State of the River Report Calls for Continued Monitoring, Research

The ninth annual State of the River Report on the lower St. Johns River Basin in Florida offered mixed results that suggest the need for continued monitoring and research.

“Although nitrogen levels in the main stem continue to decrease, we are still experiencing nuisance algae blooms, and phosphorous remains elevated,” said Gerard Pinto, Ph.D., research scientist with Jacksonville University. “Air emissions of toxic chemicals continue to decrease, but this is not the case with our waters. In the tributaries, fecal coliform continues to exceed water quality criteria. On a positive note, since monitoring was resumed, grass beds critical to the survival of fish and wildlife grew back significantly.” 

New features of the report include the debut of an interactive, searchable website, www.sjrreport.com, as well as a highlight section by guest contributor Professor Ray Oldakowski of Jacksonville University on behaviors and opinions of area residents about the St. Johns River. 

Trends from the latest report include lower nitrogen levels, satisfactory amounts of oxygen and a drop in overall air emissions of toxic chemicals in the region. Other indicators remain largely unchanged, such as unsatisfactory levels of phosphorus; high amounts of chlorophyll a, an indicator of harmful algae blooms; fecal coliform levels above water quality criteria in many tributaries; an uncertain future for submerged aquatic vegetation; stable fish stocks; and wetlands being lost to development pressures. Areas that have worsened include surface water discharges of toxic chemicals and an increase in non-native species to 75 total, with the spread of lionfish and Cuban tree frogs of particular concern. 

Although, this year marks the highest manatee count recorded in 22 years, rising 15% to 217. Pinto attributed much of the rise to stronger state regulations, more boating speed zones, educational outreach and raised awareness. 

Researchers found that 70% of area residents that were surveyed had used a water access facility, such as a boat ramp or riverwalk, within the last month, and two-thirds felt that additional water access facilities were needed in Duval County, Fla.

The State of the River Report is a collaboration among the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, Florida Southern College and Valdosta State University, and is supported by the Environmental Protection Board. The River Report, a brochure, and a quick reference guide on river health and ways the public can help the river are available at www.sjrreport.com.

Source: University of North Florida, Jacksonville University