FINAL FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROGRAM WORKSHOPS SUMMARY U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds Contract No. 68-C8-0105 Work Assignment 3-225 March 11, 1992 Prepared by Battelle Ocean Science 397 Washington Street Duxbury, MA 02332 (617) 934-0571 ------- FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROGRAM WORKSHOPS SUMMARY The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the State of Florida have been directed to develop a Water Quality Protection Program for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS). The purpose of this Water Quality Protection Program is to recommend priority corrective action and compliance schedules addressing point and nonpoint sources of pollution. The first phase of this program involved a compilation and synthesis of available scientific and technical information on water-quality related parameters in the Florida Keys. The result of this effort was a Phase I Technical Assessment Report which related the water quality parameters to Florida Keys resources and identified pressing problems needing priority attention. This Phase I Technical Assessment Report was made available for review to a selected list of scientific technical experts currently conducting studies and investigations on the resources of the Florida Keys. The report was also furnished to (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Advisory Committee that was established to oversee the development of the Comprehensive Management Plan for the FKNMS, (2) the FKNMS Steering Committee that was established by EPA Region IV and the State of Florida to oversee the development of the Water Quality Protection Program, and (3) the public, environmental groups, and user groups within the Florida Keys. On February 4 through 7, 1992, as part of Phase 1 of the program, four workshops were held in Miami Springs, Florida; the Coral Community Assessment, Submerged and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation Assessment, Nearshore and Confined Waters Assessment, and Spills and Hazardous Material Assessment Workshops. These workshops were the first of a series of three consensus-building activities directed by EPA Region IV and the State of Florida. The other two activities included presenting the results of the Phase 1 Technical Assessment Report and the workshops to the NOAA Advisory Committee, the FKNMS Steering Committee, and the public attending these committee meetings. The panel members for each workshop are listed in Appendix A. Each workshop was charged with coming to a consensus, where nossible, on the problem statements described in the Technical Assessment Report for each of I'm-.: workrhp resource areas. These problem statements were refined through discussions with EPA Region IV Coastal Programs staff and State of Florida environmental staff. The tool used to develop consensus on the problem statements involved a matrix analysis of each workshop resource area (Appendix B). The matrix was designed with problem statement key words across the horizontal axis and parameters for analysis down the vertical axis. Specific descriptive terms were used to complete the matrix based on the discussions with the expert panels assembled for each workshop resource area (Appendix C). Public and expert panel member comments on the discussions, matrices prepared for each workshop resource area, and the Phase I Technical Assessment Report were accepted during the course of each workshop. In order to assist EPA Region IV and the State of Florida to direct their limited resources, each expert panel was asked to rank the overall significance of the water-quality related problems at the end of each daily workshop. The following is a summary of the major comments, recommendations, and priorities for EPA and the State to consider when developing the Water Quality Protection Program. 1 ------- CORAL COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP iechnical Panel: Dr. Phillip Dustan (College of Charleston, SC), Dr. Walter Jaap (Department of Natural Resources (DNR), FL), Dr. Pamela Hallock-Muller (University of South Florida, FL), Dr. James Porter (University of Georgia, GA), Dr. Laurie Richardson (Florida International University, FL), Dr. Eugene Shinn (United States Geological Survey (USGS), FL), and Dr. Alina Szmant (Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, FL). Problems/Issues discussed at this workshop were (1) Coral Disease, (2) Bleaching, (3) Problematic Algal Growth, (4) Lyngbya Growth, (5) Lack of Recruitment, (6) Growth Rate (Individual), (7) Decline in Coral Abundance, and (8) Decline in Species Diversity (see Appendix B). The parameters for analysis were temporal consideration (Is the problem related to season, has it been happening recently or in the past, and are there data?), spatial consideration (What is the geographical range of the problem?), trend (Is the problem worsening, same, better, or unknown?), severity (How severe is the problem?), certainty (How certain are we that there is a problem?), water quality related? (Is this problem related to water quality?), water quality parameters (Do the parameters have an affect on the problem?), and overall significance (What is the significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective?). Generally, the panel members agreed that there is a lack of data regarding all of the above problems. More research and data are needed to determine how th - water quality parameters affect each of the problems discussed. (1) Coral disease is widespread with patchy occurrences, and its severity is increasing in the Keys. The panel members agreed that the cause of coral disease is possibly water-quality related. Temperature (significantly) and salinity (slightly) affect coral disease. Parameters that require more investigation regarding their effects on this problem are nutrients, turbidity, toxics/pesticides, bacteria, and viruses. The overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Additional comments were that more data are needed to determine the cause of coral diseases (epidemiology) and that there is a need to determine whether there is a global influence on coral disease. (2) Coral bleaching is species-dependent and known to occur in the Keys. The trend for bleaching events is known to be increasing, but the events vary in their severity. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related; temperature significantly affects bleaching of coral communities and salinity is also thought to be a contributor to the bleaching. The effects of nutrients, turbidity, and toxics/pesticides on the bleaching of coral communities are unknown; more data are needed. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high.' (3) Temporally, problematic algal growth is known to occur in localized "hot spots" and this trend is increasing. The panel members agreed that the potential exists for problematic algal growth to be water- quality related, however it is not yet a problem. Temperature and nutrients significantly affect this problem; however, the effects of toxics/pesticides and bacteria on problematic algal growth are unknown. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is moderate. (4) The panel members felt that Lyngbya growth deserved its own discussion because the recent (fall 1988 bloom) and rapid increase in Lyngbya occurrence could potentially occur to other species within the algal community. Occurrence of the Lyngbya bloom is localized, spreading, and increasing. The panel members agreed that the severity of this problem is high in the Keys and that this problem is definitely 2 ------- water-quality related. Temperature and nutrients significantly affect Lyngbya growth; the effects of toxics/pesticides and bacteria are unknown. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high. (5) The panel members agreed that the discussion regarding the problem of lack of coral recruitment should be an offshore discussion only. Recruitment is species-dependent and driven by the reproductive cycle of the organism. Areas exhibiting a lack of recruitment are patchy in the Keys. The trend of this problem is unknown, however, the severity of the problem is high in the Keys. The panel members agreed that it is possible that this problem is water-quality related. All of the water-quality parameters discussed have an unknown effect on the problem; more research is needed. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high. (6) Cases of impaired growth rates of individual corals are known and isolated. The trend of this problem is variable and the severity is localized in the Keys. The panel members agreed that this problem is known to be water-quality related; temperature and turbidity significantly affect individual growth rates. It is unknown if nutrients, toxics/pesticides, bacteria, and viruses affect individual growth rates. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Additionally, it was commented that physical damage to corals is a concern and that coral diseases are known to affect growth rates. (7) The decline ./i coral abundance is known to be a seasonal, long-term problem (geographically). The severity of the decline is high and the rate of the decline over time is unknown; there is a lack of data. The panel members agreed that it is probable, in the historical sense, that this problem is water-quality related. Water-quality parameters that significantly affect this problem are temperature and turbidity. Salinity has been an historically significant problem; however, it is currently insignificant. The effects of nutrients, toxics/pesticides, bacteria, and viruses are unknown and more data are needed. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high and the panel members agreed that more research and data are needed. An additional comment made was that cyanobacteria diseases are known to affect coral abundance. (8) Temporally, the decline in species diversity (species other than coral) is extremely variable (from hours to >ears) and widespread for the width of the Keys. Species diversity is worsening particularly for commercially harvested species, although the panel members agreed that the available data relate to harvested species and few data exist for other species. It is probable that the decline in species diversity is water-quality related for the nearshore breeding species and possibly water-quality related for offshore breeding species. Temperature significantly contributes to the decline while the effects of nutrients on this problem are slight to moderate. Salinity is a slight contributor to this problem, and toxics/pesticides are a slight contributor offshore. It is unknown if turbidity, bacteria, viruses, and dissolved oxygen (DO) affect the problem; more data are needed. The overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is unknown. Review of Overall Significance by the Panel Members Coral disease and problematic algal growth are the problems most directly related to water quality, therefore they should also have a high priority in the Water Quality Protection Program. In addition, the decline in biodiversity was rated as unknown by the panel members, and they felt that the lack of information indicates that additional work needs to be done regarding this problem. 3 ------- Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees EPA nutrient test standards are too insensitive to provide meaningful data. All of the topics discussed at the workshop are global in nature. EPA must take advantage of the international network of information; information sharing is crucial. Data from all research areas in the Keys must be compared to understand the whole ecosystem and its patterns. It must be realized that human impact to the Keys environment is superimposed on the natural cycles of the environment. More information is needed on recruitment cycles, algal blooms, indicator organisms, soft corals, and nutrient inputs to areas of the FKNMS. Long-term, spatial-scale studies are needed in the Keys. Fish and invertebrates were omitted from the report and workshop topics. Bioerosion of the coral reefs needs research. There is a need for a high quality laboratory in the Florida Keys for archiving data relevant to the Keys. EPA should develop site-specific, water-quality standards for the entire Keys; the Keys cannot be considered as one area. 4 ------- SUBMERGED AND EMERGENT AQUATIC VEGETATION ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP Technical Panel: Dr. Bill Kruczynski (EPA, FL), Dr. Kathleen Sullivan (The Nature Conservancy, FL), Dr. John Ogden (Florida Institute of Oceanography, FL), Dr. Jay Zieman (University of Virginia, VA), Dr. Brian Lapointe (Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI), FL), Dr. Jim Fourqurean (Continental Shelf Associates, Inc., FL), and Mr. Paul Carlson (DNR, FL). Problems/Issues discussed at this workshop were divided into four areas Seagrasses, Macroalgae, Man^roves/Buttonwoods, and Freshwater Influence (see Appendix B). Problems regarding Seagrass Communities were (1) Increased Epiphyte Growth, (2) Seagrass Historic Growth Rates (Individual), (3) Declines in Community Diversity (other than seagrass communities), (4) Decreased Geographical Extent, (5) Decreased Recruitment of Seagrasses, and (6) Hypoxia. Problems regarding Macroalgae Communities were (1) Increased Epiphyte Growth, (2) Macroalgae Historic Growth Rates (Individual), (3) Decreased Community Diversity (other than seagrass communities), (4) Hypoxia, and (5) Diversity of Algae. Problems regarding Mangrove/Buttonwood Communities were (1) Decreased Tree Productivity (individual), (2) Decreased Geographical Extent, and (3) Functional Value of Habitat. Problems regarding Freshwater Influence were (1) Decreased Productivity, (2) Decreased Geographical Extent, and (3) Functional Value of the Habitat. The parameters for analysis were temporal consideration (Is problem related to season, has it been happening recently or in the past, and are there data?), spatial consideration (What is the geographical range of the problem?), trend (Is the problem worsening, same, better, or unknown?), severity (How severe is the problem?), certainty (How certain are we that there is a problem?), water quality related? (Is this problem related to water quality?), water quality parameters (Do the parameters have an affect on the problem?), and overall significance (What is the significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective?). Seagrasses For this discussion, the panel members qualified several of the water-quality parameters on the matrix. Nutrients was changed to anthropogenic nutrients, bacteria and viruses were combined into diseases, and DO was changed to anthropogenic DO (DO caused by external sources). (1) The problem of increased epiphyte growth on seagrasses is known to occur primarily in hot spots throughout the Keys and the trend is worsening. The panel members agreed that this problem is definitely water-quality related in the hot spots and possibly water-quality related elsewhere; more data are needed. Turbidity, and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect increased epiphyte growth in seagrass communities. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high. (2) Seagrass historic growth rates firuiiviclual) have decreased recently and the reductions are known to occur in hot spots associated with human activity throughout the Keys. They are unknown yet suspected to occur elsewhere. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related in the hot spots and possibly water-quality related elsewhere; more data are needed. Temperature, salinity, anthropogenic nutrients and DO, and turbidity significantly affect growth rates of seagrasses. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high in the hot spots and slight elsewhere in the Keys. 5 ------- (3) The problem, declines in community diversity, was considered regarding anthropogenic changes. Areas of declines in community diversity are isolated to hot spots and the trend is worsening; declines are unknown elsewhere. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related in the hot spots and probably water-quality related elsewhere; more data are needed. Temperature, salinity, and anthropogenic DO significantly affect community diversity. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high in the hot spots and possible but unknown elsewhere in the Keys. Overfishing effects were highlighted as having an impact on community diversity. (4) Decreased geographical extent (i.e., anthropogenic losses) is known to be isolated to hot spots and this trend is worsening. Outside the hot spot areas, changes are taking place naturally; human effects here are slight. Temperature, anthropogenic nutrients and DO, salinity, and turbidity significantly affect this problem. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high in the hot spots and slight elsewhere. (5) There is a general lack of data and information regarding decreased recruitment of seagrasses. This problem is isolated to hot spots and is worsening. Because of the lack of data, no accurate assessment could be made. The panel members agreed that the problem is possibly water-quality related. Parameters thought to have a significant affect on the problem are temperature, salinity, turbidity, and anthropogenic DO. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is unknown. (6) The problem of hypoxia depends on circulation patterns, flushing of an area, and climate effects and influence (drought, wet). The panel members agreed that hypoxia is definitely water-quality related and usually occurs in hot spots where it has the potential to be severe. Temperature and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect the problem. The overall significance of the problem from a water- quality perspective could not be determined because it depends on circulation. The only anthropogenic effect on Florida Bay is the reduction of the historic and sporadic freshwater flow by canals such as the C-l 11 canal. The natural system in Florida Bay (50 years ago) would be better for more species of fish and vegetation than the present-day environment. Currently, extremely saline waters from Florida Bay are believed to be causing reef damage (coral die-off). The panel members commented that this freshwater flow to Florida Bay needs to be restored and that EPA should determine the extent of the previous coral community. The Florida Bay water quality issue must be included in the management of the FKNMS. Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees Calcareous epiphytes are an indicator of good water quality. Hypoxia covaries with epiphyte growth. Nutrient loading needs investigation. A strong relationship exists between anthropogenic nutrients and turbidity. Macroalgae For this discussion macroalgae was defined as all soft and hard-bottom macroalgae. Again, the pane members qualified several of the water-quality parameters on the matrix. Nutrients was changed t< anthropogenic nutrients, bacteria and viruses were combined into diseases, and DO was changed ti anthropogenic DO (DO caused by external sources). 6 ------- (1) The problem of increased epiphyte growth on macroalgae is known to occur primarily in hot spots throughout the Keys and the trend is worsening. The panel members agreed that this problem is definitely water-quality related in the hot spots and possibly water-quality related elsewhere; more data are needed. Turbidity and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect increased epiphyte growth in macroalgae communities. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high. (2) Macroalgae compete with seagrasses for area. Macroalgae historic growth rates Cindividual) have increased over the last decade, are known to occur in hot spots throughout the Keys, and are widespread elsewhere. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related in the hot spots and possibly water-quality related elsewhere. Temperature, turbidity, salinity, and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect growth rates of macroalgae. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high in the hot spots and slight elsewhere in the Keys. More data are needed regarding this problem. (3) The problem, declines in community diversity, was considered regarding anthropogenic changes. Areas of decreased community diversity are isolated to anthropogenic hot spots and the trend is worsening. Declines were unknown elsewhere; more data are needed. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related in the hot spots and probably water-quality related elsewhere. Temperature, c:!:nity, and anthropogenic DO significantly oifeci community diversity. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is high in the hot spots and possible but unknown elsewhere in the Keys. Overfishing effects were highlighted as having an impact on community diversity. (4) The problem of hypoxia depends on circulation patterns, flushing of an area, climate effects and influence (drought, wet). The panel members agreed that hypoxia is definitely water-quality related and usually occurs in hot spots where it has the potential to be severe. Temperature and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect the problem. The overall significance of this problem from a water- quality perspective could not be determined because it depends on circulation. (5) Diversity of the algae has decreased within the last decade. This problem is worsening in and is isolated to hot spots, and is widespread elsewhere. The panel members agreed that this problem is water- quality related. Temperature, anthropogenic nutrients and DO, salinity, and turbidity significantly affect the problem. The overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Overfishing and grazing were highlighted as having an impact on this problem. Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees o Positive algal growth for the wrong reason is a problem. Mangroves/Buttonwoods For the Mangroves/Buttonwoods problems, three parameters were added for analysis: climatic effects (What are the climatic effects of the problem?), dredge and fill (What are the effects of dredge and fill on the community?), and other (Are there other effects?). 7 ------- (1) The extent, trend, and severity of decreased tree productivity (individual) are unknown. The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related and that temperature, salinity, turbidity and anthropogenic nutrients and DO significantly affect tree productivity. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is unknown. A consequence of decreased tree productivity is increased flood sensitivity. Dredge and fill operations can cause changes in the community, and other effects that should be considered are impoundment effects. (2) The severity of the problem, decreased geographical extent, is high. Decreased geographical extent is widespread and the continuing decline is characterized by large losses of mangroves and buttonwoods. The panel members agreed that this problem is probably related to water quality. Parameters that have a significant effect on the problem are salinity, turbidity, and anthropogenic nutrients and DO. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is slight; however, the panel members agreed that this problem is a highly significant one. (3) The functional value of the habitat is affected by seasonal and episodic flooding. The trend of this problem is unknown but thought to be declining. The panel members agreed that this problem is probably related to water quality. Anthropogenic nutrients and toxics/pesticides significantly affect this problem. The overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. One additional comment made was that fragmentation is a critical component of the problem. Freshwater Influence For the Freshwater Influence problems, three parameters were added for analysis: climatic effects (What are the climatic effects of the problem?), dredge and fill (What are the effects of dredge and fill on community?), and other (Are there any other effects?). (1) The spatial consideration, trend, severity, and certainty of the problem as they relate to decreased productivity are unknown; however, the panel members agreed that the problem is probably related to water quality. Temperature highs and lows, anthropogenic nut::er.ts; and salinity significantly affect productivity; toxics/pesticides possibly affect productivity. The o era;, significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is moderate to high. A climatic effect associated with decreased productivity is the lowering of the water table. (2) The problem of decreased geographical extent is continuing; losses have been high and the severity of the problem is high. The panel members agreed that the problem is definitely water-quality related and impacted by nutrient additions and septic system runoff. The overall significance of how water quality affects this problem is high: Dredge and fill operations cause a direct loss of habitat due tc development activities. Septic tanks and cesspools also contribute to the problem. (3) The functional value of the habitat continues to worsen and the problem is widespread in the Keys The panel members agreed that this problem is water-quality related (in part) and that anthropogenic nutrients, salinity, turbidity, and toxics/pesticides significantly affect the problem. The overal significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Fragmentation was listed as ; critical component of the problem. 8 ------- Review of Overall Significance by the Panel Members Priority problems in the seagrass and macroalgae communities are epiphyte growth and anthropogenic nutrient loading; control measures are needed. Priority concerns in the mangrove/buttonwood communities are preserving geographical extent and the functional value of the habitat. For freshwater influence, the priority concern is preserving the geographical extent so that there is no further loss of mangrove/buttonwoods and coastal wetlands. Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees Thalassia communities are the most sensitive communities; they cannot be recolonized. It should be recognized that a portion of Florida Bay is located in the FKNMS. There is a need to restore the historic freshwater flow to Florida Bay; spiking (allowing the Bay to become all freshwater) should occur for a period of days every few months. A historical description of the FKNMS area should be developed; find out what communities existed and how much the area has changed. Sewage is impacting the nearshore waters of the Keys. Hot spots are likely to increase as long as nutrient loading increases. Standardized marina siting criteria are needed; seag; .o sho"H be taken into account. The public should be educated about the problem of prop dredging. Mangroves were underrepresented in the report. Each point source may be operating under a valid permit within an overall regulatory strategy, however the cumulative impacts of all point sources should be investigated and considered. 9 ------- NEARSHORE AND CONFINED WATERS ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP Technical Panel: Mr. R.J. Helbling (Department of Environmental Regulation (DER), FL), Dr. Ron Jones (Florida International University, FL), Dr. Brian Lapointe (HBOI, FL), Dr. Alina Szmant (Rosenstiel School of Atmospheric Science, FL), Dr. Ned Smith (HBOI, FL), Dr. Steve Miller (NOAA National Undersea Research Center, FL), Mr. Del Hicks (EPA, GA), and Dr. Jim Fourqurean (Continental Shelf Associates, Inc., FL). This workshop was divided into three areas of interest, Confined Waters, Nearshore Waters, and Back Country Waters (see Appendix B). Problems/Issues discussed in relation to Confined Waters were divided into two areas; eutrophication and human health. Under eutrophication, (1) Increased Epiphyte Growth, (2) Increased Chlorophyll (i.e., phytoplankton), and (3) Change in Benthic Community Structure were discussed. Under human health, (1) Human Health (Fish and Shellfish Consumption) was discussed. Problems discussed in relation to Nearshore Waters were (1) Increased Epiphyte Growth and (2) Increased Chlorophyll (i.e., phytoplankton). Problems discussed in relation to Back Country Waters were (1) Increased Epiphyte Growth and (2) Increased Chlorophyll (i.e., phytoplankton). The parameters for analysis were temporal consideration (Is the problem related to season, has it been happening recently or in the past, and is there data?), spatial consideration (What is the geographical range of the problem?), trend (Is the problem worsening, sa \ b:mr, or unknown?), severity (How severe is the problem?), certainty (How certain are we that there is a problem?), water quality related? (Is this problem related to water quality?), water quality parameters (Do the parameters have an effect on the problem?), and overall significance (What is the significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective?). Confined Waters Eutrophication Confined waters are defined as canals, marinas, bays, and lagoons. The panel members made changes to two water-quality parameters. Bacteria was changed to human-derived bacteria and DO was changed to anthropogenic biological oxygen demand (BOD) loadings. (1) Increased epiphyte growth is a problem that is widespread and the trend is worsening. Epiphyte growth has been increasing over the last decade. The panel members agreed that the problem is water- quality related and that the overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. An increase in epiphyte growth is an indicator of a change in the community structure and amount. Poor flushing and the lack of circulation into the canals contributes to the poor water quality in the canals. (2) Increased chlorophyll is related to temperature and light, and has been reported since 1973. The problem is thought to be widespread, chronic, and worsening (anecdotal evidence). The panel members agreed that the problem is water-quality related and that the overall significance of the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. Increased chlorophyll is an indicator of the severity of the nutrients. (3) Change in the benthic community structure is a problem that is widespread and the trend is worsening The panel members agreed that the problem is water-quality related and that the overall significance ol 10 ------- the problem from a water-quality perspective is high. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. An additional comment was that recycling seagrass wrack can lead to eutrophication. The panel members identified the endpoints of eutrophication as Loss of biodiversity Hypoxia Increasing hydrogen sulfide Increased epiphyte growth Decreased benthic producers Decreased light transparency (increased turbidity) Change in biogeochemical processes Increased chlorophyll Decreased circulation (secondary process) Increased macroalgae Decreased seagrasses Increased odor (esthetics) Decreased nursery functions Confined Waters Human Health Human health (fish and shellfish consumption) refers to problems associated with consuming fish/shellfish caught by an individual, not fish/shellfish purchased from a seafood market. No historical data exist regarding health problems from personally caught fish/shellfish. More data are needed regarding the trend, severity, and certainty of the problem. Toxics/pesticides, human-derived bacteria, and viruses significantly affect the problem. Temperature, nutrients, and salinity affect the problem slightly to significantly depending on the species. The panel members agreed that it was possible but unlikely that the problem is water-quality related. The overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective is unknown. In areas with inappropriate sewage treatment systems, the potential exists for severe health problems. Nearshore Waters Nearshore waters are defined as those that extend from shore to Hawks Channel including the 18 ft depth contour. The panel members made changes to two water-quality parameters. Bacteria was changed to human-derived bacteria and DO was changed to anthropogenic BOD loadings. (1) For increased epiphyte growth, the panel members agreed that severity was slight, certainty was possible, and overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective was slight. Increased epiphyte growth is a problem that is widespread and worsening, and has been increasing over the last decade. The panel members agreed that the problem is water-quality related. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. (2) For increased chlorophyll, the panel members agreed that severity was slight, certainty was possible, and overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective was slight. Increased chlorophyll is related to temperature and light, and has been reported since 1973. The problem is thought 11 ------- to be widespread, chronic, and worsening (anecdotal evidence). The panel members agreed that the problem is water-quality related. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. Back Country Waters Back country waters are defined as nearshore Florida Bay waters within the 8 to 10 fit depth contour. The panel members made changes to two water-quality parameters. Bacteria was changed to human* derived bacteria and DO was changed to anthropogenic BOD loadings. (1) For increased epiphyte growth, the panel members agreed that severity was slight, certainty was possible, and overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective was slight. Increased epiphyte growth is a problem that is widespread and worsening, and has been increasing over the last decade. The panel members agreed that the problem is water-quality related. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. (2) For increased chlorophyll, the panel members agreed that severity was slight, certainty was possible, and overall significance of this problem from a water-quality perspective was slight. Increased chlorophyll is related to rainfall, temperature, and light and has been reported since 1973. The problem is thought to be widespread, chronic, and worsening (anecdotal evidence). The panel members agreed that the problem is '.vater-quality related. Parameters that significantly affect this problem are nutrients, turbidity, and anthropogenic BOD loadings. In addition, no historical data exist regarding the back country waters; all information in this matrix column is anecdotal or from personal observations. Review of Overall Significance by the Panel Members The consensus of the panel members was that water quality in some confined waters was degraded; however, there was not a unanimous consensus that water quality in nearshore and back country waters was degraded. Priority areas in need of more information were new methodologies for using managed aquatic systems for treatment, hot spots, nutrient loading, nutrient -:ansport/hydrology, monitoring from a hydrological/biological standpoint (develop a systems monitoring program), back country waters, hydrology regarding well injection (has the ability to impact nearshore and offshore waters), and hydrologicaJ studies (intensive surveying needed, establish a liaison with the USGS). Priority problem areas are the canal systems adjacent to inappropriate sewage treatment systems. Secondary treatment should be mandated for such areas. Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees Anecdotal evidence should be weighed very carefully; some is valuable. Need to address impacts of water quality on marine fisheries. Pesticide spraying in Monroe County should be banned. Pesticide problem is unknown; needs investigation. Hot Spot Criteria The panel members discussed what criteria they would use to determine a hot spot. The following is a list of the criteria identified. 12 ------- Documented fish kills (could be natural) Documented anaerobic conditions (could be natural) Potential discharge sources/sources of contamination High chlorophyll High macroalgal epiphytes Population density and type of sewage treatment Poorly flushed areas Anecdotal/observational evidence of change Documented water-quality violations Evidence of high anthropogenic inputs Type of land and water use Some of the above criteria will occur before others. Almost all of these criteria are not indicators of a problem, necessarily. If a condition is observed, it should be investigated to determine if it is a natural occurrence or not. Consensus by the Panel Members on Known and Suspected Hot Spots Upper Keys (north to south) Known Hot Spots Phase 1 Ocean Reef, Carysfort Camp Ground, Alabama Jacks, ( ' Sound Road, C-lll, Point Laurel, Lake Surprise, Sexton Cove, Cross Key Waterways, Largo Sound/Shores, Port Largo, Campbell's Marina, Indian Waterways, Venetian Shores, Lower Matecumbe Key, and all marinas. Middle Keys (north to south) Suspected Hot Spots City of Layton, Fiesta Campground, Duck Key, Grassy Key, and Coco Plum Subdivision/Fat Deer Key. Middle Keys (north to south) Known Hot Spots All marinas, Key Colony beach, Sierra Estates, 90th Street Canal, Winner Docks (Boot Key Harbor), City Fish Seafood Processing Plant, Marathon, and Faro Blanco Marina. Lower Keys (north to south) Sheeted Hot Spots Loggerhead Key and Raccoon Key (monkey droppings). Lower Keys (north to south) Known Hot Spots Big Pine Key dead end canal systems (septic tanks), Dr. Arm, Orchid Park Subdivision, Key Haven Subdivision (undersized treatment system), Keys Community College, Key West Sewage Plant Outfall, Stock Island Power Plant Discharge, two Navy outfalls, City of Key West Secondary Plant Discharge (nearshore outfall), Boca Chica Naval Air Station Discharge, and canals (need advanced treatment for septic tanks and cesspools). 13 ------- SPILLS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP Technical Panel: Mr. Eric Evans (Coastal Tug and Barge, FL), Dr. Ken Haddad (DNR, FL), Lt. Donna Kuebler (United States Coast Guard (USCG), FL), Mr. Greg Lee (DER, FL), Dr. Anita Wooldridge (Marine Spill Response Corporation, FL), Mr. Wiiliam Hunt (United States Navy, FL), and Ms. Debbie Prebble (DNR, FL). Problems/Issues discussed at this workshop were (1) Small Vessel Spills (Marine), (2) Small Facility Spills (Landbased), (3) Illegal Dumping Marine-Landbased, (4) Catastrophic Tanker Spills, (5) Tanker Truck Spills, (6) Effects of Dispersant Use, (7) Bioremediation, (8) Leachable Toxics, (9) Boat Scraping, and (10) Ruptured Bulk Tanks and Pipelines (see attached matrix). The parameters for analysis were temporal consideration (Is the problem related to season, has it been happening recently or in the past, and are there data?), spatial consideration (What is the geographical range of the problem?), trend (Is the problem worsening, same, better, or unknown?), severity (What is the seriousness when the event occurs?), contingency plans (Are contingency plans in place?, Has there been a great deal of work on contingency plans?, Are contingency plans adequate?), water quality effect? (i.e., biotoxicity, physical damage, bioaccumulation), and overall significance (How significant is the problem to the Water Quality Protection Program? Note: this is different from the previous workshops). The panel members added three parameters, con 'iance/enforcement (evaluation of these capabilities), major constituents (of a spill), and risk (likelihood of event occurring). For all of the following problems, the panel members agreed that there is little documentation or information generated in the Keys and that this information is greatly needed. (1) Small vessel spills (marine) were defined as spills from a vessel with ^5000 gallons of fuel and/or cargo. The major constituents of these spills are diesel fuel, gas, and bilge. Small vessel spills occur year-round, are widespread (nearshore and fueling areas), and the trend is worsening (with the qualification that there has been an increase in reporting). The problem is severe locally and unknown overall. The adequacy of existing contingency plans was identified as low. The water-quality effect would be locally toxic and unknown overall. The authority exists for enforcement, but manpower is low and compliance is also low. The risk (likelihood of an event occurring) is high. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. (2) Small facility spills (landbased') generally are unreported and include those spills from marinas, auto fueling facilities, small industrial facilities, and residents. Constituents of these spills are diesel fuel, gas, solvents, pesticides, used motor oil, and paint-related material. This problem occurs year-round and is widespread (in marinas and fueling areas) and the trend is worsening (with the qualification that there has been an increase in reporting). The problem is severe locally and unknown overall. The adequacy of existing contingency plans was identified as low. The water-quality effect would be locally toxic and unknown overall. Compliance and enforcement were reported as low by the panel members. The risk (likelihood of an event occurring) is high. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is moderate. (3) Illegal dumping (marine-landbased) for marine-based sources was defined as spills from a vessel with ^5000 gallons of fuel and/or cargo and materials resulting from the pumping of bilges and cleaning of cargo holds. Constituents of these marine-based spills are petroleum products. The constituents of land- 14 ------- based spills are paint and solvents. The quality and quantity of these marine- and land-based substances are unknown. This problem occurs year-round, is widespread, and the trend is worsening. The problem is severe locally and unknown overall. The water-quality effect would be locally high and unknown overall. Compliance was determined to be very low and enforcement is improving. The risk (likelihood of an event occurring) is moderate. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. (4) Catastrophic tanker spills were defined as a spill of > 10,000 gallons inshore and > 100,000 gallons offshore whose major constituents are diesel fuel, blends of fuel, heavy fuels, hazardous materials, and crude. These spills occur year-round (two have occurred in the last 16 years in the Keys) and the potential severity of a spill in the FKNMS is high. The likelihood of a catastrophic spill happening is decreasing. The panel members agreed that a sanctuary-specific contingency plan is needed and that it should include what should be done with the cleanup waste. Compliance and enforcement are moderate to high and the risk (likelihood of the event occurring) is low. The water-quality effect would be high if the spill reaches the FKNMS. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. (5) Tanker truck spills (including tractor trailers) occur year-round (two have occurred in the last 10 years in the Keys) and are usually isolated to highways. The major constituents of this type of spill are gasoline, diesel fuel, and other hazardous materials. The severity of a spill is high locally and the likelihood of this 'Jti& of spill occurring is decreasing. The adequacy of the existing contingency plans were determined to be good; however, response time is a problem. The water-quality effect would be severe locally because of the highly toxic compounds being spilled. Compliance and enforcement are moderate to high and the risk (likelihood of the event occurring) is moderate. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is moderate. (6) The effects of dispersant use would have a seasonal impact on habitats. At this time in the Keys, dispersants are considered for every spill but have not been used. The adequacy of contingency plans is low and there is a need for more work on the plans. The risk of using dispersants is low; the water- quality effect would be variable. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. More information is needed regarding the effects of dispersant use on larvae. There are tradeoffs to consider when using dispersants. Research is needed regarding the toxicity of spilled oil versus the toxicity of the dispersed oil. (7) The use of bioremediation is not as constrained as dispersant use. The potential water-quality effect of adding nutrients is low. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is unknown but unlikely. Interim guidelines are needed. (8) Leachable toxics were defined as substances originating from Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) sites and underground storage tanks and include a variety of constituents such as heavy metals, PCBs, insecticides, and pesticides. Leaching occurs year-round in isolated areas. The problem is moderately severe and improving. Compliance/enforcement and contingency plans are site dependent and are low to high in adequacy. Risk is unknown. The water-quality effect is unknown but potentially significant. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is moderate. 15 ------- (9) Hazardous materials resulting from boat scraping consist of metals. This problem occurs year-round with seasonal peaks and is isolated to site-specific areas. Trend, severity, and compliance/enforcement are unknown and the risk (likelihood of event occurring) istigh. The water-quality effect of this problem is high. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. (10) Hazardous materials resulting from ruptured bulk tanks and pipelines consist of jet fuel, diesel, and various other petroleum products. This problem occurs year-round in isolated, site-specific areas. The severity of the problem is moderate to high. Contingency plan adequacy was determined to be moderate. Compliance/enforcement is moderate to high and risk (likelihood of event occurring) is high. The water- quality effect is probable. The panel members agreed that the overall significance of this problem to the Water Quality Protection Program is high. Review of Overall Significance by the Panel Members The panel members agreed that their ratings for risk and severity should be used to determine the relative significance of each problem to the Water Quality Protection Program. If the severity is high and the risk is high, then some action needs to be taken. If the severity is unknown and the risk is high, more research is needed (refer to matrices in Appendix B). Additional Comments from the Panel Members and Workshop Attendees More preplanning strategies with major agencies for spill response (must include resource managers) are needed. Contingency plans are effective in targeting available resources; however, more resources are needed. Existing contingency plans are inadequate; they are not designed to take into consideration the goals of the FKNMS (that the spill does not reach the FKNMS). Technology is not at the same level as the contingency plans. Existing contingency plans do not provide for a no dam;':;e scenario. The USCG is requiring area plans in addition to generii contingency plans; however, the areas are too large. Areas must be decreased in size and the plans must target each ecosystem in the area individually. Contingency plans must be resource-specific and prioritized because decisions at the time of a spill must be made quickly. Resource managers in the Keys are responsible for a specific area of the Keys; they should be conferred with regarding contingency plan development. There is no spill equipment in the FKNMS; shallow-water spill cleanup equipment is needed (deep-water spill cleanup equipment is not adequate for the area). 16 ------- CONCLUSIONS Two themes emerged from the four workshops. Generally, the panel members agreed that there is an overwhelming lack of data regarding all of the resource areas and associated problem areas. More monitoring data and research are needed to determine how the water quality parameters affect each of the resource areas and related problems. J The problem statements presented in the Phase I Technical Assessment Report and discussed at the workshops are problems that anecdotal studies have shown to be important for the well- being of the Florida Keys. All of the problems are important but the key problems prioritized at the end of each workshop are the problems that should be addressed first to efficiently use the limited resources of the Federal and State governments. The lack of data highlights the need for a clear and concise water-quality monitoring plan that will produce data that can be compared in a status and trend manner. Many of the current studies have been conducted over different temporal and spatial periods using differing sampling and analytical techniques. Quality assurance and quality control procedures have been applied to differing degrees as well. These points indicate that a monitoring plan which provides a baseline fi ^Mow-on investigations and research studies is definitively needed in order to describe problems beyonu uie current effort and help focus long- range problem solving management plans. 17 ------- APPENDIX A ------- FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROGRAM WORKSHOP PANEL MEMBERS Coral Community Assessment Workshop Dr. Phillip Dustan Biology Department College of Charleston Charleston, SC 29424 (803) 792-8086 Dr. Pamela Hallock-Muller Department of Marine Science University of South Florida 140 Seventh Avenue South St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5016 (813) 893-9567 Dr. Walter Jaap Florida Marine Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5905 (813) 896-8626 Dr. James W. Porter Zoology Department University of Georgia Athens, GA 30602 (404) 542-3410 Dr. Laurie R. Richardson Department of Biological Sciences and Drinking Water Research Center Florida International University Miami, FL 33199 (305) 348-1988 Dr. Eugene Shinn U.S. Geological Survey Fisher Island Station 600 Fourth Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (813) 893-3684 Dr. Alina M. Szmant Associate Professor, Marine Biology and Fisheries Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science 4600 Rickenbacker Causeway Miami, FL 33149 (305) 361-4609 A-l ------- Submerged and Emergent Aquatic Vegetation Assessment Workshop Mr. P^l Carlson Florida Marine Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5905 (813) 896-8626 Dr. Jim Fourqurean Continental Shelf Associates, Inc. 759 Parkway Street Jupiter, FL 33477-4567 (407) 746-7946 Dr. William Kruczynski Environmental Research Laboratory/ORD U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Sabine Island Gulf Breeze, FL 32561-5299 (904) 934-9200 Dr. Brian E. Lapointe Associate Research Scientist Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Route 3 Box 297A Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (305) 872-2247 Dr. John C. Ogden ' Director, Florida Institute of Oceanography MSL-Room 128 830 First Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (813) 893-9100 Dr. Kathleen M. Sullivan The Nature Conservancy SFRC P.O. Box 279 Homestead, FL 33030 (305) 242-7800 Dr. Jay Zieman Department of Environmental Sciences Clark Hall University of Virginia Charlottesville, VA 22903 (804) 924-0570 A-2 ------- Nearshore and Confined Waters Assessment Workshop Dr. Jim Fourqurean Continental Shelf Associates, Inc. 759 Parkway Street Jupiter, FL 33477-4567 (407) 746-7946 Mr. R.J. Helbling State of Florida Department of Environmental Regulation 11400 Overseas Highway, Suite 123 Marathon, FL 33050-3627 (305) 289-2310 Mr. Delbert Hicks U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region IV, ESD 960 College Station Road Athens, GA 30613-CS01 (404) 546-3136 Dr. Ron Jones Department of Biology Florida International University Miami, FL 33199 (305) 348-3095 Dr. Brian E. Lapointe Associate Research Scientist Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Route 3 Box 297A Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (305) 872-2247 Dr. Steven Miller NOAA National Undersea Research Center University of North Carolina 514 Caribbean Drive Key Largo, FL 33037 (305) 451-0233 Dr. Ned P. Smith Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution 5600 Old Dixie Highway Ft. Pierce, FL 34946 (407) 465-2400 Dr. Alina M. Szmant Associate Professor, Marine Biology and Fisheries Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science 4600 Rickenbacker Causeway Miami, FL 33149 (305) 361-4609 A-3 ------- Spill and Hazardous Material Assessment Workshop Mr. Erie Evans Manager Marine Sales Coastal Fuels Marketing Coastal Tug and Barge, Inc. P.O. Box 025500 Miami, FL 33102-5500 (305) 551-5380 Dr. Kenneth Haddad Florida Marine Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5905 (813) 896-8626 Mr. William Hunt Commanding Officer Boca Chica Naval Air Station (Code 1883) Key West, FL 33040-5000 (305) 292-2030 Lt. Donna Kuebler U.S. Coast Guard MSO Miami 51 SW 1st Avenue Miami, FL 33130 (305) 536-5694 Mr. Greg Lee Florida Department of Environmental Regulation 2600 Blair Stone Road Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400 (904) 488-0190 Ms. Debbie Prebble Environmental Administrator Department of Natural Resources 3900 Commonwealth Blvd. Room 753-F (MS-640) Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400 (904) 488-5757 Dr. Anita Wooldridge Marine Spill Response Corporation 905 South American Way Miami, FL 33132 (305) 375-8410 EPA Library Region 4 ------- |