The important features to note from this report are the total number of plants, the percentage of exotics, and the number of pest plants. Greater total numbers mean greater diversity and typically are indicative of healthier lakes. Relatively low percentages of exotics and low numbers of pest plants are also desirable. Also, some citizens and managers are interested in the specific types of plants found and these lists are provided.
Most surface waters of the state are classified as Class III, meaning that they are designated to support "recreation, propagation and maintenance of a healthy, well-balanced population of fish and wildlife." For this to be achieved, a healthy habitat in and around the waterbody is required. The presence of many exotic species may require greater future management efforts to control their spread and prevent them from restricting the designated uses of the waterbody. Of these exotics, the ones listed as Category I or II by the Florida Invasive Species Council are considered the most ecologically harmful.
Use the reports here and compare them against others in your watershed or lake region for some general comparison. Are there great differences in ecology?
