Hydropattern: The pattern of inundation or saturation of an ecosystem.

Hydroperiod: The frequency and duration of inundation or saturation of an ecosystem. In the context of characterizing wetlands, the term hydroperiod describes that length of time during the year that the substrate is either saturated or covered with water.

Indian River Lagoon: Extending for 156 miles from north of Cape Canaveral to Stuart along the east coast of Florida, this lagoon is America's most diverse estuary, home to more than 4,000 plant and animal species.

Infiltration: The movement of water through the soil surface.

Irrigation: The application of water to crops and other plants by artificial means.

La Niña: This cycle brings unusually cool ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. In Florida, La Niña increases the chances of below normal rainfall in the dry season.

El Niño: This cycle is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. In Florida, El Niño increases the chances of above normal rainfall in the dry season.

Lagoon: A body of water separated from the ocean by barrier islands, with limited water exchange with the ocean through inlets.

Lake Okeechobee: Measuring 730 square miles, the second largest freshwater lake located wholly within the United States.

Levee: An embankment to prevent flooding or a continuous dike or ridge for confining the irrigation areas of land to be flooded.

Littoral: Of, relating to, situated or growing on or near a shore.