Project benefits water quality for Lake Apopka and springs of the Wekiva system

Construction site with large pipes coming out of the ground

A campground creates the needed underground infrastructure to connect to a central sewer system.

MAITLAND, Fla., June 28, 2017 — A recently completed project at a central Florida RV park and campground will help achieve water quality improvements for Lake Apopka and springs of the Wekiva system. The St. Johns River Water Management District contributed $34,425 to the project at Orange Blossom KOA in Orange County, which dismantled an old wastewater treatment plant and connected the campground to a central sewer system.

“Protecting and restoring water quality is a core mission of the district,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “We are excited to help fund this local project because it means improved water quality for not only Wekiva system but also Lake Apopka.”

After dismantling and removing the inefficient wastewater treatment facility from the site, the campground connected to the city of Apopka’s central sewer system. The move removes the pollution source, eliminating nitrogen, phosphorus and other wastewater effluents. Located a half-mile from Lake Apopka marshlands, the work benefits nearby Lake Apopka and the Wekiva spring system.

The district and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection each contributed $34,425 to the project.