The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has been involved with assessment of sediment quality data for over three decades. In contrast to surface waters and ground waters, sediments have no federal or state standards or criteria. In the absence of standards, Florida has produced guidance documents to assist scientists and managers interpret sediment quality data.
Florida Sediment Quality Assessment Guidance Documents for Coastal and Estuarine Sediments
Approach to the Assessment of Sediment Quality in Florida Coastal Waters. (Volumes I,II & III) Published in 1994, this document provides department staff and the public with biological effects-based sediment quality assessment guidelines (SQAGs) for Florida’s coastal and estuarine sediments based on biological effects. These guidelines may be used to identify priority areas for non-point source management actions and to design wetland restoration projects.
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.