Impacts of the Tampa Bypass Canal system on the areal hydrology, Hillsborough County, Florida

Construction of the Tampa Bypass Canal, Florida has resulted in an increase in streamflow from the canal area. Base-flow discharge is more than twice preconstruction amounts. Discharge from springs has decreased by one half or more. Ground-water levels show an increase of up to 4 feet near structure S-160 due to impoundment of water. Elsewhere, levels have generally decreased by 2 to 4 feet. Some minor changes in water quality have occurred. Some of the changes, however, may be attributed to factors other than canal construction. (USGS)