ReefLink Database

Biocriteria
Biocriteria are narrative expressions or numeric values that describe the biological condition (structure and function) of aquatic communities inhabiting waters of a designated aquatic life use. Biocriteria are based on the numbers and kinds of organisms present and are regulatory-based biological measurements (EPA 2009a).
CMap
CMap Description
Biocriteria are expectations set by a jurisdiction for the quality and quantity of living aquatic resources in a defined waterbody. Biocriteria, by tracking the condition of reef living systems, establish a direct process to determine whether a waterbody is achieving its biological goals. Additional responses may need to be enacted to ensure that biocriteria, once established, are achieved and maintained. Monitoring, mapping, and scientific research can be used to better understand changes in condition, bio-physical processes, and interactions among species, and how they may be impacted by various stressors or potential decisions. A healthy functioning reef ecosystem, beyond its existence or cultural value, is essential for a number of ecosystem goods and services, including shoreline protection, fishing, and recreational opportunities.Citations
Citation | Year | Study Location | Study Type | Database Topics |
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Jameson, S. C., M. V. Erdmann, J. R. Karr, G. R. Gibson, and K. W. Potts. 2011. Charting a Course Toward Diagnostic Monitoring: A Continuing Review of Coral Reef Attributes and a Research Strategy for Creating Coral Reef Indexes of Biotic Integrity. Bulletin of Marine Science | 2011 | Review; Field Study & Monitoring; Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Plankton | |
Bradley, P., L. Fore, W. Fisher, and W. Davis. 2010. Coral reef biological criteria: using the clean water act to protect a national treasure. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Narragansett, RI. | 2010 | Biocriteria | ||
Bradley, P., W. S. Fisher, H. Bell, W. Davis, V. Chan, C. LoBue, and W. Wiltse. 2009. Development and implementation of coral reef biocriteria in US jurisdictions. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment 150:43-51. | 2009 | Global; US Virgin Islands | Review; Field Study & Monitoring | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Climate; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Finfish Harvest; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Physical Damage; Sea Temperatures; Shoreline Protection; Stony Coral; Tourism & Recreation |
Bradley, P., W. S. Fisher, H. Bell, W. Davis, V. Chan, C. LoBue, W. Wiltse. 2009. Development and implementation of coral reef biocriteria in U.S. jurisdictions. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment 150:43-51. | 2009 | Global; US Virgin Islands | Review; Field Study & Monitoring | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Climate; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Finfish Harvest; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Physical Damage; Sea Temperatures; Shoreline Protection; Stony Coral; Tourism & Recreation |
McLeod, E., R. Salm, A. Green, and J. Almany. 2009. Designing marine protected area networks to address the impacts of climate change. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 7:362-370. | 2009 | Biocriteria; Climate; Marine Protected Areas | ||
2008. DRAFT PROPOSED REVISIONS TO: U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS WATER QUALITY STANDARDS. Chapter 7. Water Pollution Control, Subchapter 186. Water Quality Standards for Waters of the Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands. | 2008 | US Virgin Islands | Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Designated Uses; Discharges; Irrigation; Mangroves; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Seagrasses; Surface & Groundwater Flow; Wetlands |
Bradley, P., W. Davis, W. Fisher, H. Bell, V. Chan, C. LoBue, and W. Wiltse. 2008. Biological criteria for protection of U.S. coral reefs. Pages 1078-1082 in Proceedings of the 11th International Coral Reef Symposium. Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. | 2008 | Field Study & Monitoring; Decision Support Frameworks & Tools | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Collaboration & Partnering; Designated Uses; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria | |
Fisher, W. S., L. S. Fore., A/ Hutchins, R. L. Quarles, J. G. Campbell, C. LoBue, W. S. Davis. 2008. Evaluation of stony coral indicators for coral reef management. Marine Pollution Bulletin 56:1737-1745. | 2008 | South & Central America; US Virgin Islands; Caribbean | Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Stony Coral |
Fisher, W.S. 2007. Stony soral rapid bioassessment protocol. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. | 2007 | Field Study & Monitoring; Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Funding & Donations; Funding & Incentives; Stony Coral; Valuation | |
Peters, E., M. Barbour, and J. Ewing. 2005. Considerations on classifying coral reefs for diagnostic biological monitoring in the development of biological criteria for coral reefs. | 2005 | Field Study & Monitoring | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research | |
Jameson, S. C., R. A. Kelty. 2004. A review of indicators of land-based pollution stress on coral reefs. Honolulu, HI. | 2004 | Review; Field Study & Monitoring; Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fertilizer & Pesticide Use; Landscape Conservation & Restoration; Microorganisms; Nutrients; Sediment; Special Use Permitting | |
Karr, J. R. and C. O. Yoder. 2004. Biological assessment and criteria improve TMDL decision making. Journal of Environmental Engineering [inpress]. | 2004 | Field Study & Monitoring; Model; Index or Indicator | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Designated Uses; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Surface & Groundwater Flow | |
Samankassou, E. and R. R. West. 2002. Construction versus accumulation in phylloid algal mounds: An example of a small constructed mound in the Pennsylvanian of Kansas, USA. Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 185:379-389. | 2002 | Model | Algae; Biocriteria; Echinoderms; Sponges | |
Jameson, S. C., M. V. Erdmann, J. R. Karr, and K. W. Potts. 2001. Charting a course toward diagnostic monitoring: a continuing review of coral reef attributes and a research strategy for creating coral reef indexes of biotic integrety. Bulletin of Marine Science 69:701-744. | 2001 | Review; Field Study & Monitoring; Index or Indicator | Biocriteria | |
Bernecker, M., O. Weidlich, and E. Flugel. 1999. Response of Triassic reef coral communities to sea-level fluctuations, storms and sedimentation: Evidence from a spectacular outcrop (Adnet, Austria). Facies 229-280. | 1999 | Field Study & Monitoring; Model; GIS & Maps | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Sediment; Storms & Hurricanes; Substrate; Water Depth & Sea Level | |
Jameson S. C., M. V. Erdmann, G. R. Gibson Jr., and K. W. Potts. 1998. Development of biological criteria for coral reef ecosystem assessment. Atoll Research Bulletin 450:1-102. | 1998 | Field Study & Monitoring; Lab Study | Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Special Use Permitting | |
Yoder, C. O. 1995. Policy issues and management applications for biological criteria. Pages 327-343 in Davis, W.S. and T. P. Simon, editors. Biological assessment and criteria: tools for water resource planning and decision making. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. | 1995 | Decision Support Frameworks & Tools | Biocriteria | |
Suter II, G. W. 1993. A critique of ecosystem health concepts and indexes. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 12:1553-1539. | 1993 | Index or Indicator | Biocriteria | |
Smith, S. V. 1978. Coral-reef area and the contributions of reefs to processes and resources of the world's oceans. Nature 273:225-226. | 1978 | Global | Biocriteria; Fishing Sector |
Management Options
Management Option | Description | Sources | Database Topics |
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Monitor & Research: Biological Status and Trends Monitoring | This activity produces long-term comprehensive information on sanctuary-wide status and trends of biological resources. Data that could be collected on coral reef communities includes but is not limited to species abundance and density, biodiversity, benthic cover, coral condition, growth, recruitment, predation, and grazing. Mangroves and seagrasses should also be monitored. With adequate baseline data, changes in community structure and biocriteria can be identified and restoration or protection efforts can be taken. | NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL. |
Algae; Anemones & Zooanthids; Apex Fish Predators; Aquaculture; Aquarium Stock; Biochemical & Genetic Resources; Biocriteria; Biological Harvest; Biological Monitoring & Restoration; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Bivalves; Calcareous Macroalgae; Contact Uses; Coral; Coralline Algae; Cyanobacteria; Decision Support; Echinoderms; Ecosystem Monitoring & Restoration; Finfish & Shellfish Stock; Fish; Fishing Sector; Food & Energy Policies; Hydrocoral; Invasive Species; Invertebrates; Large Herbivorous Fish; Lobster, Crab, & Shrimp; Mangroves; Marine Birds; Marine Products; Marine Vertebrates; Marine Worms; Microorganisms; Molluscs; Octocoral; Octopus & Squid; Ornamental Jewelry & Art; Pathogens; Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics Sources; Physical Damage; Primary Production; Provisioning Services; Resource Use Management; Sea Turtles; Sea Urchins; Seagrasses; Seastars; Skeletal Coral; Small Herbivorous Fish; Snails & Conch; Sponges; Stony Coral; Tunicates; Wetlands; Whales & Dolphins |
Regulatory Review and Development: Evaluate Exotic Species Regulations | The release of exotic species is already prohibited in many areas. Often these regulations do not consider exotic species released in ballast water. Regulations on discharge of ship ballast water containing exotic or non-indigenous species is therefore an area for regulatory improvement. | NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL. |
Ballast Discharge; Biocriteria; Biological Addition; Boating Regulations; Discharge Limitations; Escape & Release of Non-natives; Invasive Species; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Transportation Policies; Water Transportation; Waterborne Discharges |
Restoration: Environmental Remediation | Environmental Remediation is a type of restoration that's focus ranges from Brownfields to Oil Spills to Hazardous Waste Sites. These restoration activities aim to restore the site to a previous condition, or to a condition that is not a threat to human health or other forms of life. Several standards can be used to determine when remediation is necessary and to what extent the environment should be restores. Biocriteria can be used to determine the degree of degradation to biological components of the site. Often it is the presence of a particular pollutant in the soil, water or air, which is above acceptable limits and will not degrade fast enough over a short period of time and therefore must be removed. Physical and chemical water quality criteria can be used to set maximum acceptable limits of water quality parameters. Air quality criteria can be used to set acceptable maximum and minimum air standards for remediation. | Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response. 2005. Contaminated Sediment Remediation Guidance for Hazardous Waste Sites. EPA-540-R-05-012, US Environmental Protection Agency. Environment Protection Authority. EPA Guidelines for Environmental management of on-site remediation. Environment Protection Authority, Adelaide, Australia. |
Applied Chemicals; Biocriteria; City Planning; Decision Support; Discharge Limitations; Discharges; Ecosystem Monitoring & Restoration; Environmental Monitoring & Restoration; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Food, Beverage, & Tobacco Products; Health; Health Policies; Landuse Management; Littering; Manufacturing & Trade; Metals, Electronics, & Machinery Products; Military; Mining; Mining Policies; Mitigation; Monetary Valuation; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Oil & Gas Industry; Oil & Gas Rigs; Oil & Gas Tankers; Petroleum Spills; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Pipelines; Point Source Discharges; Public Administration; Remediation; Security; Solid Waste Disposal; Supporting Services; Toxics; Valuation; Waste Management; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge; Waterborne Discharges; Wood, Plastics, & Chemical Products |
Water Quality Management: Water Quality Standards | Water Quality Standards are the foundation of the water quality-based pollution control program mandated by the Clean Water Act. Water Quality Standards define the goals for a waterbody by establishing Designated Uses (#279), setting baseline waterbody minimum criteria to protect those uses, and establishing provisions that regulate Point Source Effluent Toxicity Standards (#280). Since the baseline water quality standards are for the waterbody in its entirety, there is some flexibility on how that minimum criterion is accomplished. In some cases, Remediation (#281) may be preferable to more stringent effluent standards. The criteria include specific biochemical and ecological measures that would be good indicators of ecological health, including Biocriteria (#282). | NOAA Marine Sanctuary Program. 2007. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary revised management plan. National Ocean Service, Key West, FL. |
Biocriteria; Chemical Variables; Cultural Services; Designated Uses; Ecosystem Monitoring & Restoration; Environmental Monitoring & Restoration; Nutrients; Ocean Acidity; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Physical Variables; Provisioning Services; Toxics |
Water Quality Management: Biocriteria | The President�s Ocean Action Plan directed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop biological assessment methods and tools for evaluating the health of coral reefs so that States and Territories could more easily establish biological water quality standards, including descriptions for designated waterbody uses and biological criteria (biocriteria). Biocriteria are qualitative or quantitative thresholds of biological condition necessary to sustain the designated uses. Rigorous biological assessments are needed to identify metrics that reflect biological characteristics and are responsive to a gradient of human disturbance, and to generate defensible long-term monitoring programs. Implementation of biocriteria for freshwater ecosystems has forged a process that can be adopted for coral reefs. | Bradley, P., L. Fore, W. Fisher, and W. Davis. 2010. Coral reef biological criteria: using the clean water act to protect a national treasure. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Narragansett, RI. |
Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring & Restoration; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Designated Uses; Ecosystem Monitoring & Restoration; Resource Use Management |
Laws
Legal Citation | Purpose of Law | Management Organization | Database Topics |
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Anadromous Fish Conservation Act of 1965, as amended, 16 United States Code § 757. | The Act is intended to conserve anadromous fish. It authorizes the Secretatries of Interior and Commerce to enter into cooperatve agreements with states and other non-federal interests for conservation, development and enhancement of anadromous fish and contribute up to fifty percent as the federal share of the cost of carrying out such agreements. Reclamation construction projects for water resource projects needed solely for such fish are also authorized. Application to Coral Reefs: Legislative Actions:Projects are for conservation, development, and enhancement on fisheries. Comments: |
Department of Interior/Department of Commerce Jurisdiction: United States |
Apex Fish Predators; Biocriteria; Collaboration & Partnering; Designate Protected Species; Finfish & Shellfish Stock; Finfish Harvest; Fish; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Public Administration; Resource Use Management |
Chapter 7: Water pollution control, 12 Virgin Islands Code. | In coordination with EPA through Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, establishes controls for the discharge of wastewater and other pollutants to waters of the USVI, sets water quality standards. The Commissioner sets water quality standards applicable to he United States Virgin Islands to protect the public health and welfare and the present and future usa of such waters for public water supplies, propagation of fish, aquatic life and wildlife , recreational purposes and other legitamate uses. The standards are to be reviewed every three years. Application to Coral Reefs:Water of polluted quality is detrimental to propagation and survival of coral reef organisms. Setting appropriate water quality standards will play a major role in protecting coral reefs. Legislative Actions:The Commissioner or any USVI resident can commence a civil action. Civil penalties for violators are not to exceed $50,000 per day. Any knowingly or negligently discharging polluants can be crimimnally punished with a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $75,000 per day of violation. A second conviction can be punishable up to a fine of $100,000, six years in jail, or both. Comments: |
US Virgin Islands, Department of Planning and Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Protection Jurisdiction: US Virgin Islands |
Biocriteria; Discharges; Health Policies; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Reef Life; Resource Use Management; Sewage Treatment; Waste Management Policies |
Clean Water Act of 1974, 33 United States Code § 1252. | To restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters Application to Coral Reefs:The Act can be used to establish water quality standards for the disharge of pollutants into surface waters. Section 101 (3) stated that it will be the national policy that the discharge of toxic pollutants in toxic amounts will be prohibited. The legislation employs a variety of regulatory and nonregulatory tools to reduce direct pollutant discharges into waterways, finance wastewater treatment facilities, and manage polluted runoff. The tools are employed to achieve the broad goal of restoring and maintaining the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters so they can support "the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation in and on the water." Legislative Actions:During the late 1980's, the program shifted from program-by-program, source by source, pollutant-by-pollutant approach to more holistic water-shed strategies. Under the watershed approach equal emphasis is placed on protecting healthy waters and restoring impaired waters. Also during the 1980's, voluntary programs for nonpoint runoff and regulatory programs for wet weather point sources began to be addressed. Comments:The Federal Water Pollution Contrl Act Amendments of 1972, PL 92-500, replaced the previous language of the Act entirely, including the Water Quality Act of 1965, the Clean Water Restoration Act of 1965, and the Water Quality Improvement Act of 1970, all of which had been amendments of the Water Pollution Control Act first passed in 1956. The 1977 amendments, PL 95-217, further amended PL 92-500. |
US Environmental Protection Agency Jurisdiction: United States; US Territories |
Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Biocriteria; Collaboration & Partnering; Construction Codes & Projects; Corporate Responses; Drinking Water Supply; Economic Markets & Policies; Energy Policy & Development; Hydrologic Management; Improved Technology; Mangroves; Microorganisms; Non-point Source Controls; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Political Pressure; Public Administration; Remediation; Resource Use Management; Seagrasses; Sewage Treatment; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge |
Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, 16 United States Code § 6401 (2000). | To preserve, sustain, and restore the condition of coral reef ecosystems, to promote the wise management and sustainable use of coral reef ecosystems, to benefit local communities and the Nation, to develop sound scientific information on the condition of coral reef ecosystems and threats to the ecosystems, to assist in the preservation of coral reefs by supporting and financing conservation programs including local and non-governmental programs, establish a formal mechanism for collecting and allocating monetary donations from the private sector to be used for coral reef conservation projects Application to Coral Reefs:Allowed the development of programs and projects, and provided financing for developing sound scientific data to preserve and restore coral reefs. Continued the Coral Reef Task Force and Coral Reef Initiative started under Executive Order 13089 (1998). Legislative Actions:Provided funding for matching grants, encouraged education and outreach, encouaged cooperative conservation and management through partnerships with other federal, state, regional and local partners including citizen groups. Comments:The Act is administrative, not regulatory. It established four major programs; (1) The National Coral Reef Action Strategy established goals for research, monitoring and conservation, (2, 3) The Coral Reef Conservation Program and Coral Reef Conservation Fund provided financial assistance for coral reef projects, (4) the National Program facilitated cooperative work between federal, state and regional efforts that work to improve coral reef ecosystems. The National Program also enhanced the public awareness of coral reefs through educational programs. The Act incorporated Executive Order 13,089 and provided coordinated funding activities through twelve federal agencies and seven states. |
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Jurisdiction: United States; US Coral Reefs |
Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Corporate Responses; Education & Information; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Food & Raw Materials; Funding & Incentives; Marine Debris; Marine Protected Areas; Microorganisms; Public Administration; Remediation; Utilities |
Domestic Wastewater Facilities, 62-600 Florida Administrative Code. | (1) Section 403.021(2), Florida Statutes, as amended, the Florida Air and Water Pollution Control Act, established that no
wastes are to be discharged to any waters of the state without first being given the degree of treatment necessary to protect the
beneficial uses of such water. Toward this end, Sections 403.085 and 403.086, Florida Statutes, set forth requirements for the
treatment and reuse or disposal of domestic wastewater. Section 403.051(2)(a), Florida Statutes, requires that any Department
planning, design, construction, modification, or operating standards, criteria, and requirements for wastewater facilities be
developed as a rule. This chapter is promulgated to implement the provisions and requirements of Sections 120.53(1), 120.55,
403.021, 403.051, 403.061, 403.062, 403.064, 403.085, 403.086, 403.087, 403.088, 403.0881, 403.101, 403.131, 403.161,
403.182, 403.859, and 403.918, Florida Statutes, concerning domestic wastewater facilities.
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(2) The requirements of this chapter represent the specific requirements of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
and of Local Pollution Control Programs approved and established pursuant to Section 403.182, Florida Statutes, where such
authority has been delegated to those programs. It may be necessary for domestic wastewater facilities to conform with
requirements of other agencies, established via interagency agreements (e.g., for mosquito control); the absence of reference to
such arrangements in this chapter does not negate the need for compliance with those requirements.
(3) The purpose of Chapter 62-600, F.A.C., is to provide minimum standards for the design of domestic wastewater facilities
and to establish minimum treatment and disinfection requirements for the operation of domestic wastewater facilities. All systems
shall be designed in accordance with sound engineering practice. Supported by moderating provisions, it is intended that Chapter
62-600, F.A.C., establish a framework whereby design flexibility and sound engineering practice can be used in developing
systems with which to manage domestic wastewater in an environmentally sound manner.
(4) As appropriate, Chapter 62-600, F.A.C., shall be used in conjunction with other Department rules relating to the design and
operation and maintenance of domestic wastewater facilities.
(5) Standards and requirements in this chapter shall apply only to domestic wastewater treatment, reuse, and disposal facilities
(including residuals management facilities).
(a) Standards and requirements shall apply to all new facilities and modifications or expansions of existing facilities that
submit complete permit applications to the Department after July 1, 1991.
(b) Standards and requirements shall apply to all existing facilities that submit complete applications for permit renewal after
July 1, 1991.
(6) Domestic wastewater facilities that submit complete permit applications on or before July 1, 1991, may:
(a) Continue to comply with the rule requirements that were in effect at the time the permit was issued and with the conditions
of the existing construction or operation permit until the expiration of such permit, or
(b) Opt to comply with the requirements of this revised chapter.
(7) The standards and requirements of Part II of Chapter 62-600, F.A.C., and Rules 62-600.500 and 62-600.530, F.A.C., shall
be applicable to septic tank drainfield systems and other on-site waste treatment systems with subsurface disposal regulated by this
chapter. The reliability requirements of paragraph 62-600.400(1)(b), F.A.C., shall not apply to such septic tank drainfield systems
and other on-site waste treatment systems.
(8) The discharge limitation of subsection 62-600.510(4), F.A.C., shall not be applicable to facilities permitted on or before
January 1, 1982, that discharge into Class II waters or Class III waters which are subsequently reclassified as Class II waters.
(9) This chapter provides for exemptions, allowances for existing facilities and variations from standards and requirements.
Unless specifically provided otherwise, no wastewater permit shall be issued or renewed unless the permit applicant demonstrates
that the subject facility is in compliance with the applicable provisions of this chapter. Application to Coral Reefs:Setting construction and treatment water quality criteria for wastewater facilities will provide a system of less contaminated water being discharged to surface waters. The environmental impact of the wastewater will be less harmful to ecosystems. Legislative Actions: Comments:Establishes the processes for planning, design, construction, modification, or operating standards, criteria, and requirements for wastewater facilities |
Florida State Department of Environmental Protection Jurisdiction: State Coastal Waters |
Biocriteria; Building & Home Construction; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Sewage Treatment; Toxics; Waste Management Policies |
Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant monitoring, 62-601 Florida Administrative Code. | (1) Section 403.051(2)(a), Florida Statutes, as amended, part of the Florida
Air and Water Pollution Control Act, requires that any Department operating standards,
criteria, and requirements for wastewater facilities be developed as a rule. This rule is
promulgated to implement the provisions and requirements of the Act concerning
domestic wastewater treatment plant monitoring.
(2) The purpose of Chapter 62-601, F.A.C., is to ensure that owners and
operators of domestic wastewater treatment facilities maintain accurate records and
submit reports required by this Chapter in a timely, accurate, cost-effective and uniform
manner.
(3) Standards and requirements in this chapter shall apply only to domestic
wastewater treatment, reuse, and disposal facilities (including residuals management
facilities). The standards and requirements are not applicable to facilities described in
Rules 62-600.120(1) and (2), F.A.C.
(a) Standards and requirements shall apply to all new facilities and
modifications or expansions of existing facilities that submit complete permit
applications to the Department after July 1, 1991.
(b) Standards and requirements shall apply to all existing facilities that submit
complete applications for permit renewal after July 1, 1991.
(4) Domestic wastewater facilities that submit complete permit applications
on or before July 1, 1991 may:
(a) Continue to comply with the rule requirements that were in effect at the
time the permit was issued and with the conditions of the existing construction or
operation permit until the expiration of such permit, or
(b) Opt to comply with the requirements of this revised chapter. Application to Coral Reefs:Setting monitoring requirements and treatment water quality criteria for wastewater facilities will provide a system of less contaminated water being discharged to surface waters. The environmental impact of the wastewater will be less harmful to ecosystems. Legislative Actions: Comments:to implement the provisions and requirements concerning domestic wastewater treatment plant monitoring |
Florida State Department of Environmental Protection Jurisdiction: State Coastal Waters |
Biocriteria; Building & Home Construction; Discharge Limitations; Manufacturing & Trade; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Point Source Discharges; Sewage Treatment; Toxics; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge |
Exec. Order No. 13158, Marine Protected Areas, 65 Federal Register 34909 (2000). | This Executive Order is meant to help protect the significant natural and cultural resources within the marine environment for the benefit of present and future generations by strengthening and expanding the Nation�s system of marine protected areas. Application to Coral Reefs:Benefits to coral reefs within MPA's. Legislative Actions:One of the provisions of the Act requires that the Secretary develop a scientifically based, comprehensive system of MPA's representing diverse US marine ecosystems, and the Nation's natural and cultural resources. Comments: |
Department of Interior, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Jurisdiction: United States |
Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Collaboration & Partnering; Complex Habitat & Resources; Educational & Research Opportunities; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Existence Value & Sense of Place; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Marine Protected Areas; Recreational Opportunities; Resource Use Management; Tourism & Recreation Policies |
Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation and Management Act of 1976, as amended through 1996,. | Provided for conservation and management of commercial and recreational fisheries in the US Exclusive Economic Zone (3-200 nautical miles offshore). Application to Coral Reefs:The Act recognized, and stated, that one of the greatest long-term threats to viable commercial and recreational fisheries is the continued loss of marine, esturaine, and other aquatic habitats, and that habitat considerations should receive increased attention for the conservation and management of fishery resources. Legislative Actions:The amended Act through 1996 created eight regional Fishery Management Councils and reguired foreign vessels to apply for permits to fish in US waters. The Councils develop Management plans for every fishery within their geographic region regarding guidelines for quota, bycatch caps and gear restrictions.. Comments: |
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/National Marine Fisheries Service Jurisdiction: |
Biocriteria; Economic Markets & Policies; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Political Pressure; Resource Use Management; Responses |
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, 33 United States Code § 1401. | To regulate the dumping of all types of materials into ocean waters and to prevent or strictly limit the dumping into ocean waters of any material which would adversely affect human health, welfare, or amenities, or the marine environment, ecological systems, or economic potentialities. To regulate (1) the transportation by any person of material from the United States and, in the case of United States vessels, aircraft, or agencies, the transportation of material from a location outside the United States, when in either case the transportation is for the purpose of dumping the material into ocean waters, and (2) the dumping of material transported by any person from a location outside the United States, if the dumping occurs in the territorial sea or the contiguous zone of the United States. Application to Coral Reefs:The Act has been historically used to regulate dumping of dredged materials and sewage sludge into the marine environment. The law intends to improve the conservation, understanding, management, and wise and sustainable use of marine resources, enhance public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the marine environment, and to maintain for future generations the habitat, and ecologigal services, of the natural assemblage of living resources that inhabit those areas. Because permits are required, it can be assumed that dumping would not be allowed if the material would be dispersed into a sensitive habitat such as coral reefs. Legislative Actions:EPA may assess an administrative civil penalty up to $50,000 per person. Higher penalties can be assessed for dumping medical waste (up to $125,000). Each day in violation constitutes a separate offense. Continuing violations can suffer criminal penalties with fines and up to five years imprisionment possible. Comments:The Act has played a major role in regulating the disposal of dredged material into the ocean environment. However, medical and radioactive wastes, industrial wastes, as well as sewage sludge, are also regulated in the law. |
United States Environmntal Protection Agency Jurisdiction: US Territorial Waters; US Federal Waters; Designated Marine Areas |
Ballast Discharge; Biocriteria; Boating Regulations; Complex Habitat & Resources; Designate Protected Species; Designated Uses; Environmental Education & Outreach; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Mangroves; Marine Debris; Marine Protected Areas; Microorganisms; Non-point Source Controls; Oil & Gas Research & Exploration; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Political Pressure; Remediation; Resource Use Management; Seagrasses; Sediment; Sewage Treatment; Solid Waste Disposal; Tourism & Recreation Policies; Transportation Policies; Waste Management Policies; Wastewater Discharge |
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 United States Code §§ 4321-4377. | Requires analysis, public comment, and reporting for environmental impacts of federal actions. It stipulates the factors to be considered in environmental impact statements, and requires that federal agencies employ an interdisciplinary approach in related decision-making and develop means to ensure unqualified environmental values are given appropriate consideration, along with economic and technical considerations. Application to Coral Reefs:Requires an Environmental Assessment(EA), and potentially an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) if the project review finds there will be a significant impact. The EIS must detail the environmental impacts of the proposed action, unavoidable adverse environmental impacts, and alternatives to the proposed action. The resulting studies could protect sensitive environmental ecosystems, including coral reefs. Legislative Actions:The Act potentially could protect coral reefs if the proposed federal project could have a significant impact on the reef. Comments:The Act is completely procedural; it does not include specific regulations. The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) was created by the Act. CEQ is part of the Executive Office of the President and one of the CEQ directives is to ensure that federal programs comply with NEPA. The puprose of the EIS is to disclose to the public and resource managers the probable long- and short-term impacts of the proposed project as well as consideration of less environmentally damaging alternatives to the recommended course of action. |
Federal agencies Jurisdiction: United States |
Agriculture, Aquaculture, & Forestry Policies; Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Boating Regulations; Construction Codes & Projects; Decision Support; Designated Uses; Economic Markets & Policies; Energy Policy & Development; Environmental Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Landuse Management; Marine Debris; Microorganisms; Non-point Source Controls; Permitting & Zoning; Physical & Chemical Environment; Physical Variables; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Political Pressure; Public Administration; Reef Habitat; Reef Inhabitants; Reef Life; Remediation; Resource Use Management; Sectors Filling Human Needs; Security; Socio-Economic Drivers; Transportation Policies; Waste Management Policies; Wetlands |
Surface water quality standards, 62-302 Florida Administrative Code Annotated (2008). | The Chapter establishes the minimum concentrations of contamination that are allowable to protect the designated uses of a waterbody. Designated uses include public drinking water supplies, propagation of fish and wildlife, agricultural, recreation, industrial, and navigation. Application to Coral Reefs:Protecting surface waters by limiting the concentration of pollutants that can be present will control the concentrations of those pollutants that will reach estuarine and marine environments, thus protecting the associated ecosystems, including coral reefs. Legislative Actions:Penalties are not presented in the Rule. Specific requirements and penalties are addrressed in individual permits. The Rule relies heavily on biocriteria including acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index. Section 400 presents the classes of Florida waters; Class I potable water supplies, Class II shellfish propagation or harvesting, Class III recreation, propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanced population of fish and wildlife, Class IV agricultural water supplies, Class V navigation, utility and industrial use. Comments: |
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Jurisdiction: State Coastal Waters; US State Waters; Designated Marine Areas |
Biocriteria; Biological Monitoring, Mapping, & Scientific Research; Civil Engineering & Construction; Coastal Development; Commercial Fisheries; Complex Habitat & Resources; Dam Construction & Maintenance; Deforestation & Devegetation; Designate Protected Species; Discharge Limitations; Dive, Snorkeling, & Swimming Tourism; Docks & Marinas; Dredging Regulations; Dredging, Draining, & Filling; Drinking Water Supply; Fertilizer & Pesticide Use; Finfish & Shellfish Stock; Fish; Fishing & Harvesting Management; Impervious Surfaces; Invertebrates; Irrigation; Landuse Management; Molluscs; Non-point Source Controls; Non-point Source Runoff; Nutrient & Contaminant Processing; Nutrients; Physical & Chemical Water Quality Criteria; Pipelines; Point & Mobile Source Controls; Point Source Discharges; Ports & Harbors; Recreational Fishing; Sediment; Sewage Treatment; Shoreline Armoring; Small Boats; Tourism & Recreation Policies; Toxics; Waste Management Policies |