Economic Fishery Valuation of Five Vegetation Communities in Lake Okeechobee, Florida
Vegetated areas of the littoral zone of Lake Okeechobee were sampled with 0.8-ha block nets during fall 1989, 1990, and 1991 to estimate fish assemblages and standing crops in 5 vegetation communities common in Florida. Data were used in conjunction with economic impact data of known-cause fish kill events, Rule 17-11.01 (animal damage valuation), Chapter 403, Florida Statutes, to estimate monetary values of the fisheries of important Lake Okeechobee vegetation communities. Mean total impact values per hectare of vegetated area ranged from $44,626 for Illinois pondweed (Potamogeton...
