This report is a revision and update of existing recharge maps of the Floridan aquifer system to include quantitative information derived from Regional Aquifer Systems Analysis models as well as other recent information and also includes information on discharge from the system. The report represents predevelopment conditions with inset map that describes the change in recharge resulting from development. Recharge is greater in areas where the Floridan is unconfined, poorly confined, or the overlying confining layer is breached by sinkholes, such as is commonly found in the area extending from Tallahassee to Tampa. Discharge from the Floridan is dominated by spring flow. Spring flow is common in the area between Tallahassee and Tampa. Offshore discharge by upward leakage and submarine springs also is an important component of the flow system. Little inflow or outflow occurs from the Floridan in large areas of Florida, including south Florida and the extreme panhandle. The principal factors affecting recharge to the Florida aquifer system are the thickness and hydraulic conductivity of the overlying confining bed. Other factors of importance include the vertical hydraulic gradient, water available for recharge, and aquifer transmissivity.
