West Coast Seagrass Communities Comparison Results (2008 vs. 2014)

These data serve as documentation of changes in the the seagrass habitat within Lower Charlotte Harbor and Estero Bay between 2008 and 2014. Seagrasses, photointerpreted from 2008 and 2014 1:24,000 scale natural color aerial photography and classified using the SFWMD modified FLUCCS classification system were compared. Extent and distribution of change is identified and acreages calculated. These data were compiled to evaluate the ecological health of coastal ecosystems for the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Program's Monitoring and Assessment Plan. These data compilation efforts are a continuation of previous efforts to determine the status and trends (if any) of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) resources in the coastal waters of the SFWMD to determine the performance of ongoing efforts to improve water quality and quantity in coastal waters of the District.