Florida Water Geek

  Florida Water Shortages It seems like Florida's been getting more rain. But several areas in Florida are still under a Phase II Severe or Phase III Extreme Water Shortage. This means increased restrictions on irrigation and other water uses. Who makes the call about water shortages and what restrictions are in place? Why is it important to follow the restrictions? Florida's five Water Management Districts determine the Water Shortage Phase for each of their areas. Hydrologists use rainfall data, water flows, groundwater levels and water usage to determine if there is sufficient water to meet the needs of the population.  Even if there seems to be plenty of rainfall, a lengthy drought can greatly diminish water supplies. Replenishing our aquifers and increasing our stream flows can take a lot of time.  Also, the rain may not be located in a recharge area. For instance, water supply in the Jacksonville area is from a confined portion of the Floridan Aquifer. Rain falling...

  How Are Stormwater Contaminants Removed? It may seem like rainwater just hits the ground, flows down the street  and out to the nearest river, lake or ocean. But stormwater collection and treatment systems are more complicated than that.  Rainwater that falls gently on lawns or in woods, may percolate into the soil. But, as stormwater flows over impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, parking lots, roads, highways, construction sites and more, it picks up contaminants that could end up in our natural waters: Sediment Oil, grease, antifreeze, metals Detergents Microplastics Lawn clippings, leaves, yard waste and other organics Fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides Bacteria from pet waste and wildlife  Trash/Litter These contaminants affect water quality and may harm aquatic plants and animals. And in some parts of Florida, the affected waters are drinking water sources. While drinking water must go through a highly regulated treatment process, contaminants from...