c.f.s 
SEASONAL STREAMFLOW CHARACTERISTICS 
The yearly cycle of freshwater inflow to the bays closely reflects 
the seasonal progression of climatological conditions in the region. 
Average monthly streamflow values for three long term stations on rivers 
flowing to Tampa Bay are illustrated in Figure 5. Streamflow, like 
rainfall, is highest in the late summer with a much smaller peak in 
February and March. Also, pronounced low flow periods occur in April-May 
and November-December. The differences between spring and wet season 
streamflow values, however, are generally greater than differences 
between spring and wet season rainfall. This is partly because 
streamflow is related to preceding conditions; i.e., increases in 
streamflow during September are associated with already high levels from 
August. Some of the differences between spring and late summer 
streamflow levels, however, are due to higher net runoff during the late 
summer caused by saturated soil conditions. 
Average Monthly Streamflow 
900 - 
800 - 
700 - 
600 - 
500 - 
400 - 
300 - 
200 
100 
0 
J FMAMJJASOND 
Manatee [^] Little Manatee H Alafia 
near Bradenton (discontinued) near Wimauma at Lithia 
Figure 5. Average monthly streamflow for three stations on the Manatee, 
Little Manatee and Alafia Rivers. 
23 
