Everglades Storm Water Management Contract Awarded

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has awarded a contract to Parsons Brinckerhoff for construction management services in connection with a water quality restoration project in the Everglades.

The C-44 Reservoir/Stormwater Treatment Area (STA) Project is part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), which sets out a long-term plan for restoring, protecting, and preserving the water resources of central and southern Florida, including the Everglades.

The C-44 Canal discharges into the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie Estuary. In the last several years, high levels of polluted storm water runoff have affected the recreational interests and livelihoods of local residents and businesses. The purpose of the C-44 Reservoir/STA project is to build wetlands, canals, culverts, discharge structures and embankments that will capture local runoff from the C-44 Basin, treat it naturally and return it to the C-44 Canal. This project will improve water quality by reducing the level of nutrients, pesticides, herbicides and other pollutants currently discharged into the estuary. The project will also reduce the force of the water being released, so that damage to the ecosystem is minimized during storms.

Under its contract, Parsons Brinckerhoff will support the SFWMD by ensuring the STA is constructed to proper standards so that it meets the established water quality goals. 

Source: Parsons Brinckerhoff