The Status Network measures Florida’s freshwater conditions with a known statistical confidence. In this network, water samples are collected at random and unbiased locations. This is a cost-effective way to estimate statewide water quality without surveying every well and waterbody. The Status Network provides valuable data for more in-depth investigations, such as setting goals for specific districts and water quality indicators. DEP has developed a Status Report Card, an interactive tool that can present the network’s water quality results to a variety of users.
Each year, the department works with water management districts and county governments to take samples from each of six zones. Field staff collect samples from seven resource types:
Each resource is sampled during the same month(s) or “Index Period” each year, which allows for direct comparisons over time. Samples are analyzed for water quality indicators such as nutrients, bacteria and metals. Nearly 700 samples are collected each year.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship – protecting our air, water and land. The vision of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is to create strong community partnerships, safeguard Florida’s natural resources and enhance its ecosystems.