Where do you think most of the water pollutants in our region come from? Did you know that about half of them come from septic tanks?
That’s according to Dr. Mary Lusk, faculty in the Soil and Water Science Department at the University of Florida-Gulf Coast Research and Education Center.
She spoke at this year’s “Florida Water: Decade for Decisions” seminar and said conventional septic tanks do not remove much nitrogen (about 30 percent) and are greatly contributing to water quality deterioration. Read more about how septic tanks impact springs on the District’s website.
The seminar featured water experts from various disciplines who shared information about water conservation and spread awareness on what can be done to help protect this natural resource. The day-long event was hosted by the UF/IFAS Citrus County Extension for residents and others interested in the topic.
Some areas covered include:
- the importance of healthy stormwater ponds.
- sea level rise and climate change.
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™.
- agricultural best management practices.
The District’s Water Supply Project Manager, Joe Quinn, briefed the audience on the District’s Regional Water Supply Plan, which assesses the area’s water demands and potential sources during a 20-year period. He also discussed some of the District’s water supply projects to help meet those water needs.
Quinn said the event is a great opportunity to create a conversation about water with experts and citizens alike.
“The water seminar and similar events are excellent opportunities for District staff to educate the public on the management of our water resources, including the significant benefits of water conservation,” he said.