Trend Network

DEP Temporal Variability (Trend) Network

The Trend Monitoring Network examines long-term changes in Florida’s ambient water quality. The network consists of 129 fixed stations whose locations are based on Florida’s 52 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) drainage basins. The department manages this network, along with a complementary program called the Status Network. Data collected by both networks are used to develop action plans to protect and restore our water resources. The Trend Monitoring Network is divided into surface water (SW) and groundwater (GW) components. In both the SW and GW Trend Monitoring Networks, water samples are analyzed for a suite of water quality indicators. The program maintains comprehensive Data Analysis Procedures for Trend Assessments and Data Management Protocols, as well as a Quality Assurance Manual and Sampling Manual. Trend Monitoring Network data comprise an important part of Florida’s Integrated [303(d) / 305(b)] Report. The department submits this report to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as required by the Clean Water Act. The report informs Congress and the public about the health of our water resources.

Surface Water Trend Network

The SW Trend Network consists of 78 fixed stations in streams, rivers and canals. Most of the sites are located at the lower end of a USGS drainage basin and are situated at or near a flow gauging station. These sites allow the department to obtain chemistry, discharge, and loading data at a point that reflects the watershed’s water quality. Some SW sites are located at or near the state boundary with Alabama and Georgia. These stations measure the conditions of major streams entering Florida.

SW Trend sites are sampled each month by personnel working for the department, the water management districts (WMDs) and county agencies. All samples are analyzed in the department’s Laboratory. Statewide surface water trend data are available through DEP STORET and WIN. For more information, call us at 850-245-8080.

Surface Water Trend Locations

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Ground Water Trend Network

The GW Trend Network consists of 51 fixed stations (26 unconfined aquifer wells, 23 confined aquifer wells, and 2 spring vents). These sites are located so that each USGS drainage basin has a representative site for both the confined and unconfined aquifer systems, when both of these systems are present in the basin.

As with the SW Network, GW Trend sites are sampled by the department, the WMDs, and county agencies. The department’s Laboratory performs all sample analyses. Because the water chemistry in confined aquifers changes much more slowly than in unconfined aquifers, field measurements are taken quarterly at confined sites and monthly at unconfined sites. Samples for laboratory analysis are collected quarterly at all GW sites. Statewide ground water trend data, from 2017 to present, are available in WIN. Earlier ground water trend data are available upon request. There is no charge for this service. For more information, call us at 850-245-8080.

Ground Water Trend Locations

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