Water Quality After Hurricane Ian
Our most recent water quality report grade is a harsh reminder that our water quality is directly impacted by human and natural activities, especially freshwater influx. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) reported the 7-day mean inflow for Sep. 26–Oct. 2 was 7,066 cfs (cubic feet per second). But what does this mean?
Is 7,066 (cfs) a lot of water?
Yes almost 16 times as much as normal! The average 7-day mean inflow to the St Lucie Estuary prior to this event was only 445 (cfs).
Did this water come from Lake Okeechobee?
No, although lake levels have risen, there are still no discharges from the lake to the St. Lucie Estuary. In fact, there have been no discharges from Lake Okeechobee to the St. Lucie Estuary since April 2021.
So where did this water come from?
Hurricane Ian led to severe rainfall, NOAA National Weather Service reported that from Sep. 27–Sep. 30 there was 3.85 inches of rainfall in Stuart, 7.32 inches in S Palm City, and 7.724 inches in SW Port Salerno. This freshwater enters the estuary and lagoon through canals and storm water drains, decreasing salinity and introducing sediments, pollutants, pesticides, and fertilizers. Once this enters our waterways, it fuels algal blooms and negatively impacts ecosystem structure and function.
What can we do to prevent this?
Local government must improve stormwater infrastructure to restore the natural hydrological flow. Individuals can help to prevent nutrient-loaded stormwater runoff by reducing the use of fertilizers on lawns and correctly disposing of yard or dog waste to keep it out of stormwater drains and keep our lagoon clean.
What to know more about water quality along the Treasure Coast? Subscribe to our Weekly Water Quality Report.
