Thesis (Ph. D.)--Florida State University, 2005. / Advisor: Dr. Frances C. James, Florida State University, Collece of Arts and Sciences, Dept. of Biological Science. Title and description from dissertation home page (viewed June 7, 2005). Document formatted into pages; contains xvii, 141 pages. Includes bibliographical references.

Megginnis Arm of Lake Jackson in Tallahassee, Florida, has experienced rapid eutrophication as a result of development within the contributing area watershed. Bottom sediments were sampled for purposes of mapping, classifying and designating for removal. Sediment desiccation studies were performed to determine the percent of consolidation and sealing characteristics of the soils in the event of a lake drawdown. Restoration alternatives are presented and compared on the basis of field investigations, laboratory testing and analysis, and the desiccation study. Alternative methods are discussed with respect to the cost, the flexibility and the problems inherent in the different proposals. From the geometry of Megginnis Arm, and construction permit limitations, this study was limited to methods of restoration which include dredging, drawdown and excavation, drawdown and compaction, and drawdown with dredging. By comparing the costs, the practicality, and geotechnical investigation and the flexibility of alternative methods, it is concluded that the drawdown and excavation method is the alternative. The dredging and drawdown and dredging alternatives were determined to be uneconomical and risky. These methods are not recommended.