On November 14, 2010, the USEPA administrator signed the final “Water Quality Standards for the State of Florida’s Lakes and Flowing Waters”. The USEPA determined that numeric nutrient water quality standards for lakes and flowing waters and for estuaries and coastal waters are necessary for the State of Florida to meet the requirements of Clean Water Act section 303(c). These final standards set numeric limits, or criteria, on the amount of nutrient pollutants allowed in Florida’s lakes, rivers, streams and springs. This final action seeks to improve water quality, protect public health, aquatic life and the long term recreational uses of Florida’s waters which are a critical part of the State’s economy. The rule takes effect on March 6, 2012. The USEPA extended the effective date for the rule for 15 months to allow cities, towns, businesses and other stakeholders to review the standards and develop flexible strategies for implementation.

As a consulting firm with expertise in stormwater sampling and management, Westhorp & Associates, Inc. can assist your municipality in preparing new or updated stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs), monitoring guidelines and/or plans, and any additional required documentation and sampling events that these new rules may require.