Subject:
Title
Amended Memorandum of Understanding with the Florida Department of Health to Evaluate Alternative Nitrogen-Reducing Media for Septic Drainfields.
End
Fiscal Impact:
Septic upgrade installation costs are included in the adopted Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan (Fund 1260). Monitoring costs will be covered by a Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant.
FY 19/20 $26,300 per site (construction costs = $18,000, monitoring costs = $8,300)
FY 20/21 $26,300 per site (construction costs = $18,000, monitoring costs = $8,300)
Dept/Office:
Natural Resources Management
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board authorize the Chair to execute the amended Memorandum of Understanding with the Florida Department of Health to Evaluate Alternative Nitrogen-Reducing Media for Septic Drainfields.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
The purpose of this amended Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) (Attachment A) is to renew the collaboration between the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) and Brevard County for the installation, operation and evaluation of no more than fifty onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) using a variety of alternate nitrogen-reducing media.
The amendments incorporated into the MOU include extending the terms from annual to continuous until either party terminates the contract; clarified definitions; clarified type of nitrogen-reducing media allowed; and clarified FDOH’s responsibility in reviewing the quality assurance project plan.
This collaboration is benefitting Brevard County and the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project by allowing for the use of more effective, passive septic systems. Alternative media selected for evaluation will have bench-scale data demonstrating it should meet or exceed the 65% nitrogen reduction standard set by the County Commission’s nitrogen reduction septic overlay ordinance (#2018-23). Currently, the only state-approved passive nitrogen reducing septic drainfield uses wood mulch, which has a limited lifespan currently estimated at 10 years. Other nitrogen reducing media used in stormwater systems have a lifespan of 20-30 years, but these media have not been approved by the Florida Department of Health for use in septic drainfields.
Phase 1 of this project is in progress with three Brevard sites using the first alternative nitrogen-reducing media approved by the FDOH for testing. Site selection for conversion to nitrogen reducing septic systems is based on nutrient impact to the Indian River Lagoon. Volunteers are currently being recruited from owners of septic systems prioritized for upgrade in the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan (SOIRLPP). Design, permitting, and installation costs will be covered by septic upgrade funds approved in the SOIRLPP. Monitoring expenses will be covered by a Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant for innovative technologies.
This MOU shall begin on the last date signed by the Parties and remain in effect until terminated by either Party.
Clerk to the Board Instructions:
The attached Memorandum of Understanding is to be executed by the Chair and attested by the Clerk. For Pickup, please email Carol Gerundo at carol.gerundo@brevardfl.gov