Past human
uses, including the construction of berms, dikes and drainage
channels, have altered the hydrology and soils in the Lake
Lafayette basin. Interconnected wetlands were fragmented into
the artificial basins that exist today. In addition,
nutrient-laden stormwater from surrounding development flows
into the lake, altering the habitat for aquatic plants and
animals.
L. Kirk
Edwards is managed to improve the habitats for waterfowl and
wading birds. The FWC maintains approximately 80 wood duck nest
boxes on the Lake Lafayette portion of the property. The
structures provide high quality nest sites for this species,
which helps to maintain the local population. This effort is
part of a statewide research and monitoring project.
The
past installation of water barriers stabilized water levels and
prevented the periodic drying out and reflooding that would have
naturally occurred. As a result, aquatic vegetation has
overgrown approximately 94% of the surface of Lower Lake
Lafayette. Floating islands of vegetation (tussocks) can clog
waterways and trap boats. FWC and the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection use periodic herbicide applications and
mechanical harvesting to reduce the extent and density of the
aquatic vegetation.
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