(1) This chapter establishes minimum flows and levels for surface watercourses and minimum levels for groundwater at specific locations within the St. Johns River Water Management District.
    (2) Where appropriate, minimum flows and levels may reflect seasonal and long term variations and may include a schedule of variations and other measures appropriate for the protection of nonconsumptive uses of a water resource.
    (3) In establishing minimum flows and levels the Governing Board shall use the best information and methods available to establish limits which prevent significant harm to the water resources or ecology. The Governing Board will also consider, and at its discretion provide for the protection of nonconsumptive uses, including navigation, recreation, fish and wildlife habitat, and other natural resources.
    (4) Where a minimum flow has been established for a specific watercourse or a minimum level has been established for a specific surface water body, the flow or level is expressed as a fluctuation regime which will include a series of minimum flows or levels reflecting a temporal hydrologic regime that will prevent significant harm to water resources or ecology.
    (5) Minimum flows and levels prescribed in this chapter are used as a basis for imposing limitations on withdrawals of groundwater and surface water for reviewing proposed surface water management and storage systems and stormwater management systems, and for imposing water shortage restrictions. The limitations and review criteria are prescribed in other rule chapters of the District.
Rulemaking Authority 373.044, 373.113 FS. Law Implemented 373.042, 373.415 FS. History-New 9-16-92, Amended 8-17-94.