Maintaining Water Quality

Tranquil sunset over a calm lake with silhouetted trees.

The Construction Generic Permit (CGP) allows a construction site to discharge surface stormwater associated with large or small construction activity to Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) and waters of the State. Construction projects that impact over an acre of land or part of a larger common plan of development are required to execute the…

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Does a Stormwater Consultant require a Certification?

Construction worker using a tablet on site.

Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration and the Florida Water Quality Restoration Program implements the Florida Stormwater, Erosion, and Sedimentation Control Inspector (FSESCI) Qualification Program. The FSESCI certification provides a vehicle for individuals to become a qualified erosion and sediment control inspector and consultant. This certification educates a person in the skills to fully understand…

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Why Stormwater Inspections are Important

A calm pond with logs and green foliage around it.

Last week we talked about the topic of stormwater – what it is and how it can impact the environment. As we learned, stormwater is the runoff that collects on impermeable surfaces like roads, parking lots, and graded unvegetated soils. This water can pick up all sorts of pollutants along the way, like oil, chemicals,…

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What is Stormwater?

Vehicle tire tracks in wet muddy terrain on a sunny day.

Over the years, it has become clear that there is a serious contributor to the problem of maintaining water quality. There is still a significant percentage of US Waters considered polluted and contaminated. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires states to regulate stormwater runoff which has become apparent as one of our primary threats to…

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2024 Hurricane Season Approachs

Sunset over a calm ocean with waves gently touching the shore.

The weather continues to heat up and the climate is beginning to change. We are now at the beginning of Hurricane season, and we are entering the hottest months of the year in Florida. Heat and Humidity rises and can be brutal if you are not prepared. Remember to take precautions to stay safe and…

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Post Construction Stormwater Erosion Controls

A peaceful park pathway lined with trees and lampposts on a sunny day.

Implementing post construction stormwater controls is important to manage the impacts of stormwater runoff once a construction project is completed. The intention of such controls is put into place to reduce the volume and potentially improve water quality, ultimately protecting water resources and minimizing potential flooding and pollution. A construction site upon completion of a…

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Protect your Outlet

Pile of gray rocks near a black drainage pipe.

Protecting your storm drain outlets is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your overall stormwater drainage system. During periodic inspections, it is essential to monitor these critical components and address any issues that may arise. During periodic inspections pay close attention for stormwater bypassing or damaging established energy dissipators such as riprap that may need…

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Protect your Storm Drain

Round metal storm drain grate on asphalt road with shadows of tree leaves.

A stormwater drainage system should always be designed and structured for safe operation and maximum control of the stormwater being released. In Florida, especially during our typical rainy season, storm drain systems are tested every day for durability when stormwater flow can emerge with high volume and velocity.  During periodic inspections, pay close attention to…

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Authority Inspections do Happen

Two men in yellow safety vests reviewing a blueprint indoors.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or state authority monitors and inspects industrial and construction stormwater management practices. Their goal is to ensure the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for stormwater discharge is in place and there is a fully documented and up to date Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Authorities will also review how…

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The Importance of Mangroves

Sunlight filters through mangrove roots reflecting on calm water.

Mangroves are considered one of the only trees or shrubs capable of living in salt water. Mangroves are an important ecosystem found throughout Florida’s coastal areas. These trees and shrubs that are easily acceptable to salt water, can become dense forests along coastlines, estuaries, and lagoons.   The protection that mangroves provide along the Florida coast…

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