HomeMy WebLinkAboutComprehensive Plan Conservation Element LPA Craft EAR-Based Amendments Strike-Out Version•
City of Winter Springs
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Comprehensive Plan
CONSERVATION ELEMENT
October 2001
Amended, September 2005
Amended, July 2007
LPA Draft EAR-Based Amendments, February IORy 2009
Prepared For:
City of Winter Springs
Community Development Department
1 126 East State Road 434
Winter Springs, Florida 32708-2799
Amended By:
Planning Communities, LLC
2510 Wild Tamarind Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32828
~ Revised from the Original Text Prepared By:
Land Design Innovations
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. G OALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES 1
B. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ ... 9
1. Purpose. 9
2. Environmental Setting .............. 9
C. INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS ..............................................................................................11
1. Surface Water .................................................................................................................11
2. Wetlands ........................................................................................................................13
3. Flood Plain. ,1'7
4. Air Quality. 20
a. Carbon Monoxide ...................................................................................................................... 21
b. Lead .............................................................................................................................................. 23
c. Nitrogen Dioxide .................................................................. 23
d. Ozone ........................................................................................................................................... 23
e. Sulfur Dioxide. 23
f. Particulate Matter (PMT and PM2s)....•..••..• ................................................... .. 23
g. Overall Ambient Air Quality ............................................................. 24
5. Hazardous Waste .......................................................................................................... 24
6. Commercially Valuable Minerals .......... 24
7. Soil Erosion ................................................................................................................... 25
8. Soils and Vegetative Communities 25
9. Dominant Animal Species within the Winter Springs Area 27
10. Listed Plant and Animal Species within the Winter Springs Area 29
1 1. Commercial, Recreation and Conservation Uses Of Natural Resources 35
a. Commercial .................................................................................................................................. 35
b. Recreation ..__ ................................_.__.............. _. _.................................................................... 35
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c. Conservation ................................................................................................................................ 35
d. Protection of Ground Water .................................................................................................... 37
. 12. Potential for Conservation, Use or Protection of Natural Resources 37
a. Conservation ................................................................................................................................ 37
b. Use ................................................................................................................................................. 37
c. Protection ..................................................................................................................................... 38
13. Water Needs . 3$
a. Potable Water Sources ............................................................................................................. 38
b. Potable Water Demand ........................................................................................................... 38
c. Reclaimed Water Demand ....................................................................................................... 39
d. Agricultural Water Demand ........................................................ 39
e. Industrial Water Demand ......................................................................................................... 39
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LIST OF TABLES
Table V-1: Inventory of Permitted Point and Area Sources of Air Pollution in Winter Springs..20a-8
Table V- 2: Listed Animal and Plant Species Documented in or Near Winter Springs ...............292~
Table V- 2b: Listed Plant and Animal Species Occurrence Likely or Potential in or Near Winter
Springs ................................................................................................................................................302-8
LIST OF MAPS -UPDATING, MANY MOVING TO FLU ELEMENT
Map V- 1: Natural Features Map ................................................................................................................2
Map V- 2: Dominant Water Bodies .............................................................................................................5
Map V- 3: Existing Wetlands ........................................................................................................................7
Map V- 4: Wetland Vegetative Cover .......................................................................................................8
Map V- 5: Flood Zones .................................................................................................................................1 1
Map V- 6: Monitored Air Pollutant Sources ..............................................................................................13
Map V- 7: Soils Map .....................................................................................................................................18
Map V- 8: Strategic Habitat Conservation Areas ...................................................................................21
Map V- 9: Species Occurrences ..................................................................................................................24
Map V- 10: Black Bear Occurrences .........................................................................................................25
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CHAPTER V
CONSERVATION ELEMENT
A. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES
GOAL 1:
To protect, maintain, and conserve the natural resources of Winter Springs for continued environmental quality
and the well being of all citizens.
Objective 1.1: Air Quality. The City shall maintain and enhance air quality.
Policy 1.1.1: ' , _btain a revised list of any identified air pollution
generators in Winter Springs from the Department of Environmental Protection on an
annual basis.
Policy 1.1.2: The-Ei,•-•~aDevelop a land use ordinance, which governs the maintenance of
pollutant emissions standards based on federal, state, and local standards.
Policy 1.1.3: ,
E+#y--sHe~l--eContinually incorporate land use and transportation strategies to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, in cooperation with the MPO. Seminole County, and the
adjacent municipalities. This shall include, but not be limited to, identification of land
use densities and building intensities (critical mass) and transportation programs to
promote viable multi-modal transportation. Where densities and intensities are
sufficient to support transit, the City shall support its implementation.
Policy 1.1.4: ;_ .".. ~:... _.._~.._..~ ..,.":_~.._ ...:.":..:.~ ~~,....~ :..."..~~ _....~~.... +",.~,.....":_~..,...•:."Utilize
~ek-ieles-e~ the most fuel-efficient vehicles in their class or category, as the City
replaces vehicles within its fleet, to the extent practical.
.. .Policy 1.1.5: TH~ :., _..~.. _=ontinue the City s+ts tree protection ordinance to sustain
natural vegetative filters for air pollution. Maintain trees on City-controlled propertx
according to published American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A-300 standards
and Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) guidelines.
~elaey~~:Policy 1.1.6: Tk~ Participate in air quality public information programs and
sheN-encourage alternative forms of transportation.
Pelaey~l$:Policy 1.1.7: The-E+ty--she~e-Adopt a trails network plan linking. T~~"~ ~"-" "-'_
residential areas to areas of business, recreation, educational, and cultural resources,
where possible.
Objective 1.2: Groundwater Resources. The City shall conserve, use best management techniques, and
protect future and existing groundwater resources for potable water usage.
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Policy 1.2.1: The-~~~tT=r",~'I-continue to adhere to the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection's wellhead protection standards.
Policy 1.2.2: T".. ~'••• -"--" Establish a wellhead protection ordinance, which wett#cl-regulates land
use and~or business activity in the vicinity of water supply wells to minimize potential
threats to the quality of the groundwater.
Policy 1.2.3: Th Explore the feasibility of a resource protection ordinance, which would
include incentives for developers to minimize impervious surfaces.
Policy 1.2.4: T"~ ~''~• -"~" -Amend eq~sife-+r~-the City's+t~ building code to require; the installation of
water conserving devices in all new construction which meet or exceed the U.S.
Environmental Agency's WaterSense environmental standards, such as water
conserving commodes, showerheads, faucets, etc.
Policy 1.2.5: The-C~t=~ ~:~'~;--eContinue to expand the Citv's+ts water reclamation system to
commercial, residential, and industrial operations which utilize large quantities of non-
potable water.
Policy 1.2.6: The-Ei#~-shell-Promote the use of best management techniques by adopting a 4eec~-I
Florida-friendlXf WaterwisA'!_-~__~,~~ ordinance and s#~~promoti~e, through
educational programs and publications, the use of Florida-
friendly~Waterwise~Ee+~isc-ale practices, which include low or no water landscaping,
the use of solid waste compost, efficient irrigation systems, and the prohibition of non-
native, invasive plant species, which will result in the conservation of water. Restrictions
should also be implemented in this code, especially regarding non-native invasive
species. No invasive exotic (non-native) species should be planted and those which are
encountered on property maintained by the City should be removed. (Cross Reference:
See Infrastructure Element, Policy IV-E-2.1)
Policy 1.2.7: T"~ ~'•~• ~"~" -Reduce the City'si#s dependence upon the Floridan aquifer through the
implementation of the Water Supply Work Plan (Exhibit IV-B-1).
Policy 1.2.8: The-~ityl.~ c••~~'-• D1--~, ~ -"--" '-- ••Updated• the City's Water Supply Plan,
2007 to correspond with the St. John's River Water Management District (SJRWMD~'s
District Water Supply Plan updates. Review tThe Water Supply Work Plan (Exhibit
IV-B-1) nnually and updated as needed, N-includinge a
minimum 10-year planning period to ensure that projected potable water demands
pre considered. (Cross Reference: See Intergovernmental Coordination Element, Policy
1.1.6)
. .Policy 1.2.9: The-ray--sk~~eEncourage provision of such environmentally-friendly
features as, "green roofs", cisterns, water gardens, porous pavement, ,
nd natural landscapes (with native plants),
pae~ as appropriate.
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Objective 1.3: Surface Water. The City shall protect surface water from all known and identifiable
ollution sources.
Policy 1.3.1: u ; ~i;~•~TRequire that run-off from new developments does not directly enter
natural surface waters. Maintain provisions for on-site detention
min the City's Code of Ordinances.
Policy 1.3.2: ' , 'Identify on an annual basis, those components of the
Winter Springs drainage system that may be contributing to the overall degradation
of surface water quality, and develop a priority listing for the refurbishment and~or
installation required and incorporate the priorities into the Capital Improvements
Schedule.
Policy 1.3.3: Thy C°a =!~~!i-ilmplement the conditions of the Stormwater Master Plan requiring water
discharged to any surface water body to have a Water Quality Index of "Fair" as
defined by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Policy 1.3.4: ~I~N-eAmend the City's Code of Ordinances by 2012 to incorporate Low
Impact Development (LID) practices
to
stormwater manaaement that conserve and protect natural resource systems, reduce
infrastructure costs, and mitigate potential environmental impacts. In general, the LID
approach includes practices that:
• Encourage preservation of natural reources;
• Allow development in a manner that helps mitiaate potential environmental
impacts;
• Reduce cost of stormwater management systems;
• Use a host of management practices to reduce runoff; and
• Reduce pollutants into the environment.
1P•eliey~4:Policy 1.3.5: The-Eit~ ~oa~-~; o~„~s~TRequire that all projects include
erosion control practices throughout the construction process and require areas
susceptible to soil erosion after completion of the project to ret~be protected from
soil erosion by seeding, sodding, or other methods deemed effective by the City.
Policy 1.3.6: Work cooperatively with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP
with assistance from the City's consultant to develop a proactive approach to reducinq
the City's Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). TMDL is a calculation of the maximum
amount of a pollutant that a water body can receive and still meet water quality
standards.
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Objective 1.4: Wetland Protection. Wetlands and the natural functions of wetlands shall be conserved
~nd protected from activities, which alter their physical and hydrological nature. Incompatible uses shall be
directed away from wetland areas. Implementation activities to ensure the protection and preservation of these
I areas shall be included within the Code of Ordinances by 20129.
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Policy 1.4.1: Tk~e-~-its--eContinue to protect the natural functions of wetlands through the
Conservation Overlay on the Future Land Use Map and the Conservation Land Use
category, as defined in the Future Land Use Element.
Policy 1.4.2: Reviewed-
during the development review process with heightened scrutiny and as a priority for
protection, nvironmental areas having
regional significance as determined by the SJRWMD and FDEP
Policy 1.4.3:
Preserved the natural upland buffer a minimum of
twenty-five (25) feet from the edge of the wetland in order to prevent development
from having adverse impacts to existing wetlands. Where a wetland is unavoidably
impacted by development, the development shall be subject to the mitigation
requirements of the pertinent regulatory agency. (Ord. 2005-12; 09-12-OS)
Policy 1.4.4: Require as needed. additional upland buffers to ensure the
preservation of natural systems, and their possible use for treated effluent disposal
and stormwater management systems. Such standards shall be included within the
Code of Ordinances. (Ord. 2005-12; 09-12-OS)
Policy 1.4.5: Dedicated to the City via a
conservation easement wetlands and respective buffer areas. The easement
agreement shall include management requirements which help to preserve, restore,
and/or maintain native ecosystems. At a minimum, the easement shall require the
periodic removal of non-native, invasive plant material within the conservation area
by the easement dedicator.
Policy 1.4.6: 'Incorporated. existing isolated wetlands into
development projects as appropriate. provided the wetlands remain undisturbed and
their natural functions are not impaired.
Policy 1.4.7: ,Apply the
following mitigation measures 'f direct impact upon wetlands cannot be
avoided:
• Mitigation will be allowed based upon no net loss of wetland functions.
• Comply with the wetland protection standards of federal, state, regional, and
county agencies.
• Minimize impacts through innovative design layouts.
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• Compensate for impact by enhancing other degraded wetlands on-site, restore
natural functions of other wetlands on-site, create new wetlands on-site, preserve
significant upland areas, or off-site mitigation.
Policy 1.4.8: Encourage mNEitigation through restoration of degraded wetlands on-site or
preservation of significant upland areas on-site ather than
through wetland creation.
Objective 1.5: Floodplains and Floodways. The City shall ensure long-range protection of functions of the
remaining floodplains and floodways.
Policy 1.5.1: TL... ~'~-• -~---" --Protect access to floodways for stream management by requiring a
drainage easement.
Policy 1.5.2: Maintain regulations a ainst#er development within the floodplains and floodways
in the City's Code of Ordinances to prevent flooding.
Policy 1.5.3: Require that there is no new net encroachment in the
flood plains or floodways without compensating storage.
~ Policy 1.5.4: Require that no hazardous materials or wastes
be stored within the 100-year flood plain.
Policy 1.5.5: Design nPlew and replacement sanitary sewer systems to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the water supply systems and discharge
from the systems into floodwaters.
Policy 1.5.6: Locate o9n-site waste disposal systems to avoid impairment to them
or contamination from them during flooding.
Policy 1.5.7: Require nPJew septic s sy tems~ks-Het to be located outside of wi##+e-the 100-
year flood plain.
Objective 1.6: Wildlife and Listed Species Protection. The City shall appropriately use and protect wildlife
and wildlife habitat.
Policy 1.6.1: Thhe-C-it-y--sHe-41-Develop an ordinance containing provisions for the review of
developments adjacent to lakes and wetlands and other natural areas for their
impacts upon these natural systems.
Policy 1.6.2: Require as part of the development review process that prior to development
approval, proposed development must coordinate with all appropriate agencies and
comply with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission Rules as well as other applicable Federal and State Laws
regarding protection of endangered and threatened wildlife.
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Policy 1.6.3: Protect listed plant and
animal species by the following proceduressl~ ted-:
A Prohibit di3evelopment within any established or proposed
conservation or wildlife habitat easements however the--Eit-•T~t,,llow the
transfer of development rights for the easement area.
B Regulate the following activities inn areas identified as being environmentally
sensitive, or as having within them endangered and/or threatened wildlife; the
to ensure that such areas are preserved:
1 The removal, excavation, or dredging of soil, sand, gravel, minerals, organic
matter, or materials of any kind;
2 The changing of existing drainage characteristics, sedimentation patterns, flow
patterns, or flood retention characteristics;
3 The disturbance of the environmentally sensitive area's water level or water
table by drainage, impoundment, or other means;
4 The dumping or discharging of material, or the filling of an environmentally
sensitive area with material;
5 The placing of fill or the grading or removal of material that would alter
topography;
b The destruction or removal of plant life that would alter the character of an
environmentally sensitive area or wildlife habitat; and
7 The conduct of an activity that results in a significant change of water
temperature, a significant change of physical or chemical characteristics of
environmentally sensitive area water sources, or the introduction of pollutants.
Objective 1.7: Biological Diversify. The City shall encourage the preservation of the rich biological
diversity of the plant and animal life in the area.
Policy 1.7.1: The C~t~•~-~,;;--a^versee the completion of an area-wide evaluation to identify
regionally environmentally significant areas that should be set aside as protected
conservation lands.
Policy 1.7.2: Encourage with incentives #e~-natural resource and open space
protection, and require sound land stewardship management practices to restore,
preserve, "~,~`v~r"e, and/or maintain native ecosystems within conservation areas.
Policy 1.7.3: THe-Ei#~-sfie~eEncourage the use of Florida-friendly/Waterwise implant material
in all parks and City facilities. This includes any linking pathways between parks and
open spaces to interconnect the ecosystems throughout the city.
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Policy 1.7.4: Tbe--E~i#y--sl~e~--Pursue grant funding for acquisition of properties identified as
regionallyecologically significant.
Objective 1.8: Energy Conservation and Susfainability. The City shall support sustainability and encourage
energy conservation.
Policy 1.8.1: Provide incentives by 201 2, through the City'si#s land
development code and fee structure to encourage energy efficient land use patterns
and other environmentally-friendly development practices (e.g. multi-modal vertically
integrated mixed-use development, LEED, Green Globes, Florida Green Building
Coalition standards, Liow Impact Ddevelopment, Energy Star, WaterSense and
Florida Water Star).
Policy 1.8.2: 'Incorporate incentives by 2012, in the City's ~s~-fts-land
development code and fee structure to encourage developers of subdivisions, site
plans, and building plans to best use natural heating and cooling, natural light, solar
energy, rainwater management, intelligent buildings community design, as well as
incorporation of the natural topography and native non-invasive vegetation.
Policy 1.8.3: Consider endorsing the U.S. Conference of Mayors
Climate Protection Agreement.
Policy 1.8.4: Tl~e Cry-~",e;T~onsider energy use, potential vehicle miles traveled (VMTs), multi-
modal options, existing infrastructure, as well as housing and employment options when
making land use and infrastructure investment decisions.
Policy 1.8.5: °~ ~~', 1, •~~ ~~+-• ~"~~~'Incorporate a draft "Smart Growth Concept Map" of planned
or potential smart growth locations by 201 1 and dopted• by
2012. The map is to be dynamic and will be updated periodically to reflect changes
in local land use and transportation plans that may influence the designations of the
smart growth locations. To the extent reasonable, the map will be coordinated with
adjacent governments and pertinent agencies.
Policy 1.8.6: Apply for Florida Green Building Coalition Local Government
status by 201 1.
Policy 1.8.7: Have at least one employee obtain LEED
certification by 2012, to the extent practical, and shall attempt to continue having at
least one LEED certified employee.
Policy 1.8.8: Direct the City'si#~ purchases to
energy efficient, recycled, or otherwise "green" products, when and where these are
available and to the extent it is practical and economical. These would include, but
not be limited to windows, doors, light fixtures and bulbs, HVAC mechanisms, high-
efficiency motors and pumps, appliances, -paper products, fertilizers, cleaning
materials, non-VOC paints, carpets, adhesives, and anti-freeze.
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Policy 1.8.9: ~:'-- '"•-• ~"--" -Recycle
w~c+tefieisoffice materials, to the extent practical.
Policy 1.8.10: 'Incorporate incentives for on-site reuse and recycling of
construction and demolition materials into its land development code, by 2012.
Policy 1.8.11: Retrofit these
City's fleet of motor vehicles with the most efficent " "tires when
new tires are required,. to the extent that these tires are reasonably available and
competitively priced.
Policy 1.8.12; T"-- ~'•-• ~"--" Encourage community gardens on appropriate locations in existing and
new residential subdivisions and s1~4} encourage edible landscaping in appropriate
locations.
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INTRODUCTION
1. Purpose
As stated in Rule 9J-5.013, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), the purpose of the Conservation Element
is to promote the conservation, use, and protection of natural resources. This Element of the Winter
Springs Comprehensive Plan identifies and analyzes sources of surface and groundwater, wetlands, flood
plains, air quality, valuable minerals, soil erosion, dominant vegetative and wildlife communities, listed
vegetative and wildlife species, and the potential for conservation, use, and protection of these vital
resources.
2. Environmental Setting
Winter Springs is located in Seminole County, in east-central Florida. The City is bordered to the north
by Lake Jesup and is situated entirely within the Middle St. Johns River Drainage basin. Winter Springs
possesses an abundance of natural resources including clean air; wetland and upland forests, which
provide habitat for wildlife; uncontaminated groundwater, recreational opportunities, open space, and
storage of floodwaters, all of which contribute to the well being of the City and its inhabitants. The City's
natural features are identified on Map I-1 located in the Future Land Use Element.
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ap V-1: Natural Features Map -map being updated will include Springs Hammock, Lake Jesup and Lake
esup Wilderness Area; maps will be oriented horizontally; may be moved to Future Land Use section. ~et~
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Legend
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NhnterSprings CitylimRS
Natural Lands
Water Bodres
,~ , __~ W~lands
Elevation
High :47.946827
Low :0.207075
Miles
1 0.5 0 1 2
taap is for graphic reprentat~on only.
actual data must be veniied with Crty Statt
Sources
The USGS National Eievatron DatBSet {NED)
Semmae County
SJRLh'R7D
Produced for The Ctty of VJlnler Springs
By Planning Communities. LLC 200fl
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INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS
1. Surface Water
Winter Springs is divided into five surface water basins, which include Lake Jesup Outlet, Soldier Creek
Reach, Gee Creek, Howell Creek, and Bear Creek. These surface water basins are represented in Map
IV-D-2 of the Drainage Element of this Comprehensive Plan. Surface water resources in Winter Springs
consist of portions of the southern shore of Lake Jesup and its major tributaries: Soldiers Creek, Gee
Creek, and Howell Creek, as well as Bear Creek and portions of Little Lake Howell. These dominant
water features are depicted in Map I-11 located in the Future Land Use Element.
Stream Condition Index Reports from Florida's Department of Environmental Protection for Gee and
Howell Creeks in Winter Springs in the late 1990's indicated that water quality at these locations was
very good at that time. Suggestions in these reports for maintenance of the environmental health of these
creeks included maintenance and addition of stormwater management improvements; restoration of
riparian zones, and preservation of wetland areas.
The Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Water Quality, Integrated Water Quality
Assessment for Florida: 2006 305 (b) Report and 303(d) List Update as well as the Lake Jesup
Interagency Restoration Strategy, January 2008, was utilized to assess water quality of the City's lakes
and provided information on several common pollution problems. The following are water quality
characteristics identified within these reports:
1. Fecal Coliform Bacteria 5. Chlorophyll a
2. Dissolved Oxygen b. Trophic State Index (TSI)
3. pH 7. Nitrogen
4. Un-ionized Ammonia 8. Phosphorus
Lake Jesup is located in the heart of Seminole County, along the middle basin of the St. Johns River. It
encompasses an area of approximately 16,000 acres including open water and flood plain.
According to the Integrated Water Quality Assessment for Florida: 2006 305 (b) Report and 303(d) List
Update, Lake Jesup was reported to have extremely abundant populations of blue green algae. In
addition to adding to the eutrophy of the lake, these algae can potentially produce chemicals that can
cause liver, brain, and skin toxicity. The Lake Jesup interagency Restoration Strategy, published in
January 2008 by Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Fish & Wildlife Commission, and the
St. Johns River Water Management District noted how the lake is hypereutrophic with almost constant
algal blooms demonstrating the heavy phosphorous loading. The 2008 Lake Jesup Interagency
Restoration Strategy notes the lake is impaired by high levels of nitrogen, phosphorous and un-ionized
ammonia; the 2006 Florida assessment also identified impairment for exceedance of the TSI parameter.
Additionally, according to the Lake Jesup Conservation Area Land Management Plan, Middle St. Johns
River Basin (2008), Jesup has been recognized as the most polluted lake directly connected to the St.
Johns River. The 2008 Restoration Strategy notes that prior to 1983, Lake Jesup received marginally
treated wastewater discharge via Howell Creek and various wastewater facilities. Although wastewater
no longer empties into the system, various parameters did not recover sufficiently to restore the lake. A
Basin Management Action Plan is currently under development to further improve water quality of the
lake through nutrient load reduction and various other measures. Reducing the pollutants in the lake will
result in improving its value and vitality as a natural resource and recreational area. In 2007, Seminole
County and its municipalities approved an interlocal agreement to significantly streamline
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intergovernmental cooperation and funding opportunities to address the issue of Total Maximum DailX
Load [TMDL) for impaired water bodies without creating a new entity or superseding the authority of
individual jurisdictions. TMDL is a calculation of the maximum amount of a pollutant that a water body
can receive and still meet water quality standards The City is currently undertaking a TMDL study to
evaluate the City's alternatives in meeting its TMDL requirements
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Map V-2: Dominant Water Bodies -being updated; may be moved to Future Land Use Section
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Legend
Roads
Winter Springs City limits
Water Bodies
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Miles
N 1 0.5 0 1 2
2. Wetlands
Wetlands are defined as transitional areas between the open waters of streams, lakes and the adjacent
uplands. They are characterized by vegetation and animal life that is uniquely adapted to the natural
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fluctuations of wet and dry conditions. Wetlands provide many important functions such as providing
vital fish and wildlife habitats, and acting as storage areas for excess surface water. They also improve
water quality by performing the same function as a settling pond. Impurities enter the wetland and are
filtered through the vegetation. As the water travels through the wetland, toxins and nutrients are
removed, allowing the filtered clean water to exit the wetland. This protects the rivers from overloading
with nutrients. In addition, the soil is stabilized which, in turn, prevents erosion. However, much of this
natural, ordered system of surface water purification is quickly disappearing due to urban encroachment.
A fair amount of wetland habitat still exists in the Winter Springs area and is scattered throughout the
City. Though most of this wetland habitat is found along the shores of Lake Jesup, a significant portion
extends into the center of the City. The majority of Winter Springs' wetlands are of the Palustrine nature.
A Palustrine system includes any non-tidal wetlands dominated by trees, shrubs, persistent emergents,
emergent mosses, and all such wetlands that occur in tidal areas where salinity due to ocean derived salts
is below 0.05%. In addition, diminutive areas of Lacustrine wetland can be found along Lake Jesup's
southern shore. A Lacustrine wetland is, by definition, lake-associated and may include freshwater
marshes, aquatic beds, and lakeshores. The Palustrine wetlands within Winter Springs consist of: hydric
hammocks and hardwood swamps, with small areas of cypress, bayhead, and wet prairie, while the
minute section of Lacustrine wetland consists of water and shallow marsh. Map I-2_located in the Future
Land Use Element depicts wetlands within the Winter Springs area, while wetland vegetative cover is
represented on Map I-3 also located in the Future Land Use Element.
•
•
V-14
~ap V- 3: Existing Wetlands -map being updated to identify Palustrine and Lacustrine wetland types; also
1x17 horizontal orientation; may be moved to Future Land Use Section
•
s
rid
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Legend
-;
~~r,~`f~ fir; Wetlands ~ Winter Springs City
Roads Water Bodies
Miles
N 05 ~ 2
V-15
~ap V- 4: Wetland Vegetative Cover -map will be updated/edited; also, 1 1x17 horizontal orientation;
~~may be moved to Future Land Use Section
•
•
v
~ ~, ,~
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P..,,, u, Wetland VeO~taHOn ® µ,„~..,«r s::.r,r,;:
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W Wr
NYdrb 1lammcA ~ NNI Pmn1f
Miles
N 1 0.5 0 1 2
V-16
3. Flood Plains
The City of Winter Springs participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administered by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The 100-year flood plain in Winter Springs is predominately limited to the
shorelines adjacent to Lake Jesup, Little Lake Howell, Lake Talmo, and the riverine flood plains of
Soldier's Creek, Gee Creek, Bear Creek, and Howell Creek. Policies are included to enable the long-
range protection of the City's flood plain areas.
Encroachment on flood-prone areas can occur as a result of artificial fill associated with development
activity. Encroachment takes away the floodwater holding capacity of an area, resulting in an increase
in flood hazards beyond existing flood-prone areas. In order to ensure public health and safety and
minimize flood hazard to public and private property, it is recommended that net encroachment within
the flood plain be prohibited.
According to the City of Winter Springs' Code of Ordinances, a development permit is required before
construction or development begins. When new construction and substantial improvements do occur in
areas of special flood hazards, they shall be constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to
flood damage and shall be constructed using methods and practices that minimize flood damage.
Additional requirements require a minimum elevation above the flood plain for the lowest floor elevation,
as well as electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, air conditioning equipment, and other service
facilities.
Hazardous materials can be dangerous when located in flood prone areas, as floodwaters can diffuse
spills to surface waters and aquatic populations. Therefore policies require that' no
hazardous materials or wastes be stored within the 100-year flood plain. In addition, new and
replacement sanitary sewer systems are required tos#el} be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration
of floodwaters into the water supply systems and discharge from the systems into floodwaters. On-site
waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them or contamination from them during
flooding. No new septic tanks can be located within the 100-year flood plain, as this can contribute to
surface water quality problems. Existing septic systems within the flood plain should be removed and
connection made to the City's sanitary sewer service, when possible.
Special flood hazard identified by the Federal Emergency Manaaement Agency (FEMA) in the die-epees
Flood Insurance Study for Seminole County dated
September 28. 2007 with the accompanyinq_Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and other sueportinq
data wer adopted by the Citvt#~e-Ei*y~ in January 2008. The FIS and FIRM are the
minimum area of applicability and may be supplemented by studies of other areas These areas
correspond with the FEMA Q3 flood plain data displayed in the flood zones illustrated in Map I-4 Flood
Zones located in the Future Land Use Element. The FEMA definitions for these zones are as follows:
Zone A
Zone A is part of the special flood hazard area and the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to
the 1-percent annual chance floodplains that are determined in the Flood Insurance Study by
approximate methods of analysis. Because detailed hydraulic analyses are not performed for such areas,
no Base Flood Elevations or depths are shown within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase
requirements apply.
~htq~://www.Eema.~ov/]plan/pceveut/fhrn/fci gcn13 shhu
v-1~
• Zone AE and Al-A30
Zones AE is part of the
special flood hazard area and A-1-~A-are the flood insurance rate zones that
correspond to the 1-percent annual chance floodplains that are determined in the Flood Insurance Study
by detailed methods of analysis. In most instances, Base Flood Elevations derived from the detailed
hydraulic analyses are shown at selected intervals within this zone. Mandatory flood insurance purchase
requirements apply.
Zone AH
Zone AH is part of the special flood hazard area and the flood insurance rate zone that corresponds to
the areas of 1-percent annual chance shallow flooding with a constant water-surface elevation (usually
areas of ponding) where average depths are between 1 and 3 feet. The Base Flood Elevations derived
from the detailed hydraulic analyses are shown at selected intervals within this zone. Mandatory flood
insurance purchase requirements apply.
Zones B, C, and X
Zones B, C, and X are the flood insurance rate zones that correspond to areas outside the 1-percent
annual chance floodplain, areas of 1-percent annual chance sheet flow flooding where average depths
are less than 1 foot, areas of 1-percent annual chance stream flooding where the contributing drainage
area is less than 1 square mile, or areas protected from the 1-percent annual chance flood by levees. No
Base Flood Elevations or depths are shown within this zone. Insurance purchase is not required in these
zones.
•
•
V-18
ap V- 5: Flood Zones -map will be updated/edited; also 11x17 orientation; may be moved to Future
and Use Element
•
L J
Legend
~~
rloo®~.~new,eu
FLOOD 20NE
C : PCT ANlVfLLCHM/C;E FL'JOD /MWtD
I>• A
- <«
kr:
~. ` r^
Miles
1 2
Map rs for graphic reprentation only:
actual date must be verified with Cdy StatF
30UrGB4
The USGS National Elevation Dataset (NED)
Sertunole County
SJRWMO
Produced for The Ciry of Vlhnter Springs
sy Planning Communises. LLC 21)09
N dal
1 0.5 0
V-19
i
4. Air Quality
The City of Winter Springs has a very limited amount of air pollution. This can be attributed to the
minimal existence of air pollution sources found within the City. FDEP's Air Pollution Inventory System
monitors point sources of air pollution, which are stationary and usually industrial; and area sources, which
are combined emissions of many small stationary sources in an area. According to the FDEP, Winter
Springs has two active point sources, in proximity to Winter Springs, but not under the City's jurisdiction.
These are the MacAsphalt plant located on State Road 419 which manufactures -asphalt, and Premix
Marbletite, which manufactures cement products and is located in a county enclave on Old Sanford
Oviedo Road. There are three active area sources, which are all dry cleaning operations. The locations
of these point and area sources are identified in Map V-I. An inventory of each active point and area
air pollution source is provided in Table V-1.
Table V-1: Inventory of Permitted Point and Area Sources of Air Pollution in Winter Springs
•
Facility AIRS ID Facility
Name
Number
Address Jurisdiction
Point Sources
MacAsphalt
Plant 1 170019 655 SR 419 Seminole County
Premix 1 170373 520 Wade Seminole County
Marbletite Street
Area Sources
Star Brite 1 170066 1301 West City of Winter Springs
Cleaners SR 434
Red Bug 5275 Red
Dry 1 170073 Bug Lake Rd Seminole County
Cleaners #101
Classic
Touch
1 170360 180 West
City of Winter Springs
Cleaners SR 434
•*Satelite location for pick up and delivery in the Winter Springs Town Center
Source: FDEP Orlando Air Resources Division, October 2008
The quality of ambient air, which is the outside air we breathe, is monitored by the FDEP. Currently there
are no ambient air monitoring stations in Winter Springs, but there is one in Seminole County located at
Seminole Community College. This station (site) is FDEP maintained and includes one ozone, one coarse
particulate, and one set of fine particulate monitors. Fine particulates or PM~.s are particles which are
2.5 micrometers in diameter or less. Coarse particulates or PM~o are particles greater than 2.5, but less
V-20
than or equal to 10 micrometers in diameter. At the present, FDEP does not conduct ambient air
monitoring for Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Dioxide, or Sulfur in Seminole County. These pollutants are
likely present in Winter Springs, but well below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, according
to the FDEP. While there is no ambient monitoring for Lead, it is practically non-existent in Florida. An
assessment of these pollutants is provided below.
a. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is emitted by motor vehicle exhaust. Exhaust emissions from automobiles pose
a threat of increased carbon monoxide emissions. However, existing traffic patterns within the
City are such that large concentrations of traffic seldom accumulate for long periods of time. This
helps to negate the possibility of large concentrations of carbon monoxide from forming.
C7
•
V-21
ap V- 1: Monitored Air Pollutant Sources -map will be edited/updated; also, 1 1x17 horizontal oriented
•
n
Le n
ge d
Roads
Winter Springs City limits
Water Bodies
Map is for graphic reprentation only;
actual data must be verified with City Staff
Sources
The USGS National Elevation Dataset (NED)
Seminole County
SJRWMD
Produced for Tha City of Winter Springs
fay Plannrny Con?nwrnhes LLC ~(X:9
N t._.._._ ___ ~ -----
1 0.5 0 1 2
f
V-22
•
•
•
b. Lead
While lead is found naturally in the environment, it is the man made lead which is most prevalent.
Legislation from the Environmental Protection Agency has reduced the amount of lead allowed in
gasoline to the point that the maximum allowable level of lead in gasoline stands at 0.1 grams
per gallon. According to the FDEP, lead as an air pollutant is practically non-existent in the State
of Florida except in areas that have lead smelters or process batteries. Therefore, Winter
Springs should face no substantial problems with lead.
c. Nitrogen Dioxide
catalytic converters. These converters act as a
the further proliferation of nitrogen dioxide.
reduction in nitrogen dioxide formation.
The threat of nitrogen dioxide forming in heavy concentrations in Winter Springs is relatively low
due to the traffic patterns of the city, and also to environmental legislation. The prime contributor
of nitrogen dioxide to the atmosphere is the high temperature fuel combustion engine. Under
legislation from the Federal Clean Air Act, new model cars are required to be equipped with
d. Ozone
filter of car exhaust, thereby helping to prevent
Mandates for clean fuels also contributed to
On March 12, 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) changed the National
Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for the pollutant ozone (Os), the principal component of
smog. The primary (health-protective) standard was changed from 0.08 parts per million (ppm)
to 0.075 ppm. The secondary (public welfare-protective) standard was also set at 0.075 ppm.
Compliance with the standards is based on the three-year average of the annual fourth highest
maximum daily 8-hour concentration. With these new standards Seminole County is compliant;
however, it shares the same Metropolitan Statistical Area with Orange County which currently
exceeds the new 0.075 ppm standard.
Ozone is considered to be a problem for highly urbanized areas. The City of Winter Springs,
while not highly urbanized, could still be affected by ozone in the future through the growth of the
Orlando area as indicated by Orange County's current ozone exceedance. Ozone is borne in
the air and formed through reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.
The worst ozone conditions are hot, calm winded days. During this type of weather, the
atmosphere becomes extremely heated causing increased reactions and levels of ozone to grow.
Without wind the ozone remains in a concentrated area causing further pollution problems.
e. Sulfur Dioxide
Human made sources of sulfur dioxide represent about one third (1 /3) of all measurable amounts.
Most is emitted through coal fired or oil fired electric generation plants. The City of Winter
Springs' power plant, Progress Energy ,though not within corporate
City limits, is afossil-fueled plant that uses oil, coal, or gas in the generation of electricity. Sulfur
dioxide is also generated in small quantities by combustible engines. However, as stated earlier,
negligible levels produced by automobiles are present in Winter Springs.
f. Particulate Matter (PM~o and PM2sl
There are two k~u-man-made classifications of particulate matter. They are fine (PM~o) and
coarse (PM2.s). Sources of PMio include motor vehicle emissions, power generation, combustible
V-23
engines, and sources produced from some industrial activities. Sources of PM2.5 include dirt from
unpaved streets, dry topsoil from agricultural fields, and dust from construction or mining. Human
made emissions, which contribute to the overall levels of particulate matter, are very minimal in
relation to the naturally occurring matter. However, fine particles are most closely associated
with health effects. Human made sources of this pollutant are now being controlled by new
technologies, such as inertial separators and wet collection devices and other air pollution control
devices and processes.
g. Overall Ambient Air Quality
The overall air quality within Winter Springs is expected to remain good in the future.
Fortunately, more stringent standards imposed by the EPA and new technologies are such that the
generation of severe pollution problems has been curbed considerably. The foremost concern for
Winter Springs will be the encroachment of the Orlando Urban Area, and those pollution
problems associated with highly urbanized areas.
5. Hazardous Waste
The City of Winter Springs is fortunate to have no hazardous waste sites within corporate limits; likewise,
there are no hazardous waste cleanup sites in the City. However, there are nine documented sources of
hazardous waste in Seminole County, many of which are also hazardous waste cleanup sites. Monitoring
and overseeing cleanup services are operated by -the Seminole County Environmental Services
Department with coordinated efforts by Seminole County Fire Department, the State of Florida, and
various Federal agencies who monitor the process as required by law. For these services, the hazardous
waste generator would be charged as required by law, or a disaster declaration would be requested
and funding would be available through State and Federal agencies. The FDEP keeps a listing of all
hazardous materials, their amounts, storage methods and disposal methods for small industrial operations
within the County. Locally, the Seminole County Environmental Services Department conducts compliance
assistance visits (CAVs) at businesses and government facilities that potentially generate hazardous waste
or other regulated wastes, investigates citizen complaints related to environmental issues involving either
businesses or private households, and responding to major spills and releases to ensure they are cleaned
up and remediated properly. Seminole County conducts annual site visits as required by the State of
Florida for those businesses that meet or exceed the threshold planning quantity of any Extremely
Hazardous Substance. In addition, the owner occupant is required to submit documentation to the State
and the Local Emergency Planning Committees on the Hazardous Materials at or above the required
I thresholds. This information is sent to the applicable local fire deparments~ ::'••-'~~^ '''^ ~~•-• -; ~^~'
S~ring5 fig-Bep`e~t+~ee#: Any hazardous material generator that meets the hazardous material
threshold as established by the State Emergency Response Commission is required by law to notify the
I Seminole County Environmental Compliance, Assistance and Pollution Prevention Program (ECAP3) Team.:
ECAP3 exists to protect the citizens, employees, environment and County Landfill from exposure or
contamination due to improper management and disposal of hazardous waste or other regulated waste.
Further information on programs for disposal of hazardous waste by the Seminole County Environmental
Services Department is included in the Infrastructure Element, Solid Waste Sub-Element.
6. Commercially Valuable Minerals
The City's most prevalent mineral resource is sand, which is most often used for construction purposes or as
• fill material in Florida. There are several sandpits in Seminole County that are currently operating or
V-24
have been operating in the recent past, none of which are within the City of Winter Springs. Included
within the County are sand pits operated by Excavated Products, Cecil A. Stone, Sullivan Materials,
White Construction, the Florida Department of Transportation, CDS Trucking, and Marquette Shores, Inc.
Although some phosphatic sediments are known to be present in Winter Springs, their ground depth as
well as their unproven quality and quantity makes them uneconomical at the present.
7. Soil Erosion
According to the USDA Soil Conservation Service, there are no major soil erosion problems in the Winter
Springs area. However, it should be noted that sudden impairment to watersheds occurred as a result of
the 2004 hurricane activity and 2007 tornado activity and aid for the installation of emeraencx
watershed protection measures to relieve hazards and damages to the watershed were provided to the
City by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Eerosion problems have also been
found to occur in portions of Howell Creek. This may be due to the land alteration, which has resulted in
unstable stream side-slopes and loss of flood plain vegetation, which may result in sedimentation and
water quality problems. Erosion and sedimentation problems are predominately due to wind and
stormwater runoff over sandy, uncovered soils during construction activity or other clearing activities.
In order to minimize erosion and sedimentation associated with development activities, the USDA Soil
Conservation Service recommends that all developers be required to utilize best management techniques
for erosion control. Landscaping plans are recommended to be required for all industrial, commercial,
and multi-family residential development. It is also recommended that all new development, other than
infill of existing single-family residential lots that are served by regional systems, should include methods
of stormwater retention which ensure post-development water run-off rates do not exceed pre-
development runoff rates.
8. Soils and Vegetative Communities
Soils provide several resource functions including drainage, stormwater filtration, water storage, aquifer
recharge, and ground stabilization. Map I-5 located in the Future Land Use Element illustrates soil types
within the City of Winter Springs.
According to the data provided by United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service,
the dominant soils in the developed areas within the City of Winter Springs consist of Urban Land-
Astatula-Apopka and Urban Land-Tavares-Millhopper soils which are characterized by being well-
drained soils that are sandy throughout and contain a loamy sub-soil at a depth of 40 inches or more
and are generally found in upland areas. Only a few areas of native vegetation exist in these soil types
since they are well suited for the development of houses, large buildings, shopping centers, golf courses,
and other urban uses. The dominant native vegetative communities found in these soil types consist of
bluejack oak, live oak, and turkey oak. The understory includes chalky bluestem, Indian grass, panicum,
pineland threeawn, and annual forbs.
Soils located in the undeveloped areas of the City including flatwoods, sloughs and depressions include
the Myakka-Eau Gallie-Urban Land and St. Johns-Malabar-Wabasso soil types. In the flood plains,
depressions, creeks and swamps the Nittaw-Felda-Floridana and Pompano-Nittaw-Basinger soil types
are found. These soil types are all poorly drained and support vegetation such as slash pine, saw
palmetto, cypress, and other water tolerant vegetation.
•
V-25
i~
i~
i•
Map I-5 General Soil Characteristics - likely moved to Future Land Use Element; will be
edited/updated; also 11x17 horizontal orientation
L3gev~d
o
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Miles
N __ _ _ __
1 0.5 0 1 2
1
V-26
9. Dominant Animal Species within the Winter Springs Area
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided Map V-2 Florida Managed Areas.
Map V-2 shows the strategic habitat conservation areas within the vicinity of Winter Springs. The Lake
Jesup Conservation Area Land Management Plan, February 2008 notes that the site provides habitat for
both fish and wildlife, including species such as wood stork, bald eagle, Florida sandhill crane and the
American alligator. The Florida Natural Areas Inventory is the primary source for information on Florida~s
conservation lands. National parks, state forests, wildlife management areas, local and private
preserves are examples of the managed areas included in the Florida Managed Areas.
•
•
V-27
Map V- 2: Florida Managed Habitat Conservation Areas -map will be formatted~updated~edited,
hatching removed; also 1 1x17 horizontal orientation
.~
n
Florida Managed Areas
City of Winter Springs
V
Lower Wekiva' River _~
Preserve Stele Park '.,
Lake Monroe ' ~;
i •,1 ~~~ ~
i~ ._
"~~ ake Hbnroe r
r~ ~' Conservation Area '
C `
I
k Spr'rn~gs+ `' ~ r~
Run W~ki a Spn s T
ate Reserve S to Park- I"_
- I - I ..
t - ~-! Lake Jesup
~ i Cars_ervation l3ea
mil-
y
~' ~ t,
.-Wekiv Rivpr ( / - I ~f/, : Consetr~vat Area
f' - - _
~ B Her ~ ing~ r` • k Preserve - ~ ~' - '
Ctbnserv aNr Area lake Jessup i~j
- _r• //.
I` NNnler Sprln ~ e Big Ec
~~ ~ tale Foret
r~~ ' ~
~_ en ~,
7 :__f ~ ` rdNP
P `
L -- _
r-' lake ~ N~.
` -------~ Howell '?~ -
._~ ~ on Ri er
--- ^~ ~ ~L ~ ~ftdern ss
,Area
~ ~~ ,;
l~ FknaW Mmraywd Ai+a~ Mile6
- 0.9npi Ro.xls G ? ~ 3 4 5
Q cry d wxttor sprn+~?4
Q Cnm+ty Bnunda+y
® PwKwl F, ac
2008 5183
Source: Florida Fish 8~ Wildlife Conservation Commission -Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, December 2008.
V-28
10. Listed Plant and Animal Species within the Winter Springs Area
In January 2009, ecological reports by the Florida Natural Inventory were prepared to identify listed
vegetative and wildlife species existing for the Winter Springs Area. While the database is the most
comprehensive source of information available on the locations of rare species and other significant
ecological resources, it is not always based on site-specific surveys. The report notes that `based on
available information the area appears to be located on or very near a significant region of scrub
habitat, a natural community in decline that provides important habitat for several rare species within a
small area.'
The two tables below indicate threatened and endangered species in the Winter Springs area. Table V-
2shows those species with documented occurrences and notes the state and federal status. Table V-2a
lists species and natural communities likely to occur in the site based on suitable habitat and~or known
occurrences in the vicinity, as well as species that have the potential to occur based on the known or
predicted range of the species. While a number of animal species have the potential of occurrence,
these have not all been confirmed by direct observation.
Table V- 2a: Listed Animal and Plant Species Documented in or Near Winter Springs.
Species Type and Common
Name Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission United States Fish and Wildlife
Services
Reptiles
astern Indigo Snake Threatened Threatened
Gopher Tortoise Threatened
Florida Pine Snake Species of Special Concern
Species Type and Common
Name Florida Department of Agriculture United States Fish and Wildlife
Services
Plants
Hay Scented Fern Endangered
Florida Willow Endangered
i
Source: FNAI Element Occurrences, January 1 2, 2UU5'.
•
V-29
Table V- 3~b: Listed Plant and Animal Species Occurrence Likely or Potential in or Near Winter Springs.
Species Type and Common
Name
Occurrence:
Likely /Potential Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation
Commission
United States Fish and
Wildlife Services
I Birds
Wood Stork Likely Endangered Endangered
Florida Scrub-jay Potential Threatened Threatened
Florida Burrowing Owl
Potential Species of Special
Concern
Florida Sandhill Crane Potential Threatened
I Mammals
Florida Mouse Potential*
*Species has been
observed in the City
according to staff.
Species of Special
Concern
Sherman's Fox Squirrel Potential Species of Special
Concern
I Florida Black Bear Potential Threatened
anatee Potential Endangered
Fish
Bluenose Shiner Potential Species of Special
Concern
Amphibians
Gopher Frog Potential Species of Special
Concern
I Plants
Carter's Warea Potential
City staff notes that the
range for this plant is likely
not this far east.
Endangered
Endangered
Clasping Warea Potential Endangered Endangered
Many-flowered Grass-pink Potential Endangered
I Chapman's Sedge Potential Endangered
Piedmont Jointgrass Potential Threatened
I Hartwrightia Potential Threatened
Nodding Pinweed Potential Threatened
V-30
Species Type and Common
Name
Occurrence:
Likely /Potential Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation
Commission
United States Fish and
Wildlife Services
Florida Beargrass Potential Threatened
Giant Orchid Potential Threatened
Large-flowered Rosemary Potential Threatened
Sand Butterfly Pea Potential Endangered
Beautiful Pawpaw Potential Endangered Endangered
Star Anise Potential Endangered
Florida Spiny-pod Potential Endangered
Celestial Lily Potential Endangered
Cutthroat Grass Potential Endangered
Okeechobee Gourd Potential Endangered Endangered
Ruguel's Pawpaw Potential Endangered Endangered
Source: FNAI Element Occurrences, January 12, 2009; City of Winter Springs, January 26, 2009.
Although not included in the likely or potential occurrences provided by the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory as shown in Table V-2b, City staff note that additional Florida threatened or endangered
plants including the needle palm, royal fern, cinnamon fern and milkvine (Matelea) have been observed
in the City.
Map V-3 identifies the element occurrences of animals and plants identified in the Florida Natural Areas
Inventory, as well as federal, state, local and private conservation lands and rare species habitat. Map
V-4 identifies species occurrences within the vicinity of Winter Springs including scrub jays, wading bird
rookeries (1999), eagle nesting sites, Florida Natural Areas Inventory sites and wildlife observations of
listed species (in 2002). These elements indicate the documented presence of these animals in the area.
Some species are not included in site specific listings by the FWRI staff, and only those reported are
entered into their database. Map V-5 is a Species Occurrence map for the black bear, as those data
points overwhelmed the other species data points. The City of Winter Springs has experienced several
bear nuisance calls between 1980 and 2007 as indicated by the red triangles in Map V-5.
•
V-31
Map V- 3: Species Occurrence
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V-32
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Map V- 4: Species Occurrence
Species Occurrences
City of Winter Springs
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Source: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission -Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, December 2008.
V-33
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Map V- 5: Black Bear Occurrences
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Black Bear Occurrences
City of Winter Springs
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Source: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission -Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, December 2008.
V-34
11. Commercial, Recreation and Conservation Uses off Natural Resources
a. Commercial
No large-scale operations for the extraction of commercially valuable minerals take place within
Winter Springs. The same is true for other natural resources, which are susceptible to exploitation
by industries such as forestry and commercial fishing.
The primary commercial exploitation of natural resources is development. Through land clearing,
vast amounts of upland vegetative communities have been destroyed or altered. However, these
upland plant communities are better suited to development than wetland areas, and do not pose
as many governmental regulatory problems for developers as wetland areas do.
Another minor commercial use of natural resources within the Winter Springs area is that of the
numerous fishing guides located within the Seminole County area. However, sport fishing is a
minor draw on natural resources of the lakes in the Winter Springs area, and it can be noted that
fishing enthusiasts rely on recreational fishing methods for their catch, rather than netting or other
commercial means. No large-scale commercial operations dependent upon natural resources are
anticipated to locate within Winter Springs at this time.
b. Recreation
A large portion of the recreational and leisure activities of Winter Springs' residents revolves
around the Lake Jesup lakefront area. Central Winds Park, the City's largest developed
community park is~e located on Lake Jesup and provides abundant opportunities for resource-
based activities. Amenities in these parks amenities include 2 playgrounds, sand volleyball courts,
a large multi-purpose field, numerous baseball and softball fields, lacrosse fields, and a fishing
area. A passive area located on the west side of the park includes pavilions, picnic grills,
horseshoes, and a nature trail. Currently, Central Winds Park is utilized for its fishing
opportunities, and water sport enthusiasts can hope to see future development of the lakefront
area for boating and canoeing as well once the quality of Lake Jesup improves from clean-up
efforts. Wildlife known to inhabit the lakefront area includes American alligators and bald
eagles, which can be observed from the park. In addition, Bear Creek Nature Trail, which
parallels Bear Creek, provides a pleasant hiking trail which utilizes the creek and the natural
vegetation for passive public recreation As well as the nature trail, this park is a popular
picnicking location for Winter Springs' residents. Cross-Seminole Trail, a heavily used trail is
discussed in further detail in the Recreation and Open Space Element. This b-mile link of the
regional trail network extends from Layer Elementary School to the Oviedo City Limits and
connects many of the City's parks and schools with the Winter Springs Town Center and the
regional trail network. The City has numerous parks and recreational areas which are detailed in
the Recreation and Open Space Element.
c. Conservation
Conservation uses are defined by the Department of Community Affairs as being "activities or
conditions within land areas designated for the purpose of conserving or protecting natural
resources or environmental quality, including areas designated for such purposes as flood control,
protection of quality or quantity of groundwater or surface water, floodplain management,
commercially or recreationally valuable fish and shellfish, or protection of vegetative communities
•
V-35
or wildlife habitats." Lake Jesup is one area, in particular, that should be preserved from the
damaging effects of urbanization.
Lake Jesup is a hydrologically complex system with a large urbanized watershed. Not only does
the land surrounding Lake Jesup provide public recreational opportunities, but the marshes that
are a part of those lands help to maintain animal habitat, improve water quality, and also allow
for the storage of large volumes of water during rainy periods, thus providing flood protection
for surrounding communities. However, decades of wastewater effluent discharges directly into
the lake, stormwater discharges from surrounding tributaries, the construction of berms that
segregated the lake from parts of its floodplain, and a causeway that reduced the lake's
connection with the St. Johns River have all taken a toll on the sensitive ecosystem. The discharges
have left a legacy of algae, frequent fish kills, and a thick layer of muck more than 9 1 ~2 feet
deep. The berm constructions further aggravated the problem by inhibiting the lake's ability to
cleanse itself.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC), and St. John's River Water Management District (SJRWMD)
have worked together and endorsed implementation of strategies to address the excessive
external nutrient loading and in-lake nutrient concentration components. The 2008 Lake Jesup
Interagency Restoration Strategy outlines a strategy designed to meet restoration goals, provides
a timetable for implementation, specifies agency responsibilities, and identifies specific
restoration milestones to be used to trigger implementation of additional work as necessary.
This seven step strategy outlined in the document is divided into two phases and includes:
Phase 1
S 1. Develop the Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP)
2. Reduce external nutrient loads
3. Reduce nutrients in the lake water column
Phase 2, implemented as necessary
4. Implement projects to further improve water clarity
5. Implement projects to increase native vegetation and control exotic species
6. Implement projects to establish healthy fish and wildlife habitat and populations
Throughout the Restoration Process
7. Monitor water quality
Phase 1 activities are required and will be coordinated by FDEP and SJRWMD staff. Phase 2
activities will be implemented as needed based on Phase 1 outcomes. Monitoring is planned to
occur throughout the process to evaluate specific projects and the overall success of the restoration
strategy. The Restoration Strategy aims to enhance Lake Jesup to meet Class III water quality
standards and support healthy, fish and wildlife habitats and populations.
Source: The Lake Jesup Interagency Restoration Strategy report from January 2008
•
V-36
d. Protection of Ground Water
The City of Winter Springs draws its public supply of water from the fFloridan aquifer. ~4e-ry-I-6
. The
City's most effective aquifer recharge areas are generally high, dry uplands with permeable soils
and poor surface drainage. These are: areas that are typically well suited for land development.
Within the Winter Springs area, the Floridan aquifer receives moderate recharge in the central
portion of the City and considerably higher recharge in the southwest portion of the City. As the
upper zone is recharged, some leakage occurs, replenishing the lower zone as well. A map
detailing the areas of greatest recharge is included ~-~e#ein the Aquifer Recharge Element
Great care should be taken to protect areas of groundwater recharge since development can
compromise water quality.
. Additionally, Map I-b in the Future Land Use Element illustrates the location
of water wells and cones of influence.
The City has three interconnected water treatment plants and eight public water wells, which
supply the entire eCity. The potential for hazardous waste or pollutant contamination of the wells
is greatly reduced by the fact that they are located within residential areas. To ensure that
wellheads are exempt from contamination„ the City adheres to all FDEP standards pertaining to
wellhead protection. At the present, the City is not aware of any risk of contamination from
hazardous waste or other groundwater pollutants.
12. Potential for Conservation, Use or Protection of Natural Resources
a. Conservation
The w>A<etlands, surface water, ground water, and #fie-other natural resources which have been
detailed within this Element; are all worthy of being conserved. The future existence and integrity
of these resources depends on the actions we, as citizens, take today. To assist in the conservation
of natural resources, the City's Code of Ordinances should more strictly govern development.
Specifically, wetlands should be protected through mitigation and transfers of density within a site
from wetland areas to upland areas and, surface waters should be protected through drainage
enhancements as identified within the Drainage Sub-Element of this Plan. An estimated 25
percent of the potable water supply is used for irrigation purposes, realizing this the City of
I Winter Springs operates a reuse water reclamation system with 1,720 residential customers, #we
one golf course, the Ceity's parks, and public rights of way. Voluntary residential and
commercial water conservation will be achieved through the City's participation in water
conservation efforts of the St. Johns River Water Management District. These efforts include
brochures kept in the City's public building, notices on #-e--water bills, and expansion of the
reclaimed water system. The City's Code of Ordinances will require the installation of water-
saving plumbing devices including low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets within new
developments.
b. Use
The uses of natural resources, whether for commercial or recreational purposes have been
discussed previously within this Element. The Code of Ordinances should determine the extent to
which natural resources may be used.
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• c. Protection
Protection of existing natural resources is important. Three areas or resources merit special
protection. These three areas include:
• Wellhead fields,
• 100 year floodplain, and
• Wetlands.
Wellhead fields should be protected to ensure that the potable water supply for the City is
protected from contamination. As mentioned previously, the City adheres to wellhead protection
provisions administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
The 100-year floodplain needs to be protected to help mitigate the damaging effects of
flooding. Protection of these areas is assisted through the National Flood Insurance Program and
The City's Code of Ordinances.
Wetlands protection has become an important issue to Florida residents. The protection of
wetlands helps to ensure that Florida ground and surface waters remain environmentally intact, as
well as preserving habitat for numerous species dependent on wetlands to survive. Winter Springs
requires a 25' minimum upland buffer. These three natural resources are by no means the only
ones to be protected. Development within areas determined to be ecologically sensitive requires
additional analysis reports to be filed by the developer so that City staff can ascertain the
significance of the proposed impact. .
13. Water Needs
a. Potable Water Sources
The City of Winter Springs receives its potable water supply from the Floridan aquifer, within the
Middle St. Johns (MSJ) groundwater basin. The natural quality of groundwater in this basin varies
greatly depending on the location and the depth from which water is obtained. A major concern
in this basin is saltwater intrusion in Seminole County. Although the County is located inland from
sea, there are some patches of connate saltwater in the Floridan aquifer. The potable water in
the aquifer is underlain by denser saline water. The potential exists for this saline water to
migrate upward within the aquifer system in response to declines in the potentiometric surface.
However, Winter Springs is located outside the areas in Seminole County that have chloride and
sulfate concentrations of equal or greater than 250 mg~l. The FDEP has set a recommended limit
of 250mg~1 of chloride and sulfate for public water supplies. Therefore, it can be concluded that
the Floridan aquifer underlying Winter Springs is of good water quality. Consequently, only
aeration and chlorination treatment are required to provide the City with potable water.
The City's water system consists of three water treatment plants, which serve approximately
12,500 equivalent connections. Water is supplied to the three plants by eight potable water
wells and the entire system is permitted to ~w#erw-treat a maximum of 12 million gallons per
day.
b. Potable Water Demand
Future water demand based on population projections is included within the Potable Water Sub-
Element.
V-38
c. Reclaimed Water Demand
Future demand for reclaimed water and plans to expand the City's reclaimed water program is
included within the Potable Water Sub-Element.
d. Agricultural Water Demand
Agricultural land uses within the City of Winter Springs are minimal. Agricultural operations that
utilize the City's potable water facilities are non-existent, as are agricultural users that employ
water from surface waters or from wells that require SIRWMD consumptive use permits. Due to
the increasingly urbanized nature of Winter Springs, the City's Future fLand +tUse +~Map does not
include an agricultural future land use designation.
e. Industrial Water Demand
Industrial water demand, including reclaimed uses, has been expressed within the Potable Water
Sub-Element of this Comprehensive Plan.
•
•
V-39