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Ecosystem History of Biscayne Bay and the Southeast Coast

Fact Sheet 145-96
By:
https://doi.org/10.3133/fs14596

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Overview

The U.S. Geological Survey is participating in a multi-institutional effort to assess, monitor, and restore the ecosystem of South Florida. Federal, State and local agencies are collaborating to establish a firm scientific basis for land management and water policy issues. Historical changes in South Florida related to rapid population growth in the early to middle 1900's have led to significant alteration of the natural hydrocycles and water quality of Florida and Biscayne Bays. These changes have affected the salinity and nutrient supply and introduced toxic components into Biscayne Bay. The Biscayne Bay ecosystem shows increasing signs of distress: declines in fisheries, increased pollution, and dramatic changes in nearshore vegetation. Northern and central Biscayne Bay are strongly affected by the urban development associated with the growth of Miami. Southern Biscayne Bay is influenced by drainage from the Everglades, which has been altered by canals and agricultural activities. Restoration and preservation of Biscayne Bay and Biscayne National Park are dependent on a comprehensive understanding of the linkages between the hydrologic system and the bay ecosystem, and of natural versus human-induced variability of the ecosystem.

Suggested Citation

Ishman, S.E., 2000, Ecosystem history of Biscayne Bay and the southeast coast: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 1996–145, https://doi.org/10.3133/fs14596.

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

Table of Contents

  • Overview
  • Biscayne Bay Ecosystem
  • Project Goals
  • Ecosystem Studies
  • Collaborators and Results
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Ecosystem history of Biscayne Bay and the southeast coast
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 145-96
DOI 10.3133/fs14596
Publication Date October 01, 2000
Year Published 2000
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center
Additional publication details