07/09/2013AP - Laserfiche WebLink

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INDIAN RIVER COUNTY ACTION PLAN FOR THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON SHORT TERM STRATEGIES ➢ Intensify educational efforts with our state legislators, in particular the Governor, on the importance and economic benefit of the lagoon, so research/remediation money does not get vetoed out of state budgets. ➢ In addition, lobby our Federal legislatures to direct EPA and ACOE to issue rules that provide a "no harm" rule for alternative ag practices. This is the biggest hold up to a couple of pilot "water farming" projects. ➢ Begin TMDL reductions and habitat restoration. o Oyster bed pilot project at FDOT freshwater outfall, building on success of Spoonbill Marsh, oysters filter water, create lost habitat for food chain, create recreational fishing areas. Data to be collected to be used for grant application to install beds at all FDOT outfalls. ➢ Begin installation of baffle boxes at all FDOT outfalls to trap and collect sediment prior to reaching lagoon. We had a presentation by a consultant who can help with grant applications (see attachment 2.) Plan and budget for periodic clean out. ➢ Expedite construction of the south county algal scrubber project. ➢ Direct County Administrator to create a new code enforcement position for "nutrient enforcement". Duties will be focused on education and compliance with state and local laws regarding fertilizing, lawn clippings, training, etc. This will also include outreach to the 100's of landscape companies to educate them on new certification laws. ➢ Implement county fertilizer ordinance as per state requirements. Assuming above bullet point is approved, our ordinance will be effective due to dedicated enforcement mechanism. ➢ Pass ordinance requiring higher standards for older, existing septic tank systems that are in need of replacement or major repair. ➢ Design and implement projects to run new sewer lines to communities identified as having a significant number of septic tank systems installed prior to 1983. 84-A -3