A.4.4X Possibilities for wetland areas (Kissimmee)

Question 1

Kissimmee River Background

Answer 1

In south central Florida, drainage basin of 7800 km squared and approximately 200 km long

Was home to wetland plants, fish and wading birds

5km wide floodplain with populated settlements nearby were regularly flooded

Question 2

Channelization of the Kissimmee River

Answer 2

The river was channelized and transformed into a 90 km, 10m deep drainage channel

The purpose is to create a channel for draining floodwaters from the upper Kissimmee lake basin and to protect the nearby land from flooding.

Question 3

Impacts of channelization

Answer 3

Loss of 12000-14000 hectares of wetlands

Floodplain dried up after channelization, no longer exceeds bankfull discharge

Some bird populations decreased by ⅔

Fish catches decreased

Fishing, bird watching and hunting tourism declined

Question 4

Kissimmee Restoration Project

Answer 4

Aim: Restore over 100 km square of river and wetland floodplain by 2015, started in 1999

River is being de-channelized by refilling the flood channel and re-establishing the old natural course of the river

Question 5

Result of Kissimmee Restoration Project

Answer 5

Mostly done by 2012

99% of land bought back

Native species & wetland vegetation thrived

Needs management to reduce flooding

$578 m spent