Water Resources Monitoring

​​​​​​​Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (ACEPD) has been monitoring water quality throughout Alachua County since the 1970's. The current monitoring program includes sampling of groundwater (21 sites bi-annually), surface water (31 creeks and lake sites quarterly), and wastewater plants (15 facilities sampled quarterly).

Data from sampling activities are shared with various agencies including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Data is available through the state Watershed Information Network, (WIN). Wastewater inspection data is compiled into a report every five years and is available to the public on our Reports page.

Elevated nutrient concentrations are one of the main threats to water resources and are likely caused by fertilizer run off from yards and agricultural operations, and effluent from septic and wastewater systems. High levels of fecal coliform bacteria are also a concern in the surface waters of urban creeks. Likely sources of fecal coliform include septic systems, sanitary sewer overflows, pet waste, illicit discharges, and wildlife.

ACEPD responds to complaints and water quality concerns and works continuously in the urban watershed to identify potential pollution sources. Please contact Gregory Owen at gowen@alachuacounty.us for water quality or stream gauge data or call ACEPD at 352-264-6800 to report water quality concerns and potential wastewater spills.

Stream Gauge Locations 
Watershed Fact Sheets

These two-page fact sheets contain fun facts, watershed description and nutrient concentrations. Fact sheets were created so Alachua County citizens can learn about their local water bodies, including how to protect and enjoy them.

Watershed MapView Full Watershed​ Map
Gainesville Clean Water Partnership Gainesville Clean Water Partnership logo ​

Visit the The Gainesville Clean Water Pa​rtnership for interactive maps and more information about Gainesville’s creeks.