Stormwater Retention Ponds (Lakes) and Our Watersheds
Carlos J. Cuevas
Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department Stormwater Program, Outreach Coordinator www.Brevstorm.org
www.LagoonLoyal.com

Clean Water Act & NPDES

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

This permit program addresses water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants to waters of the US. It was created in 1972 under the Clean Water Act. The program is authorized to state governments by EPA to perform many permitting, administrative, and enforcement aspects of the program.

Our Waterways

Watersheds:
St. Johns River
Mosquito Lagoon
Indian River Lagoon System
IRL Tributaries:
Addison Creek
Sykes Creek
Horse Creek
Eau Gallie River
Crane Creek
Turkey Creek
Goat Creek
Sebastian River

Stormwater Runoff

Storm water runoff goes mostly untreated to our waterbodies!

Stormwater Pond

When stormwater ponds are well designed and maintained, they can be moderately to highly effective in reducing stormwater pollutants in waterways.
40% TN Absorption.
54,773 Lbs/yr.
65% TP Absorption.
6,593 Lbs/yr.
Flood Prevention.

Several residents have

The Issue

complained about land erosion caused by the water in their ponds.

Solution 1 – Periodic dredging could restore the area, but it is expensive and intrusive.
Solution 2 – Buffer zones of 15’ from bodies of water which are in compliance with County’s ordinance.
Benefits of buffer zones – Reduce erosion as plants with bigger roots stabilize the soil. There are many design options to choose from. Increase biodiversity thus increasing aesthetics of the yard. Increase property values.
Common myths: Plants are weeds, snake and alligator could hide in them.

The Plan
A Concomitant Grant
Stormwater – This would be a VECDD (VECA kept in the loop) sponsored project. This project would create a planted littoral/buffer zone along a section (TBD) of the Suceda Park lake.
Education – This is a County sponsored project.

Involves education of VECDD residents about the Best Management Practices of lakes/retention ponds via presentations and paraphernalia.

Provide project site’s educational signage.

Will encourage residents to visit the area.

Measure residents gained knowledge with pre/post surveys.

Pr e Survey

Time Line	*

Co,n .st liu ct ion

O u t:re,ach

t	t	t	t

t	t
Co,n .st liu ct ion Co,mplet  io,n

P ,oiSt  SuN ey

Final Rep od

The Plan
Cost to be determined.
Grant will cover 50% of the cost.

Thank You!!!

Questions???

Contact:  Carlos.Cuevas@BrevardFL.gov 321 350 8408