Water Quality & Conservation
What's the problem?
The Biscayne Aquifer is the primary source of drinking water for Miami-Dade and Broward County residents. It is made of limestone and very porous, making it a productive aquifer. The State of Florida manages this water resource and lets utilities dig wells into the aquifer to reach the freshwater and bring it up for consumers. Contamination, over-pumping and saltwater intrusion are all risks that this essential water source faces. Microplastics from surface water and industrial effluent absorb and release toxic chemicals and threaten the health of marine animals. The redirection of naturally flowing water by artificial canals also poses a threat to the safety of Florida’s waters, most notably the Everglades, Florida’s expansive freshwater marshland. Since their implementation, the water coming into the Everglades from Lake Okeechobee is lower in quality. Aside from these freshwater resources, our ocean is also at risk. Harmful algal blooms, plastic pollution, and climate change all threaten the health of our coastal and marine ecosystems.
Why should we care?
The Biscayne Aquifer is recharged by rainfall because it is close to the surface. The aquifer is also classified as unconfined, meaning there is a minimal shielding layer of substances, like clay, to protect from external pollutants. On top this, sea level rise from climate change has increased the rate at which saltwater infiltrates the groundwater, eventually making it too saline for consumption. Alternative costly solutions may need to be used, affecting its availability to low-income and communities of color. These communities already bear the brunt of the burden of polluted water, leading to increased risk for health issues. Access to clean water is a right, not a privilege. Our wellbeing is very dependent on the health of our coastal waters. They help regulate Florida’s climate, provide us with food, and are essential in maintaining our thriving economy. The Florida Ocean Alliance estimates that in 2020 alone, “direct and indirect use of ocean and coastal resources contributed $73.9 billion to [Florida’s] economy.” Local wildlife is also threatened by contaminated and polluted water. Animals, especially whales, dolphins, and porpoise species, always run the risk of mistaking things like discarded plastic bags for food. Even near-invisible microplastics pose a threat, especially for animals that feed on plankton and other such small marine animals -- and if these microplastics don’t kill them, they may get fished and then sold in a market, which threatens public health through secondary consumption of these harmful chemicals.
What can we do?
Protecting our water resources is a priority for Miami-Dade County. The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department has put together a comprehensive list of tips to help conserve water. Some easy solutions include switching to more water-efficient models like low-flow shower heads, faucets, and toilets, and limiting the use of harmful herbicides and pesticides. The County offers numerous rebates and sometimes even free exchange programs to help. This year, we are also proud to partner with the Ocean Conservancy and share the amazing work they have done in setting out a vision for Florida’s ocean and coasts.
Green Schools Challenge Activities:
STE(A)M Activity - The Seas On the Rise
CREATE YOUR OWN - Submit Lesson Plan click here
Points for participation will be based on a rubric. Download here.
