Stormwater Division
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Telephone: (352) 394 - 3598 ext. 301
Office Location:
16409 N. Highway 27
Minneola, FL 34715
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has entrusted the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) with the important role of implementing the National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) under the Clean Water Act. This system effectively regulates both local point source and non-point source stormwater runoff, helping to protect our beautiful surface waters. Since 2004, municipalities and counties have had the opportunity to obtain an NPDES permit from DEP and to develop a comprehensive stormwater management program that incorporates best management practices (BMPs) with measurable goals.
The City of Minneola is proud to maintain an active NPDES permit (#FLR04E111) and has established a proactive stormwater management program that includes strict controls on development runoff and pollution prevention. Our city regularly conducts street sweeping and has a stormwater retrofit program funded by existing stormwater utility fees to further enhance our community's efforts. You can learn more about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) at: https://www.epa.gov/npdes.
Additionally, the Water Quality Sampling Database is a valuable resource where you can search for information by watershed, county, and water body, and check the levels of dissolved oxygen, pH, and chemicals in our water. This site is consistently updated with new information and can be accessed at: secure.sjrwmd.com/aqportal/Data.
Stormwater runoff, a key contributor to water quality, can sometimes carry pollutants into our picturesque lakes and canals in Lake County. These pollutants, which may include oil, heavy metals, and fertilizers, can originate from lawns, vehicles, and septic systems. To safeguard our environment and maintain the recreational beauty of our lakes and rivers, federal and state regulations have been established to minimize the impact of these pollutants.
A key focus of our initiatives is to educate the community on the significance of swales, which are wide, shallow ditches often found in front yards. Swales serve to channel stormwater and help treat runoff, effectively reducing pollutants that could reach our lakes and streams. They play a crucial role in managing the volume, speed, and quality of water as land is developed. By allowing vegetation to filter rainwater and capture sediments, swales help ensure healthier waterways. To keep our swales functioning optimally, it’s essential not to fill them with dirt, rocks, or debris, as this could increase the risk of flooding during heavy rains.
Here are some helpful tips for maintaining your swale:
- Regularly remove leaves and grass clippings, encourage healthy grass growth, and use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides sparingly.
- Please avoid piling garbage or debris in your swale and refrain from parking vehicles on them, as this compacts the soil and reduces drainage.
- Stormwater inlets, the concrete drains located along our streets, are vital for collecting and channeling stormwater to prevent flooding in our neighborhoods. To ensure these inlets function effectively, it’s important to keep them clear of yard debris and other waste.
We also encourage residents not to blow yard clippings or leaves into the road, as these can wash into storm drains and obstruct the system, leading to potential flooding.
Additionally, please refrain from disposing of oil, gasoline, antifreeze, or household chemicals in drains or on the roadside, as this can contribute to pollution in our waterways.
Together, we can protect our precious water resources and maintain the natural beauty of our community!
Take a look at the resources below to learn how you can do your part to protect our waterways and natural resources:
Florida Yards & Neighborhoods: Protecting Florida's Natural Resources Through Environmentally Friendly Landscaping and Lawn care
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Links
General Construction Solution to Pollution Pamphlet