SUBJECT
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Approve License Agreement with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) to allow Polk County to utilize the state property to complete the Innovative Technology Grant “Advanced Algae Cultivation Technology for Nutrient Removal from Florida Surface Waters” (No fiscal impact).
body
DESCRIPTION
Polk County has been awarded an Innovative Technology Grant with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) titled, Advanced Algae Cultivation Technology for Nutrient Removal from Florida Surface Waters. The agreement for the FDEP grant INV 51 is under a concurrent agenda item. Generally, the project will pump water from Saddle Creek into holding tanks where algae will be grown and harvested to remove nutrients, before returning the cleaner water back to creek. The pilot project will collect valuable data throughout the project to study the effectiveness of the nutrient reduction tool.
The County has identified an ideal location of the Southwest Florida Water Management District property along Upper Saddle Creek for project implementation. The SWFWMD requires a license agreement for the County to utilize their property for the study.
RECOMMENDATION
Approve “License Agreement with the Southwest Florida Water Management District” to allow Polk County to utilize the state property for the FDEP grant.
FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Greg Knothe, Water Resources Project Manager
Parks and Natural Resources Division
(863) 534-7377
gregknothe@polk-county.net <mailto:gregknothe@polk-county.net>
Tabitha Biehl, Land and Water Natural Areas Manager
Parks and Natural Resources Division
(863) 534-7377
tabithabiehl@polk-county.net <mailto:tabithabiehl@polk-county.net>
Gaye Sharpe, Director
Parks and Natural Resources Division
(863) 534-7377
gayesharpe@polk-county.net <mailto:gayesharpe@polk-county.net>