Comprehensive Overview of Water Quality in Citrus Park

Citrus Park is a suburban neighborhood located in the northwest part of Hillsborough County, known for its residential areas, shopping centers, and proximity to nature preserves. The area primarily receives drinking water from the Hillsborough County Public Utilities system, which sources water from the Upper Floridan Aquifer and local surface water bodies. The county ensures that public water meets all federal and state standards for safety, providing clean, potable water to its residents.

For some homes in Citrus Park, particularly those in more rural or older areas, private wells are still used. While private well water can be cost-effective, it is subject to contamination risks from nearby activities like farming, waste disposal, and development. Residents relying on private wells are encouraged to regularly test their water for pollutants and ensure that their well systems are properly maintained.

Hillsborough County Water Quality Challenges in Citrus Park

Citrus Park’s water quality challenges are mainly driven by the rapid growth of suburban development and the associated environmental factors. One of the primary concerns is stormwater runoff, which occurs when rainwater flows over impervious surfaces such as roads and buildings, picking up pollutants along the way. This runoff can carry fertilizers, oils, pesticides, and other contaminants into local waterways, affecting both surface water and groundwater quality.

Additionally, septic systems in older homes can leak waste into the groundwater if not properly maintained, leading to contamination of private well water. In Citrus Park, where certain homes still rely on septic systems, this is a significant concern for water quality. Efforts to upgrade or replace outdated septic systems are essential for mitigating contamination risks.

Another concern is the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides in residential landscaping. When it rains, these chemicals can wash off lawns and enter storm drains, eventually polluting nearby water bodies, including rivers and retention ponds. This runoff can lead to algae blooms and decreased oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic ecosystems and further degrading water quality.

State and Local Efforts to Improve Water Quality in Citrus Park

Hillsborough County has a variety of programs designed to improve water quality in Citrus Park. The Public Utilities Department works diligently to ensure that the area’s public water supply meets or exceeds all drinking water standards, ensuring safe and clean water for residents. The department also provides resources for homeowners who rely on private wells to ensure their water is properly tested and treated.

The county is also focusing on stormwater management through infrastructure improvements. Programs such as the construction of retention ponds, swales, and rain gardens are aimed at reducing the amount of runoff that carries pollutants into the water supply. These green infrastructure projects not only help to filter out contaminants but also promote the natural filtration of rainwater before it reaches local rivers and lakes.

For residents using septic systems, Hillsborough County provides educational resources on maintaining and upgrading these systems to prevent leaks and contamination. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) enforces state regulations on water quality, ensuring that local water bodies remain protected from pollution. Furthermore, water conservation programs are encouraged to reduce overall water consumption, helping to sustain local water resources and minimize the environmental impact of water use.

Impact of Climate Change on Water Quality in Citrus Park

Like many areas in Florida, Citrus Park is experiencing the impacts of climate change, which can affect water quality in multiple ways. Rising temperatures are contributing to the growth of algal blooms in local water bodies, including retention ponds and lakes. These blooms can deplete oxygen levels, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and pose health risks to humans and animals who come into contact with contaminated water.

In addition, climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of storm events. More intense storms will lead to increased stormwater runoff, which carries pollutants into rivers and lakes. As a result, local water bodies may experience higher levels of contamination during and after storms, compromising water quality.

Another concern is saltwater intrusion, which is becoming more prevalent due to rising sea levels. This could affect the quality of well water in Citrus Park, particularly for residents who rely on groundwater sources for drinking water. As seawater moves inland, it can infiltrate freshwater aquifers, causing a decline in water quality and availability.