HUC-12 Performance Standards
Understanding Hydrologic Unit Code Boundaries
The new Performance Standards are based on project location within a Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) 12 boundary and downstream correlation to Impairments or waters designated as Outstanding Florida Waters (OFWs).
Florida HUC-12 Boundary Map
with Impaired Waters and OFWs Overlay
How to Determine Your Project Requirements
- Locate your project on the HUC 12 Boundaries map with Impaired Waters and OFWs
- Determine whether Impaired Waters or OFWs are involved downstream
- Select the appropriate performance standard for your project based on the water classification
HUC-12 watersheds are the smallest hydrologic unit in the USGS watershed boundary dataset, typically ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 acres. By tying performance standards to these scientifically defined boundaries, the new rule ensures that treatment requirements reflect actual downstream water quality conditions and protection needs.