St. Andrew-St. Joseph Bays
Watershed Hydrology
The St. Andrew-St. Joseph Bays watershed covers an area of approximately 1,826 square miles in Florida. The region is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters. The primary hydrological feature of the watershed is the Apalachicola River, which is fed by numerous tributaries, including the Chipola and Chattahoochee Rivers. The region experiences significant precipitation, with an annual average of 60 inches, and has a complex system of surface water bodies, including lakes, wetlands, and estuaries. The snowpack in this region is generally minimal, as it is situated in the Gulf Coast region. The watershed is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many rare and endangered species. Recent trends in the watershed include the decline of oyster populations in the bays and increased nutrient loading from agriculture and urbanization.