Performance measures are tools used in the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) to evaluate the degree to which proposed project plan alternatives are likely to meet restoration objectives and to assess the success of implemented plans in meeting restoration objectives. Performance measures and their associated targets are also integral components of CERP Adaptive Management.

Hydrological and ecological performance measures are developed through conceptual ecological models that identify or hypothesize how stressors and restoration from CERP will influence system attributes (e.g., species, populations, communities, or processes representative of overall ecological conditions). Performance measures for other water-related needs of the system, such as water supply and flood protection to meet urban and agricultural needs, are derived from state and federal regulations (e.g., Minimum Flows and Levels). Development and application of performance measures is a dynamic process that incorporates new scientific understandings and technological improvements. As our understanding of the ecosystem grows, existing performance measures are refined, and new performance measures are developed.

Public and Agency Review and Comment Period for Draft CERP System-wide Performance Measures

RECOVER announced a 30-day public and agency review and comment period for two draft CERP system-wide performance measures:

• Water Supply: MFL Prevention Strategy to Reduce Saltwater Intrusion of the Biscayne Aquifer
• Water Supply: Reduce Saltwater Intrusion of the Biscayne Aquifer in South Miami-Dade County

RECOVER developed these performance measures to evaluate and assess the performance of CERP to protect the Biscayne aquifer from saltwater intrusion. These performance measures were first developed in 2005, and the current drafts reflect the most up-to-date modeling tools and include both evaluation (i.e., simulation of future CERP performance) and assessment (i.e., monitoring and analysis to report on status and confirm whether progress toward Interim Targets are being met) protocols.

The deadline for Public and Agency Review and Comment Period has passed. Thank you for your comments. The final versions will be posted to the website in April 2026 and will include a copy of the Comment Matrix with responses, if applicable.