Florida, being a beautiful state with a warm climate year-round, attracts over 300,000 new residents each year. With such a fast-growing population, it dramatically puts a huge strain on the water supply and the necessity for all of us to conserve.
Not only is it critical to conserve our aquifers and fresh water supplies, but it is also equally important we attempt to minimize contaminated stormwater from reaching our water supply.
The impact of stormwater runoff, and any potential harmful contaminants can partially be mitigated through the effective use of construction site erosion control and best management practices. Additionally, finished landscapes should be designed so stormwater can flow effectively into swales and canals allowing the rain fall to channel cleanly to local ponds, lakes, rivers, and eventually to our coastal areas.
Stormwater runoff that flows into lakes, rivers and wetlands will eventually make its way gradually to the groundwater aquifers that supply our drinking water. When it rains, stormwater runoff typically flows over impervious surfaces like roads and parking lots, collecting pollutants such as chemicals, oils, and sediments along the way. This runoff can then enter storm drains, which often discharge directly into nearby lakes, rivers, or wetlands.
The result of how clean the stormwater becomes depends on the natural processes of infiltration. It is important to note that the journey from stormwater runoff to groundwater is not immediate. To protect drinking water supplies, it is important to manage stormwater runoff properly. Implementing measures like green infrastructure and implementing permeable pavement can help promote infiltration and reduce the quantity of runoff entering water bodies directly that may be initially contaminated.
KCI can consult with you and help define appropriate solutions based on your construction site, your budget, and the type of runoff issues you may be expecting. Call KCI today on 888-346-7779.
