creek may be ephemeral, drying into separated pools during periods of drought. The water was tea-colored, and slowly moved through native vegetation. Still Branch was sampled on September 15, 2009.

Still Branch has very dark tea-colored water. Physical and Chemical Characterization Still Branch averaged 0.1 meters deep and one meter wide. The velocity was very slow at 0.01 meters per second. The water was tea-colored from tannic acid released by

decomposing vegetation. Fish were common, and aquatic plants (macrophytes) were abundant. No iron/sulfur bacteria were present. The low pH, low dissolved oxygen, and low conductivity were all natural and typical of a tannic, wetland stream. No invasive exotic plants were present on either bank. Physical/Chemical Data 9/15/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 24.06Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 2.09Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 70pH (standard units) 5.08 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags (wood debris), roots of vegetation on the banks, leaf packs, and aquatic vegetation. Plant List Scientific Name Common NameCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Cephalanthus occidentalis Common ButtonbushIlex opaca American HollyItea virginica Virginia Willow Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLyonia lucida Fetterbush Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleNyssa sylvatica var. biflora Swamp TupeloOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, Neverwet

Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis Royal FernOstrya virginiana Eastern HophornbeamQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSaururus cernuus Lizard's Tail The current velocity in most of the reach was low, and this was the only downside of the habitat assessment. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Still Branch received 142 points, placing it in the optimal range.

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Total Score 142124-160 = Optimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Still Branch had a variety of organisms, including fly larvae, damselfly and dragonfly nymphs, beetles, amphipods, caddisfly larvae, freshwater sponges, and spongilla fly larvae, which feed on the sponges. We could not find any mayfly nymphs, snails, or clams, and the absence of these kept the BioRecon score below the Healthy classification. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

The Calopteryx damselfly larva has a long first antennal segment. It can grow to about 5 cm long.

Discussion Still Branch is in a very healthy native environment. The fact that it is a wetland stream with low dissolved oxygen and rather low pH prevents several macroinvertebrate groups from being able to survive in those conditions. It would be interesting to sample this stream during other times of the year, particularly in winter when low temperatures correspond to higher dissolved oxygen levels, which in turn would allow a wider variety of macroinvertebrates to survive.

The land surrounding Still Branch contains many lovely native wetland plants.

The female adult Calopteryx has white spots on her wings. They are often seen flying over Gainesville area streams.

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Alachua County Bioassessment Study Still Branch in Barr Hammock Preserve BioRecon Collected September 15, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Index Metric Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A Chlorotabanus sp. P Limnophila sp. P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Calopteryx maculata 2 A Gomphus sp. 1 LL P Libellulidae A Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus serrulatus C Microcylloepus pusillus P Neoporus clypealis P Scirtidae P Acariformes (mites) C Porifera (Spongilla) C Oligochaeta (worms) Eclipidrilus palustris P Neuroptera Sisyra vicaria C Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S A

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Florida Organism Index Metric Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2009 Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL A Oecetis sp. E Floyd 1 A Triaenodes perna/helo Pescador S P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric

Current FDEP Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2009 Total Taxa 20 Ephemeroptera 0 Trichoptera 4 Long-lived 2 Clinger 2 Sensitive 3 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values

BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2009 Total Taxa 18 20 Florida Index Total 10 7 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 Interpretation Suspect If all three target values are met, result is Healthy.

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Tumblin Creek Upstream of SW 14th Avenue BioRecon Summary Introduction Tumblin Creek originates in the center of the City of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southwesterly direction from north of University Avenue south and underneath Innovation Square at the University of Florida (formerly the site of the Alachua General Hospital) through commercial, residential and industrial areas. The sampling site was located upstream of SW 14th Avenue in a residential area. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 60% residential and 33% commercial, 2% industrial and 5% forest. Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. was sampled on February 19, 2010.

Tumblin Creek looking downstream at SW 14th Ave. bridge. Physical and Chemical Characterization Tumblin Creek was about 2 meters wide and about 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was obvious from roads, parking lots, residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The current velocity was slow at 0.14 meters per second; the water was clear to slightly turbid, with a greenish color, with no unnatural odors or oils there or in the sediment.

Dissolved oxygen, temperature, specific conductivity, and pH were within normal ranges. Periphyton was common, Iron/sulfur bacteria were absent, and there were a few fish and aquatic plants in the creek. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 12.84Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 11.26Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 356pH (standard units) 7.85

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included a small amount of leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and rock rubble. Erosion was severe, and sand smothered some of the habitat. The riparian zone was from 5 to 18 meters wide with native trees, palms, and exotic plants. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameBetula nigra River BirchCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryEriobotrya japonica Loquat (E)Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLygodium japonica Japanese Climbing Fern (E)Macfadyena unguis-cati Catclawvine (E)Ostrya virginica Eastern HophornbeamPinus taeda Loblolly PinePrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryQuercus laurifolia Laurel OakQuercus nigra Water OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSmilax spp. Greenbrier

137

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Tumblin Creek received 94 points placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2010Substrate Diversity 13Substrate Availability 11Water Velocity 12Habitat Smothering 14Primary Score 50



These midge larvae are some of the few organisms able to live in Tumblin Creek at SW 14th Ave. They range in size from 2 to10mm in length. Benthic Macroinvertebrates Tumblin Creek contained damselfly, midge, and caddisfly larvae, crayfish, flatworms and a water scorpion. It did not pass any of the biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the Impaired category. In fact, this was the worst of all of the stream stations sampled in Alachua County from 2008-2010. See the next page for species list and results.

Discussion Tumblin Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff and is a probable cause. High flows during storm events may also be washing out some macroinvertebrates and depositing sand from upstream which smothers habitat.

Tumblin Creek looking upstream from SW 14th Ave.

138

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Tumblin Creek Upstream of SW 14th Avenue BioRecon Collected February 19, 2010



Florida

Organism

Index Metric Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

A

Odonata (dragon-damselflies)

Argia sedula 2

A


Hemiptera (water bugs) Ranatra australis

P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp)

Procambarus sp.

LL P

Amphipoda (scuds) Talitroides topotum

P

Trichoptera (caddisflies)

Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Metric

Current FDEP

Values Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010 Total Taxa

7

Ephemeroptera

0 Trichoptera

1

Long-lived

1 Clinger

1

Sensitive 0 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 Interpretation Impaired P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Target


Values

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2010 Total Taxa 18

7


3 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 Interpretation Impaired Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

140

Tumblin Creek at Wooded Area, West of US 441 Biorecon Summary Introduction Tumblin Creek originates in the center of the City of Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows in a southwesterly direction from north of University Avenue south and underneath Innovation Square at the University of Florida (formerly the site of the Alachua General Hospital) through commercial, residential and industrial areas Tumblin Creek is a concrete channel as it goes under US 441, then returns to a more natural state before it empties into Bivens Arm. The sampling site was located in the wooded area near the end of the creek. The land use in the basin draining into the site was about 55% residential and 30% commercial, 5% field and 10% forest. Tumblin Creek at this location was sampled April 7, 2000 and May 12, 2009.

Tumblin Creek in the wooded area near Bivens Arm west of US 441 looking downstream.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Tumblin Creek was about 1 meter wide, but braided, and about 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was obvious from roads, parking lots, residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The current velocity was 0.2 meters per second; the water was clear, colorless, with no unnatural odors or oils there or in the sediment. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, specific conductivity, and pH were within normal ranges, although it continues to remain elevated as is common in urban areas. The conductivity dropped substantially from 2000 to 2009. Some discharges into the creek were closed off after 2000, which may have been the source of the higher conductivity. Periphyton and fish were common, Iron/sulfur bacteria were absent, and there were a few aquatic plants in the creek. Physical/Chemical Data 2000 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.90 23.68Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.43 6.02Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 516 397pH (standard units) 7.68 7.2 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included a small amount of leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, aquatic vegetation and rock rubble. Erosion was severe, and there was shifting sand smothering some of the habitat. Garbage was prevalent. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide with native trees, palms, and exotic plants.

141

Plant List (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleArdisia crenata Coral Ardisia (E) Carpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCeltis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Myrica cerifera Wax MyrtleNyssa sylvatica var. biflora Swamp TupeloParthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPinus taeda Loblolly PineRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSalix caroliniana Coastal Plain WillowSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. GreenbrierTillandsia usneoides Spanish MossToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyTradescantia ohiensis Bluejacket, Ohio Spiderwort Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Tumblin Creek received 122 point in 2000 and 118 in 2009 points placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2000 2009Substrate Diversity 19 18Substrate Availability 12 14Water Velocity 14 14Habitat Smothering 7 12Primary Score 52 58


Total Score 122 11881-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Tumblin Creek contained damselfly, dragonfly, midge, mayfly, and caddisfly larvae, crayfish, water scorpions, water bugs, beetles, snails, and flatworms. The exotic snail, Melanoides formerly dominated this creek and others in urban Gainesville. They were no longer present here or at other stations where they were commonly found. Tumblin Creek placed in the Impaired category, but did show improvement from

earlier sampling events. See the next page for species list and results.

This is a larva of the beetle Tropisternus. This one is about 7 mm long.

The adult diving water beetle, Tropisternus can range from 7 to 12 mm long. Discussion Tumblin Creek was impacted by human disturbance, which has negatively affected the macroinvertebrate population. Pollution from runoff and is a probable cause. High flows during storm events may also be washing out some macroinvertebrates and depositing sand from upstream which smothers habitat.

142

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Tumblin Creek at Wooded Area West of US 441

BioRecons Collected April 7, 2000 and May 12, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL,S,

CL) 2000 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

A C

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL

P Tipulidae

P P

Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae

A

Haitia sp.

P Hebetancylus excentricus

P

Melanoides sp.

D Planorbella sp.

P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia sedula 2

A

Argia sp. 2

A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Enallagma sp.

P

Ischnura posita

P Progomphus obscurus 2 LL

P

Coleoptera (beetles) Enochrus sp.

P

Hydrovatus sp.

P Thermonectus basillaris

P

Tropisternus blatchleyi

C Tropisternus sp.

P

Oligochaeta (worms) P C Hirudinea (leeches) A P Turbellaria-Tricladida A C Bivalvia (clams) P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostomidae

P

Ranatra buenoi

P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae

LL

P

Procambarus sp.

LL P Ephemeroptera (mayflies)

Callibaetis floridanus P

143

Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL,S,CL) 2000 2009 Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger


Values Values


13 21

Ephemeroptera

0 1 Trichoptera

0 1

Long-lived

2 2 Clinger

0 2


Target


Values Values

BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2000 2009 Total Taxa 18

13 21


4 7 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 0 2 Interpretation Impaired Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

144

Bee Tree Creek in Newnan’s Lake Conservation Area BioRecon Summary Introduction The Bee Tree Creek sample station is located in the Newnans Lake Conservation Area where a hiking trail crosses the creek. It flows from the Austin Carey Forest and the Waldo area to Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. The land uses that drain into the sampling site included 52% silviculture, 34%natural forest, and small amounts of residential, pastoral and agricultural lands. Bee Tree Creek was sampled on March 26, 2009.

Bee Tree Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Bee Tree Creek was an average of 2.75 meters wide and 0.25 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was not evident. Deep, nearly stagnant pools alternated with fast moving shallow areas where a velocity of 0.12 meters per second was measured. The water was clear but very dark tea-colored with an odor only in deep anaerobic pools. A surface sheen was noted from decomposing leaves. Temperature, pH, and were all within normal ranges but the dissolved oxygen was low at 2.03 mg/l, which is common in darkly colored streams. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants

that moderately shaded the stream. Fish were common and periphyton and aquatic macrophytes were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18.03Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 2.03Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 147pH (standard units) 5.76 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates was difficult to see in the dark water, but included mostly leaf packs, snags of fallen tree branches, and a small amount of roots of vegetation living on the banks. Erosion was slight and some of the habitat was silt-smothered. Plant List

Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleFraxinus caroliniana Pop AshLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtlePinus taeda Loblolly PineQuercus nigra Water OakRhododendron canescens Sweet Pinxter AzaleaSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoTaxodium distichum Bald-cypress

Bee Tree riparian zone The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide and native plants such as wild azalea, cypress, saw palmetto, and

145

red maple were growing along the banks. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Bee Tree Creek received 116 points, placing it in the high suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2009Substrate Diversity 14Substrate Availability 11Water Velocity 2Habitat Smothering 14Primary Score 41


Total Score 11681-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Bee Tree Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, mayfly, black fly, and midge larvae. Crayfish and amphipods were abundant, and isopods, water bugs, springtails, and a variety of beetles were also present. Bee Tree Creek had enough diversity to place it in the healthy category for the 6-metric analysis method. See the next page for species list and results.

Crangonyx amphipods grow up to about 13 mm in length. These crustaceans were abundant in Bee Tree Creek. Discussion In spite of the low current velocity in most of the creek, and naturally very low dissolved oxygen, Bee Tree Creek had a fairly healthy macroinvertebrate population.

Bee Tree Creek crossing hiking trail. The hike back to the creek is well worth the effort. However, if venturing off trail, be alert for a large cottonmouth waiting under the palmettos!

146

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008 - 2010 BeeTree

Biorecons Collected March 27, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Species Florida Index

Points

Metric Metric

(LL,S,CL)

Organism Prevalence

2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia pomilia hendersoni

P

Micromenetus dilatatus P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Somatochlora filosa LL C

Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus sp.

P

Enochrus sp.

P Gyrinus sp.

P

Neoporus clypealis

A Scirtes sp. P

Oligochaeta (worms) A

Bivalvia (clams) Musculium transversum

P

Pisidiidae (not M. transversum) P

Collembola P

Lepidoptera (moths) Crambidae P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Hydrometra sp.

P

Mesovelia sp. P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL A

Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S A

147

Species Florida Index

Points Metric

(LL,S,CL)

Organism Prevalence

2009 Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. S C

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Eurylophella doris S P Maccaffertium mexicanum integrum 1 S, CL P Pseudocloeon frondale A


Metric Current FDEP

Value


23

Ephemeroptera 3 Trichoptera

0

Long-lived 2 Clinger

2

Sensitive 5 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 4 Interpretation Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Value

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2009 Total Taxa 18

23

Florida Index Total 10 3 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 3 Interpretation Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

148

Hatchet Creek at CR 225 BioRecon Summary Introduction Hatchet Creek flows south and east from Austin Cary Forest, past NE53rd Avenue, and into Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. The sampling site was located on CR 225 at approximately NE 90th Place. The creek near CR 225 had been channelized up to the portion at the site, which was naturally sinuous. The land uses that drain into the sampling site included 50% pine plantation, 41% natural forest, 5% residential and 4% agricultural lands. Hatchet Creek was sampled on December 4, 2001 and December 1, 2009.

Hatchet Creek at CR225 has been recovering from previous channelization. A couple of areas had good current velocity, but was very slow at a typical transect. Physical and Chemical Characterization Hatchet Creek was an average of 2.75 meters wide and 0.3 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was not evident at

the site except from the road, which does not appear to have too much traffic. The current velocity typically was not measurable and the creek appeared stagnant in places. Only one small portion of the sampling site had a good velocity of 0.25 m/s. The water was clear but tea-colored with an odor and surface sheen from decomposing leaves. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and specific conductivity were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants that lightly shaded the stream. Fish and periphyton were present but rare. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18 15.61Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.2 7.47Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 74pH (standard units) 6 6.52Alkalinity (mg/L) 30 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches and leaf packs. Erosion was slight and some of the habitat was silt-smothered. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide and wetland plants such as cypress, Virginia willow, fetterbush, and golden club were growing along the banks. The only habitat assessment metric in which Hatchet Creek scored in the poor range was typical water velocity. There was an area which was shallow where the velocity was optimal, and that was where the majority of the sampling took place.

149

Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleAlbizia julibrissin Mimosa (E)Bidens alba BeggarticksCephalanthus occidentalis Common ButtonbushDecumaria barbara WoodvampGelsemium sempervirens Carolina JessamineHypericum sp. St. John's-wortIlex vomitoria Yaupon HollyItea virginica Virginia Willow Juniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLyonia lucida Fetterbush Magnolia virginiana SweetbayMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleOnoclea sensibilis Sensitive FernOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetOsmunda regalis Royal FernQuercus nigra Water OakRhododendron canescens Sweet PinxterAzaleaSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSmilax spp. GreenbrierStachys floridana Florida BetonyToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVitis rotundifolia MuscadineWoodwardia virginica Virginia Chain Fern Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Hatchet Creek received 110 in 2001 and 108 in 2010 points, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2009Substrate Diversity 16 13Substrate Availability 18 9Water Velocity 3 3Habitat Smothering 6 13Primary Score 43 38



Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hatchet Creek contained an amazing variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, caddisfly, dobsonfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, worms, mites, and beetles

were also present. Many of the taxa were sensitive to pollution. Hatchet Creek received the highest score possible for a BioRecon using the current analysis method and passed all three biometrics using the former method as well, placing it in the healthiest category. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion In spite of the low current velocity in most of the creek, Hatchet Creek at CR 225 had a very healthy macroinvertebrate population. Because of the many sensitive taxa, they were verified by expert taxonomists. Hatchet Creek probably has some water even in periods of drought. The large amount of silviculture and natural land and small amount of storm water entering the stream probably are factors in keeping this stream in exceptional condition.

Hatchet Creek

150

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Hatchet Creek at CR 225 BioRecons collected December 4, 2001 and December 1, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found

Species


Metric (LL, S, CL)



Diptera (flies) Ceratopognidae P Chironomidae D A Empididae S P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C Tabanidae P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) P* Argia tibialis 2 A Argia sedula 2 A P Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P C Calopteryx maculata 2 C C Enallagma divagans/pallidum gr C Epitheca sp. P Gomphus sp. 1 LL P P Libellulidae P Macromia illinoiensis georgina 2 S, LL P Neurocordulia sp. 1 P Progomphus sp. 2 LL A Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S P P Dineutus sp. P

Microcylloepus pusillus P Neoporus sp. P Stenelmis sp. CL C A Acariformes (mites) C P Oligochaeta (worms) P

Hirudinea (leeches) P Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P P

151

Species


Metric (LL,S,CL)

Organism Prevalence

2001

Organism Prevalence

2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) Ranatra buenoi P Rhagovelia choreutes

A

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus LL P

Amphipoda (scuds) A Crangonyx sp. S A

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acerpenna pygmaea

S

C

Caenis sp. C Eurylophella doris

S A C

Leptophlebia bradleyi S P

Leptophlebia Iintermedia/cupida complex

S

P Paraleptophlebia volitans S A P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL

A

Maccaffertium sp. 2 S, CL C

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Agarodes sp. P Ceraclea sp.

LL P

Cernotina sp. CL P Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A A Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL A A Hydropsyche decalda 2 S, CL P P Molanna tryphena LL C Neureclipsis sp.

CL P

Nyctiophylax sp. CL P P Pycnopsyche sp.

LL

P

Oecetis sp. 1 P Triaenodes ignitus

S

P

Triaenodes perna/helo S C Triaenodes sp.

P

P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), *Species not determined LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

152

Current FDEP Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis

Metric Value 2001

Metric Value 2009

Total Taxa

31 38 Ephemeroptera

4 6

Trichoptera

8 10 Long-lived

7 4

Clinger

6 6 Sensitive 7 14 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 9 10 Interpretation Exceptional Exceptional [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

Metric Value

Metric Value

Previous FDEP Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2001 2009 Total Taxa 18

31 38


19 22 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 12 16 Interpretation Healthy Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

153

Hatchet Creek at Sinkhole in Austin Carey Forest BioRecon Summary Introduction Hatchet Creek flows from west of SR 24 (NE Waldo Road) and north of NE53rd Avenue southeast and then southwest to Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. When the water level is low however, the creek flows into a sinkhole before it reaches Newnans Lake, creating a waterfall into the intermediate aquifer.

The sampling site was just upstream of the sink, located on Alachua County Forever conservation land adjacent to Austin Carey Forest on the east side of Waldo Rd. This land is managed by St. Johns River Water Management District. The land uses that drain into the sampling site included 52.8% pine plantation, 36% natural forest, 4.6 % field, 2.2% residential and agricultural each, 1.4% commercial and 0.7% industrial. Hatchet Creek upstream of the sinkhole was sampled on December 7, 2010. Physical and Chemical Characterization One hundred meters of the creek and land adjacent to it (the riparian zone) were evaluated. Hatchet Creek was an average of 1.5 meters wide and 0.11 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was not

evident at the site. The current velocity was an average of 0.2 meters per second with optimal velocity in several places within the reach. The water was clear but tea-colored. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and specific conductivity were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants that provided moderate shade for the stream. Fish and periphyton were present but rare. Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 8.19Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.63Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 71pH (standard units) 6.98 Plant List Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red mapleCallicarpa americana American BeautyberryDiospyros virginiana Common PersimmonFraxinus spp. AshGordonia lasianthus Loblolly BayHypericum sp. St. John's-wortIlex glabra GallberryIlex opaca American HollyLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLyonia lucida FetterbushMagnolia virginiana SweetbayMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtlePersea borbonia Red BayPersea palustris Swamp BayQuercus nigra Water OakQuercus virginiana Live OakRhododendron canescens Sweet Pinxter AzaleaSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax sp. GreenbrierTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVaccinium spp. BlueberryVitis rotundifolia Muscadine Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches and leaf packs. Erosion was slight and some of the habitat was silt-smothered. The riparian zone was greater that 18 meters wide and wetland plants such as cypress, bay tress,

154

fetterbush, and wild azalea were growing along the banks. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, this section of Hatchet Creek received 144, placing it in the optimal range.

The left bank of Hatchet Creek shows a healthy diversity of native plants. Habitat Assessment Scores 2010Substrate Diversity 15Substrate Availability 17Water Velocity 14Habitat Smothering 20Primary Score 66


Total Score 144124-160 = Optimal Optimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hatchet Creek contained an amazing variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, worms, mites, sponges, and beetles were also present. Many of the organisms were sensitive to pollution. Hatchet Creek received the highest score possible for a biorecon placing it in the Exceptional category. See the next page for species list and results.

Discussion Hatchet Creek upstream of the sinkhole had a very healthy macroinvertebrate population. The large amount of silviculture and natural land and minimal amount of storm water entering the stream are factors in preserving this stream in exceptional condition.

155

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Hatchet Creek at Sink in Austin Cary Forest

Biorecon Collected December 7, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A Hemerodromia sp.

S P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A


A

Calopteryx maculata 2 P Enallagma divagans

C

Gomphus sp. 1 LL C Hagenius brevistylus

LL P

Macromia illinoiensis georgina 2 S, LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus serrulatus

C

Dineutus emarginatus P Dubiraphia vittata

C

Enochrus sp. P Neoporus sp.

C

Scirtes sp. P Stenelmis sp.

CL P

Porifera P

Bivalvia (clams) Pisidiidae

C

Collembola P

Lepidoptera (moths) Crambidae

C

Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp.

S A

156

Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acerpenna pygmaea S P Eurylophella doris

S A

Leptophlebia cupida S P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL D Pseudocloeon frondale C Pseudocloeon propinquum

P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Ceraclea sp. LL P Cernotina sp.

CL P

Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL A Hydroptilidae Pupae P Nyctiophylax sp.

CL P

Oecetis georgia 1 C Pycnopsyche sp. LL P

P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100) Metrics: LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

FDEP 3-Metric and 6-Metric Biorecon Results Current FDEP Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010

Total Taxa 35 Ephemeroptera

6


5

Clinger 7 Sensitive

9

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 10 Interpretation Exceptional [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target Previous FDEP Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values

Total Taxa 18 35 Florida Index Total 10

15

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 14 Interpretation Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

157

Lake Forest Creek at E. University Ave. (CR 329B) BioRecon Summary Introduction Lake Forest Creek lies in eastern Gainesville in Alachua County, Florida and originates several blocks north of SR 26 (East University Avenue) by Morningside Nature Center and flows south and then east to Newnans Lake. This sampling site was located on the south side of CR 329B where it flows under the road and into the lake. Land use in the watershed was varied, comprised of over 60% natural forest, 3% pasture, 4% silviculture, 25% residential, 4% commercial and 2% industrial. This Lake Forest Creek site was sampled on March 17, 2009.

Lake Forest Creek at CR 329B Physical and Chemical Characterization Lake Forest Creek at CR 329B was an average of 2 meters wide and 0.1 meter deep. No erosion of the banks was seen and no pollution sources were evident. The current velocity was fair, averaging 0.13 meters per second. The water was clear but tea-colored. The sediment was sand and silt with no odors or oils. It was moderately shaded, and periphyton, fish, and aquatic macrophytes were common. Iron bacteria were absent.

Physical/Chemical Data 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18.9Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.1Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NApH (standard units) 3.81Salinity 0.01

NA= Not Analyzed

Temperature, and dissolved oxygen were within healthy ranges, pH was fairly low indicating that rain was the major source of water for the creek at this point, rather than groundwater. Habitat Characterization The riparian zone was greater that 18 meters wide with mainly native wetland plants such as bald cypress, red maple, and under-story plants such as lizard tail, royal fern, and Virginia willow. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleAmpelopsis arborea PeppervineAndropogon virginicus Broomsedge BluestemColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Geranium carolinianum Carolina CranesbillHydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortItea virginica Virginia Willow Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia virginiana SweetbayMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleOpuntia sp. Prickly PearOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetOsmunda regalis Royal FernPeltandra sp. Arrow ArumSalvia lyrata Lyreleaf SageSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySaururus cernuus Lizard's TailStachys floridana Florida BetonyTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyViola sp. VioletVitis sp. GrapeYoungia japonica Oriental False Hawksbeard (E)

The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, leaf packs, snags of fallen tree branches, and aquatic plants. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Lake Forest

158

Creek received 130 points placing it in the optimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2009Substrate Diversity 17Substrate Availability 12Water Velocity 13Habitat Smothering 8Primary Score 50


Total Score 130124-160 = Optimal Optimal

Larva of the beetle Neoporus, found in Lake Forest Creek and common in other creeks in Alachua County. These are small beetles; up to about 5 mm long. Benthic Macroinvertebrates Lake Forest Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, blackfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Clams, worms, snails, leeches, and beetles were also present. Lake Forest Creek scored Healthy category for both methods of analysis. See the next page for species list and results.

The adult Neoporus beetle is also aquatic; usually less than 5 mm in length. Discussion Lake Forest Creek at CR 329B contained a healthy benthic macroinvertebrate population. It is a wetland stream at this station with little evidence of human impact.

Lake Forest Creek looking downstream.

159

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Lake Forest Creek at E. University Ave (CR 329B)

BioRecons Collected March 17, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points LL, S, CL 2009 Diptera (flies) Bezzia/Palpomyia Complex P Chironomidae

A

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A Stratiomyidae P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia pomilia hendersoni P Laevapex sp.

C

Planorbella trivolvis A Viviparus georgianus P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2 A Gomphidae 1 LL P

Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus serrulatus P Dubiraphia vittata

C

Neoporus sp. P Peltodytes sp.

P

Staphylinidae P


Hirudinea (leeches) Helobdella fusca P Placobdella multilineata P

Nemertea P


Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL A Pisidiidae P

160

Florida

Organism


Species Points LL, S, CL 2009 Lepidoptera (moths)

Neargyractis slossonalis P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Gerridae

Ranatra buenoi P

Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Palaemonetes paludosus 1 LL P

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Caenis diminuta

A

Eurylophella doris

S P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A Oecetis persimilis 1

P

Triaenodes ignitus S P

Current FDEP Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis Total Taxa

33

Ephemeroptera

3 Trichoptera

3

Long-lived

4 Clinger

3

Sensitive 4 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 6 Interpretation (single event) Healthy Interpretation (average of both sample events) [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target

2009

Previous FDEP Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Metric Values

Metric Value

Total Taxa 18

33 Florida Index Total 10

14

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 6 Interpretation Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

161

Lake Forest Creek North of SR 26 at Morningside BioRecon Summary Introduction Lake Forest Creek lies in eastern Gainesville in Alachua County, Florida and originates north and west of Morningside Nature Center on SR 26 (East University Avenue). It flows south and then east to Newnans Lake. The sampling site was located north of SR 26 on the property of Morningside Nature Center. The watershed contains 50% natural forest, 15% agricultural lands, 10% fields and pasture lands, 10% residential, 10% commercial and 5% pine plantation. This Lake Forest Creek site was sampled on March 8, 2001 and on March 4, 2010.

Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Nature Park Physical and Chemical Characterization Lake Forest Creek was about 1-2 meters wide and 0.05 meters deep in 2010, which is shallower and wider than in 2001. Erosion of the banks was moderate; non-point source pollution was possible from nearby agricultural lands. The current velocity was slow at 0.07 meters per second in 2001, under drought conditions, but increased to 0.2 mps in 2010. The water was clear but a surface sheen was visible at both sampling events on the water and

sediment. The creek had previously been channelized but was recovering some sinuosity. It was lightly shaded and periphyton and aquatic macrophytes were common. Fish were present but rare. Water chemistry measurements were with normal ranges. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 15 10.93Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) NA 10.53Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 225pH (standard units) NA 7.12

NA=Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, leaf packs with pine needles, a few snags of fallen tree branches, and aquatic plants. Because of some bank erosion, sand and silt smothering of the habitat was moderate. Plant list (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleAlternanthera philoxeroides Alligatorweed (E)Andropogon virginicus Broomsedge BluestemBaccharis spp. BaccharisCinnamomum camphora CamphortreeColocasia esculenta Wild TaroDiospyros virginiana Common PersimmonJuniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLygodium microphyllum Small-leaf Climbing Fern (E)Myrica cerifera Wax MyrtlePinus elliotii Slash PinePrunus angustifolia Chickasaw PlumQuercus nigra Water OakQuercus virginiana Live OakRubus sp. BlackberrySabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax spp. GreenbrierTypha sp. CattailVaccinium arboreum Sparkleberry The riparian zone was greater that 18 meters wide with pine, wax myrtle, red

162

maple, and sweetgum, but invasive exotic plants such as Old World climbing fern, camphor trees, and taro were present on the banks. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Lake Forest Creek received 90 points in 2001 and 99 in 2010, placing it in the low suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2010Substrate Diversity 10 16Substrate Availability 10 9Water Velocity 9 14Habitat Smothering 8 8Primary Score 37 47


Total Score 90 9981-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Lake Forest Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Clams, worms, and beetles were also present. There were few organisms sensitive to changes in flow, or pollution. This Lake Forest Creek site scored in the Impaired category using the present analysis method and Suspect using the previous method. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Lake Forest Creek at Morningside Nature Center shows some evidence of human disturbance that may be detrimental to the benthic macroinvertebrate population. The stream may be sensitive to drought and dry up or be reduced to very low flows. This factor would affect some groups of

macroinvertebrates and prevent a healthy benthic macroinvertebrate community.

Peltodytes, a beetle which crawls in vegetation found at Lake Forest Creek. These are small beetles; about 5 mm in length for adults and larvae.

This is the larva of Peltodytes found in Lake Forest Creek.

163

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Lake Forest Creek North of SR 26 at Morningside

BioRecons Collected March 8, 2001 and March 4, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Empididae

S P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A A TipulIdae

P

Tipula (Yamatotipula) sp. P


A

Argia sedula 2 C Argia sp. 2

A


C C

Enallagma cardenium P Enallagma sp.

P

Gomphus minutus 1 LL P Ischnura ramburii

P


P

Dytiscidae C Helichus sp.

CL P

Microcylloepus pusillus P Neoporus clypealis

P


P P

Stenelmis sp. CL C





LL P P

Pisidiidae

P

164

Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Baetidae

P

Caenis sp. P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A



Value Value Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2010 Total Taxa 20 18 Ephemeroptera

1 2


1 3

Clinger 4 1 Sensitive 2 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 2 Interpretation Impaired Impaired

Target

Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metrics

Value Value

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2010 Total Taxa 18 20 18 Florida Index Total 10

7 11

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 2 Interpretation Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

165

Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. BioRecon Summary Introduction Lake Forest Creek lies in eastern Gainesville in Alachua County, Florida and originates several blocks north of SR 26 (East University Avenue) and west of Morningside Nature Center and flows south and then east to Newnans Lake. This sampling site was located on the eastern side of SE 43rd Street near a new subdivision and Lake Forest Elementary School. Land use in the watershed was varied, comprised of 53% natural forest, 12% agriculture, 7% pasture, 3% silviculture, 15% residential, 7% commercial and 3% industrial. This Lake Forest Creek site was sampled on April 3, 2001 and on February 9, 2010.

Looking downstream from SE 43rd St. Physical and Chemical Characterization Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd Street was an average of 2.5 meters wide and 0.1 meter deep. Erosion of the banks was only slight; non-point source pollution

was likely from NE 43rd Street. A new residential area had a stormwater pond so runoff would be captured before entering the creek. The current velocity was fair, averaging 0.16 meters per second. The water was clear but tea-colored with a slight rusty odor. The sediment was sand with no odors or oils. The creek had previously been channelized but mostly recovered. It was lightly shaded and periphyton, fish, and aquatic macrophytes were common. Iron bacteria were present but rare. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were within healthy ranges. Physical/Chemical Data 2001 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 16 12.56Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 6.8 9Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 199pH (standard units) 7 6.96Alkalinity (mg/L) 100 NA

NA=Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The riparian zone was greater that 18 meters wide with sweetgum, water oak, wax myrtle, and understory plants such as lizard tail and Virginia willow. However, invasive exotic plants such as Japanese climbing fern were present on the banks.

Plant list (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red mapleDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Helianthus angustifolius Swamp SunflowerHydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortIlex glabra GallberryItea virginica Virginia Willow Liquidambar styraciflua SweetgumLygodium japonica Japanese Climbing Fern (E)Mitchella repens PartridgeberryMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleQuercus nigra Water OakRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Sabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSmilax spp. GreenbrierStachys floridana Florida Betony

166

The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, leaf packs, snags of fallen tree branches, rock rubble, and aquatic plants. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd St. received 133 points in 2001, placing it in the optimal range. The score dropped in 2010 due to loss of available habitat, but otherwise, the scores were similar. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2010Substrate Diversity 19 16Substrate Availability 20 8Water Velocity 14 15Habitat Smothering 14 13Primary Score 67 52


Total Score 133 11681-123 = Suboptimal124-160 = Optimal

Benthic Macroinvertebrates Lake Forest Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Clams, worms, snails, mites, leeches, and many beetles were also present. Lake Forest Creek scored a little better in 2010, due to sampling in February vs. April, placing in the Healthy category for both methods of analysis. See the next page for species list and results.

The nymphs of the damselfly Calopteryx maculata are common in Lake Forest Creek. They are large when fully grown; up to about 50 mm including the gills. Discussion Lake Forest Creek at SE 43rd Street contained a healthy benthic macroinvertebrate population. Some human disturbance was evident nearby. However, the water quality and habitat within the stream appeared to be good.

An adult female Calopteryx maculata poses for the camera. Damselflies, like dragonflies, are predatory during the nymph and adult life stages. The females have white spots on the wings; males do not.

167

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Lake Forest Creek North of SR 26 at Morningside

BioRecons Collected March 8, 2001 and March 4, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Empididae

S P

Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A A TipulIdae

P

Tipula (Yamatotipula) sp. P


A

Argia sedula 2 C Argia sp. 2

A


C C

Enallagma cardenium P Enallagma sp.

P

Gomphus minutus 1 LL P Ischnura ramburii

P


P

Dytiscidae C Helichus sp.

CL P

Microcylloepus pusillus P Neoporus clypealis

P


P P

Stenelmis sp. CL C





LL P P

Pisidiidae

P

168

Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Baetidae

P

Caenis sp. P

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A

P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100),D=Dominant (>100) LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric

Current FDEP

Value Value Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2010 Total Taxa 20 18 Ephemeroptera

1 2


1 3

Clinger 4 1 Sensitive 2 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 2 Interpretation Impaired Impaired

Target

Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metrics

Value Value

Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2010 Total Taxa 18 20 18 Florida Index Total 10

7 11

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 2 Interpretation Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

169

Little Hatchet Creek at Airport Industrial Park BioRecon Summary Introduction The North Branch of Little Hatchet Creek, flows from west of SR 24 (NE Waldo Road) southeast to Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. The sampling site was located in the Airport Industrial Park near the power line. Upstream of the sampling site, the watershed contains a variety of land uses: 20% pine plantation, 20% natural forest, 22% residential neighborhoods, 30% Industrial and 4% Commercial. Little Hatchet Creek was sampled on February 6, 2003 and again on February 17, 2009. This was also the location of one of the Hester-Dendy deployments.

Little Hatchet Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Little Hatchet Creek was an average of 3.0 meters wide and 0.1 meter deep. Non-point source pollution was not evident at the site. The current velocity was good, an average of 0.3 meters per second. The water was clear but tea-colored, with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native and some non-native plants that moderately shaded the stream. Fish, iron

sulfur bacteria, and periphyton were common but aquatic macrophytes were present but rare. Physical/Chemical Data 2003 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 12 12.1Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.4 10.49Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 259pH (standard units) 7.5 6.86

NA=Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and leaf packs. Erosion upstream was evident and some of the habitat was sand-smothered. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide, but invasive exotic plants were present on the banks. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAcer negundo BoxelderAcer rubrum Red MapleBidens alba BeggarticksCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Colocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Dioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Hydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortIlex vomitoria Yaupon HollyItea virginica Virginia Willow Lygodium japonica Japanese Climbing Fern (E)Magnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetOxalis sp. WoodsorrelPersea borbonia Red BayPinus elliotii Slash PinePrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryRubus sp. BlackberryRuellia brittoniana Mexican Petunia (E)Salvia lyrata Lyreleaf SageSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax sp. GreenbrierStachys floridana Florida BetonyViola sp. Violet Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Little Hatchet Creek received 106 -124 points, placing it in

170

the suboptimal - optimal range. The 2009 assessment was performed at a slightly different location from the 2003 assessment. Habitat Assessment Scores 2003 2009Substrate Diversity 11 13Substrate Availability 5 8Water Velocity 20 18Habitat Smothering 8 13Primary Score 44 52



Benthic Macroinvertebrates Little Hatchet Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates including damselfly, mayfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, clams, worms, and beetles were also present. Little Hatchet Creek passed all three biometrics used to categorize creeks placing it in the healthy category. Little Hatchet Creek also had a good result in the Hester-Dendy analysis (Table 12). Even though the results were classified as Healthy, one factor stood out, there were high densities of organisms for both types of analyses (Table 13). This would indicate an abundant food source, possibly caused by nutrient enrichment. See the next page for species list and results.

A caddisfly larva with a case made of plant roots of the Genus Triaenodes. Many caddisflies live in cases, uniquely built for each species, which protects them from predators and some are streamlined to funnel food particles into small nets inside the cases. The caddisfly with the case can grow to about 33 mm.

Triaenodes adults. Caddisflies are closely related to Butterflies and Moths and look like small moths. Discussion In spite of the variety of potential pollution sources in the watershed, Little Hatchet Creek was able to handle the human disturbance without much detriment to the benthic macroinvertebrate population. The large riparian zone and a fair amount of natural land use as well as high dissolved oxygen and good current velocity help to maximize the habitability of the available substrate for aquatic life.

171

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Little Hatchet North Branch @ Airport Powerline

BioRecons Collected February 6, 2003 and February 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae

A A

Ptychopteridae P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A D Tipulidae P

Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sedula 2

P

Argia sp. 2 A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P P Calopteryx sp. 2 A Calopteryx maculata 2

C

Enallagma coecum (cardenium) P Enallagma sp. (not coecum)

P P

Ischnura sp. P Progomphus sp. 2 LL

P

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata S P P Dineutus serrulatus

C

Helichus sp. CL C C Microcylloepus pusillus

A

Stenelmis sp. CL C A

Oligochaeta (worms) Lumbriculidae

P P

Naididae C



LL C P

Collembola P Spongillidae (Sponges) P

172

Florida Index

Metric

Organism

Prevalence

Organism

Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp)

Procamburus sp. LL P P Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S C Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy

C

Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua A Baetidae

P

Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL D Pseudocloeon ephippiatum

P

Pseudocloeon propinquum A

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P A Oecetis georgia 1 C Oecetis sp. 1

P

Triaenodes ignitus S C Triaenodes sp.

S P



Value Value


1 4


3 4

Clinger 4 5 Sensitive 4 4 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 4 6 Interpretation (single event) Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Value Value


10 16

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 7 Interpretation Healthy Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

173

Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave. BioRecon Summary Introduction The north branch of Little Hatchet Creek flows from west of SR 24 (NE Waldo Road) southeast to Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. This sampling site was located just south of NE 53rd Avenue, southeast of the Gainesville Regional Utilities Murphree Water Treatment Plant where the drinking water for Gainesville is pumped from wells and treated for distribution. Two smaller branches join together upstream of the site, each with different water quality characteristics, and a utility easement runs parallel to the site. Land use impacting the station includes 60% natural forest, 25% silviculture, 11% industrial, and 3% residential Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Avenue was sampled on January 30, 2002 and on February 24, 2009.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Little Hatchet Creek at this site was sand-bottomed, an average of 1.25 meters wide and 0.2 meters deep. Non-point source pollution at the site was not evident. The current velocity was good in 2002, an average of 0.25 meters per second but dropped to 0.05 m/sec. in 2009. The water was clear but tea-colored with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, specific conductivity, and dissolved

oxygen were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone appeared to have been logged many years ago, but looked healthy, although disrupted by the easement. The stream was lightly shaded. Fish and aquatic macrophytes were common, and periphyton was present but rare. Physical/Chemical Data 2002 2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 23 8.82Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 5.8 10.71Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 247 301pH (standard units) 6.8 6.36

NA= Not Analyzed

Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and aquatic vegetation. An adequate amount of habitat was available, erosion not evident in 2002, was more so in 2009. Habitat smothering by silt increased in 2009. Plant List (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameArundinaria gigantea SwitchcaneBaccharis sp. Grounsel TreeCentella asiatica SpadeleafColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Decumaria barbara WoodvampGamochaeta sp. CudweedHelianthus angustifolius Swamp SunflowerHydrocotyle spp. MarshpennywortIlex cassine Dahoon HollyItea virginica Virginia willow / SweetspireJuniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLudwigia repens Creeping Primrose WillowLyonia lucida FetterbushMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtlePersea borbonia Red BayPhorandendron leucarpum MistletoePinus sp. PinePteridium aquilinum BrackenQuercus nigra Water OakRubus sp. BlackberrySambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoSmilax sp. GreenbrierTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressVaccinium spp. BlueberryVitis aestivalis Summer GrapeYoungia japonica Oriental False Hawksbeard (E)

174

Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Avenue received 116 points 2002 and was lowered to 92 due to decreased velocity and some increase in erosion, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2002 2009Substrate Diversity 16 16Substrate Availability 13 14Water Velocity 15 6Habitat Smothering 14 10Primary Score 58 46



Benthic Macroinvertebrates Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Avenue contained a good variety of benthic macroinvertebrates and the population improved between 2002 and 2009. Damselfly, dragonfly, blackfly, caddisfly, mayfly and midge larvae were present. Amphipods, crayfish, snails, worms, and beetles were also present. See the next page for species list and results. Discussion Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Avenue may have run dry at times, and if so, would not support species that need continuously flowing water, which may have happened before the sampling event in 2002. Human disturbance and water quality do not appear to be factors.

Damselfly nymph Argia sp. is a common in Gainesville streams. These are small damselflies, about 2 cm long.

An adult Argia tibialis may be checking out the spider web. All damselflies are predatory insects.

175

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 53rd Ave

BioRecons Collected Jan. 30, 2002 and February 24, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2002 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae P A Simulidae 2 S, CL A A

Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae P Haitia sp.

P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 A Argia sedula 2

P

Boyeria sp. 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2

P

Progomphus sp. 2 LL P P

Coleoptera (beetles) Chrysomelidae

P

Helichus sp. C Hydaticus sp.

P

Microcylloepus sp. P Microcylloepus pusillus

P

Stenelmis sp. CL P P




Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL

P

Collembola P P


LL A P

Amphipoda (scuds) P Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy

P

176

Florida

Organism Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2002 2009 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua

P

Caenis diminuta

A Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL

A

Pseudocloeon frondale

C

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P P Triaenodes ignitus

S

P

Triaenodes perna/helo

S

P



Value Value


0 4


3 3

Clinger 3 4 Sensitive

1 4

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 2 5 Interpretation Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target


Value Value


7 13

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 7 Interpretation Impaired Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

177

Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave. BioRecon Summary Introduction This branch of Little Hatchet Creek flows from west of SR 24 (NE Waldo Road) by the City of Gainesville’s Ironwood Golf Course southeast to Newnans Lake in Alachua County, Florida. This sampling site was located north of NE 39th Avenue. Land use impacting the station includes 17% natural forest, 16% silviculture, 11% commercial, 24% industrial, and 33% residential. Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Avenue was sampled on January 19, 2010.

Little Hatchet Creek Physical and Chemical Characterization Little Hatchet Creek at this site was sand-bottomed, an average of 2 meters wide and 0.1 meters deep. Non-point source pollution at the site was evident. The current velocity was good at 0.3 meters per second. The water was clear but tea-colored with no unnatural odors, but an oily sheen was noted. Temperature, pH, specific conductivity, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was somewhat disturbed as invasive plants were present. The stream was lightly shaded. Fish were not observed, aquatic macrophytes were rare, iron bacteria were common and periphyton was abundant.

Physical/Chemical Data 2010Temperature (degrees Celsius) 12.43Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 11.11Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 274pH (standard units) 7.35 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included leaf packs, roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, and aquatic vegetation. An adequate amount of habitat was available. Erosion was evident and clay outcrops were noted. Habitat smothering was caused by both silt and sand. Plant List (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum L. Red MapleBaccharus sp. Groundsel TreeDioscorea bulbifera Air Potato (E)Eupatorium capillifolium DogfennelJuniperus virginiana Eastern RedcedarLudwidia repens Creeping Primrose WillowLygodium microphyllum Small-leaf Climbing Fern (E)Myrica cerifera Wax MyrtlePhoradendron leucarpum Oak MistletoePinus elliottii Slash PinePrunus caroliniana Carolina LaurelcherryQuercus nigra Water OakRubus sp. BlackberrySabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSmilax spp. GreenbrierUlmus sp. ElmVaccinium sp. BlueberryVitis sp. GrapeWoodwardia virginica Virginia Chain Fern Japanese climbing fern and air potato, invasive exotic plants, were present on the banks. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Avenue received 100 point placing it in the suboptimal range.

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Total Score 10081-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Avenue contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates, but not enough sensitive mayfly or long-lived taxa were present to make up a healthy community. Damselfly, blackfly, caddisfly, mayfly and midge larvae were present. Amphipods were abundant, crayfish, snails, worms, and several beetles were also present. See the next page for species list and results.

Nymph of the damselfly Enallagma. These medium-sized damselfly nymphs are about 2.5 cm long when mature. Discussion Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Avenue may run dry at times, and if so, will not support species that need continuously flowing water, such as some of the long-lived taxa. Human disturbance may also contribute to the impairment of the benthic macroinvertebrate community. It also appears that the stream may receive nutrient loading causing the periphyton to be abundant here, and with the clay outcrops, erosion and silt smothering noted, it may come from the naturally occurring phosphorus in the Hawthorne Group formations.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Little Hatchet Creek at NE 39th Ave.

BioRecons Collected January 19, 2010 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc.


Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A Simulidae 2 S, CL C

Gastropoda (snails) Hebetancylus excentricus P Haitia sp. P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sedula 2

A

Enallagma pollutum P Enallagma cardenium

A

Calopteryx sp. 2 C

Coleoptera (beetles) Ancyronyx variegata

S C

Dubiraphia vittata C Microcylloepus pusillus

P

Peltodytes sp. P Agabus/ Platambus sp.

P

Acariformes (mites) Oribatidae

P

Oligochaeta (worms) Helobdella triserialis P Nadinae

P

Lumbriculidae P Mooreobdella tetragon

P

Hemiptera (water bugs) Veliidae P


LL C

Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy A

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Florida

Organism


Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2010 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Caenis sp. C

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C Oecetis georgia 1

C


Metric Current FDEP

Value

Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 2010 Total Taxa 25 Ephemeroptera

1


1

Clinger 2 Sensitive

2

Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 Interpretation Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired

Target Metric Previous FDEP Metric Value Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2010 Total Taxa 18 25 Florida Index Total 10

10


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Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Road BioRecon Summary Introduction Lochloosa Creek is located north and west of Lake Lochloosa between the City of Gainesville and Hawthorne in eastern Alachua County, Florida. The stream drains mainly natural land and tree plantations before it flows into Lake Lochloosa. The sampling site was located at the St. Johns River Water Management District sampling station, downstream of the bridge on Fishcamp Road in a floodplain portion of the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservaion Area. Biorecons were collected on March 27, 2009 and due to suspected drought conditions before the first sampling event, re-sampling took place September 14, 2009.

Lochloosa Creek on March 27, 2009. Water levels were very low, so the creek was re-sampled on September 27, 2009. Physical and Chemical Characterization Lochloosa Creek is a second-order stream, averaging of 2.1 meters wide and 0.14 meters deep. Non-point source pollution was not evident at the site. The velocity was nearly zero in March, but increased to 0.2 m/s in September, after summer rainfall. The water was clear but very dark tea-colored, with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were all within normal

ranges in September; dissolved oxygen was low in March. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants that moderately shaded the stream. No invasive exotic plants were present on either bank. Fish were common; aquatic macrophytes and periphyton were present but rare. Physical/Chemical Data 3/27/2009 9/14/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.01 24.19Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 4.86 6.23Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 198 135pH (standard units) 6.41 7.05 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, small amounts of vegetation and pebble riffle, and leaf packs. Plant List Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Cephalanthus occidentalis Common ButtonbushEuonymus americanus American StrawberrybushLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMyrica cerifera Wax MyrtleOsmunda regalis Royal FernOstrya virginica Eastern HophornbeamQuercus laurifolia Laurel OakQuercus nigra Water OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSalix caroliniana Coastal Plain WillowSisyrinchium sp. Blue-eyed GrassTaxodium distichum Bald-cypressToxicodendron radicans Poison ivy

Only a slight amount of silt smothered the habitat in September, but it was quite silty in March. The banks appeared relatively undisturbed and the quality of the riparian zone was very good. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Lochloosa Creek received 138 points, placing it in the optimal range in September. In March, it was lower due to the poor current velocity and silt.

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Habitat Assessment Scores 3/27/2009 9/14/2009Substrate Diversity 13 13Substrate Availability 14 15Water Velocity 1 15Habitat Smothering 13 18Primary Score 41 61



Benthic Macroinvertebrates Lochloosa Creek had an abundance of a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates. The communities differed in composition from March to September. The March community was dominated by beetles, dragonflies, snails, and water bugs. In September, the more sensitive mayflies, and caddisflies were abundant for some species. Lochloosa Creek showed an impaired result for the March sampling event, but after the summer rains in September, it was placed in the healthy category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

Cypress knees are visible in this natural riparian zone along Lochloosa Creek.

Discussion The Lochloosa Creek sampling station is located in an ideal setting for macroinvertebrates with a large area of natural land surrounding it. The low banks make the area susceptible to natural flooding, which is very healthy for the system. If the flow of water is continuous, it is certain to have a balanced and diverse macroinvertebrate community.

This is the larva of the beetle Dineutus found in Lochloosa Creek. Adults can grow between 8 and 15.5 mm long, depending on the species.

The adult Dineutus has divided compound eyes; two above and two below so that it can see very well. They move in erratic gyrations in large groups on the water surface, which is where the family to which it belongs: Gyrinidae gets its name.

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Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Calopteryx maculata 2 P Enallagma cardenium P Enallagma pollutum P Gomphidae 1 LL P Libelluloidea (LPIL) P Ischnura sp. P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL C Macromia taeniolata 2 S, LL C Somatochlora filosa LL P Tetragoneuria sepia LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Acilius sp. P Bidessonotus sp. P Chrysomelidae P Dineutus serrulatus C Dubiraphia vittata P Hydrobius sp. P Hydrochara spangleri P Neoporus sp. A Scirtidae (LPIL) C Stenelmis sp. CL C Acariformes (mites) P Porifera P

Alachua County Bioassessment Study Lochloosa Creek at Fishcamp Road BioRecons Collected March 27, 2009 and September 14, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 3/27/2009 9/14/2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae C C Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp. A P Hebetancylus excentricus P Laevapex peninsulae P Planorbella trivolvis P Planorbella scalaris P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL,S,CL) 3/27/2009 9/14/2009 Oligochaeta (worms) P Lumbriculidae C Bivalvia (clams) Pisidium casertanum C Pisidium sp. C Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostoma testaceum P Hydrometra sp. P Ranatra buenoi P Veliidae P Lepidoptera (moths) Parapoynx sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL A P

Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S A C Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea communis S A Caecidotea sp. S C Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Caenis diminuta C P Choroterpes basalis S P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A Pseudocloeon sp. P Leptophlebia cupida S C Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A Oecetis sp. 1 P Triaenodes perna/helo Pescador S A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

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Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

Metric Metric Current FDEP Value Value Biorecon 6-Metric Analysis 3/27/2009 9/14/2009 Total Taxa 28 27 Ephemeroptera 2 4 Trichoptera 0 3 Long-lived 4 3 Clinger 0 4 Sensitive 4 6 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 3 6 Interpretation for Lochloosa Creek Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Value Value Biorecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 3/27/2009 9/14/2009 Total Taxa 18 28 27 Florida Index Total 10 2 11 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 6 Interpretation for Lochloosa Creek Suspect Healthy

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Blues Creek at NW 71st St. BioRecon Summary Introduction Blues Creek lies in northwest Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. It flows west from NW 43rd Street, north of NW 53rd Avenue to San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park where it enters an underground sink at Big Otter Ravine. The sampling site for February 13, 2003 was located east of NW 71st Street in a low-density residential area. April 9, 2009 it was sampled on the west side of the street downstream of a staff gage. Upstream of the site, the watershed drains natural forest, residential neighborhoods, experimental agricultural lands, and some silviculture.

Blues Creek at the staff gage west of NW 71st St. Physical and Chemical Characterization Blues Creek was an average of 2 meters wide and 0.18 meters deep. A small amount of pollution could runoff from NW 71st Street and there are also residential areas upstream. The current velocity was good, about 0.28 meters per second. The water was slightly turbid and very dark tannic (tea-colored) which made it difficult to see habitat, even at mid-day. There were no unnatural odors, oils, or iron/sulfur bacteria present. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were all within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native trees that heavily shaded

the stream. Fish were common; aquatic macrophytes and periphyton (algae) were rare. Physical/Chemical Data 2/13/2003 4/9/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 10.2 15.42Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 9.43 10.3Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 103.8 120pH (standard units) 5.05 5.96 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags of fallen tree branches, leaf packs, rock rubble, and roots of vegetation living on the banks. The vegetation was native, mixed hardwood forest with only a small amount of exotic Taro. Plant List (E=exotic)

Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Carya glabra Pignut HickoryCercis canadensis Eastern RedbudColocasia esculenta Wild Taro (E)Decumaria barbara WoodvampFraxinus sp. AshIlex opaca American HollyLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMagnolia grandiflora Southern MagnoliaParthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia CreeperPinus glabra Spruce PineQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakQuercus nigra Water OakSabal minor Dwarf PalmettoSmilax spp. GreenbrierSmilax walteri Coral GreenbrierSymplocos tinctoria Common SweetleafToxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy Some erosion was evident in the 2009 event. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide in the first sampling location east of NW 71st St. The second station west of NW 71st St. had more human impact. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Blues Creek received 123 points in 2009; down from 136 in 2003 mainly due to less stable banks, and more smothering of habitat.

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Total Score 136 12381-123 = Suboptimal; 124-160 = Optimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Blues Creek contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates, including dragonfly, damselfly, mayfly, fishfly, blackfly, cranefly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, worms, and beetles were also present. Both biorecons had a community dominated by chironomid (midge), blackfly, and mayfly larvae and both had a Healthy biorecon result. The score dropped slightly from 2003 to 2009, which may be due to the change in sampling location, or time of year. Previous drought could also affect the result, although the stream had been flowing well for at least six months prior to sampling. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

Blues Creek facing downstream, west of NW 71st St.

Discussion Blues Creek appeared to have a fairly healthy habitat at this location. Water quality does not seem to be a cause for concern but rather drought and perhaps runoff from upstream. Timing of the sampling events and location likely plays a role in the results. The winter months are a good time to sample, because the emergence of the aquatic insect larvae has not yet occurred. In the spring months, many aquatic insects metamorphose into their adult forms and leave the stream. Continued sampling over time will give a clearer picture of the health and human impact on this creek. Personal communication from Gary Warren, (FWC) that his staff sampled farther downstream during the winter months earlier in 2009 resulted in a Healthy community, including stoneflies, known to be sensitive to pollution.

The mayfly larvae (nymphs) of Maccaffertium smithae are frequently found in Gainesville streams, including Blues Creek.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Blues Creek at NW 71st St. BioRecons Collected February 13, 2003 and April 9, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Limonia sp. P Pilaria sp. P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL D A Tipula sp. P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Calopteryx maculata 2 C P Hagenius brevistylus LL P Libellula sp. P Coleoptera (beetles) Dytiscidae C Helichus fastigiatus CL P Helichus sp. CL P Neoporus sp. C Scirtes sp. P

Oligochaeta (worms) P C Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Chauliodes rastricornis LL P

Lepidoptera (moths) P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL C Procambarus paeninsulanus LL P Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S D C

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Acerpenna pygmaea S P Caenis sp. P Leptophlebia intermedia S A Leptophlebia sp. S P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A P Pseudocloeon frondale A A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P P Pycnopsyche sp. LL P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 18 Ephemeroptera 4 5 Trichoptera 2 1 Long-lived 3 2 Clinger 4 4 Sensitive 4 4 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 5 4 Interpretation for Blues Creek Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 18 18 Florida Index Total 10 7 7 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 6 6 Interpretation for Blues Creek Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Cellon Creek West of US 441 Biorecon Summary Introduction Cellon Creek is located near Hague in Alachua County, Florida, and flows south under US 441, then west into a sinkhole north of San Felasco Hammock State Park. It drains mainly natural, agricultural, and residential areas with small amounts of industrial, commercial, silviculture, and pasture/field land use. The sampling site is on the western side of US 441. The creek was sampled on September 18, 2003 and again on April 24, 2009.

Cellon Creek west of US 441 Physical and Chemical Characterization Cellon Creek is a first-order stream that is an average of 2 meters wide and 0.14 meters deep with a rocky to sandy bottom. Non-point source pollution at the site may be caused by residential areas, US 441 runoff, and construction activity nearby. The velocity was about 0.17 meters per second at a typical transect. However, several places along the 100-meter stretch reached ideal velocities of 0.35 meters per second. The water was clear with no unnatural odors or oils present. The fairly high values of pH and specific conductivity make it conducive for mollusk growth. The dissolved oxygen is good for macroinvertebrates, in general. The riparian zone was vegetated with native

plants that moderately shaded the stream. However, Japanese climbing fern grew near US 441 (noted in 2003), and some human disturbance was evident in the riparian zone. Fish were common; periphyton was rare, and aquatic macrophytes and iron/sulfur bacteria were absent. Physical/Chemical Data 9/18/2003 4/24/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22.07 17.55Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.38 8.84Specific Conductance(µS/cm) 513 489pH (standard units) 8.03 7.47 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates was diverse, and included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, rocky riffle areas, and leaf packs. The generous amount of rock rubble is unusual for an area near Gainesville. Plant List

Scientific Name Common NameCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Celtis laevigata Hackberry, SugarberryEuonymus americanus American StrawberrybushQuercus michauxii Swamp Chestnut OakSabal palmetto Cabbage PalmSambucus nigra var. canadensis ElderberrySmilax spp. GreenbrierTilia americana var. caroliniana BasswoodVitis aestivalis Summer Grape The riparian zone had been disturbed, the banks were steep, but vegetated, and some erosion was evident. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Cellon Creek received 113 points in 2003 and 121 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range. It was unclear if Cellon Creek had been channelized in the past, except near US 441 (channelization was the main difference in the scores). Large trees grew in the riparian zone, and spoil banks were not obvious.

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Total Score 113 12181-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Cellon Creek had an abundant amount and variety of benthic macroinvertebrates present, including damselfly, dragonfly, mayfly, blackfly, caddisfly, dobsonfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, clams, snails, worms, water bugs, and a variety of beetles were also present. Cellon Creek passed all three biometrics used to categorize creeks, placing it in the Healthy category using the 3-metric Biorecon method of analysis. It also scored fairly high in the 6-metric method of analysis for both sampling events, and improved from 2003 to 2009. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

The caddisfly larva Triaenodes makes a spiral case of plant matter. This interesting organism is about 8 mm long.

The adults of the Triaenodes caddisflies resemble small moths. Discussion The Cellon Creek macroinvertebrate community appears to be quite healthy and apparently has not suffered from human activity in its watershed. The Biorecon score was one point away from the Exceptional category for the 2009 sampling event. The satellite image of the area shows a large amount of tree canopy, both upstream and downstream of the sampling location . .

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Cellon Creek West of US 441 BioRecons Collected September 18, 2003 and April 24, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae P A Simulium sp. 2 S, CL P P Tipula sp. P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp. P Hebetancylus excentricus P Melanoides tuberculata C Melanoides turricula D Planorbella duryi P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia tibialis 2 A Argia sedula 2 C Argia sp. 2 A Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2 A P Dromogomphus sp. C Gomphus sp. 1 LL P Hagenius brevistylus LL P Progomphus sp. 2 LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Bidessonotus sp. P Dubiraphia vittata P C Helichus sp. CL P P Microcylloepus pusillus C Neoporus sp. A Scirtidae (Ora/Scirtes) P Stenelmis sp. CL P Oligochaeta (worms) P P Turbellaria-Tricladida A Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL P A Pisidiidae P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL C P Hemiptera (water bugs) P Rhagovelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P Procambarus sp. LL P Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy P C Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Baetidae A Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL C C

Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL P A Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL P A Triaenodes ignitus S C Triaenodes sp. S A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100) , LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2003 2009 Total Taxa 21 31 Ephemeroptera 2 1 Trichoptera 3 3 Long-lived 4 6 Clinger 5 6 Sensitive 4 4 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 5 6 Interpretation for Cellon Creek Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 21 31 Florida Index Total 10 15 16 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 5 4 Interpretation for Cellon Creek Healthy Healthy Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Hornsby Spring Run BioRecon Summary Introduction Hornsby Spring lies in northern Alachua County, Florida, and flows west to the Santa Fe River. The sampling site was located at Camp Kulaqua, near US 441 and W. Dixie Highway. Natural forest, residential land, silviculture, and pasture land drain into the site. The spring is also contributed to by water traveling underground from creeks that disappear into sinks. Hornsby Spring Run has been shown to be connected to Cellon Creek which flows into Lee Sink and to Mill Creek Sink in Alachua from a Karst Environmental Services, Inc. dye study. Historically, it has been classified as a first magnitude spring, although flows have recently diminished. It was sampled on August 23, 2001 and again on September 17, 2009.

Physical and Chemical Characterization In 2001, Hornsby Spring Run had a combination of limestone and silty mud on the bottom. It was an average of 11 meters wide and 0.9 meters deep. The 2009 sample event was slightly downstream, about 75 meters from the spring. At that time had an average of 0.15 meters of flocculent silt on the bottom. Banks were low and vegetated with cypress trees and

other wetland plants. The current velocity was low at 0.04 meters per second in 2001, and a maximum of 0.11 meters per second in 2009. Physical/Chemical Data 8/23/2001 9/17/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 23 22.73Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 1.3 0.96Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 493pH (standard units) 7.31 7.19Alkalinity (mg/L) 220 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Temperature and pH were within normal ranges, but dissolved oxygen was quite low, ranging from 1.2 to 2.6 mg/l in 2001 and 0.57 to 0.96 mg/l in 2009. The sediment had a sulfur smell from decomposing vegetation. The water was clear with no odor or surface oils, but in 2009, the color of the water appeared tannic. It may have been colored by the abundance of diatoms present which covered the vegetation. Periphyton, fish, and aquatic vegetation were abundant. Native trees moderately shaded the creek. An on-site wastewater treatment plant may be a source of nutrients in the spring. Non-point source pollution may drain in from many areas, considering the underground connections to the spring. Runoff from the immediate watershed may be a contributing factor, as well as runoff going to the streams that flow into sinks connected to the spring. Plant List

Scientific Name Common NameAcer rubrum Red MapleEichhornia crassipes Water HyacinthFraxinus sp. AshItea virginica Virginia WillowNajas guadalupensis Southern NaiadNyssa sylvatica var. biflora Swamp Tupelo, BlackgumSalvinia minima Water SpanglesSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoTaxodium sp. CypressToxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included floating aquatic vegetation, as well as eelgrass under water, but the eelgrass was coated with blue-green algae

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in 2001. In 2009, eelgrass was not listed as present. Limestone, fallen tree branches, and roots of vegetation living on the banks also provided habitat in 2001. In 2009, limestone was not listed as habitat present, due to silt smothering. A significant amount of habitat was present in 2001, but silt and algae smothered much of it. Exotic invasive water hyacinth was prevalent in 2001. The riparian zone was greater than 18 meters wide, very healthy, and contained a record cypress tree. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Hornsby Spring received 124 points in 2001, placing it in the optimal range. In 2009, the habitat smothering appeared to have increased, reducing the amount and quality of available habitat. The score dropped to 104.

2001 2009Habitat Assessment ScoresSubstrate Diversity 13 11Substrate Availability 15 8Water Velocity 12 8Habitat Smothering 4 2Primary Score 44 29


Total Score 124 104

11-43 = Poor44-80 = Marginal81-123 = Suboptimal Suboptimal124-160 = Optimal Optimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Hornsby Spring contained a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates, including dragonfly, mayfly, damselfly, crane fly, soldierfly, and midge larvae. Worms, mites, shrimp, snails, water striders, and beetles were also present. Both in 2001 and in 2009, Hornsby Spring was categorized as Impaired, using the current analysis method, and passed only one of the former three biometrics used to categorize

creeks, placing it in the Suspect category. The BioRecon score also dropped from a poor score of 2 in 2001 to a worse score of 1 in 2009. Please see the following page for a list of species and results. Discussion Hornsby Spring had a somewhat diverse macroinvertebrate population. However, few species most sensitive to pollution were present. Water quality may be affecting the population in natural and unnatural ways. The dissolved oxygen would be expected to be low, as the water was coming from underground where it does not come in contact with the air. The smothering of the aquatic plants, snags, and other habitat with algae and silt may indicate high nutrient levels in the water. Infiltration of nutrients from septic tanks, the wastewater treatment facility, agricultural, and pastureland and/or other sources may be influencing the groundwater that feeds the spring.

The isopod Caecidotea found at Hornsby Springs. The size ranges from about 5-10 mm.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Hornsby Spring Run BioRecons Collected August 23, 2001 and September 17, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Diptera (flies) Chaoboridae P Chironomidae C A Stratiomyidae P Tipulidae P Gastropoda (snails) Amnicola sp. C Hebetancylus excentricus P Hydrobiidae C Micromenetus sp. P Planorbella trivolvis P Planorbella scalaris P Planorbella sp. P Pseudosuccinea columella P Viviparus georgianus P

Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Enallagma pollutum P Enallagma sp. C Epitheca sp. P Ischnura posita. P Libellulidae C Coleoptera (beetles) Curculionidae C Dytiscidae P Scirtidae P Scirtes sp. P Acariformes (mites) Arrenurus A Oligochaeta (worms) C

Hirudinea (leeches)

Helobdella stagnalis P Helobdella triserialis P Lepidoptera (moths) P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL P Palaemonetes paludosus 1 LL A C Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy A A Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. S A Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Baetidae C Caenis diminuta C C P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2009 Total Taxa 21 18 Ephemeroptera 2 1 Trichoptera 0 0 Long-lived 1 2 Clinger 0 0 Sensitive 0 1 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 2 1 Interpretation Impaired Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2009 Total Taxa 18 21 18 Florida Index Total 10 1 1 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 2 1 Interpretation Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. BioRecon Summary Introduction Mill Creek originates in an area north of the Town of Alachua and east of SR 241. This land is covered with little sinkholes or swallets and lies east of the Mill Creek Preserve which was acquired by Alachua County Forever in 2005. Townsend Branch, which flows out of Alachua County Forever’s Mill Creek Preserve, joins Mill Creek upstream of the sample station. Mill Creek flows in a southwesterly direction toward the City of Alachua, Alachua County, Florida into Mill Creek Sink near US 441. The sampling site was located upstream of scenic Old Bellamy Road which winds through agricultural and pastureland. Native vegetation bordered the creek banks. The creek was sampled on October 28, 2002 and again on September 14, 2009.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Mill Creek is a second-order stream, averaging 1.2 meters wide and 0.1 meter deep. Non-point source pollution was not evident at the site, but may come in from nearby grazing and agricultural land. The velocity was slow, averaging from 0.07 meters per second to stagnant in the 2009 sampling event. The water was clear but lightly tea-colored, with no unnatural odors or oils present. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and specific conductance were all

within normal ranges. The riparian zone was vegetated with native plants that moderately shaded the stream. No invasive exotic plants were present on either bank. Fish, aquatic macrophytes, and periphyton were present but rare. Silt smothering was severe. Physical/Chemical Data 10/28/2002 9/14/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 21.99 24.49Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.51 6.99Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 102.2 81pH (standard units) 7.15 7.14 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included roots of vegetation living on the banks, snags of fallen tree branches, aquatic vegetation, leaf packs, and a small amount of pebble riffle area. Much of the habitat was silt-smothered, and the water velocity was below optimal. However, it appeared relatively undisturbed, and the quality of the riparian zone was very good. Plant List Scientific Name Common Name

Acer negundo BoxelderCarpinus caroliniana American HornbeamCarya glabra Pignut HickoryCrataegus sp. HawthornEuonymus americanus American StrawberrybushItea virginica Virginia WillowLiquidambar styraciflua SweetgumMorus rubra Red MulberryOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetOxalis sp. WoodsorrelPinus taeda Loblolly pineQuercus michauxii Swamp chestnut oak Quercus virginiana Live OakSaururus cernuus Lizard's TailSmilax sp. GreenbrierTilia americana var. caroliniana Carolina BasswoodToxicodendron radicans Poison IvyVaccinium arboreum Sparkleberry Mill Creek had been visited earlier in the year, and was found to have stagnant, disconnected pools. The samplers waited

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until it had been flowing again for six months before resampling. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Mill Creek received 127 points in 2002 and 121 in 2009. Habitat Assessment Scores 2002 2009Substrate Diversity 15 13Substrate Availability 9 13Water Velocity 14 8Habitat Smothering 10 13Primary Score 48 47


Total Score 127 12181-123 = Suboptimal124-160 = Optimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Mill Creek had an abundance of a variety of benthic macroinvertebrates present, including dragonfly, blackfly, caddisfly, and midge larvae. Amphipods, worms, hemipterans, and a variety of beetles were also present. Mill Creek scored in the Healthy category using both the 3-metric and 6-metric analysis methods in 2002.

The beetle Helichus is commonly found in Mill Creek. Its size is about 5 mm and they cling to submerged logs or can be found in gravel in the stream bottom.

In 2009 the score was a bit lower, but still placed in the Healthy category for the 6-metric analysis. The lack of mayflies in the 2009 sample was of concern, and common damselflies were also missing in the macroinvertebrate community. Please see the following page for a list of species and results. Discussion Mill Creek has a quite healthy and natural riparian zone at the sampling site, and little human disturbance except for the agriculture and grazing lands nearby. Hunters also use the area. The conditions in the stream bed were good except for the silt smothering and low current velocity. The preservation of the headwater land is important to help this creek maintain its biological integrity. The drop in sensitive and mayfly species may indicate a spill of a pollutant in or near the creek that these macroinvertebrates could not tolerate. Unless it is an ongoing activity, the creek should return to or exceed its former state. The type of terrain around Mill Creek is like a sieve, and pollutant runoff easily can contaminate the surface and groundwater. Drought also stresses the macroinvertebrate community, and can have a negative impact on the biorecon results.

The right bank of Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Road

Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010

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Mill Creek at Old Bellamy Rd. BioRecons Collected October 28, 2002 and September 14, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points LL, S, CL 2002 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Ephydridae P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL A Tipula sp. C Other Diptera Larva P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia cubensis C Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Aeshnidae P Calopteryx maculata 2 A Enallagma sp. C Libellulidae P Macromia sp. 2 S, LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Agabus sp. P Helichus lithophilus CL P Helichus fastigiatus CL A Hydrophilidae P Microcylloepus pusillus P P Neoporus clypealis C Stenelmis sp. CL P C Acariformes (mites) P Oligochaeta (worms) Lumbriculidae A P Hirudinea (leeches) P Bivalvia (clams) Musculium sp. P Pisidium sp. C Megaloptera (dobsonflies) Corydalus cornutus 2 LL P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points LL, S, CL 2002 2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) P Belostoma sp. P Mesovelia sp. P Trichochorixa sp. P Veliidae P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL C Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy C A Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Paraleptophlebia volitans S A Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A Pseudocloeon sp. P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cernotina sp. CL P Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL C P Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL A C Oecetis sp. 1 P Triaenodes sp. S C P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2002 2009 Total Taxa 23 24 Ephemeroptera 3 0 Trichoptera 3 5 Long-lived 1 2 Clinger 6 5 Sensitive 6 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 5 4 Interpretation Healthy Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Values 2002 2009 Total Taxa 18 23 24 Florida Index Total 10 11 5 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 6 5 Interpretation Healthy Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met Impaired-0 target values met

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Pareners Branch at Mill Creek Preserve North of CR 236 BioRecon Summary Introduction Pareners Branch is located in rural northern Alachua County, Florida. It flows northwest toward the Santa Fe River, then sinks underground to re-emerge briefly at O’Leno State Park. The sampling site was located near the headwaters in Alachua County Forever’s Mill Creek Preserve just northwest of the corner of CR 241 and CR 236. The sample station location was moved from 2003 to 2009, and each location had slightly different characteristics. The creek was tea-colored and barely moved through vegetation dominated by native bamboo on the banks and surrounded by slash pine silviculture along the 100-meter site. Water oak, swamp chestnut oak, white ash, and sweetgum formed the heavy canopy. The creek was sampled on April 23, 2003 and again on September 16, 2009.

Physical and Chemical Characterization Pareners Branch averaged 0.2 meters deep and one meter wide. It had apparently been channelized at one time but was recovering some natural sinuosity. The velocity was very slow except in a few riffle segments, less than 0.05 meters per second. The water was tea-colored and clear. The sediment had

an anaerobic odor. Fish were common and iron/sulfur bacteria seen in 2009 were not present in the 2003 event. Some periphyton was noted. Macrophytes were absent. Temperature, pH, and conductivity were all within normal ranges, but the conductivity increased from 2003 to 2009 by 143 micromhos/cm. Dissolved oxygen was normal in the 2003 event but very low in 2009. The low current velocity, low dissolved oxygen, and high conductivity in 2009 may indicate low rainfall during the months preceding the sampling event. Possible pollution sources may be runoff from CR 241 and CR 236. Groundwater feeding the stream could also carry pollutants. No invasive exotic plants were present on either bank. Physical/Chemical Data 4/23/2003 9/16/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18.33 23.8Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 7.12 2.58Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 263 406pH (standard units) 7.34 7.18 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included snags (logs), leaf packs, small rocks washed downstream from a nearby culvert, and few roots. Plant List Scientific Name Common NameArundinaria gigantea SwitchcaneItea virginica Virginia Willow Smilax spp. GreenbrierToxicodendron radicans Poison Ivy Silt smothered habitat and small areas of erosion were noted. The low water velocity, small amount of productive habitat for macroinvertebrates to colonize, silt, and straight banks lowered the habitat score. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Pareners Branch received 97 to 95 points, placing it in the suboptimal range.

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Total Score 97 9581-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Pareners Branch had a variety of taxa, including two species of caddisfly. Other taxa present included beetles, midges, crane flies, worms, amphipods, and damselflies. The 2003 sampling event had a Healthy macroinvertebrate community and Biorecon result. The 2009 event lacked mayflies, and had few sensitive species and the result was Impaired. Please see the following page for a list of species and results. Discussion The 2003 sampling event had quite different results regarding the macroinvertebrates. The discrepancy is possibly due to time of year the station was sampled and perhaps low rainfall and low dissolved oxygen. The move in location of the sampling station probably did not have as much of an effect.

Dense stands of switchcane, Arundinaria gigantea, grow along this section of Pareners Branch.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Pareners Branch at Mill Creek Nature Preserve BioRecons Collected April 23, 2003 and September 16, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Diptera (flies) Ceratopogonidae P Chironomidae A A Hemerodromia ap. S P Limoniinae P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C Tipula sp. P Gastropoda (snails) Haitia sp. A P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Argia sp. 2 P Boyeria vinosa 2 LL P Calopteryx maculata 2 C P Cordulegaster obliqua fasciata LL P Libellulidae P Coleoptera (beetles) Dineutus sp. P Helichus fastigiatus CL A Helichus sp. CL P Hydrophilidae P Hygrotus sp. P Neoporus sp. P Macronychus glabratus S, CL P Pelonomus obscurus P Scirtidae P Scirtes sp. C Stenelmis sp. CL P P Acariformes (mites) P Oligochaeta (worms) Lumbriculidae P C Naididae P Hirudinea (leeches) P Turbellaria-Tricladida P

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Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Bivalvia (clams) Pisidium sp. C Collembola P Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostoma testaceum P Mesovelia sp. P Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Procambarus sp. LL C Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S A A Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Habrophleboides bruneipennis S P Pseudocloeon sp. P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P Chimarra sp. 2 S, CL A P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2003 2009 Total Taxa 24 22 Ephemeroptera 2 0 Trichoptera 2 2 Long-lived 1 2 Clinger 6 4 Sensitive 6 2 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 5 3 Interpretation Healthy Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 24 22 Florida Index Total 10 11 5 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 4 2 Interpretation Healthy Suspect

Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Poe Spring Run BioRecon Summary Introduction Poe Spring is located about 3 miles west of High Springs on County Road 340 west of the City of High Springs in northern Alachua County, Florida. Poe Spring is a second magnitude spring. During the study period this spring pumped an average of 20-30 million gallons of water daily. The sampling site was located at Poe Springs Park, a 202 acre public park filled with scenic woodlands and rolling fields, located along the banks of the Santa Fe River. Silviculture, pasture land, natural forest, and residential land drain into the site. The shoreline area was restored by Alachua County, and was completed in 2005. Poe Spring Run was sampled on July 19, 2001 and on September 17, 2009.

Stairway leading down to the spring run. Physical and Chemical Characterization Poe Spring Run averaged 13 meters wide and 0.4 meters deep, and was 20 meters shorter than the 100 meters normally used in a BioRecon. The right bank was stable with native vegetation, and the left bank was low with cypress trees and other wetland plants. A stairway had been constructed for public use to preserve the integrity of the bank. The current velocity was good, about 0.3 meters

per second. Temperature and pH were within normal ranges, but dissolved oxygen was low. It ranged from 0.6 mg/l near the spring, 2.0 mg/l near the plants, and 6.6 mg/l at the Santa Fe River. Low dissolved oxygen is normal for spring runs, as the water comes from underground where it has no exposure to oxygen. The water was clear with no odor or surface oils, but the water color had a green cast. Periphyton (algae) was abundant, growing on and smothering the limestone bottom and aquatic plants. Aquatic vegetation and fish were common. Native trees lightly shaded the run. Non-point source pollution may drain in from the park. Physical/Chemical Data 7/19/2001 9/17/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 22 22.53Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 0.6 0.74Specific Conductance (µS/cm) NA 442pH (standard units) 7.5 7.18Alkalinity (mg/L) 236 NA

NA= Not Analyzed Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macro-invertebrates included native Ludwigia repens, and non-native Hygrophila polysperma. Plant List Scientific Name Common NameCallicarpa americana American BeautyberryCarpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam Hydrocotyle sp. MarshpennywortHygrophila polysperma Indian SwampweedLudwigia repens Creeping Primrose WillowQuercus nigra Water OakQuercus virginiana Live OakSalvinia minima Water SpanglesSerenoa repens Saw PalmettoTaxodium distichum Bald-cypress Limestone and fallen tree branches also provided habitat. A sufficient amount of habitat was present, but silt and algae smothered much of it. The riparian zone was characterized by floodplain swamp and upland mixed forest greater than 18 meters wide on the right bank. Of 160 possible

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points for the habitat assessment, Poe Spring received 115 points in 2001 and 103 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range. Habitat Assessment Scores 2001 2009Substrate Diversity 11 13Substrate Availability 18 8Water Velocity 19 18Habitat Smothering 10 13Primary Score 58 52


Total Score 115 10381-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Poe Spring contained many snails and crustaceans such as freshwater shrimp, crayfish, scuds (amphipods), isopods, and small leeches. Beetles, water bugs, mayfly, and midge larvae, one caddisfly, and water mites were also present. Poe Spring improved since the last sampling event in 2001. However, it still falls into the impaired category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

The caddisfly larva of Oxythira looks like it lives in a milk bottle. These tiny microcaddisflies are about 3 mm long. One was found in the 2009 biorecon.

Poe Spring Run as it flows into the Santa Fe River. Discussion Poe Spring has naturally occurring low dissolved oxygen, and the spring run is so short, it does not have enough exposure to oxygen to raise the level adequately to support a very healthy macroinvertebrate community. There were a wide variety of snails and crustaceans, but species sensitive to pollution were missing. The 2001 sampling event had notes of eelgrass smothered with algae. Eelgrass was not observed at the 2009 event, although it will probably re-grow. Abundant growth of algae can indicate high nutrient levels in the water or a lack of grazers, which feed on the algae. Infiltration of nutrients to the groundwater that feeds the spring may come from septic tanks, pasture, agricultural land, and other sources. Poe Spring is a wonderful resource for Alachua County residents to enjoy, and is well worth protecting and preserving for future generations.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Poe Spring Run BioRecons Collected July 19, 2001 and September 17, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Diptera (flies) Bezzia/Palpomyia Complex P Chironomidae C A Stratiomyidae P Gastropoda (snails) Amnicola dalli A Planorbella trivolvis P Planorbella scalaris C Planorbella sp. C Pseudosuccinea columella P Tarebia granifera A Viviparus georgianus D P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Enallagma cardenium P Enallagma pollutum P Ischnura posita P Ischnura sp. P Coleoptera (beetles) Peltodytes sp. P Uvarus sp. P Acariformes (mites) P P Oligochaeta (worms) C Hirudinea (leeches) P Helobdella fusca P Helobdella stagnalis A Helobdella triserialis Turbellaria-Tricladida P P Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostomatidae (LPIL) P Belostoma sp. P Limnoporus caniculatus P

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Mesovelia sp. P Florida Organism Organism Index Metric Prevalence Prevalence Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2001 2009 Decapoda (crayfish, shrimp) Cambaridae LL P Procambarus sp. LL P Palaemonetes paludosus 1 LL A C Amphipoda (scuds) Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy D D Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. 1 S A A Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Caenis diminuta P Caenis sp. P Tricorythodes albilineatus P Trichoptera (caddisflies) Oxyethira sp. 2 P P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2001 2009 Total Taxa 17 25 Ephemeroptera 1 2 Trichoptera 0 1 Long-lived 2 2 Clinger 0 0 Sensitive 1 1 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 3 Interpretation Impaired Impaired [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Metric Metric Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2001 2009 Total Taxa 18 17 25 Florida Index Total 10 2 4 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 1 3 Interpretation Impaired Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Turkey Creek BioRecon Summary Introduction Turkey Creek is located in Alachua County, Florida between Gainesville and Alachua, east and just west of US 441. The sampling site was in the Turkey Creek subdivision near Creek Drive and NW 105 Avenue. Turkey Creek flows west into San Felasco Hammock State Park, draining a wide variety of land-use areas including pasture, residential, pine plantation, a golf course, and the Deerhaven coal-fired electric power plant. The creek was sampled on March 27, 2003 and April 23, 2009.

Turkey Creek as it flows into a wooded area in Turkey Creek subdivision. Physical and Chemical Characterization Turkey Creek was an average of 2 meters wide and 0.18 meters deep. The velocity was fair, averaging 0.9 meters per second. The water was clear but tea-colored with no unnatural odors or oils present. Fish, macrophytes, and periphyton were common. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity were all within normal ranges. The only evidence of non-point source pollution in the vicinity of the sampling site was runoff from residential yards and streets. The riparian zone at the site varies on each side of the creek. The left bank was

residential, and the right bank was forested with native plants. Physical/Chemical Data 3/27/2003 4/23/2009Temperature (degrees Celsius) 18.48 22.12Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) 8.08 8.48Specific Conductance (µS/cm) 172 274pH (standard units) 6.95 6.85 Habitat Characterization The habitat suitable for benthic macroinvertebrates included small amounts of native macrophytes such as golden club and non-native alligator weed. Roots of vegetation living on the banks and snags of fallen tree branches provided an adequate amount of habitat. Leaf packs, which were smothered or washed away in 2003, were the more prevalent habitat in 2009. There was also a small amount of rock riffle. The creek was lightly shaded. Plant List (E=exotic) Scientific Name Common NameAlternanthera philoxeroides Alligatorweed (E)Carya glabra Pignut HickoryItea virginica Virginia Willow Juncus sp. RushOrontium aquaticum Goldenclub, NeverwetQuercus nigra Water OakTaxodium distichum Bald-cypress Bank erosion and sand smothering had been noticeable in 2003, but not as much in 2009. However, the downstream area appeared to have had an herbicide application in 2009. Of 160 possible points for the habitat assessment, Turkey Creek received 90 points in 2003 and 102 in 2009, placing it in the suboptimal range.

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Total Score 90 10281-123 = Suboptimal Benthic Macroinvertebrates Turkey Creek in 2003 had a macroinvertebrate community dominated by snails, water bugs, and midge larvae. The exotic snail, Melanoides, which dominated many streams in Alachua County early in the decade, seems to have fallen off greatly in numbers, and has disappeared in Turkey Creek. The macroinvertebrate community in Turkey Creek improved in 2009 and included a variety of beetles, dragonflies, damselflies, mayflies, and amphipods. Turkey Creek went from a score of 1 to a score of 4, placing it in the Healthy category. Please see the following page for a list of species and results.

This photo shows aquatic vegetation in the upstream portion of the 100 meter reach sampled for the Biorecon in Turkey Creek. Discussion Human impact to Turkey Creek appears to have been reduced since 2003. Erosion and sand smothering have apparently been reduced, and the biological community reflects that change. The creek flows on through natural forested areas as it enters San Felasco Hammock State Preserve from outside the park boundary, flows through the park, finally dropping into swallows, which drain back into the aquifer.

Melanoides is an exotic snail that used to be abundant in Gainesville area streams, but numbers have dropped significantly since 2008.

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Stream Bioassessment Study, Alachua County, Florida 2008-2010 Turkey Creek at NW 105 Ave. BioRecons Collected March 27, 2003 and April 23, 2009 Data Analysis by Water & Air Research, Inc. Macroinvertebrates Found Florida Organisms Organisms Index Metric Present Present Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Diptera (flies) Chironomidae A A Diptera (flies) unidentified P Simulium sp. 2 S, CL C Tipulidae P Gastropoda (snails) Ancylidae P Melanoides sp. D Planorbella sp. P Odonata (dragon-damselflies) Aeshnidae 2 LL P Argia tibialis 2 C Argia sedula 2 P Argia sp. 2 C Calopteryx maculata 2 A Cordulegaster maculata LL P Progomphus obscurus 2 LL P Coleoptera (beetles) Bidessonotus sp. P Dubiraphia vittata P Helichus sp. CL P Hydrocanthus sp. P P Neoporus clypealis P Neoporus vittatipennis P Stenelmis sp. CL P Tropisternus sp. C Oligochaeta (worms) C P Hirudinea (leeches) P Turbellaria-Tricladida P Bivalvia (clams) Corbicula fluminea LL C

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Florida Organisms Organisms Index Metric Present Present Species Points (LL, S, CL) 2003 2009 Hemiptera (water bugs) Belostomatidae P P Mesovelia sp. P Microvelia americana C Pelocoris sp. P Ranatra sp. P Veliidae P Amphipoda (scuds) Crangonyx sp. S P P Hyalella azteca complex LeCroy C Isopoda (isopods) Caecidotea sp. 1 S P Ephemeroptera (mayflies) Acentrella alachua P Maccaffertium smithae 2 S, CL A Trichoptera (caddisflies) Cheumatopsyche sp. 1 CL A P=Present (1-3), C=Common (4-10), A=Abundant (11-100), D=Dominant (>100), LL=Long-Lived, S=Sensitive, CL=Clinger

Metric Metric Current FDEP Values Values BioRecon 6-Metric Analysis 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 25 Ephemeroptera 0 2 Trichoptera 0 1 Long-lived 0 4 Clinger 0 3 Sensitive 2 5 Score (Using FDEP calculation formulas) 1 4 Interpretation for Turkey Creek Impaired Healthy [7–10]=Exceptional, [4–7)=Healthy, [0–4)=Impaired Target Previous FDEP Metric Values Values BioRecon 3-Metric Analysis Value 2003 2009 Total Taxa 18 18 25 Florida Index Total 10 3 13 Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera Taxa 4 0 3 Interpretation for Turkey Creek Suspect Suspect Healthy-3 target values met; Suspect-1 or 2 target values met; Impaired-0 target values met

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Stream Bioreconnaissance Report Alachua County, Florida 2008

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