WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — 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, according to a press release.
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 release reported.
The C-44 Canal discharges into the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie Estuary, noted the release, and 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, continued the release, improving water quality by reducing the level of nutrients, pesticides, herbicides and other pollutants currently discharged into the estuary.
According to the release, Parsons Brinckerhoff will support the SFWMD by ensuring the STA is constructed to proper standards so that it meets the established water quality goals.
