A multi-criteria assessment of the C-111 hydrologic restoration project – A case study

Abstract

The hydrologic restoration of the Everglades ecosystem is underway within the C-111 basin. Some early projects have been operating for over 10 years and can now be quantitatively assessed. Some recent research presented in Wetlands provides a good beginning. This research article complements those efforts with a broader project assessment by focusing on buffer lands east of Everglades National Park and in the adjacent water control canal system. This article reviews the restoration progress of the C-111 Project over 12 years against its original performance metrics established in 1999–2000 using a multi-criteria assessment methodology. The authors, including members of the original project design team, discuss the original design hypotheses and then organize the assessment into quantity, quality, timing, and distribution (e.g. QQTD) metrics consistent with the overall restoration objectives of the Everglades system. The assessment is unique given that the original designers were afforded a rare opportunity to see how well their restoration plan actually worked. The broad assessment that was completed includes a 28 year water budget of the L-31 N/C-111 Canal located on the boundary of the Everglades; an accounting of undesirable discharges to Barnes Sound/Manatee Bay; an assessment of hydrologic restoration of buffer land wetlands; an assessment of water quality in the study area; and, an assessment of flood impacts. The study results reveal a mixed record of success for the original restoration plan.