Florida Water Resources Journal - September 2026 by Florida Water Resources Journal

Editor’s Office and Advertiser Information: Florida Water Resources Journal 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive Clermont, FL 34711 Phone: 352-241-6006 Editorial, editor@fwrj.com Display and Classified Advertising, ads@fwrj.com

Business Office:

1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711 Web: www.fwrj.com General Manager: Editor: Graphic Design Manager: Mailing Coordinator:

Michael Delaney Rick Harmon Patrick Delaney Buena Vista Publishing

Published by BUENA VISTA PUBLISHING for Florida Water Resources Journal Inc. President: Richard Anderson (FSAWWA) Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority Vice President: Joe Paterniti (FWEA) Clay County Utility Authority Treasurer: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority Secretary: Rim Bishop (FWPCOA) Seacoast Utility Authority

Moving? The Post Office will not forward your magazine. Do not count on getting the Journal unless you notify us directly of address changes by the 15th of the month preceding the month of issue. Please do not telephone address changes. Email changes to changes@fwrj.com or mail to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711

Membership Questions FSAWWA: Casey Cumiskey – 407-979-4806 or Casey@fsawwa.org FWEA: Laura Cooley, 407-574-3318, admin@fwea.org FWPCOA: Darin Bishop – 561-840-0340

Training Questions FSAWWA: Donna Metherall – 407-979-4805 or Donna@fsawwa.org FWPCOA: Shirley Reaves – 321-383-9690

For Other Information FDEP Operator Certification: Ron McCulley – 850-245-7500 FSAWWA: Kim Kowalski – (407) 979-4814 Florida Water Resources Conference: 267-884-6292 FWPCOA Operators Helping Operators: John Lang – 772-559-0722, oho@fwpcoa.org FWEA: Laura Cooley – 407-574-3318, admin@fwea.org

Websites Florida Water Resources Journal: www.fwrj.com FWPCOA: www.fwpcoa.org FSAWWA: www.fsawwa.org FWEA: www.fwea.org and www.fweauc.org Florida Water Resources Conference: www.fwrc.org Throughout this issue trademark names are used. Rather than place a trademark symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, we state we are using the names only in an editorial fashion, and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no intention of infringement of the trademark. None of the material in this publication necessarily reflects the opinions of the sponsoring organizations. All correspondence received is the property of the Florida Water Resources Journal and is subject to editing. Names are withheld in published letters only for extraordinary reasons. Authors agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Florida Water Resources Journal Inc. (FWRJ), its officers, affiliates, directors, advisors, members, representatives, and agents from any and all losses, expenses, third-party claims, liability, damages and costs (including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees) arising from authors’ infringement of any intellectual property, copyright or trademark, or other right of any person, as applicable under the laws of the state of Florida.

News and Features

4 Study Advances Machine Learning Calibration of Biosensors for Microcystin Toxin Monitoring in Freshwater 6 Water Resources Management Programs: Planning and Implementation—Florida Department

14 17 35 46 54 56

of Environmental Protection

Malicious Cyberattacks Target and Compromise Water and Wastewater Sector In Memoriam: William Gibson Young A Legacy of Water Quality: The City of Lake Worth Beach’s Diversified Portfolio FSAWWA at 100: Historic Water Treatment Landmarks: A Three-Part Series News Beat Tampa Bay Water Offers Water Conservation and Protection Grant Program

Technical Articles

20 A Resilient Stormwater and Coastal Management Plan for Hollywood, Florida—Michael Schmidt, Jonathan Goldman, Thomas Nye, Vincent Morello, and Richard Wagner

26 Speak Their Language: Elevating Water’s Value Through Strategic Communication—Kelly Flowers Hass

Education and Training

38 CEU Challenge 39 FWEA Air Quality & Odor Control Conference 42 FSAWWA Fall Conference Highlights 43 FSAWWA Fall Conference Registration 44 FSAWWA Fall Conference Poker Night and Happy Hour 45 FSAWWA Fall Conference Incoming Chair’s Reception and BBQ 48 Florida Water Resources Conference 55 FWPCOA Training Calendar

Columns

16 FWEA Chapter Corner: Growing Partnerships for Cleaner Waters: FWEA Central Florida Chapter Volunteers With Seminole County SERV Program 18 C Factor—Kevin G. Shropshire 36 FWEA Focus—David Hernandez 37 Test Yourself—Charles Lee Martin Jr. 40 Let’s Talk Safety: Water Utility Worker Safety: Planning and Setting Up a Traffic Control Zone 50 Reader Profile—Camryn Swain 52 Speaking Out—Tyler Tedcastle

Departments

57 Classifieds 58 Display Advertiser Index

Volume 77

ON THE COVER: A lake shoreline in Florida restored with native vegetation. For more information go to page 16. (photo: Elizabeth Stephens)

September 2026

Number 9

Florida Water Resources Journal, USPS 069-770, ISSN 0896-1794, is published monthly by Florida Water Resources Journal Inc., 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711, on behalf of the Florida Water & Pollution Control Operator’s Association Inc.; Florida Section, American Water Works Association; and the Florida Water Environment Association. Members of all three associations receive the publication as a service of their association; $6 of membership dues support the Journal. Subscriptions are otherwise available within the U.S. for $24 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Clermont, Fla., and additional offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Florida Water Resources Journal, 1402 Emerald Lakes Drive, Clermont, FL 34711

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 3

Study Advances Machine Learning Calibration of Biosensors for Microcystin Toxin Monitoring in Freshwater A machine learning model adjusts toxin readings for water quality variability, enabling faster, lower-cost onsite testing without repeated recalibration Portable screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) biosensors offer a rapid and low-cost way to detect microcystin-lysine-arginine (MC-LR), an extremely potent toxin produced by cyanobacteria during harmful algal blooms in freshwater. Even at low concentrations, MC-LR can damage the human liver and has been linked to an increased risk of liver and colon cancer. The World Health Organization has set a guideline value of 1 microgram per liter for MC-LR in drinking water. The SPCE sensors work by measuring changes in an electrochemical signal that reflects the toxin’s concentration; however, the accuracy of these sensors is strongly affected by the water being tested. Factors such as pH, turbidity, electrical

conductivity, and other water quality parameters can interfere with the sensor’s readings, often requiring recalibration for each water sample. Researchers from Hanbat National University, South Korea, and the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando have developed a machine learning framework that accounts for water quality differences, enabling accurate MC-LR measurements without repeated sample-specific calibration. The study was led by Professor Jungsu Park from Hanbat National University and Professor Woo Hyoung Lee from UCF. Their paper was made available online in March 2026 and was published in Volume 298 of Water Research in June 2026. “This work provides a robust data-driven

4 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

framework for characterizing biosensor-water matrix interactions and offers a practical approach to improving the speed and accuracy of onsite MC-LR detection in complex environmental waters,” says Park. To build and train the model, the team members collected 201 measurements from 27 field sites across Florida, including freshwater, estuarine, and transitional environments, representing a wide range of water conditions. For each water sample, they measured pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nanometers, and the biosensor’s electrochemical impedance, which changes in response to MC-LR. These measurements served as the input variables, while the model was trained to predict the actual concentration of MC-LR. Various machine learning models were evaluated, and one performed the best, achieving a Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.89 and a root mean square error of 13.21. This level of performance demonstrated that a single unified model could accurately predict MC-LR concentrations across different water samples without requiring separate calibration models for each condition. To identify which input variables had the greatest influence on the model’s predictions, the researchers used an explainable artificial intelligence method called Shapley Additive Explanations. They found that the biosensor’s electrical impedance was the strongest predictor of toxin levels, followed by electrical conductivity, pH, ultraviolet absorbance, and turbidity, showing that incorporating water quality parameters improves the accuracy of biosensor predictions. “This framework eliminates the need for repeated sample-specific calibration, reducing time, labor, and sensor consumption. Compared to conventional workflows, it can reduce sensor usage, thereby lowering cost and environmental burden while improving analytical efficiency,” says Park. As harmful algal blooms become more frequent with climate change, this data-driven approach could make toxin monitoring faster, more accurate, and easier to deploy in drinking S and recreational water testing.

Water Resources Management Programs: Planning and Implementation Florida Department of Environmental Protection The Division of Water Resource Management of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is responsible for implementing state laws providing for the protection of the quality of Florida’s drinking water, groundwater, rivers, lakes, estuaries, wetlands, and the reclamation of mined lands. The division is composed of several programs that perform water facilities regulation, along with operational support services and functions. The majority of division staff is located in Tallahassee; however, the mining and mitigation, oil and gas, phosphate management, and onsite sewage programs have staff operating in satellite offices throughout the state. The division serves as Florida’s central point of contact for federally delegated water programs, such as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Underground Injection Control (UIC) and the assumed State 404 Program, which allows the state to assume authority over the federal dredge and fill permitting process under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), and has regulatory oversight of certain functions of water and wastewater facilities throughout Florida. These facilities include industrial and domestic wastewater, septic tanks, NPDES stormwater, power plants, municipal separate storm sewer systems, and public drinking water systems. The division is also responsible for permitting phosphate mineral processing facilities and associated phosphogypsum stack systems

and environmental resourcing of mines and mitigation banks, and coordinates the interagency review and certification for building, operating, and maintaining power plants, transmission lines, and natural gas pipelines. The FDEP continues to work toward safeguarding Florida’s water resources and enhancing natural systems through partnering with local communities, and providing a more certain, consistent, and effective regulatory process.

Aquifer Protection Program The Aquifer Protection Program (APP) consists of a team of dedicated employees, including geologists and engineers, who implement the federal UIC program in Florida. Subsurface injection, which is the practice of placing fluids in a permeable underground aquifer by gravity flow or under pressure through an injection well, is one of a variety of wastewater disposal or reuse methods used in Florida. The APP/UIC program permits the lawful option of disposal of appropriately treated fluids via underground injection wells while protecting Florida’s underground sources of drinking water. These sources are part of an aquifer that is capable of supplying water for human consumption, now or in the future, and has a total dissolved solids concentration of less than 10,000 milligrams per liter. The construction, operation, permitting, and closure activities for injection wells are administered in accordance with Chapter 62528, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), which contains stringent requirements to prevent the

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degradation of the existing water quality of the aquifers adjacent to the injection zone.

Domestic Wastewater Program Proper treatment and reuse or disposal of domestic wastewater is essential for protecting the state’s water, which is vital to Florida’s environment, economy, and future. It is the essence of this unique state and forms the basis for almost all of Florida’s ecosystems. Each person in Florida generates about 100 gallons of domestic wastewater each day. This wastewater must be managed to protect public health, water quality, recreation, fish and wildlife, and the aesthetic appeal of waterways. Domestic wastewater in Florida is treated either by onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS), septic tanks, or by centralized domestic (municipal) wastewater treatment facilities. The majority of the state’s domestic wastewater is treated by larger centralized treatment facilities that are the regulatory responsibility of the wastewater management program of FDEP, which also regulates smaller domestic wastewater treatment facilities, known as package plants. The onsite sewage program has responsibility for regulating OSTDS, which treat approximately 30 percent of the state’s domestic wastewater.

Industrial Wastewater Program In Florida, all wastewater that is not defined as domestic wastewater is considered industrial wastewater. Since Florida is among the nation’s Continued on page 8

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Continued from page 6 most populous and fastest-growing states, industrial wastewater permitting is increasingly important for protection of the water supply. Sources of industrial wastewater include manufacturing, commercial businesses, mining, agricultural production and processing, and wastewater from cleanup of petroleum- and chemical-contaminated sites. Industrial wastewater discharged under NPDES permits may be subject to federal effluent limitations guidelines. In addition, all industrial wastewater discharges in Florida must provide reasonable assurance of meeting Florida’s water quality standards for surface water or groundwater to receive a discharge permit. The industrial wastewater program issues permits to facilities and activities that discharge to surface waters and groundwaters of the state. Industrial wastewater that discharges to domestic wastewater treatment facilities, however, is regulated under the industrial pretreatment component of FDEP’s domestic wastewater program. The FDEP is authorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue permits for discharge to surface waters under NPDES. Permits for discharge to groundwaters are issued under state statutes and rules. Industrial wastewater permits are issued by district offices, with two exceptions: S NPDES permits for steam electric power plants are issued by the industrial wastewater program in the Tallahassee office. S Industrial wastewater permitting for the phosphate industry is handled by the phosphogypsum management program located in Tampa.

Nonmandatory Land Reclamation Program Funding for the reclamation of mined phosphate lands is managed by this program,

which was created as a result of public concerns over the thousands of acres that had been mined for phosphate before reclamation was required by law. Identified parcels dated as far back as 1888. The program was created to provide a cost reimbursement grant for landowners for reclamation to eliminate health, safety, and environmental issues existing on the abandoned mine sites. The grant program was deemed necessary because the cost of reclamation was more than the value of those properties, even after reclamation.

S Land was currently in some form of economic use S Owner declined participation

How the Program Works The program provides funds for reclamation of property mined for phosphate prior to the 1975 introduction of regulatory requirements for reclamation. The grant program reimburses landowners for approved costs of reclamation work to improve environmental and economic utility of lands by removing safety hazards and improving water quality and quantity in affected watersheds.

Program Funding With the exception of fiscal year 20072008, all funding for these programs has been appropriated from the Nonmandatory Land Reclamation Trust Fund. Income into that fund consists of portions of interest earned, a severance tax paid by the phosphate industry (1983-present), a surcharge paid by the phosphate industry (2009-2011), and a phosphogypsum stack fee paid by chemical plants processing phosphates (2001-2007). For 2007-2008, the Legislature appropriated $4 million of general revenue funds for the programs.

Eligibility Lands disturbed by removal of phosphate rock prior to July 1, 1975, have already been identified (149,130 acres) in the 1978 report, Phosphate Land Reclamation Study on Mining and Reclamation. These lands were divided into 748 parcels, and each parcel was classified into one of five land forms: S M ined out S C lay settling area S S and tailings S H ydraulically mined S O ther A total of 222 parcels were omitted from the comprehensive evaluation, for the following reasons: S L and was previously reclaimed S Land was to be utilized by the industry in future

Program Progress As of June 30, 2025, 181 programs (51,867 acres) have been funded and released, two programs (609 acres) have been acquired by the state, and 10 programs (3,889 acres) are currently funded and being reclaimed. During the 20162017 fiscal year, the last two remaining programs were placed under contract.

Oil and Gas Program This program (Chapter 377, Florida Statutes and Rules 62C-25 through 30, F.A.C.) is the permitting authority for oil and gas activity within FDEP. Companies interested in exploration or production of hydrocarbons in Florida are regulated by the program. Primary responsibilities of the program include conservation of oil and gas resources, correlative rights protection, maintenance of health and human safety, and environmental protection. These concerns are addressed through a system of permits and field inspections to ensure compliance. Key activities include the permitting and oversight of drilling and operating wells, as well as geophysical operations. All permitted activities are inspected by oil and gas staff located in the two field offices near Florida’s productive oil fields northwest (Jay) and south (Fort Myers).

Phosphate Management Program This program implements industrial wastewater permitting, compliance, and enforcement activities for the phosphate industry. The program regulates the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of phosphogypsum stack systems and the wastewater systems associated with the chemical plants that process phosphate ore into fertilizer products. The goal of the program is to ensure the proper closure and long-term monitoring and maintenance of those systems that have shut down or are Continued on page 10

8 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 9

Continued from page 8 otherwise required to be closed. The program issues permits for discharge to surface waters under NPDES, as authorized by EPA. The program also administers financial responsibility requirements designed to guarantee that owners/operators have the financial ability to properly close and manage the phosphogypsum stack systems.

(WMDs) in accordance with the division of responsibilities specified in operating agreements between FDEP and the WMDs. The ERP program is in effect throughout the state. The State 404 Program assumes the federal dredge and fill permitting program under section 404 of the CWA within certain waters.

Submerged Lands and Environmental Resource Coordination Program

This program is responsible for overseeing a professional licensure program for all water and wastewater treatment plant operators, along with water distribution system operators in Florida. This is done through mandatory training, developing and administering professional licensure examinations used to determine minimal competencies, and through the implementation and monitoring of continuing education. Licenses are issued in three separate categories: S W ater treatment plant operators S W astewater treatment plant operators S W ater distribution system operators

This program is responsible for the consistent implementation of the Environmental Resource Program and the State 404 Program. An Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) regulates activities in, on, or over surface waters or wetlands, as well as any activity involving the alteration of surface water flows. This includes new activities in uplands that generate stormwater runoff from upland construction, as well as dredging and filling in wetlands and other surface waters. The ERP applications are processed by either FDEP or one of the state’s five water management districts

Operator Certification Program

Each licensure category contains four classes of licensure. Treatment plant classes are A, B, C, and D, with class A being the highest, and

distribution levels are 1, 2, 3 and 4, with level 1 being the highest. Licensure in Florida is a linear process and an operator must obtain a lower-level license prior to becoming eligible to receive a higherlevel license. For each level of licensure each applicant must also demonstrate the applicable number of years of experience. Licenses are issued for a two-year period with an expiration date of April 30 of every odd-numbered year. In order for individuals to renew their license they must complete a specified amount of continuing education units (CEUs); without the appropriate CEUs, the license will not be renewed.

Engineering, Hydrology, and Geology Program The staff for this program practice in multiple areas, providing technical support to the water resource management programs, other FDEP regulatory divisions, and district offices in the planning, design, permitting, and monitoring of mining projects and mine reclamation, mitigation banks and stormwater/ surface water management systems, dam safety, and other in-water activities and works of the district. Staff also provides technical training to staff within FDEP, the state’s WMDs, and industry specialists and facility owners. Florida Dam Safety The program coordinates statewide dam safety activities in Florida and provides technical support for the permitting, evaluation, condition assessment, and emergency action planning for dams. Hydrology and Hydraulics Support The staff reviews hydrographic assessments submitted in support of an ERP. The FDEP requires a hydrographic study when new inwater works, or modification to an existing one, is proposed to ensure that it will not create adverse impact to water quality conditions. Staff also provides assistance for hydrological and hydraulic engineering-related projects. Mining and Mitigation Technical Support The staff provides completeness reviews regarding the technical aspects of stormwater management systems proposed for mine and reclamation projects to ensure that water quality and quantity meet state statutes and rules.

10 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Stormwater Support The staff serves as a reference for statewide consistency in review of the stormwater portion of an ERP and provides stormwater and engineering expertise for rulemaking efforts, basin management action plans, NPDES, and Continued on page 12

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Continued from page 10 the Nonpoint Source Management Program 319(h) and total maximum daily load grant selections. The staff assists the district offices on complex projects seeking ERP authorizations and monitors and comments on research on innovating and improving best management practices for nutrient control.

Mining and Mitigation Program Mining in Florida is regulated under this program, with staff reviewing ERP applications and reclamation plans for mines. Staff is responsible for permitting, compliance, inspection, and enforcement at mine sites. The program processes ERPs for most mines, with the exception of some borrow pits, which include sites where sand, shell, and clay are extracted that have no onsite material grading or sorting facilities. The ERPs for borrow pits that have no onsite sorting, washing, or grading are issued by the WMDs. The program administers the mandatory reclamation program under Chapter 378, Florida Statutes, for all mines and borrow pits, which are subject to mandatory reclamation requirements.

Onsite Sewage Program Sewage disposal systems, commonly referred to as septic systems, are currently used for wastewater disposal by approximately 30 percent of Florida’s population. With an estimated 2.6 million systems in operation, Florida represents 12 percent of the septic systems in the United States. Proper design, construction, and maintenance of systems are important to help protect Florida’s groundwater, which provides 90 percent of the state’s drinking water. Permitting and inspection of OSTDS is handled by the environmental health section of the Florida Department of Health (DOH) in each county.

Source and Drinking Water Program A public water system is one that provides water to 25 or more people for at least 60 days each year or serves 15 or more service connections. These public water systems may be publicly or privately owned and operated. Very small water systems that provide water for public consumption, but do not fall under the previous definition, are regulated by DOH

and the county health departments. Bottled water and water vending machines are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Food Safety. Digging of water wells, both public and private, and the quantities of water that may be extracted, are regulated by the WMDs.

Water Compliance Enforcement Program This program in Tallahassee facilitates statewide coordination of compliance and enforcement activities relating to the development of policy, guidance, and training materials to ensure consistency among the six district offices for the state’s industrial water, NPDES, and stormwater programs. Furthermore, the WCEP administers the compliance and enforcement activities associated with the processing of Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) for the NPDES stormwater program. The WCEP is responsible for the federal data management reporting activities associated with the wastewater and NPDES stormwater programs. Additionally, WCEP coordinates with EPA on implementation of NPDES components of the CWA. The WCEP also operates and maintains FDEP’s Electronic Discharge Monitoring Report (EzDMR) system, which is a secure web-based information system that allows wastewater facilities to electronically submit their DMRs to FDEP. By offering several streamlined reporting options, the EzDMR system offers significant labor savings for both FDEP and the regulated community and improves the accuracy of compliance data by helping to eliminate data entry errors.

Summary Florida’s water future depends on the strength, coordination, and consistency of these FDEP programs. These efforts form a comprehensive framework that protects water quality, supports responsible growth, restores damaged landscapes, and ensures that the systems serving millions of Floridians operate safely and reliably. By integrating science-based regulation, technical expertise, and collaborative partnerships with communities and industry, FDEP continues to advance its mission of safeguarding the state’s diverse water resources. As Florida’s population grows and environmental challenges evolve, these programs remain essential to preserving the integrity, resilience, and long-term sustainability of the waters that define and sustain the state. S (photos: Florida Department of Environmental Protection)

12 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 13

Malicious Cyberattacks Target and Compromise Water and Wastewater Sector

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are warning critical infrastructure asset owners and operators in the United States that malicious cyber actors (MCAs) are conducting cyberattacks targeting operational technology (OT) devices, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Since July 27, 2026, water and wastewater utility companies in at least seven states have reported incidents to the FBI, and some of that activity degraded water operations. After remotely accessing internet-facing devices, the MCAs changed the internet protocol (IP) addresses and passwords, resulting in a loss of monitoring and control functionality. To reduce the risk of compromise, the FBI and EPA recommend removing PLCs from direct internet exposure via secure gateway and firewalls, setting up strong and unique passwords, and utilizing an access control list (ACL) to allow only authorized communication between expected control system devices.

Threat Landscape The MCAs are targeting internetexposed PLCs to remotely tamper with

device configurations by changing IP addresses and turning on and setting passwords, resulting in a loss of view, and in some cases, the function of connected equipment in targeted facilities. At least one organization reported modified PLC project files after noticing ladder logic discrepancies across several sites. Additionally, across several targets, similarities in network setup provided by third parties may provide MCAs the opportunity to multiply successes when vulnerable network and hardware setups exist across customers. Operational effects reported to the FBI have included loss of pressure and flooding; pressure loss in water systems could potentially allow untreated groundwater to seep into pipes. Once compromised, the extent of impact to utility operations depended upon the type of function for which the PLC was configured (monitoring versus controlling equipment), the equipment itself, the function the device supported, and the capability to switch to manual operations. The FBI and EPA are engaging with target organizations and providing recommendations for critical infrastructure asset owners and operators.

Protection Precautions

The FBI and EPA recommend individuals take the following precautions: Disconnect PLC From the Public-Facing Internet Follow the joint guidance secure connectivity principles for OT to safely allow remote access. Specifically, remove inbound port exposure so the OT system is never directly exposed to the internet or external networks, and to ensure all access is mediated, monitored, and controlled. Do this through a secure gateway (jump host) that brokers the connection. S E nsure cellular modems used for remote field connectivity and access are secured with strong authentication and updated. S E nable logs for connected modems and regularly review for suspicious activity to detect intrusions and improve incident response speed. S T o mitigate unauthorized access to OT via cellular modems, organizations should consider implementing isolated architectures, such as private Access Point Name (APN), 5G Public Network Integrated Non-Public Network (PNINPN), cellular Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), or a site-to-site virtual private network (VPN). Ensure Device Passwords are Complex, With Unique Combinations of Letters, Numbers, and Symbols Implementing robust password that are not easily guessable remains a critical security measure that can help prevent unauthorized access and strengthen the overall security posture of OT devices. Strictly Control Network Access to PLC Devices Configure firewall rules or ACL security features on PLCs or programmable controllers to allow only authorized communications between expected control system devices. Block access from unauthorized or threat actor-controlled IP addresses, such as those associated with hosting providers.

14 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Place Physical and Software Key Switches to Run Position to Block Unauthorized Changes to Logic, Configuration, and Firmware Devices should only be in the program or remote position when updating or downloading software online and immediately switched back to the run position when complete. Prior to switching the device to run mode, review and validate project files, as changing modes will lock in the current project file downloaded to the device. Practice and Maintain Ability to Operate OT Systems Manually The capability for organizations to revert to manual controls to quickly restore operations is vital in the immediate aftermath of an incident. Business continuity and disaster recovery plans, fail-safe mechanisms, islanding capabilities, software backups, and standby systems should all be routinely tested to ensure safe manual operations in the event of an incident. Review Project Files Running on PLCs for Unauthorized Changes Use vendor-provided integrity checking tools and visually compare the running program to known good logic. Ensure reusable logic and input/output configurations are valid. S If restoring backups, verify the backup does not contain malicious logic before deployment. S Review logs and configurations on all connected devices, including modems, human-machine interfaces, and workstations, to assess potential lateral movement by MCAs. If it appears they connected to additional devices, reimage these devices to remove any potential malicious changes or access tools. Plan End-of-Life Replacements When a hardware device is end of life (EOL) manufacturers no longer sell the product and are not actively supporting the hardware, which means they are no longer releasing software updates or security patches for the device. Since EOL devices no longer receive security updates, they are routinely targeted by MCAs. S Maintain a rolling 12-month EOL forecast, reviewed quarterly with owners and procurement. S Track EOL systems by product, owner, location, and retirement date. S Replace or isolate EOL assets; if delays occur, apply compensating controls with firm decommission dates.

Report It If your utility has sustained OT outages, contact your local FBI field office and file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov. Additionally, contact the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) via the 24/7 operations center at contact@cisa.dhs.gov or 1-844-Say-CISA (1-844-729-2472). Be sure to include as much information as possible: S Model numbers, serials, and IPs of programmable logic controllers connected to network S Unusual IPs on networks connected to programmable logic controllers

S FBI, CISA, EPA: Top Cyber Actions for Securing Water Systems S FBI, CISA: Secure Connectivity Principles for Operational Technology S

Resources For additional information on mitigating threats to OT systems, please see previous guidance documents: S FBI, CISA, EPA: Primary Mitigations to Reduce Cyber Threats to Operational Technology S FBI, CISA, EPA: Incident Response Guide: Water and Wastewater Sector

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 15

FWEA CH A P TE R CO R N E R Welcome to the FWEA Chapter Corner! The Member Relations Committee of the Florida Water Environment Association hosts this article to celebrate the success of recent association chapter activities and inform members of upcoming events. To have information included for your chapter, send details to Melody Gonzalez at gonzalezm@bv.com.

Melody Gonzalez

Growing Partnerships for Cleaner Waters: FWEA Central Florida Chapter Volunteers With Seminole County SERV Program Protecting Florida’s water resources is a shared responsibility among utilities, cities, counties, and the public. Together, these groups help preserve the quality of Florida’s waters and natural environment. Healthy lakes, rivers, and wetlands benefit from proactive watershed management, community stewardship, and public engagement.

Seminole County’s Seminole Education, Restoration and Volunteer (SERV) Program is an organization working hard to improve water and the natural environment. Through handson environmental restoration volunteer projects, SERV brings together residents, students, local organizations, and environmental professionals

to improve water quality and protect natural resources. Throughout the year, SERV coordinates a variety of volunteer activities, including lake restoration projects, native demonstration garden planting, invasive plant removal, litter cleanups, and storm drain marking. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to participate, including neighborhood associations, businesses, civic organizations, schools and colleges, and environmental groups. By combining education with hands-on restoration, SERV empowers community members to become active participants in protecting Seminole County’s valuable water resources.

Restoring Native Lake Shorelines

Central Florida Chapter and SERV volunteers planting native shoreline vegetation.

Restored shoreline with native vegetation planted by SERV volunteers.

16 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

One of SERV’s volunteer activities is restoring native vegetation along lake shorelines. During these events, volunteers work alongside Seminole County lake management staff to install native aquatic and littoral plants that help improve both ecological function and water quality.

Members and local community volunteers contributing to shoreline restoration.

Native shoreline vegetation provides numerous environmental benefits. Dense root systems stabilize lake banks and reduce erosion, helping prevent sediment from entering adjacent water bodies. The plants also act as natural filters, slowing stormwater runoff and capturing nutrients before they reach the lake. This reduction in nutrient loading helps minimize excessive algal growth while supporting healthier aquatic ecosystems. In addition to improving water quality, native plants create valuable habitat for fish, birds, amphibians, turtles, and beneficial insects. Reestablishing native vegetation also helps discourage invasive species from becoming established along shorelines, improving the longterm resilience of the ecosystem.

FWEA Central Florida Chapter Participation The Central Florida Chapter recently joined SERV for two shoreline restoration events, in September 2025 and in May 2026, where chapter members volunteered alongside Seminole County staff and community volunteers to install native vegetation and improve local lake shorelines. The May 2026 SERV event included volunteers from both FWEA and the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association joining a large group of community volunteers. The group planted 1,875 native shoreline plants along Sweetwater Lakes (also known as Sweetwater Cove), which connects directly to the Wekiva River. These events provided an excellent opportunity for members from utilities, consulting firms, regulatory agencies, and other sectors of the water industry to work together outside of their normal professional responsibilities. Event participation fostered new relationships among chapter members while introducing community volunteers to the mission of FWEA. The partnership illustrates how professional organizations can support local governments in achieving environmental goals while providing meaningful service opportunities for their members.

Looking Ahead The FWEA Central Florida Chapter hopes to continue partnering with SERV to support future volunteer events, including lakeshore plantings and invasive species removal projects. Future volunteer events will provide additional opportunities for chapter members to participate in environmental restoration while strengthening community relationships throughout central Florida. S

In Memoriam

William Gibson Young 1959 - 2026 William Gibson “Little Bill” Young of St. Augustine, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on July 21, 2026. Bill was born on Aug. 20, 1959, at Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine to his beloved parents, William F. Young and Margaret “Peggy” Mitchell. He was a true St. Augustine native, attending school locally throughout his childhood and graduating in 1977 from St. Joseph’s Academy. One of his favorite accomplishments was having a place on the Men’s State Championship Runner-Up Basketball team. Bill was a proud graduate of the University of Florida, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in political science, and told everyone he met that those were the best 10 years of his life. He then went on to earn his master’s in public administration from the University of North Florida. He began his early career by joining the Florida Air National Guard, Engineers Division, serving for eight years. This experience led him to begin working in water treatment. In 1985, Bill began his career at the St. Johns County Utility Department as a water plant operator trainee. While there, he obtained his Class A operator license from the state of Florida and was promoted to supervisor of water treatment for the utility. Bill was appointed the county’s second director of utilities by the County

Commission in 1998, and served as the utility director until his retirement from public service in 2021. During his service with the utility, he and his staff successfully dealt with the many challenges inherent in being a utility in one of the fastest growing counties in the United States. The foundations of its success have been environmental stewardship, financial strength, and customer service. Following his service at the utility, he continued to work in the industry as the Jacksonville office manager for the engineering consulting firm Wright-Pierce. Bill was an admired leader of the St. Augustine and Florida communities in both his public and personal life. He served as president of Rotary, where he was also a Paul Harris fellow. He served as the president of the ARC and on the board of the YMCA. He also served as chair of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association. He was a lover of all things Gator sports and the Cleveland Browns, and he would want everyone to know that the Gators still got that Rama Jama (ooh ahh)! Bill was most proud of the incredible family he built with his wife and children and was an amazing husband and father. Nothing meant more to him than his family and his friendships. Bill is survived by his wife, Kathy Young; his two children, Georgia and Liam; his siblings Alecia Bailey (Mark), Jill Hay (Jerry), and David Young (Lori); and his father, William F. Young and Mimi, Linda Young. Bill also leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and his brothers Justin Goode (Sandra) and Keith Jones. Bill was larger than life, and he brought light into the lives of every person he met. He will be dearly missed by all. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to St. Augustine Youth Services or the ARC of St. Johns. To plant a tree in his memory, visit S the Sympathy Store.

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 17

C FACTOR

Emerging Issues: Technology and Ethics Kevin Shopshire

President, FWPCOA

ou may be asking, “Emerging Issues: Technology and Ethics?”; how is that a relevant issue? In our line of work, we are encouraged to embrace technology, whether it is new probes, new supervisory control and data acquisition that allows us to monitor our systems outside the lab, communication devices that keep us in contact with our systems, or the use of artificial intelligence. Granted, these are all beneficial uses of technology. Our organization has also embraced technology—sometimes begrudgingly. Our budgets and cash flows are calculated in spreadsheets, no longer with an abacus. We use a spell checker and autocorrect (sometimes) in our correspondence. We use internet communications; mass emailing; online registrations, trainings, and servers; and most recently, online proctoring. So why ethics? The FWPCOA has a code of ethics, as do many organizations. We introduce all of our members to the code upon membership initiation and renewals. Have you read the code of ethics? I’m including a copy this month for your benefit. We hold our operators to a high standard in the organization, not just in the workplace.

We trust our students to embrace these ethics in our classrooms and trainings as well. Our proctors and teachers make every effort to educate our students through multiple platforms, including personal experience. These teachers, added up, have hundreds upon hundreds of years of experience within one short school event. Our increased use of technology has side effects. There may be online attempts to access our information (hacking), while in the classroom, we may not “catch” everything. There have recently been more occurrences, unfortunately and unethically, of utilizing new technology to advance ourselves. At our exams, we used to just have scratch paper and maybe a basic calculator. Calculators started getting more advanced, leading to smart phones, smart watches, smart glasses, etc. The temptation to use technology to pass our examinations can sometimes be too great. We are taking efforts to reduce the temptation of using technology unethically, but we need our students’ assistance. We understand that a future raise, advancement, or even job status can depend on whether or not our test is passed, but our level of professionalism depends on our character—and our ethics. So please, during an exam, just put the technology away. We can assist with exam reviews, understanding the questions, or even scheduling a retest if needed. Although we are often unseen, our career field heavily impacts our environment and the quality of life of our citizens. We want to be recognized for our positive efforts, not just

18 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

obtaining the job by any means. In August we even celebrated Water Professionals Month. Thank you to the municipalities that participated in recognizing our operators’ efforts to ethically work “in the shadows” to keep our environment and citizens healthy.

FWPCOA: Notes from the Dais I’m going to take another break from a committee spotlight. In August we held our board of directors meetings prior to our Fall Short School. Thank you to all who attended. Some of the topics covered were: S A dvancement of our Education Committee S D iscussion of a new customer public relations course S I ncreased training activity in Region 11 (Jacksonville) S R ecap of multiple legislative changes, occurring or upcoming S P resentation of honorary lifetime membership to Mr. Brad Hayes S D iscussion of 2027 proposed slate of officers All of our directors will be taking the information back to their regions, so you all have a chance to get involved! This is your organization, and we will go in the direction you decide. Our next weekend of board of directors meetings will be Oct. 10-11, 2027, at Seacoast Utilities in Palm Beach Gardens. For more information, hit up your regional directors. I hope to see you there! S

Florida Water & Pollution Control Operator’s Association Policy and Procedures Manual

CODE OF ETHICS PREAMBLE The operator will uphold and advance the honor and dignity of the Operator’s Association and in keeping with the high standards of ethical conduct:

& F L O RIDA WATER

Will perform all duties in a manner becoming a professional; Will strive to stay physically, mentally and technically competent;

PE RA TORS ASSOC.

Will be honest and impartial, and will serve with dedication the employer, clients and public;

Will strive to increase the competence and prestige of the operator’s profession;

SECTION 1 – The operator will be guided in all his professional relation by the highest standards of integrity, and will act in professional matters for a client or employer as a dedicated agent or trustee. a. The operator will be realistic and honest in all reports, statements and testimony. b. The operator will not solicit (for any purpose), money or other benefits or consideration in the name of the FW&PCOA from manufacturers representatives, consulting firms or any other person, unless prior approval is granted by the Board of Directors of the FW&PCOA. c. The operator will admit and accept errors when proven obviously wrong and refrain from distorting or altering the facts in an attempt to justify decisions. d. The operator will not accept outside employment to the detriment of regular work.

F.W.&P.C.O.A.

SECTION II – The operator will have proper regard for the safety, health and welfare of the public in the performance of all duties. If an operator’s judgment is overruled by authorities, the operator will point out any and all consequences. The operator will notify the proper authority of any observed conditions which endanger public safety, health or welfare.

O L

LU a. Public welfare will be regarded by the operator as paramount.R TIconditions that are dangerous T or threatening to life, limb or b. The operator will guard against N ON property. O service in civic affairs and work for c. The operator will seek opportunities to be of constructive C the advancement of the safety, health and well-being of the environment.

SECTION III – The operator will cooperate in extending the effectiveness of the Association by interchanging information and experiences with other operators and students and will provide opportunities for the professional development and advancement of all operators. 1.

The operator will urge other operator employees to become certified at the earliest possible date. 2. The operator will utilize all employees, insofar as possible to the fullest degree of their recognized competence.

Revised 7/2/2000

B.1.2

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 19

F W R J

A Resilient Stormwater and Coastal Management Plan for Hollywood, Florida Michael Schmidt, Jonathan Goldman, Thomas Nye, Vincent Morello, and Richard Wagner

he City of Hollywood (city) faces challenges with dense development at low land elevation, aging infrastructure impacted by sea level rise (SLR), tidal surge events, and varying precipitation. The city’s comprehensive and citywide Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP) is a holistic plan that accounts for changes in sea levels, tidal surge, groundwater, and rainfall patterns to manage flooding while protecting and enhancing water quality and aquifer recharge. A multifaceted approach to modeling current and future conditions allows the city to plan for current and future climate, stormwater, and coastal resilience needs. This article presents the SWMP challenges, opportunities, approach, level of service (LOS), and alternative evaluations for existing and future sea level rise conditions, and considerations for implementation.

Background The city developed the SWMP to evaluate and model its watersheds and identify resilient stormwater and flood prevention capital investments for today, tomorrow, and decades to come. The SWMP includes modeling the effects

of SLR, rising groundwater tables, and increased rainfall intensities. It also considers anticipated development growth and climate change data, providing the tools necessary for the city to create a forward-thinking capital plan that anticipates and prioritizes funding and infrastructure needs. Program goals were established to create a vision and metrics for the future. Topics include: S Flood control S Water quality protection S Aquifer recharge and water supply S Conservation and stormwater harvesting S Operation and maintenance S Long-term financing S Community acceptance The city encompasses approximately 45 sq mi (Figure 1). The topography and infrastructure naturally divide the stormwater service area into three major basins. These basins interact with stormwater systems at: S Broward County S Central Broward Water Control District (CBWCD) S South Broward Drainage District (SBDD) S Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) S City of Hallandale Beach

Figure 1.Study Studyarea areamap. map. Figure 1.

20 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Michael Schmidt, P.E., BCEE, D.WRE, is lead engineer, and Richard Wagner, P.E., BC.WRE, is principal engineer, with CDM Smith in Jacksonville. Jonathan Goldman, P.E., BCEE, PMP, is project manager, and Thomas Nye, Ph.D., P.E., is lead hydrologic and hydraulic modeler, with CDM Smith in Boca Raton. Vincent Morello, P.E, is director of public utilities with City of Hollywood.

S City of Dania Beach S South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD)

Approach Problem Areas and Citizen Input The city conducted a series of public meetings for citizens to provide locations for reported problems. The input, combined with the city’s stormwater complaint system records and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), defined flooding problem locations and system connectivity (Figure 2). Stormwater Database and Models The SWMP involved coordinating the city’s geographic information system (GIS) to update the existing stormwater atlas, populating an asset management database. Simultaneously, the city developed a citywide stormwater model, accounting for pervious and impervious areas in the urban landscape. The data collection effort included a survey of stormwater structures and the development of a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) based on Light Detection and Ranging topographic data. The data collected were validated with the city’s existing infrastructure and bathymetric data to develop a citywide model for the major watersheds that account for varying rainfall events, tidal and groundwater influences, and future SLR impacts. The SWMP hydrologic and hydraulic models were developed using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Stormwater Management Model (SWMM) for the city’s primary stormwater management system (PSMS). The models included a study area of:

S 2 9,000 acres S 2 ,228 sub-basins S C onsideration of offsite basin and major canal contributions S 8 0 backflow preventers S 1 2 stormwater pump stations S 2 17 mi of stormwater pipes S 2 9 mi of canals S 1 5 bridges S 3 3 mi of exfiltration trench S 2 50 outfalls S O ne-year tidal stillwater elevation of 2.5 ft North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) Modeling inputs and parameters required extensive manipulation and analyses using GIS tools. The modeling provides a comprehensive basin-by-basin analysis of the flood control LOS for existing and proposed stormwater systems. It also considers the effects of projected climatological conditions for the future. Design Storms and Tidal Boundary Conditions The five-year, 24-hour; 10-year; 25-year; and 100-year, 72-hour design storms were simulated using the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Atlas 14 rainfall and SFWMD rainfall distribution. The simulations included a one-year tidal stillwater elevation of 2.5 ft, referenced to the NAVD of 1988, and two sea level rise scenarios to evaluate the PSMS LOS. The project team used SWMM to estimate flood stages and inundation maps (Figure 3). The members evaluated the flow rates and volumes for storage, conveyance, exfiltration, recharge wells, and potential pumping. The plan included conditions for the April 2023 flood event, ranging from a five-year to 1,000-year event. The April 2023 event and other storms with photographs and high water marks were used for model validation and to confirm reported flooding problems.

Figure2. 2. Problem Problem area area map. Figure map.

Levels of Service The city’s goal for flood control LOS is to manage flooding below road crowns for the 10-year, 72-hour event and below homes and buildings as practicable. For the SWMP analysis, the team analyzed two alternative LOS goals to provide a range of potentially achievable LOS and the associated implementation costs. Alternative 1 The primary LOS goal chosen by the city was 3-in. flooding over the crown of major roads and 6 in. for residential streets in the 10year recurrence interval design storm event (10 percent event) and all primary and secondary evacuation routes passable (for evacuation, police, fire, and ambulance first responders) Continued on page 22

Figure 3. Existing flood inundation map.

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 21

Continued from page 21 with less than 9 to 12 in. of reduced duration inundation for the 25- and 100-year events. This also includes keeping inundation out of buildings for the 100-year design storm where practicable with FEMA-level benefit/cost (B/C) evaluations for program guidance support. Alternative 2 The secondary LOS goal achieves the same roadway and building criteria, but for a smaller five-year recurrence interval design storm event with consideration of diminishing returns in flood prone areas. This allows for shallow, shortduration ponding and overland flow in known areas, with provisions for emergency access and evacuation as needed. Water Quality and Aquifer Recharge The city’s stormwater discharges to the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). To treat runoff and manage the volume of discharge, the city uses swales, exfiltration, and recharge wells to provide storage, treatment, and infiltration/recharge before discharge. To meet the city’s LOS, the team developed a cost-effective approach to manage flooding. This approach also provided retrofits for water quality consistent with SFWMD and Broward County Environmental Resource Permit requirements. Mitigative Alternatives Evaluations Individual neighborhood capital improvement projects for both near-term/ interim-relief and long-term neighborhood scale were tailored for phased implementation,

specifically prioritized in areas most susceptible to flooding. Swales, detention systems, and exfiltration systems were evaluated, along with time-varying storage operations and recharge wells. The city is also raising seawall heights for its public portion of the 140 mi of shoreline, and installing backflow prevention in the tidally affected outfalls.

Results Using reported flooding in the city’s database, public meetings for problem areas, FEMA repetitive loss locations, and photographs of eyewitness accounts at various locations across the city the SWMM hydrologic and hydraulic models were validated. Using the validated models, predicted flood stage and inundation maps of the city were developed for the five-, 10-, 25-, and 100-year design storms. The maps depict the extent and depth of flooding under the storm conditions, for comparison and for the identification of floodprone areas. These maps are used as follows: S The five-year design storm provides information for the secondary LOS goal flood areas for a more frequently recurring storm. The Alternative 2 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is subsequently run with the 10-year storm as well, in order to determine the location, depth, and duration of ponding for this LOS. S The 10-year design storm provides information for the city’s primary LOS goal, and for major roadway flooding analyses. S The 25-year design storm provides the

Figure 4. Capital improvement program components.

22 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

information required for regulatory permitting to the SFWMD for flows and levels in the major canal systems under pre- and post-CIP implementation conditions. S The 100-year design storm provides information for the recommended finished floor elevations and for critical structure elevation versus predicted flood stages. It is re-run with SLR conditions to demonstrate the future impact to structures. For the CIP alternatives analyses, the delineated neighborhood size sub-basins were combined logically into discrete CIP areas, which considered common topography and PSMS elements of adjoining neighborhoods. Capital improvements to the stormwater management system were systematically applied citywide, and iterative simulations were run to test the proposed infrastructure until the city’s desired LOS for each alternative was achieved. Stormwater Master Plan Capital Improvement Program Components The following elements implemented opportunities and considerations for rainfall and tidal flood mitigation components to improve flood control, water quality, aquifer recharge, and reduce saltwater intrusion. Figure 4 shows a summary of the overall CIP components. Swales and Green Infrastructure Swales and green infrastructure are the use of natural planted systems to collect, store, treat, and infiltrate stormwater. The city has an extensive system of grassed swales, and recommendations were made to enhance and preserve these and allow for parking as needed through a public information program (Recapture the Swale Program) in coordination with Broward County, which also provided grant funding support. These systems can be implemented along roads on individual sites, with capital improvement projects along streets and buildings and in parks. They can include rain gardens, and/or landscape planter swales. Additionally, these systems reduce the need for potable water use in irrigation. They achieve this by being irrigated by both rainfall and runoff, and they also fulfill some of their nutrient requirements from the stormwater. The synergistic effect of the installation of green infrastructure systems spread throughout the city can mitigate chronic flooding areas and allow residents to participate in the flood solutions on their own sites. Exfiltration Systems One of the most cost-effective stormwater management components for the area is exfiltration systems due to the high flow capacity (conductivity) of the Biscayne Aquifer, their

modular implementation flexibility, and delivery of multiple benefits. These systems are perforated pipes in rock trenches wrapped with filter fabric, which collect, store, infiltrate, treat, and convey stormwater in the city’s available rights of way (ROW) and easements for the lowest cost. They are modular and comparatively straightforward to design, permit, and construct. Opportunities for phasing these systems can arise as needed or as various improvements, such as street, water, sewer, park, and landscape enhancements, are implemented. The multiple benefits of these systems include flood mitigation, water quality treatment credits, and aquifer recharge for reduction of saltwater intrusion and protection of groundwater supplies. These systems rely on the hydraulic grade of the water collected at the land surface to infiltrate stormwater into the porous, surficial aquifer. These systems, however, will not work everywhere due to the variable groundwater table elevation in the city, just below the ground surface in lower-lying areas. It is recommended, therefore, to use these systems in areas with topographic elevations greater than elevation 5.5 referenced to the 1988 datum of ftNAVD. Recharge Wells These wells are used to discharge stormwater to surficial aquifer zones east of the salinity line in the eastern portion of the city. They can be retrofitted into existing stormwater management system manholes to augment the exfiltration systems and provide pretreatment for oil-grease, trash, and debris. The systems provide discharge capacity and treatment credits because they discharge dissolved nutrients that would be harmful to receiving waters into the brackish surficial aquifer. This also assists with creating a saltwater intrusion barrier for current and future sea level conditions. Pumps can augment these wells to increase the recharge flow rate and reduce flows, volumes, and pollutant loads to the ICW, canals, and rivers. Backflow Preventers The city has more than 250 stormwater outfalls; the majority of them are tidally influenced and can backflow during high tide and tidal surge events. Backflow preventers will be required for outfalls to keep the rising seas out of the system and any provisions must consider the increased head loss to open them in the CIP implementation. Pump Stations The SWMP included a focus on the maximum amount of swale enhancement, surface storage, exfiltration, and recharge wells possible; however, the limitations of these systems and their working locations still require the need for new stormwater

Table 1. Alternative Capital Improvement Program Components Alternative

Exfiltration Systems (mi)

Gravity Recharge Wells

Pipes (mi)

Pumps

Force Mains (mi)

Outfalls

Pumped Recharge Wells

Storage (acre-ft)

Backflow Preventers

112

109

135

51.5

18.7

pump stations to provide flood protection in many low-lying areas. Seawalls There are 140 mi of ICW and river coastline in the city that will need seawall upgrades for current tidal surge and/or for future SLR and those associated tidal surges. The SWMP has included these seawalls along the entire coast perimeter to demonstrate the extent, benefits, and costs for these systems. The private property owners must also upgrade these seawalls in a consistent manner. Broward County has an ordinance regulating minimum seawall elevations and phasing requirements that the city adopted into its code and is working to meet them. In some areas, construction of seawalls may be necessary before building all the required pump stations. In these locations, stormwater release gates will be incorporated in the seawall to allow historic overland flows to continue during lower tidal conditions and to protect against unintended consequences of blocking historic overland flow paths and increasing flooding from required seawall implementation. The alternative CIPs ranged from $890 million to $1.9 billion for Alternatives 1 and 2, respectively. The CIP can be additive by implementing the lower-cost Alternative 2, and then adding more Alternative 1 components as necessary over time as climate change effects grow and as additional funding allows. Table 1 lists the CIP components by alternative. Sea Level Rise and Resiliency The SLR and resiliency analysis in the SWMP focused on three primary areas: S Simulating future SLR conditions consistent with Florida Statue 380 requirements, which included 18- and 30-in. sea level rise conditions, along with the associated higher tides and groundwater levels to predict the impact on effectiveness of the proposed CIP alternatives in the future. S Simulating coastal armoring and seawall protection at different storm surge heights. S Resiliency planning simulation for a “worst case” storm (500-year) occurring coincidently with a peak high tide and storm surge event.

The SLR predictions used for the analyses were in accordance with the city-adopted Unified Sea Level Rise Projection and Guidance Report (2019) produced by the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact. The city uses the results to understand the vulnerabilities of its stormwater management system with relation to surge and SLR, and to provide a basis for adaptation strategies, policies, and infrastructure design. If sea levels and groundwater levels continue to rise as projected, eventually the shallow aquifer disposal and recharge CIP elements (which rely on a minimum hydraulic depth to the water surface elevation) will become less effective over time. Benefit-Cost Analyses The team’s B/C analyses were performed using the FEMA Hazard United States (HAZUS) tool to establish B/C ratios and documentation for potential grant and loan funding. Existing base conditions were performed for a 50-year planning horizon and compared to flood damage reduction for the two alternatives and for the two SLR conditions. In all cases, the B/C ratios ranged from 1.7 to 2.5, indicating considerable value for the infrastructure investment. Figure 5 shows a bar chart representation comparing the flood damages for existing conditions versus the two alternatives, indicting significant flood damage reduction.

Discussion These opportunities to store, treat, and discharge stormwater underground can reduce costs in a sustainable manner within the city ROW. Swales, exfiltration, and recharge wells provide treatment and aquifer recharge to reduce adverse water quality impacts to sensitive receiving waters while providing aquifer recharge to reduce saltwater intrusion and protect drinking water supplies. Significant retrofit equivalent treatment is also provided by the CIP to reduce pollutant loads. Alternative CIP conditions match the existing condition discharge volume and flood stages for the 25-year, 72-hour storm to avoid moving flooding problems downstream and provide flood protection across the city. Pump stations were evaluated after collection, Continued on page 24

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 23

Continued from page 23 treatment, storage, exfiltration, and recharge wells were reviewed to provide the minimum amount of pumping necessary.

Summary This article presented the results of a comprehensive SWMP focusing on coastal

stormwater resilience for flood control with water quality treatment and protection, along with aquifer recharge and enhancement of as many community park amenities as possible. The SWMP has established a detailed GIS and database for the stormwater system, detailed hydrologic and hydraulic models to neighborhood scale, historical storm tidal surge evaluations, LOS evaluations, cost-effective alternatives assessments with B/C evaluations for existing and future sea level rise conditions, and associated CIP.

References • CDM Smith, City of Hollywood Stormwater Master Plan, 2024. • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazards United States (HAZUS) Tool and Manual, Update 2021. • South Florida Water Management District, Environmental Resource Permit Information Manual, 2014. • USEPA Stormwater Management Model (SWMM) Model and User’s Manual, Update 2020. S Figure 5. HAZUS tool benefit/cost ratios for the capital improvement program.

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PCL.COM

F W R J

Speak Their Language: Elevating Water’s Value Through Strategic Communication Kelly Flowers Hass

ne of a utility’s most powerful—yet underused—assets is public support, which is critical to its success in fulfilling its responsibilities to the communities it serves. For instance, clean, reliable water supplies and services are crucial for maintaining public health, promoting economic development, and ensuring environmental sustainability; however, water infrastructure often goes unnoticed by communities until a crisis arises (ASCE, 2021). As funding requirements increase and regulatory pressures intensify, utilities and other waterrelated organizations must proactively engage with residents, decision makers, and future ratepayers to foster trust and secure long-term support. This article explores how organizations can overcome communication fatigue and convey compelling, accessible stories about water that inspire people to move from passive awareness to active support. Drawing on extensive outreach across Florida, including stormwater improvements, septic-to-sewer conversions, reclaimed water projects, and legislative initiatives, real-world strategies that have helped communities achieve public understanding, reduce opposition, and unlock funding are presented. Behavioral science principles (Thaler & Sunstein, 2008) and digital engagement for stakeholders are presented, as are AI-enhanced messaging tools (WEF, 2023), community

engagement kits designed to demystify technical projects, and techniques for using short-form video, visual storytelling, and earned media to create momentum and buy-in. Using these tools, a communications blueprint can be tailored by organizations to give them confidence in their ability to elevate the voice of water in every conversation before problems arise.

The Invisible Value of Water Water is essential, but its value is rarely at the forefront of anyone’s mind. Utilities succeed when the public never has to think about infrastructure: tap water runs, toilets flush, and streets drain without disruption. This invisibility, however, results in a paradox: communities often overlook the immense investment required to sustain reliable service (AWWA, 2020). In its 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) assigned infrastructure in the United States an overall grade of C, which indicates that the system or network is generally in fair to good condition, but shows signs of deterioration that require attention. Some components exhibit significant deficiencies in both condition and functionality, which increases their vulnerability to various risks. It’s estimated by ASCE (2021) that $1 trillion will be required for infrastructure investment over

26 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Kelly Flowers Hass, MBA, JM, MS, MIB, MA, is marketing and strategic engagement leader at Jones Edmunds & Associates Inc. in Alachua.

the next 20 years. Florida, due to its rapid growth, aging infrastructure, and vulnerable ecosystems, faces some of the most significant environmental challenges (FDEP, 2023). If Florida utilities want sustainable funding and resilient systems, they must “speak the language” of their stakeholders. Instead of focusing solely on technical compliance, organizations must frame water in terms of everyday values, such as public health, local prosperity, and environmental protection (U.S. Water Alliance, 2017).

Tools and Strategies Communicating about water requires more than facts and figures; it requires strategies that connect with people’s values, habits, and aspirations. The voice of water can be elevated by applying proven communication approaches, modern digital tools, and innovative engagement techniques. Behavioral Science Principles Communications that resonate are rarely Continued on page 28

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Continued from page 26 rooted in technical data alone. Behavioral science offers insights into how people perceive risk, make decisions, and respond to information. By applying these principles, such as social norms, framing, loss aversion, and storytelling, messages can be framed effectively to foster lasting public support. Social Norms Humans are naturally influenced by the behavior of others, often looking to peers for cues on what is acceptable or expected (Cialdini, 2006). Public outreach campaigns that emphasize collective action, such as “90 percent of your neighbors already conserve water,” tap into this tendency and have proven effective in increasing participation. This principle can be applied in efforts ranging from septic-to-sewer mailers to lawn irrigation campaigns, making conservation or participation seem like the “normal” choice. Framing Effects The way information is presented has a significant influence on decision making. Technical metrics, such as “nitrogen loading reduced by 24,000 pounds per year,” may make sense to engineers, but rarely connect with the public. Rephrasing the same result as “keeping 12 dump trucks of pollution out of the lagoon every year” makes the benefit concrete, visual, and easy to remember. This framing helps bridge the gap between data and everyday life. Loss Aversion Loss aversion is a psychological and economic concept that describes how individuals tend to prefer avoiding losses over pursuing equivalent

gains. Research shows that the emotional pain of losing is typically felt more strongly than the pleasure of winning; loss is often estimated to be twice as impactful. As a result, people are more motivated to avoid losses than to seek equal gains (Kahneman, 2011). For utilities, this means that messages such as “Without investment, water rates could double within 10 years” are often more compelling than “With investment, rates will stay stable.” By framing the consequences of inaction in relatable terms, stakeholders are encouraged to support projects before problems become more severe. Storytelling and Emotional Appeal Numbers can inform, but stories inspire action. Behavioral research indicates that although statistics provide context, narratives tend to resonate more deeply (Thaler & Sunstein, 2008). Stories trigger empathy, memory, and attention in ways raw data cannot. When people hear a story, their brains mirror the storyteller’s patterns—a process known as “neural coupling”—which helps them connect emotionally and retain information. That is why the feeling of a moment or the details of a well-told story are remembered long after the numbers fade, which is especially powerful. Sharing the story of a family whose home was protected by a flood-control project or a business owner who benefited from reliable reclaimed water transforms abstract infrastructure improvements into lived experiences. Stories make complex issues relatable, cutting through noise and sparking the “aha” moments that data alone cannot provide. By weaving stories into communication, alongside facts, a utility moves from simply informing to inspiring—building trust, empathy, and long-term support for the

28 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

investments that shape stronger, more resilient communities. Digital Engagement Strategies Digital platforms are transforming the way communities access information. In the past, outreach relied on methods such as flyers, newsletters, and town hall meetings. Today, residents engage via their phones, laptops, and streaming devices. By meeting stakeholders where they already spend their time and receive their information, utilities can amplify their message and reach a broader and more diverse audience. Digital engagement is not just about convenience; it also emphasizes accessibility, transparency, and trust-building (ASCE, 2021; U.S. Water Alliance, 2017). When combined with compelling storytelling, digital tools can clarify information about infrastructure, personalize communication, and bring human significance to technical investments. Highlighting project milestones—groundbreaking events, behind-thescenes construction updates, or ribbon-cutting ceremonies—through intriguing visual content helps communities understand not just what is happening but why it matters. By incorporating stories into digital outreach, communications can go beyond mere announcements to promote connections with the community. This approach fosters community pride, understanding, and long-term support for investments in essential infrastructure. Short-Form Video Video has become one of the most powerful communication formats across all demographics, with short-form video emerging as the dominant medium for public information

campaigns (Pew Research, 2023). Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and even LinkedIn help utilities to simplify complex issues into engaging and easily digestible clips. This format can be used to: S Highlight project milestones, such as opening ceremonies or groundbreaking events. S S hare “day in the life” features of employees, helping to humanize the professionals who provide access to clean water every day. S C apture drone footage of wetlands, treatment plants, or new infrastructure, providing compelling visuals that static reports cannot match. S P ost myth-busting videos that address common misconceptions, such as “Is reclaimed water safe for irrigation?” These videos not only expand outreach to younger audiences (future ratepayers), but also reach policymakers and business owners, who increasingly prefer digital formats for consuming information. A well-produced 30-second video can achieve greater reach and impact than a 10page fact sheet. Interactive Maps and Dashboards Interactive tools, such as ArcGIS StoryMaps and online project dashboards, have transformed how communities visualize infrastructure. Rather than passively receiving information, stakeholders can explore maps, click on data points, and see how projects affect their neighborhoods (FDEP, 2023). Gamified digital activities and educational outreach, such as water conservation games aimed at students (discussed later), further connect with the next generation by making water stewardship personal and relevant. For example: S A septic-to-sewer conversion dashboard can showcase individual properties, connection timelines, and expected improvements in water quality. S A stormwater project map can display beforeand-after flooding models, illustrating how new systems reduce risk for specific streets. S A reclaimed water supply dashboard can track the number of gallons delivered and highlight neighborhoods benefiting from conservation efforts. By localizing information, projects are made personally relevant to residents. People are more likely to support initiatives when they understand how improvements directly impact their property, neighborhood, or local environment. Additionally, dashboards serve as transparency tools, allowing companies to publish updates on progress, costs, and performance metrics in real time.

Visual Storytelling Data is essential for technical compliance and engineering, but the public connects more deeply with visuals. Photography, infographics, and animations help bridge the gap between technical reports and everyday understanding. Effective visual storytelling strategies include: S Before-and-after flood maps that demonstrate how a project reduces risk in specific neighborhoods. S Time-lapse videos of construction projects, allowing the public to watch the progress as it unfolds. S Infographics that simplify technical language into icons, colors, and clear comparisons such as “This project prevents enough polluted water each year to fill 10 Olympic swimming pools.” S Environmental imagery that showcases clear water, thriving wildlife, or restored wetlands, appealing to pride and emotion more effectively than charts alone. These visuals also serve as ready-made content for media outlets, school presentations, and legislative briefings, providing consistent messaging across various audiences. Earned Media and Partnerships Even in today’s digital-first world, both traditional and digital news outlets are crucial for establishing credibility. By partnering with reporters, local influencers, homeowner associations (HOAs), and chambers of commerce, organizations can broaden their reach and position themselves as trusted sources of information. The way messaging is framed plays a significant role in how it is received. For example,

a newspaper headline such as “Stormwater Basin Retrofit Under Construction” comes across as technical and impersonal, whereas “Neighborhood Flood Relief Project Breaks Ground” generates excitement and local pride. Communications staff can enhance public understanding by translating technical jargon into language that is communityfocused. Additionally, strategic partnerships can further extend engagement. An HOA can distribute project updates at neighborhood meetings, chambers of commerce can help businesses comprehend how reliable infrastructure contributes to local growth, and schools can incorporate project stories into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Each of these partners acts as an amplifier, significantly extending the outreach beyond a company’s platforms.

Why Digital Engagement Matters Digital engagement has shifted from being just a communication trend to an expectation. Residents now expect to find project updates on their phones, view transparent dashboards online, and watch short videos that explain why a project is important. Social media stories and community sentiment increasingly influence policymakers and regulators. Businesses and developers rely on digital tools that demonstrate transparency, build trust, and reduce risk. A robust digital engagement strategy can: S R each wider and more-diverse audiences. S P rovide transparency that builds trust. S T ranslate technical projects into relatable, human-centered stories. Continued on page 30

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Continued from page 29 S Amplify messages through partnerships with media and community groups. Digital tools make sure that water’s story is told in ways that people see, hear, and remember— before a crisis prompts the conversation. Artificial Intelligence-Enhanced Messaging Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the way communication occurs across various industries, and companies are beginning to adopt these tools to enhance outreach, promote efficiency, and more accurately anticipate community needs. For utilities facing limited staff and increasing communication demands, AI can serve as a force multiplier, enhancing capacity while ensuring consistency

and quality. When applied thoughtfully, AI does not replace human judgment; rather, it enhances it by providing insights and tools that help connections with audiences. Personalized Communication One of AI’s greatest strengths is its ability to tailor messages to different audiences without having to create multiple campaigns from scratch. A single message about a water infrastructure project can be automatically adapted into: S A technical briefing with detailed charts for policymakers and regulators. S A plain-language flyer with visuals for homeowners. S A gamified digital activity for students that makes water conservation interactive.

This personalization enables stakeholders to receive information in a manner that is meaningful to them, thereby increasing both understanding and support. Personalization also includes language preferences, accessibility needs, and communication channels—AI can deliver messages via email, social platforms, or Short Message Service (SMS) based on user behavior. Sentiment Analysis Sentiment analysis, a form of AI that uses natural language processing to detect emotions, opinions, and attitudes in digital conversations, is transforming public engagement approaches. An AI-driven monitoring tool can scan social media, news outlets, and community forums to identify emerging concerns or misinformation. For example, if a rumor spreads on Facebook claiming that reclaimed water is unsafe, sentiment analysis can identify the trend in real time. Utilities can then respond quickly with accurate information, preventing misinformation from taking hold and turning into public opposition. This early-warning capability shifts outreach from a reactive to a proactive approach. Rather than waiting for concerns to surface at public meetings, utilities can address them at the source—online—strengthening credibility and trust. Beyond risk management, sentiment analysis also reveals which messages resonate most effectively with the community, enabling utilities to refine their storytelling, target their outreach, and build stronger long-term support for critical projects. Content Drafting and Efficiency An AI-powered platform simplifies content creation by generating initial drafts for newsletters, fact sheets, presentations, and social media posts. Staff can then revise these drafts to provide accuracy and alignment with local priorities and needs. Early adopters in the water sector have reported that AI tools raise speed, consistency, and content reach, allowing small teams to produce professional-quality materials at scale (WEF, 2023). Additionally, AI tools can automatically repurpose content across different formats. For example, a board presentation can be transformed into a series of interesting social media posts, or a project fact sheet can be adapted into a short video script. This process delivers consistent messaging while saving time and resources.

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Predictive Analytics In addition to content creation, AI can analyze historical data to predict how communities are likely to react to proposed initiatives. For instance, by examining past responses to rate adjustments, bond Continued on page 32

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Continued from page 30 referendums, or stormwater projects, AI models can forecast potential public concerns. This allows for the design of proactive outreach campaigns that address these concerns before opposition builds. Predictive analytics can also assist with resource allocation. If AI indicates that specific neighborhoods are more likely to oppose septicto-sewer conversions, utilities can focus their outreach efforts there. This may include hosting town hall meetings, sending targeted mailers, and deploying trusted community ambassadors. This targeted approach improves efficiency and reduces the likelihood of conflicts.

Why Artificial Intelligence Matters for Utilities The use of AI is not a replacement for human communicators; rather, it is a tool that increases their reach and effectiveness. When used responsibly, AI can help communication in several ways: S Deliver personalized content that resonates with diverse audiences.

S Monitor sentiment to identify and address concerns early on. S Improve efficiency by automating routine drafting tasks. S Use predictive insights to inform strategy and reduce resistance. For water and wastewater utilities facing increasing infrastructure challenges, AIenhanced messaging offers a practical solution for accomplishing more with limited staff, helping communities to understand, support, and advocate for essential investments. Community Engagement Kits Digital tools can enhance a utility’s reach, but adequate public support often develops when people can see, touch, and experience water systems firsthand. In many communities, infrastructure is frequently overlooked because it is “out of sight, out of mind,” hidden underground, or behind fences. Engagement kits help bridge this gap by making infrastructure visible and relatable. They provide interactive, educational, and participatory tools to help residents understand the value of these investments and foster a sense of ownership over the outcomes.

Demystifying Infrastructure The technical nature of water projects often creates barriers to public understanding. Community engagement kits can bring those systems to life through accessible and hands-on tools: S Tabletop models: Simple physical models show how septic tanks interact with groundwater or how stormwater flows through neighborhoods. These are particularly effective at town halls, HOA meetings, and school events where abstract concepts become visual and tangible. S A ugmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR): Virtual walkthroughs of water treatment plants or pump stations let residents see facilities that are usually off limits for safety reasons. These experiences simplify complex processes, highlight the technology involved, and promote appreciation for the professionals who operate them. S Interactive dashboards: Real-time project dashboards displaying water quality improvements, construction milestones, or reclaimed water delivery volumes create transparency and help communities visualize progress over time. By transforming invisible systems into visible, interactive experiences, a case can be made for investments in a way that data tables alone cannot. Hands-On Experiences Participation builds ownership. When residents participate in activities that directly connect them to water resources, they develop a sense of pride and trust in their utility’s efforts. Examples include: S Creek cleanups: Organizing “Creek Day” events lets residents see firsthand the impact of stormwater runoff and the importance of local water quality improvements. S Facility tours: Inviting the public to tour treatment plants or pump stations demonstrates transparency and safety while highlighting the technology and expertise involved. S S chool STEM programs: Partnering with schools to introduce students to water science not only engages future ratepayers, it also cultivates long-term community advocates. These experiences connect abstract infrastructure investments to tangible community benefits, cleaner rivers, safer neighborhoods, and a sense of pride in local resources. Gamification Gamification taps into people’s natural competitiveness and desire for achievement.

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Contests or digital applications can be designed that make participation fun: S Leak detection challenges where residents track household leaks and compete for conservation prizes. S N eighborhood water-saving competitions rewarding communities that collectively reduce irrigation use during peak demand. S M obile apps with progress tracking that allow households to monitor personal or neighborhood-level conservation impact. These approaches transform utility goals into engaging challenges, reframing conservation and infrastructure support as a source of community pride rather than mere compliance. Feedback Loops Effective engagement involves two-way communication. Communities must feel heard rather than merely informed. Incorporating feedback mechanisms within engagement materials allows residents to share their perspectives: S Q R codes on project signs, mailers, and door hangers lead residents to online surveys or updates about the project. S C itizen advisory groups and panels provide a platform for residents to express their views on capital improvement priorities so that community concerns influence project planning. S P op-up feedback kiosks at community events can collect quick and convenient input from stakeholders who might not attend formal meetings. Research indicates that when utilities seek input from the public and then clearly communicate how that feedback is used, public trust significantly increases (WRF, 2021). This transparency demonstrates respect for stakeholders and helps create advocates rather than opponents.

Why Community Engagement Kits Work Community engagement kits are effective because they shift the communication approach from passive to active, encouraging participation. By integrating education, interaction, gamification, and transparency, the public’s perception of infrastructure can be changed from something distant and technical to something essential, personal, and worthy of support. For utilities addressing significant funding requests, capital projects, or regulatory changes, these engagement strategies can help reduce opposition, build coalitions, and generate momentum. Most importantly, they encourage communities to feel

involved in the decision-making process rather than simply being recipients of decisions made elsewhere. Strategic Framing for Policymakers and Businesses Although residents are the primary audience, utilities should also customize their communications for policymakers, businesses, and HOAs. S For policymakers: Connect projects to economic resilience, tax base protection, and job creation. Legislative staff briefings that include clear visuals tend to be more effective than technical reports. S For businesses and developers: Highlight the predictability and permitting advantages of resilient infrastructure. Businesses appreciate stability and reduced risk. S For HOAs: Emphasize neighborhood pride, home values, and visible enhancements such as landscaping with reclaimed water.

Blueprint for Utilities Utilities often recognize the need for increased outreach, but without a structured framework, their communication efforts may be inconsistent, reactive, or inadequately funded. A practical blueprint means that communication becomes a planned, measurable, and integrated component of every infrastructure initiative. Audience Identification Matrix Not all stakeholders share the same priorities. Ratepayers often prioritize affordability, HOAs focus on neighborhood pride, policymakers are concerned with economic impact, and students typically value sustainability. By categorizing stakeholders into distinct groups—ratepayers,

HOAs, businesses, policymakers, and students— utilities can customize their messaging instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. This framework also helps staff identify any gaps, ensuring that no significant group is overlooked. Message Framing Guide Once audiences are defined, messages should be aligned with their values. For example, a reclaimed water project might be framed as: S Safety: Protecting the drinking water supply. S Affordability: Reducing long-term costs of sourcing new water. S Prosperity: Supporting economic development by securing reliable water. S Pride: Highlighting the community’s leadership in sustainability. A framing guide helps staff translate technical benefits into narratives that resonate across audiences. Channel Strategy The medium is just as important as the message. For example, a board member may prefer concise policy briefs, and students might be more engaged on TikTok. Businesses often respond best to LinkedIn and events hosted by chambers of commerce, while HOAs value neighborhood meetings and mailers. Developing a channel strategy allows utilities to connect with people in the spaces where they already are, increasing reach and relevance while minimizing wasted efforts. Engagement Plan Effective communication is proactive rather than reactive. An engagement plan combines storytelling—highlighting project benefits and Continued on page 34

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 33

Continued from page 33 progress—with listening methods such as surveys, advisory panels, and town hall meetings. This plan should align outreach activities with project milestones (e.g., groundbreaking ceremonies, funding approvals, and construction phases) to provide consistent communication rather than relying on crisis-driven outreach. Evaluation Metrics If communication is not measured, it cannot be improved. Evaluation metrics may include: S Participation measured by attendance at meetings and completion rates of surveys. S E arned media that includes coverage in local press, television, or community newsletters.

Case Studies: Florida’s Communication Lessons Florida serves as a unique testing ground for water communication strategies. Due to rapid population growth, dependence on delicate ecosystems, and frequent exposure to extreme weather events, utilities in Florida face significant challenges and heightened visibility. The state’s diverse projects illustrate how transforming technical issues into relatable community benefits can reduce resistance, secure funding, and cultivate lasting support. Stormwater Improvements Stormwater retrofits are often necessary for regulatory compliance; however, labeling them as “compliance projects” has historically led to limited enthusiasm and, at times, outright resistance. In communities such as Orlando and Gainesville utilities have revised their messaging to present stormwater retrofits as projects focused on flood protection and neighborhood revitalization. This new approach emphasizes safety, property protection, and enhanced quality of life. Residents are shown how infrastructure improvements will not only reduce flooding, but also create new recreational amenities, enhance neighborhood beauty, and improve walkability. By highlighting the tangible benefits to daily life, utilities have successfully built stronger coalitions of support. The Florida Stormwater Association (2022) noted that framing stormwater improvements as projects focused on resilience and livability significantly increases community buy-in. Septic-to-Sewer Conversions Septic-to-sewer conversion programs often face resistance due to concerns about costs and

Why a Blueprint Matters

drawings to guide project design, communicators also need a structured framework for effective engagement. When used consistently, this blueprint helps utilities to: S Build trust with ratepayers and policymakers. S Reduce opposition to projects and rate increases. S Simplify complex technical work into relatable community benefits. S Secure sustainable funding and long-term support.

A communications blueprint ensures that outreach is a fundamental aspect of infrastructure planning rather than an afterthought. Just as engineers rely on technical specifications and

A structured approach to communication is as essential as pipes, pumps, and permits. It serves as the foundation for resilient water systems that communities rely on and actively support.

potential construction disruptions; however, in several Florida communities, effective messaging strategies have successfully turned skepticism into support. Instead of focusing solely on technical objectives, such as reducing nutrient load, utilities emphasized regional identity and shared environmental values. Campaigns highlighted that these conversions would protect cherished springs, improve water quality in rivers used for recreational activities, and raise property values. By linking the project to economic and lifestyle benefits—sustaining a thriving tourism industry and safeguarding natural resources—utilities reframed the conversation around community pride and long-term prosperity (Martin County Board of County Commissioners, 2022). This approach changed public perception: instead of viewing the conversions as a costly requirement, residents began to see them as an investment in their homes, neighborhoods, and regional heritage.

experienced increased adoption rates and decreased opposition. These efforts aligned with the outreach initiatives of FDEP (2023), which promotes water reuse as a critical conservation strategy.

S Digital analytics tracking website traffic, social media engagement, and video views. S Policy outcomes consisting of funding approvals, rate adoptions, and reduced opposition to projects. Regularly reporting on these measures demonstrates accountability and allows utilities to refine their strategies over time.

Reclaimed Water Projects Reclaimed water systems initially faced challenges in achieving widespread public acceptance; technical explanations regarding the reuse of effluent did not resonate with most stakeholders. To address this issue, utilities began to present reclaimed water as a vital resource for preserving the drinking water supply while also improving local landscapes. The messaging highlighted how reclaimed water enabled communities to maintain lush parks and landscapes without depleting their potable water supplies. For businesses and HOAs, reclaimed water was portrayed as a means to sustain property values while contributing to water conservation. By emphasizing the benefits of reclaimed water in terms of personal convenience and community resilience, utilities

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Legislative Messaging The rollout of Florida’s Clean Waterways Act (SB 712) illustrates how effective communication can influence policymaking. The legislation required stricter stormwater and wastewater controls, generating concern about costs among utilities and residents. Advocates and utilities reframed the conversation by linking compliance to economic and lifestyle benefits, such as thriving fisheries, cleaner swimming waters, and stronger tourism economies. By focusing on how the act would protect jobs, tourism revenue, and community health, utilities helped legislators justify stricter standards while maintaining constituent support. This strategy highlights a critical lesson: When legislative changes are explained not as regulatory burdens, but as investments in economic resilience and environmental protection, they gain broader political and public traction (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 2020).

Lessons Learned These case studies demonstrate that public acceptance depends less on the technical details of infrastructure and more on how those details are framed. Across Florida, utilities have learned that success hinges on: S Relatable, loss-aversion messaging S Story-driven communications S Accessible digital tools and visual storytelling S Engaging equity and diverse audiences

Conclusion

References

Water utilities are facing increasing financial and regulatory pressures, making public support essential for establishing trust, securing funding, and building resilience. By employing strategic communication techniques informed by behavioral science, digital storytelling, and AI-enhanced personalization, these utilities can effectively emphasize the value of water in all discussions. Examples from Florida, such as stormwater management and septic system conversion, demonstrate how reframing messages can positively impact public perception, reduce opposition, and foster sustainable investment. By communicating in a way that resonates with the community, water can be transformed from “invisible” infrastructure into a visible priority. This ensures that water remains a foundation of healthy, thriving communities for generations to come.

• American Society of Civil Engineers (2025). Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wpcontent/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf. • American Society of Civil Engineers (2021). Report Card for America’s Infrastructure: Drinking Water. https://2021. infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ drinking-water-infrastructure/. • American Water Works Association (2020). State of the Water Industry Report. • Cialdini, R. (2006). Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. Harper Business. • Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS, 2020). Clean Waterways Act Summary. • Florida Department of Environmental Protection (2023). Annual Assessment of Florida’s Water Resources: Quality. https://edr. state.fl.us/content/natural-resources/2023_ AnnualAssessmentWaterResources_Chapter4. pdf.

• F lorida Stormwater Association (FSA, 2022). Stormwater Program Success Stories. • K ahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, Fast and Slow. Farrar, Straus & Giroux. • M artin County Board of County Commissioners (2022, Sept. 30). Connect to Protect. https://www.martin.fl.us/ ConnecttoProtect. • P ew Research Center (2023). Social Media Use in 2023. • Th aler, R. H., & Sunstein, C. R. (2008). Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness. Yale University Press. • U .S. Water Alliance (2017). The Value of Water Campaign Messaging Report. • U .S. Water Alliance (2017). The Value of Water: A Compendium of Communications Tools. • W ater Environment Federation (2023). AI and Digital Transformation in Utilities. • W ater Research Foundation (2021). Best Practices in Utility Community Engagement. • W orld Economic Forum (2023). AI-Enhanced S Messaging in Water Utilities.

A Legacy of Water Quality: The City of Lake Worth Beach’s Diversified Portfolio The City of Lake Worth Beach has again hosted the future of the water treatment profession. With nearly 100 years of documented and published water treatment and supply management, the city continues to excel. As noted in a local newspaper in May 1927 the city had one of the most modern water plants on the East Coast, and that is still a fact today. With skilled and certified professionals in the industry the utility continues to stand out. Mike Suarez, water plant manager at City of Lake Worth Beach, and instructor John O’Brien, chief water/wastewater plant operator at the Palm Beach County Southern Region Water Reclamation Facility, showed a recent Palm Beach State College water class the conventional 1956 lime softening treatment process that was converted decades ago from a surface water plant to sourcing water from the surficial aquifer. Additionally, to prevent salt water intrusion, the reverse osmosis expansion was observed treating water from the

Floridan aquifer to diversify the city’s water portfolio. Noted was a coastal water utility that has made the changes necessary for the time to meet the demand of the customers and exceed the requirements of regulatory agencies. With nearly a century of innovation behind it and a diversified treatment portfolio built for the challenges ahead,

the City of Lake Worth Beach continues to demonstrate what committed leadership and skilled operators can achieve. The city’s willingness to adapt, invest, and educate ensures that its legacy is not only preserved, but is actively shaping the future of Florida’s water profession to protect water quality and reliability for generations to come. S

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FWEA FOCUS

Investing in the Next Generation: The Case for Internships David Hernandez President, FWEA

eptember always has a special place in my heart. Football is back in full swing (Go Canes!) and autumn is in the air. Okay, the autumn part maybe not so much in Florida, but we are this much closer to seeing that humidity drop ever so slightly! September also brings about the end of summer internship programs as the interns who did spend the past few months sitting in on our design reviews, tagging along to site visits, and asking the kind of questions that make us rethink how we explain our own work pack up and head back to school. It’s always a little bittersweet. But September isn’t really an ending—it’s a pivot point. As summer comes to a close, our professional organizations shift into high gear, with chapter events, committee meetings, technical seminars, and networking socials.

The same shift happens on college campuses: students are getting back in to the classroom, their professional organization student chapters are gearing back up, and fall career fairs are on the horizon. As employers, it’s already time to think ahead: S Who are we going to recruit? S How do we find them? S What can we do better this time around? This feels like the right moment to pause and talk about why internships matter so much, both for the students who take them and for the organizations that offer them.

What Employers Get Out of It It’s easy to think of an intern as an extra set of hands for a busy summer. But the firms and utilities that treat internships that way are missing the point—and most of the value. For starters, an internship is one of the best marketing tools we have. Most students arrive on campus with only a vague sense of what a career in water actually looks like. They don’t picture the treatment plants, the master plans, the resiliency projects, or the sheer variety of

Andre Bailey (second from left) completed a high school shadowing program with Hazen. In addition to learning about the water industry, he joined Team Hazen and participated in the American Association of Colombian Engineers pickleball tournament.

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problems we get to solve. A good internship pulls back the curtain and shows them the real thing. It’s also the best hiring tool you’ll ever use. A resumé tells you where someone went to school and an interview tells you how they present themselves for forty-five minutes, but a summer internship tells you how someone actually works, how they handle feedback, whether they speak up in a meeting, and how they treat the people around them. A huge number of the engineers, operators, and leaders in our industry started as interns, and the firms that hired them knew exactly what they were getting. And then there’s the piece that’s harder to measure, but maybe matters most: the chance to mentor. Every one of us got here because someone took the time to answer our dumb questions, walk us through a calculation, or pull us into a meeting we had no business being in. Internships let us pay that forward, and honestly, they make us better at our own jobs. There’s nothing like explaining something to a curious 20 year old to remind you why you fell in love with this work.

What Students Get Out of It As much as employers gain, students often walk away with even more. An internship is a chance to test-drive a career. Engineering is a huge tent, and a lot of students don’t discover what actually excites them until they’re doing it. A summer in the water sector can be the moment it clicks, or the moment they realize their real passion is somewhere else entirely. Either way, that’s a gift. It’s also a chance to see how different corners of our industry operate. Whether it’s consulting, manufacturing, contracting, regulatory, or utility work, they’re all part of the same ecosystem, but they feel completely different from the inside. A student who spends one summer at a consulting firm and the next at a utility comes away with a perspective you simply can’t get from a textbook. The same goes for company size: a small shop, a midsized firm, and a large national company each have their own culture, pace, and rhythm. Experiencing that range early helps a student figure out not just what they want to do, but where they want to do it. Beyond all the technical learning,

internships build confidence. Sitting in on a client call, contributing to a real deliverable, navigating an actual office, these are the actions that turn a student into a professional. You can’t lecture your way to that; you have to live it.

Where Professional Organizations Come In Internships don’t happen in a vacuum, and neither does workforce development. This is where our professional community really earns its keep. Our professional organizations create the spaces where students and professionals actually meet: at luncheons, seminars, competitions, and socials. These introductions are where a lot of internships start. They’re where mentorship relationships form. They’re where a nervous student shakes a hand that leads, two years later, to a full-time offer. So as we head into a packed fall season, I want to make a direct ask of our chapter leaders, committee chairs, utility managers, consultants, manufacturers, and young professionals: bring the students in, invite them to your luncheon, find them a discounted or sponsored registration. Introduce them around, especially to people working in a different part of the industry than you. Make them feel welcome. Every student who walks into one of our events walks out with a wider view of what’s possible, and a few more people in their corner. That’s how we build a pipeline.

Upcoming Ways to Get Involved The FWEA 2026 fall calendar is already filling up with chances to connect, and a great excuse to bring a student along: S F WEA First Coast Chapter and FSAWWA Region II Golf Outing – September 14 S C entral Florida Chapter Meet the Board Happy Hour – September 17 S Biosolids Seminar – September 17 S C entral Florida Chapter 26th Annual Golf Tournament – September 18

One Last Thought As our summer interns settle back into their classes, it’s worth remembering that what we do for them isn’t a seasonal courtesy, it’s an investment. The students who joined us this summer are the project engineers, utility directors, researchers, and professional organization leaders of the next decade. The experiences we hand them now are the ones they’ll build careers on. S

Test Yourself

What Do You Know About Chlorination Arithmetic? Charlie Lee Martin Jr., Ph.D. 1. The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a 300-foot deep well with 200 feet of water with a 20-inch casing at a dose of 100 mg/l is a. 3.50 gallons. b. 5.50 gallons. c. 1 gallon. d. 2.84 gallons.

6. The number of pounds of chlorine used in one month (30 days) with a dose of 18 lbs/day where the well pump operates 18 hours per day is a. 405 lbs/month b. 305 lbs/month c. 205 lbs/month d. none of the above. 7. The chlorine dose where the starting weight of a 150-pound cylinder is 143 pounds, the end weight is 118 pounds, and the well delivers 600 gpm throughout a 24-hour period is a. 2 mg/l. b. 4 mg/l. c. 3.5 mg/l. d. none of the above.

2. The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a 500foot section of an 8-inch water main at a dose of 350 mg/l is a. 6.01 gallons. b. 4.01 gallons. c. 2 gallons. d. none of the above.

8. The chlorine dose of water delivered from a well pumping 550 gpm disinfected with a hypochlorinator pumping 3 percent available hypochlorite solution at a rate of 50 gallons per day is a. 1.50 mg/l. b. 2.50 mg/l. c. 1.89 mg/l. d. none of the above.

3. The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a reservoir 10 feet deep, 20 feet wide, and 30 feet long at a dose of 150 mg/l is a. 30.5 gallons b. 40.5 gallons. c. 58.5 gallons. d. none of the above.

9. The chlorine dose of 1,200,000 gallons of water disinfected with a 2.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution stored in a 2.5-footdiameter croc where its level drops 20 inches within a week is a. 3.02 mg/l. b. 1.02 mg/l. c. 2 .02 mg/l. d. none of the above.

4. The chlorine dose required to maintain a 0.2 mg/l chlorine residual for a water source with a chlorine demand of 1.5 mg/l is a. 1.5 mg/l. b. 1.7 mg/l. c. 2 mg/l. d. none of the above. 5. The pounds of chlorine per day needed to disinfect water delivered at 500 gallons per minute (gpm) at a dose of 4.5 mg/l is a. 27 lbs/day. b. 30 lbs/day. c. 20 lbs/day d. none of the above.

10. The required percent concentration of a hypochlorite solution for a well with a pumping capacity of 550 gpm where the hypochlorinator pumps 110 gallons per day (gpd) and the desired dose is 2.2 mg/l is a. 2.5 percent. b. 1.6 percent. c. 1 percent. d. none of the above. Answers on page 58 References used for this quiz: Formulas can be found in the appendix and pages 326-329 of California State University at Sacramento Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance, 6th edition

Send Us Your Questions Readers are welcome to submit questions or exercises on water or wastewater treatment plant operations for publication in Test Yourself. Send your question (with the answer) or your exercise (with the solution) by email to: charmartin@msn.com

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 37

Operators: Take the CEU Challenge! Members of the Florida Water and Pollution Control Operators Association (FWPCOA) may earn continuing education units through the CEU Challenge! Answer the questions published on this page, based on articles in this month’s issue. Circle the letter of each correct answer. There is only one correct answer to each question! Answer 80 percent of the questions on any article correctly to earn 0.1 CEU for your license. Retests are available. This month’s editorial theme is Emerging Issues and Water Resources Management. Look above each set of questions to see if it is for water operators (DW), distribution system operators (DS), or wastewater operators (WW). Mail the completed page (or a photocopy) to: Florida Environmental Professionals Training, P.O. Box 33119, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. 33420-3119, or scan and email a copy to memfwpcoa@gmail.com. Enclose $15 for each set of questions you choose to answer (make checks payable to FWPCOA). You MUST be an FWPCOA member before you can submit your answers!

___________________________________ SUBSCRIBER NAME (please print)

Article 1 ____________________________________ LICENSE NUMBER for Which CEUs Should Be Awarded

___________________________________ Credit Card Number

Water Resources Management Programs: Planning and Implementation Florida Department of Environmental Protection see page 6 (Article 1: CEU = 0.1DS/DW/WW02015475) 1. W hat is the primary mission of the Division of Water Resource Management? a. Managing Florida state parks b. P rotecting Florida’s water resources and implementing water-related laws c. Maintaining state transportation systems d. R egulating fisheries 2. A pproximately how many gallons of domestic wastewater does each Floridian generate daily? a. 25 gallons b. 5 0 gallons c. 100 gallons d. 2 50 gallons 3. W hich type of wastewater is considered industrial wastewater in Florida? a. Wastewater from homes b. W astewater from septic systems c. Any wastewater not defined as domestic wastewater d. S tormwater runoff only 4. Th e Environmental Resource Permitting Program regulates a. only drinking water treatment plants. b. a ctivities affecting wetlands and surface waters. c. vehicle emissions. d. s olid waste landfills only. 5. A public water system is generally defined as serving water to at least a. 15 people for 30 days per year. b. 5 0 people for 90 days per year. c. 100 people per year. d. 2 5 people for at least 60 days each year.

___________________________________ CVV Number

___________________________________ Expiration Date

EARN CEUS BY ANSWERING QUESTIONS FROM PREVIOUS JOURNAL ISSUES! Contact FWPCOA at membership@fwpcoa.org or at 561-840-0340. Articles from past issues can be viewed on the Journal website, www.fwrj.com.

38 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

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L ET’ S TA LK S A FE TY This column addresses safety issues of interest to water and wastewater personnel, and will appear monthly in the magazine. The Journal is also interested in receiving any articles on the subject of safety that it can share with readers in the “Spotlight on Safety” column.

Water Utility Worker Safety: Planning and Setting Up a Traffic Control Zone

ore than a thousand people are killed each year in work-zone traffic accidents in the United States, and 80 percent of those fatalities are drivers and their passengers. Speed and driver inattention are the leading causes of these preventable accidents. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the employees in these highway work zones have one of the most dangerous occupations in the country and account for many of the other fatalities.

Employees who work in the water industry are often required to work closely with traffic. Job sites that are in close proximity to fastmoving vehicles are always prone to higher workplace risks. The best practices presented here could save the lives of water industry workers who are required to work in traffic zones.

Conduct a Safety Tailgate A safety tailgate will get all of the employees

on board concerning safety rules before they travel to the jobsite. S D iscuss potential hazards and special precautions the work requires. S D iscuss the job’s processes, procedures, and tasks and the order in which they will be performed. S R eview appropriate safety procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) considerations. Inspect tools and ensure that all PPE meets safety standards. S D iscuss work assignments. All employees

Let’s Talk Safety is available from AWWA; visit www.awwa.org or call 800.926.7337. Get 40 percent off the list price or 10 percent off the member price by using promo code SAFETY20. The code is good for the Let’s Talk Safety book, dual disc set, and book + CD set.

40 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

must know their jobs and the jobs of their coworkers. S E stablish a buddy system where coworkers watch out for each other. S E nsure that those with new job assignments, new tools, or new equipment are properly and completely trained concerning safety processes, procedures, and tool/equipment operation. S E veryone should regroup and discuss potential safety issues when new substances, processes, procedures, tools, or equipment are introduced to the worksite. S R eport hazards and unsafe equipment to the supervisor before work begins. S D iscuss unusual and nonroutine situations. S D iscuss emergency procedures. Determine ahead of time who’s in charge in an emergency situation and who is the backup. S K now where all emergency resources are located: emergency plans, fire extinguishers, first aid and burn kits, and communication devices.

Evaluate the Potential Hazards Before entering a work location, all team members should identify and discuss potential safety issues. S P lan for weather conditions—current, forecast, and unexpected. S D etermine potential emergencies, such as flooding, electrical contact, and running out of fuel. S K now how to handle serious injuries or illnesses that might occur far from medical facilities. S G uard against animal attacks, snakes, and insects. S H ave contact information for emergency agencies.

Team members should also assess the risks and review work-related documentation, such as a job hazard analysis, to ensure that all mitigation and control measures have been addressed.

recommended for both day and night use, and they must meet the requirement to be visible from 1,000 feet at night. S In case of an injury, after ensuring that medical attention has been provided, the responsible supervisor shall ensure that the appropriate incident/injury reporting process is initiated.

Safety Tips

Flagger Safety

Here are a few simple tips for setting up a safe work zone: S Expect the unexpected and never assume drivers see you. S Understand that drivers may be confused, angry, or distracted when entering a work zone and may have difficulty negotiating the detours. S When you set up a detour, try to avoid requiring drivers to make sudden lane changes or encounter unexpected road conditions. S Always pay attention to the traffic. Beware of complacency. S Never turn your back to oncoming traffic. If you do need to work with your back to the traffic, use a spotter and have a communications plan between you and that spotter. S Use consistent traffic control devices and plans for similar work types to improve driver recognition and reduce confusion. S Designate safe pedestrian routes and barriers to protect workers walking between vehicles or equipment. S Use cones for lateral guidance and barrels for lane closures. S All roadside workers must wear bright and highly reflective American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Class 3 protective garments. These garments are

Traffic flaggers manage the safe flow of vehicles, equipment, and pedestrians in temporary traffic control zones. Their responsibilities are critical to the safety and welfare of their fellow workers, passing drivers, and pedestrians. S Flaggers need to stand on the shoulder and focus on approaching vehicles. Avoid standing in the lane unless visibility is an issue. Once traffic is stopped, flaggers should move back to the shoulder of the road.

S Have the tools required to complete the job safely.

Traffic safety isn’t just a procedural requirement for water utility crews—it’s a commitment to protecting the people who keep the systems running. Every cone placed, every sign positioned, and every moment of situational awareness helps ensure that workers return home safely at the end of the day. By staying disciplined, staying visible, and staying alert, water utility teams reinforce a culture where safety is not an afterthought—it’s a defining value of the profession.

Resources For more information go to: S osha.gov S ansi.org

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 41

FSAWWA at 100: Historic Water Treatment Landmarks: A Three-Part Series 100 years goes faster than you think! As the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) celebrates its 100th anniversary, the organization is reflecting on the remarkable legacy of Florida’s oldest water treatment facilities—plants that have safeguarded public health, supported economic growth, and shaped the state’s development for more than a century. This is the second article in a three-part series to honor historic water treatment facilities across Florida, each of which has provided continuous service for 100 years or more. From early coastal waterworks to inland groundwater systems and major metropolitan treatment plants, these facilities represent the foundation upon which Florida’s modern water infrastructure was built.

City of Tampa: A Historical Narrative of the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility When you approach the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility along the Hillsborough River, you sense immediately that this is more than a modern utility plant. It is the quiet heartbeat of Tampa, an anchor that has supported the city’s growth from a modest Gulf Coast community into one of Florida’s most dynamic metropolitan regions. The facility’s clean lines, riverside setting, and sprawling treatment infrastructure reflect decades of engineering evolution, civic investment, and the steady determination to provide safe, reliable drinking water to a growing population. The Tippin facility is not a relic, nor is it a simple industrial site. It is a living system—one that has adapted continuously to Tampa’s changing needs, environmental pressures, and technological

Completed dam and power station circa 1906.

advancements. Its story is inseparable from the story of Tampa itself.

Origins: Tampa’s Early Water Challenges Tampa’s water history stretches back to the late 19th century, when the city relied on private wells, cisterns, and small pumping operations. As Tampa expanded, first through the cigar industry and then through port development and suburban growth, its early water systems struggled to keep pace. At the time, although surface water was a common source of drinking water across the United States, it was uncommon in Florida. By the mid-20th century, the city recognized the need for a centralized, modern facility capable of treating surface water from the Hillsborough River. This shift marked a turning point: Tampa was no longer a small coastal town, but a rapidly urbanizing region with rising water demand, new environmental regulations, and growing expectations for public health and reliability.

The Birth of a Modern Facility In 1925, Tampa built its first major municipal water treatment plant on the Hillsborough River, originally a private water system. Over the next several decades, expansions and upgrades were added, but by the 1960s and 1970s, it was clear that Tampa needed a more advanced, higher-capacity facility. The answer came in the form of a major modernization effort called Water Quality 2000 that culminated in further treatment enhancements and expansions. The plant was originally run on steam and the original pumps

and smokestack were still in place when David L. Tippin became the department director in the mid-1970s. Tippin, Tampa’s long-serving water department director for nearly three decades, was known for his leadership, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to public service. In fact, during a severe water drought, he dubbed himself the “Water Troll” for his commitment to conserving water. His influence shaped the plant’s development, and in recognition of his contributions, the staff brought forward a resolution, approved through the mayor’s office and ratified by the city council, to name the facility in his honor in 2003.

A Facility Built for Reliability and Resilience The facility was designed with a singular purpose: to ensure Tampa’s residents had a dependable supply of high-quality drinking water, even as the city grew and environmental challenges intensified. Its core features include: S High-capacity intake from the Hillsborough River, Tampa’s primary drinking water source S Advanced coagulation, traditional sedimentation and small footprint sedimentation (Actiflo), biofiltration, and disinfection systems S Redundant treatment trains to maintain service during maintenance or emergencies S Onsite laboratories for continuous water quality monitoring S Robust distribution network connecting the plant to storage tanks and pumping stations across the service area

Original Tampa Water Works filter building.

46 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Watercolor painting of original Tampa Water Works filter building.

The facility’s iconic Moorish/Spanish architecture is functional as well as ornamental, but its scale and precision reflect the same civic pride that shaped earlier generations of public works, utilizing Tampa’s Spanish roots.

Decades of Expansion and Innovation Like Tampa itself, the Tippin plant has never stopped evolving. Its major milestones reflect both population growth and the increasing complexity of water treatment: S 1 970s-1980s: Major modernization of filtration and chemical treatment systems S 1 990s: Upgrades to meet new federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards S 1 998: Joined Tampa Bay Water as a regional partner during the formation, securing resources during droughts S 2 000: Improvements dubbed Water Quality 2000 were made to improve taste and odor of the finished water S 2 003: Facility officially named the David L. Tippin Water Treatment Plant S 2 020s (ongoing): Implementation of recommendations from the 2018 master plan including a new high-service pump station, new raw water pump station, a $200 million investment in suspended ion exchange pretreatment and technology to remove organic matter and emerging contaminants, and a project for onsite bleach generation Each upgrade reflects a broader shift in the water industry from basic treatment toward advanced, optimized, multibarrier protection and real-time monitoring.

Critical Partnership With the Regional Water Network An important shift in the plant’s history in resource reliability came after the dissolution of the West Coast Regional Water Supply Authority and the formation of Tampa Bay Water, the regional wholesale water supplier created to end decades of water wars among local governments. Tampa retained ownership and operation of the Tippin facility and Sulphur Springs, but turned over the permit for the 40-million-gallon-per-day (mgd) Morris Bridge wellfield and converted the Morris Bridge Water Treatment Plant to a repump station, which was a point of connection with Tampa Bay Water. This partnership would allow the Tampa Water Department to receive water from the regional interconnected system that includes groundwater, surface water, and desalination sources. Tampa Bay Water built infrastructure that could supply Tampa through this partnership and retained infrastructure that could take water from Tampa when it needed it.

City of Tampa Hillsborough River Dam.

Aerial view of David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility.

Digital rendering of David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility clearwell and high-service pump station.

This partnership strengthened Tampa’s water security and allowed the Tippin plant to operate with greater flexibility, with multiple sources to maintain reliability during droughts or river flow fluctuations.

A Modern Facility With a Critical Mission Today, the Tippin facility: S Treats up to 120 mgd S Serves more than 744,720 people in Tampa and surrounding communities S Operates continuously with a multidisciplinary team of operators, engineers, chemists, electricians, mechanics, and instrumentation specialists S Maintains rigorous water quality standards that exceed state and federal requirements

The People Behind the Plant The Tippin facility staff members are the unsung stewards of Tampa’s public health. Their work is continuous, technical, and essential. If the facility infrastructure represents Tampa’s engineering progress, its workforce represents the city’s dedication to service. The facility is staffed by: S Licensed operators who manage treatment processes around the clock S Laboratory scientists who analyze water quality at every stage S Electrical and mechanical crews that maintain pumps, motors, and control systems S Instrumentation and supervisory control and

data acquisition technicians who ensure the plant’s automation systems run flawlessly S D istribution teams that maintain the vast network of pipes, tanks, and valves Their expertise allows the plant to function not just as a treatment facility, but as a resilient, adaptive system capable of meeting Tampa’s needs well into the future.

A Living Legacy The David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility stands today as one of Tampa’s most important public assets. It has grown with the city, weathered storms and droughts, and embraced new technologies without losing sight of its core mission: delivering safe, reliable drinking water every single day. It was designated as a FSAWWA and an AWWA Water Landmark in 1983. Its legacy is not defined by ornate architecture or historic designation, but by something equally meaningful: its unwavering service to the people of Tampa. In the hum of its pumps, the precision of its laboratories, and the dedication of its staff, you can hear the steady rhythm of a city that continues to grow, innovate, and thrive. That tradition of service is reflected in leaders who have dedicated their careers to the department, including Rory Jones, who joined the city in 1998 and became director in 2023. The faces may change and the technology may evolve, but one thing remains constant: every day, the Tampa Water Department delivers the resource that makes life in the city possible—clean, reliable water. S

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 47

SAVE THE DATE FOR 2027 FWRC

April 18-21, 2027

Orlando World Center Marriott

CALLING ALL SPEAKERS

It’s time to upload your submissions Seize the opportunity to share your knowledge and solutions with the water industry. We are currently accepting papers/abstracts for consideration as a part of the 2027 Technical Program. Visit fwrc.org/learn to begin your submission today!

PAPERS DUE BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2026

EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS

Reserve your sponsorships and booths today 2027 Booths are available now. Sponsorships will be available for reservation in September. Don’t miss great opportunities to gain amazing exposure for your company. Visit fwrc.org today and start planning for 2027!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

2027 Attendee and Hotel Reservations open December 8 Are you excited to purchase your tickets for the largest water conference in the southeast? Attendee and hotel registrations for 2027 FWRC opens online December 8, 2026. Mark your calendars to take advantage of the early bird ticket pricing! Visit fwrc.org to keep informed of all key dates!

48 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Florida Municipal Water and Wastewater Process Equipment

Contact your local representative

Jim Murphy Sales Engineer & Branch Manager (863) 999-4692 | jmurphy@tencarva.com www.tencarva.com Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 49

FWRJ READER PROFILE What education and training have you had? I earned both my bachelor of science and master of science degrees in biosystems engineering from Auburn University.

Camryn Swain, P.E.

Ardurra Group Inc., St. Augustine Work title and years of service. I have been a water resources engineer for five years. What does your job entail? Within the water resources field, I specialize in stormwater engineering. On a day-to-day basis, I prepare civil design plans, perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and coordinate environmental and development permits with state and local agencies. While Ardurra’s primary focus in Florida is wastewater and water treatment, I enjoy supporting projects across multiple disciplines whenever there’s a need for site civil design, stormwater, or yard piping expertise.

What do you like best about your job? Every day is different, which keeps the work exciting. Even when projects are similar in scope, each site has its own unique constraints and challenges that require creative problem solving. It’s also rewarding to know that the work we do improves local infrastructure and protects water resources that people will benefit from for years to come. What professional organizations do you belong to? I am a member of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) and currently serve as Region II vice chair. How has the organization helped your career? The greatest benefit of volunteering with FSAWWA has been the people. Through networking events, conferences, and committee involvement, I have connected with professionals across Florida who have shared their knowledge, advice, and encouragement. As a young engineer, having access to that mentorship has been invaluable in shaping my career and expanding my perspective on the industry.

Volunteer of the Year award from Region II.

50 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

My involvement with FSAWWA has also helped me develop my leadership, organizational, and public speaking skills. I am especially grateful to my Ardurra colleagues, Manasi Parekh, Kathryn Stephens, and Dave Rasmussen, who encouraged me to get involved and step outside my comfort zone. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many dedicated volunteers, including Larry Miller, FSAWWA Member Engagement and Development Council chair, and Emory Gawlik, FSAWWA Region II chair, as well as FSAWWA headquarters staff Peggy Guingona and Donna Metherall. Their patience, guidance, and willingness to answer my countless questions have made my experience both rewarding and enjoyable, and I’m thankful for the support they’ve shown me along the way. What do you like best about the industry? What I like best is something that is unique to our industry: being able to watch a project evolve from a set of plans into functional infrastructure. As engineers, much of our work happens behind the scenes. If we have done our job well, most people will never notice the pipelines beneath a roadway or the treatment facilities operating in the background, and that is exactly the goal. Our work is meant to be dependable, protecting public health and the environment without drawing attention to itself. What keeps the profession exciting is that

Cleanup at a St. Augustine beach.

we are always learning. New technologies, modeling tools, and design approaches continue to change how we solve problems, making every project an opportunity to grow and improve. What do you do when you’re not working? Outside of work, I am pursuing my captain’s license and spend many Sundays sailing with the St. Augustine ASA Sailing School. I hope to participate in local sailing races next spring, with additional training beginning this December. With any luck, all that practice will pay off with a few medals. I also enjoy solo international travel whenever I have enough paid time off saved. From “The End of the World” in Ushuaia, Argentina, to Beijing, China, I have loved experiencing new cultures while learning from the people and communities I encounter along the way. Travel has taught me that kindness toward others and care for the places we share are universal languages. Whether it is a taxi driver sharing stories about their hometown or a grandmother ensuring I get off at the correct bus stop, these moments remind me of the importance of humility, curiosity, and compassion, as well as the shared responsibility we all have to leave the world a little better than we found it. Giving back to my community is equally important. I participate in St. Johns River cleanups around Jacksonville each year, continuing a tradition that began with lake cleanups in rural Alabama as a child. Protecting our waterways remains a personal passion and a meaningful way to stay connected to the communities we serve. S

Fishing Day in Region II.

Oyster shell packing volunteers.

Region II Wine for Water event.

Oyster shell packing.

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 51

FSAWWA SPEAKING OUT

Florida Section Summer Wrap-Up the benefits and experiences for our members as well.

Membership Open House Webinar

Tyler Tedcastle Chair, FSAWWA

s summer comes to a close, it is a good time to reflect on the events that FSAWWA has participated in throughout the past few months. Along with the monthly “Water Bugs” webinar that AWWA showcases monthly, FSAWWA regions have had lots of events, including: S Numerous technical seminars and Lunch & Learn events throughout the state S Wine for Water events hosted by Regions III (July 23), IV (July 30) and VII (July 14) S Pickleball competitions hosted in Regions IV and VI S Yoga events in Region III S Minor League Baseball games in Region VIII Along with these education and networking events, FSAWWA also spent the summer with a focus on membership. We want to make sure that while we continue to increase the overall membership numbers, we also want to ensure that we are elevating

On Monday, June 29, FSAWWA held a virtual open house for potential and new members. This webinar was focused on the membership experience and helping new members understand our organization and how we function. Led by Pranjali Kumar, chair of the FSAWWA Membership Committee, and Larry Miller, chair of the FSAWWA Membership Engagement and Development Council, this one-hour presentation allowed attendees to learn from the personal experiences of Tim Purvis from AWWA and myself. The intent of the webinar was for those attending to learn about the benefits of AWWA membership, especially: S Networking and social opportunities in their local area S Professional development resources S Access to the latest water industry news and information S How to make a lasting impact in their community The webinar was attended by over 40 participants, many who had not participated in FSAWWA previously.

ACE 2026 The AWWA held its Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE) in Washington, D.C., on June 21-24. The conference was

Florida Section members at the Water Industry Lunch at ACE.

busy as always with meetings, technical presentations, and the exhibit hall. While our Fall Conference is Florida-focused, ACE highlights projects, problems and solutions, and technologies both nationally and internationally. During the conference, FSAWWA was presented with awards for meeting our membership objectives. Each section received goals from AWWA for 2025, and this year, we are still tracking to meet the 1 to 3 percent membership goal. Currently, AWWA has a goal to reach over 50,600 members in 2026. To top off the conference, Emilie Moore, P.E., with Black and Veatch, was presented with the AWWA George Warren Fuller Award. This award is presented annually by AWWA to a member from each section for their distinguished service to the water supply field in commemoration of the sound engineering skill, brilliant diplomatic talent, and constructive leadership that characterized the life of George Warren Fuller. Congratulations to Emilie!

Past Chairs Summit This past July, FSAWWA held its annual Past Chairs Summit in Celebration. This summit was started in 2008 as a venue for open discussion between the current Executive Committtee (EC) of FSAWWA and our past chairs. Goals of the summit inlcude: S L earning about the state of the section, activities, and challenges Continued on page 54

Florida Section members with Eddy, the AWWA mascot, at the ACE exhibit hall.

52 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

Emilie Moore (center) receives the Fuller Award from Heather Collins, AWWA president, and David LeFrance, chief executive officer of AWWA.

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Continued from page 52 S Successes throughout the section and regions S Discussion of opinions regarding section activities consistent with AWWA’s mission S Providing ideas to address challenges S Giving feedback on the state of the section

In total, fourteen past chairs were able to attend, including Kim Kowalski, our executive director, and mutliple members of our EC. Unfortunately, after the summit, we learned about the passing of William “Bill” Young on July 21, 2026. Bill served as chair of the Florida Section from 2017–2018. Personally, I had the opportunity to work

Florida Section members display the Memberhsip Award at ACE.

with him thoughtout my career while he served as director of utilities for St. Johns County. Bill always had a smile on his face and a joke or story ready to make you laugh. He was a great friend and mentor to me, but more importantly, he was a loving husband and father to his family. S We miss you Bill!

Attending past chairs at the FSAWWA Past Chairs Summit.

NEWS BEAT Haley Ward Inc., an employee-owned professional engineering, environmental, surveying, planning, and architecture consulting firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Conceptual Jeffery Smith Design Group Inc., a Florida-based landscape architecture and planning firm led by Jeffrey W. Smith, a registered landscape architect. The acquisition further strengthens Haley Ward’s growing presence in Florida while expanding the firm’s offerings throughout the Southeast with the addition of landscape architecture services. Jeffrey W. Smith has practiced planning and landscape architecture in south Florida since 1994 and founded Conceptual Design Group in 2000. Over the course of his career, he has worked on a wide variety of projects ranging from large-scale mixed-use developments to commercial, residential, institutional, recreational, industrial, and nonprofit projects. Smith brings extensive expertise in master planning, mixed-use and residential site planning, rezoning and conditional

use applications, government liaison work, sustainable landscape planting design, water-efficient irrigation systems, hardscape detailing, construction observation, and landscape architectural specifications. “Joining Haley Ward is an exciting next step for both myself and the clients I’ve worked with throughout my career,” said Smith. “Haley Ward’s collaborative culture, commitment to quality, and continued investment in Florida make this a great fit. I’m looking forward to expanding landscape architecture services across the Southeast and contributing to the firm’s continued growth.” The acquisition aligns with Haley Ward’s strategic growth initiatives in Florida and throughout the region, where the firm continues to expand both geographically and in the range of services provided. Haley Ward’s Florida locations include Fort Myers, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Melbourne. “We are very pleased to welcome Jeffrey to Haley Ward,” said Roderick Kennedy, P.E., southeast regional operations director. “His decades of experience and strong reputation in landscape architecture complement our multidisciplinary approach and enhance the services we can provide to our clients.”

54 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

R The Florida Public Service Commission has approved the 2026 settlement agreement between Sunshine Water Services and the Office of Public Counsel, concluding that the agreement is in the public interest. The agreement centers on Sunshine’s mid-county wastewater treatment facility and includes approximately $24.08 million in engineering and construction costs. The commission found support in the record for the settlement’s major elements, including the project’s prudence, related rate base changes, revenue increase, and revised tariffs. The project is expected to improve environmental compliance and overall system reliability, key benefits that support the commission’s publicinterest determination. For customers, the settlement reduces the originally requested annual revenue increase from about $4.59 million to $4.3 million. The rates calculated in the agreement result in a 12.58 percent across-the-board increase to Sunshine’s existing rates. The agreement also defers recovery of certain expenses to a future proceeding, helping to limit immediate impacts on customer bills and resolves all outstanding issues. S

September

1-4.................. Backflow Tester.............................................................................. Deltona....................................... $425 4.................. Backflow Tester recert................................................................... Deltona....................................... $115 8-10.................. Backflow Repair............................................................................ Gulfport...................................... $355 10.................. Backflow Tester recert................................................................... Gulfport...................................... $115 8-11.................. Water Distribution Level 2............................................................ Deltona....................................... $375 14-17.................. Wastewater Collection Level 1.................................................... Deltona....................................... $425 14-17.................. Water Distribution level 1............................................................. Deltona....................................... $425 21-24.................. Wastewater Collection Level 2.................................................... Deltona....................................... $375 25.................. Exams Only.................................................................................... Deltona....................................... $100 28-Oct. 1............... Backflow Tester.............................................................................. Gulfport...................................... $425

October

1.................. Backflow recert.............................................................................. Gulfport...................................... $115 5-7.................. Backflow Repair............................................................................ Deltona....................................... $355 7.................. Backflow recert.............................................................................. Deltona....................................... $115 12-15.................. Water Distribution level 3............................................................. Deltona....................................... $375 19-22.................. Wastewater Collection Level 3.................................................... Deltona....................................... $375 26-30.................. Wastewater Collection level 3..................................................... Region 11.................................... $375 26-30.................. Wastewater Collection level 2..................................................... Region 11.................................... $375 26-28.................. Backflow Repair............................................................................ Gulfport...................................... $355 28.................. Backflow recert.............................................................................. Gulfport...................................... $115

Tampa Bay Water Offers Water Conservation and Protection Grant Program Tampa Bay Water is accepting applications for its Water Conservation and Protection Grant Program. The program offers up to $50,000 in funding for local projects that help conserve water, protect drinking water sources, and promote environmental stewardship throughout the region. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 are available to community groups, nonprofits, schools, and universities serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. “Big impacts often start with a simple idea,” said Malique Rankin, public communications specialist. “Through this grant program, we’re helping local organizations turn innovative ideas into projects that conserve water, protect our environment, and strengthen our communities.” Recent grant recipients have reached

thousands of residents and students across the region through innovative projects that promote water conservation and environmental stewardship. Funded initiatives include interactive water education programs, citizen science opportunities, mobile exhibits, public art campaigns, kayak-based environmental learning experiences, and community-led restoration efforts. These projects demonstrate how local organizations can make a meaningful impact in protecting the rivers, groundwater, and ecosystems that support the Tampa Bay region’s drinking water supply.

Important Dates Application details include: S Deadline to apply: Nov. 13, 2026, by 5 p.m., EST

S Grant recipients notified: December 2026 S Grant period: January through December 2027 (project implementation within that calendar year)

Why It Matters Protecting drinking water resources requires a communitywide effort. Grantfunded projects help educate residents, restore natural habitats, and encourage watersaving practices that benefit the region’s rivers, wetlands, aquifer, and other critical water resources. With more than 2.6 million people relying on Tampa Bay Water’s regional system, local conservation and source water protection efforts play an important role in safeguarding the area’s drinking water supply for future generations.

How to Apply Interested applicants can download the application guide and submit proposals at tampabaywater.org/grant. Applicants are encouraged to review the program guide, prepare budget worksheets, and submit applications online or via email as directed. Organizations are welcome to reach out to the grant program team for assistance or planning support before applying. For more information contact Malique Rankin at mrankin@tampabaywater.org or (727) 337-5833. S

56 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES - Classified ads are $22 per line for a 60 character line (including spaces and punctuation), $60 minimum. The price includes publication in both the magazine and our Web site. Short positions wanted ads are run one time for no charge and are subject to editing. ads@fwrj.com

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Technical Sales Specialist

Utilities Infrastructure Systems Manager $97,430 - $150,802/yr. Utilities Treatment Plants Superintendent $97,430 - $150,802/yr. Utilities Compliance & Laboratory Ops Manager $97,430 - $150,802/yr. Utilities Infrastructures Systems Examiner $72,704 - $112,531/yr. Chief Utilities Treatment Plant Operator $71,970 - $101,269/yr. Utilities Treatment Plant Operator II $62,171 - $87,479/yr. Utilities Treatment Plant Trainee or Operator I $53,705 - $86,314/yr. Utilities System Operator Trainee, I, II, or III $44,184 - $75,567/yr. Utilities Lift Station Operator II $62,170 - $87,478/yr. Utilities Lift Station Operator I $53,705 - $75,567/yr.

Salary: $60,000 - $80,000 plus commission. Includes company vehicle. Job Description: Supporting the sale of all Odyssey Manufacturing products and services, but primarily focusing on Magnesium Hydroxide. Odyssey is the Florida distributor for Martin Marietta (formerly Premier Magnesia). A qualified candidate will be tasked with business development in chemical sales and Odyssey’s existing products and services in the State of Florida, cultivating strategic relationships, bridging the gap between statewide sales growth, and technical production execution. An ideal candidate should be a licensed water/wastewater operator or a have extensive experience in water treatment systems and be located within two hours of Tampa, Florida. Please send your resume to Patrick Allman, General Manager: pallman@odysseymanufacturing.com

Apply Online At: http://pompanobeachfl.gov Open until filled

Fort Pierce Utilities Authority

NOW HIRING FOR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS! • Director of Water/Wastewater Systems (P.E. REQUIRED) • Water Resources Superintendent View job descriptions and apply to our website at www.fpua.com

• • • • •

NOW HIRING! Water & Wastewater Positions Utilities Director Operations Manager Maintenance Supervisor Plant Operator I-II Field Technician I-II Apply Online Today! -www.davie-fl.gov

Supervising Utility Engineer

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) is seeking a Supervising Utility Engineer to join our Water/Wastewater Systems Engineering Department’s Pipeline Infrastructure group. Salary range: $111,935.25 - $167,902.36. Please apply online at Career Opportunities: Water / Wastewater Supervising Engineer (717)

Florida Water Resources Journal • September 2026 57

SERVING FLORIDA’S WATER AND WASTEWATER INDUSTRY SINCE 1949

Test Yourself Answer Key January 2016

Editorial Calendar

January...............Wastewater Treatment February..............Water Supply; Alternative Sources March................... Energy Efficiency; Environmental Stewardship April.....................Water Conservation and Reuse May......................Operations and Utilities Management June..................... Biosolids Management and Bioenergy Production July...................... Stormwater Management; Emerging Technologies August.................Disinfection; Water Quality September.......... Emerging Issues; Water Resources Management October............... New Facilities, Expansions, and Upgrades November...........Water Treatment December............Distribution and Collection Technical articles are usually scheduled several months in advance and are due 60 days before the issue month (for example, January 1 for the March issue).

Continued from page 37 1. D) 2.84 gallons.

The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a 300-foot deep well with 200 feet of water with a 20-inch casing at a dose of 100 mg/l is 2.84 gallons.

2. B) 4.01 gallons.

The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a 500-foot section of an 8-inch water main at a dose of 350 mg/l is 4.01 gallons.

3. C) 58.5 gallons.

The number of gallons of 11.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution needed to disinfect a reservoir 10 feet deep, 20 feet wide, and 30 feet long at a dose of 150 mg/l is 58.5 gallons.

4. B) 1.7 mg/l.

The chlorine dose required to maintain a 0.2 mg/l chlorine residual for a water source with a chlorine demand of 1.5 mg/l is 1.7 mg/l.

The closing date for display ad and directory card reservations, notices, announcements, upcoming events, and everything else including classified ads, is 30 days before the issue month (for example, September 1 for the October issue).

5. A) 27 lbs/day.

For further information on submittal requirements, guidelines for writers, advertising rates and conditions, and ad dimensions, as well as the most recent notices, announcements, and classified advertisements, go to www.fwrj.com or call 352-241-6006.

6. A) 405 lbs/month.

Display Advertiser Index Barnes.........................................................................................................................11 Blue Planet Environmental Systems....................................................................... 59 CEU Challenge........................................................................................................... 38 FJ Nugent..................................................................................................................... 5 Florida Water Resources Conference..................................................................... 48 FSAWWA............................................................................................................... 42-45 FWEA.......................................................................................................................... 39 FWPCOA Training Calendar..................................................................................... 55 Gerber........................................................................................................................... 9 Heyward........................................................................................................................ 2 Hudson Pump and Equipment................................................................................. 49 Hydro International.................................................................................................... 13 Lakeside Equipment Corporation.............................................................................. 7 PCL Construction...................................................................................................... 25 Sedivision................................................................................................................... 27 Smith & Loveless....................................................................................................... 53 U.S. Submergent........................................................................................................ 31 Veolia.......................................................................................................................... 60 Water Treatment & Controls Technology................................................................ 24

58 September 2026 • Florida Water Resources Journal

The pounds of chlorine per day needed to disinfect water delivered at 500 gpm at a dose of 4.5 mg/l is 27 lbs/day.

The number of pounds of chlorine used in one month (30 days) with a dose of 18 lbs/ day where the well pump operates 18 hours per day is 405 lbs/month.

7. C) 3.5 mg/l.

The chlorine dose where the starting weight of a 150-pound cylinder is 143 pounds, the end weight is 118 pounds, and the well delivers 600 gpm throughout a 24-hour period is 3.5 mg/l.

8. C) 1.89 mg/l.

The chlorine dose of water delivered from a well pumping 550 gpm disinfected with a hypochlorinator pumping 3 percent available hypochlorite solution at a rate of 50 gallons per day is 1.89 mg/l.

9. B) 1.02 mg/l.

The chlorine dose of 1,200,000 gallons of water disinfected with a 2.5 percent sodium hypochlorite solution stored in a 2.5-footdiameter croc where its level dropped 20 inches within a week is 1.02 mg/l.

10. B) 1.6 percent.

The required percent concentration of a hypochlorite solution for a well with a pumping capacity of 550 gpm where the hypochlorinator pumps 110 gpd and the desired dose is 2.2 mg/l is 1.6 percent.

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