2006-009 Opposing Lake Apopka Water Withdrawal
2006-009
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OCOEE,
ORANGE COUNTY, FLORIDA, ADOPTING A
POSITION OPPOSING THE WITHDRAWAL
OF WATER FROM LAKE APOPKA
WHEREAS, Recent intense development pressures in the Lake Apopka basin have created
demands for increased water usage. Decreased spring flows have been well documented as a
result, and a recent long-term drought followed by record rainfall created major surface water
quality problems. Proposals for withdrawal from Lake Apopka create major concerns. However,
potential solutions must consider the alternative: the negative effects of groundwater use.
WHEREAS, Lake Apopka is a shallow lake with an average depth of 5.5 feet. Major
withdrawals could lower water levels to a point where boating and fishing would be reduced,
phosphorous concentrations would be increased and shoreline wetlands would be dry up
increasing invasion by noxious species such as cattails. If withdrawals are considered, they
should be regulated by the determination of minimal levels and flows.
WHEREAS, Existing Consumptive Use Permits have already reduced flow in Gourd Neck
Springs and will undoubtedly continue to do so. More data should be available prior to issuance
of more CUP's and greater enforcement of restrictions should be imposed on existing permits.
WHEREAS, Since 90% of lake waters are derived from rainfall and groundwater flow, no
withdrawals should be discharged from the Apopka basin.
WHEREAS, If withdrawal permits are issued, there will be a problem determining who will
receive them and who will be denied. Enforcement will be an on-going problem,
WHEREAS, Utilization of wet detention ponds for supplies of irrigation water should be
encouraged in lieu of direct withdrawals from the lake.
WHEREAS, One possible compromise solution could be the construction of storage reservoirs
in the north shore restoration area. Possibilities could include the northern areas of the restoration
areas and the acreage immediately north of the flow-way. Design of a reservoir could maximize
habitat value.
WHEREAS, SJRWMD should continue to expand their current educational programs on water
conservation, xeriscape and other water-related programs.
WHEREAS, In summary, the City of Ocoee has concerns about approvals for withdrawals from
the lake because of potential impacts to the lake ecosystem and the difficulty of controlling these
withdrawals once begun. SJR WMD and local governments should strengthen rules and
regulations governing water use and before lake withdrawals are considered, a more efficient use
should be made of existing water resources within each jurisdiction.
NOW THEREFORE, Be It Resolved the City of Ocoee Commission
Adopts A POSITION ON WATER WITHDRAWAL FROM LAKE APOPKA
ADOPTED THIS 18th DAY OF JULY, 2006
APPROVED:
ATTEST:
CITY OF OCOEE, FLORIDA
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S. Scott Vandergrift,
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FOR USE AND RELIANCE ONLY BY
THE CITY OF OCOEE, FLORIDA
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
2006, ~
this JL day of "JUlj , 2006,
APPROVED BY THE OCOEE CITY
COMMISSION AT A MEETING HELD
ON ,J~.lli {8 I 2..l)O(...
UNDER AGENDA ITEM NO, c.o MAttiss'; ON
ANN Cu N{.EMEI'CT S
FOLEY & LARDNER LLP
By Wr!4JIJ
City Attorney