FL S1118

Relocates the Florida LAKEWATCH Program from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture to the School of Forest Resources and Conservation's Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Program at the University of Florida.

Expands the program's scope to include collection of water quality data from streams and estuaries in addition to lakes.

Permits the Department of Environmental Protection to use LAKEWATCH Program data if collection methods meet sufficient quality assurance and quality control requirements, removing the previous prohibition on use in regulatory proceedings.

Maintains existing program duties including volunteer training, data compilation, public education, and equipment provision.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.