Stormwater compliance refers to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulations and best practices to manage stormwater runoff from construction sites, industrial facilities, and other entities that encounters large amounts of stormwater. Being compliant includes the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to prevent contamination of stormwater and to minimize environmental impacts.
Regulations typically include inspections, monitoring, and reporting requirements, as well as penalties for noncompliance. Compliance with stormwater regulations and best practices is essential to protect the environment, public health, and to ensure sustainable development.
Florida’s coastal landscapes as well as several inland waters have been set aside for protection as aquatic preserves. Florida is a state that draws millions of tourists each year. However, many of the unique Florida fresh and coastal waters that attract people to Florida are also endangered. The Aquatic preserves program was designed to protect Florida’s thriving waters ensuring they are always home for birds, fish, seagrass meadows and mangrove forests.
Florida enacted the Aquatic Preserve Act in 1975. Stated from the FDEP website, “The Aquatic Preserve Act was instigated to ensure the perseverance of the state’s beauty and scientific value will remain for years to come.”
Here are some specific advantages for having protected aquatic preserves.
- Wildlife Habitat – These waters are critical nurseries for fish and other aquatic life.
- Recreation – Aquatic preserves are available for Florida’s residents and visitors’ enjoyment.
- Cultural Heritage – archaeological sites have been found within and near Aquatic Preserves.
Florida is very fortunate to have 42 aquatic preserves that comprise more than two million acres. Florida established the Aquatic Preserve Act bringing existing preserves under a standard set of management criteria. This rigid management process will maintain the environmental diversity and alluring beauty of these delicate aquatic preserves for future generations to enjoy.
Florida is full of protected zones and construction projects can inevitably jeopardize these areas when planning out new development. KCI is ready to help you eliminate stormwater pollution and ensure nearby aquatic preserves remain clean for years to come. Call us today on 888-346-7779.
