From
Volusia County Water Resources and Utilities
May/June 2003
Completion of a Stormwater Project: Wilbur-by-the-Sea
March 12, 2003 marked the official completion of a stormwater project in Wilbur-by-the-Sea. The project consisted of the construction of 3 landscaped retention areas, as well as an underground system of stormwater storage trenches known as “ex-filtration”. This project had been under construction for nine months. It represents a significant improvement in both flood protection and pollution control of stormwater runoff. All the retention areas were constructed on small residential lots. The design was selected in a way to integrate the retention areas into the local residential community. The landscaping used consists of plant and shrub material, which is suited for local soil and moisture conditions. Many of the shrubs are colorful, flowering varieties. The grass used is Bermuda for drought tolerance and less mowing requirements.
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Water
Wise Plant of the Month
Moss Verbena is related to the threatened Beach Verbena, which is the variety native to Florida. Moss Verbena has three-lobed, aromatic leaves, which are set on branching stems. Verbena flowers are about 1-inch long and half an inch across. They can be rose, pink, purple, or white in color or any variation among these. The flowers occur in clumps and bloom from spring until the first frost, providing a food source for many butterflies. Use Verbena in flowerbeds or along the front of borders. It also looks nice in a hanging container. This plant is recommended for attracting butterflies. Salt
Tolerant: Medium |
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Disaster Preparedness
June 1st marks the beginning of hurricane season. The following information is provided to help you make some disaster preparedness for you and your family.
Because disaster can strike at any time, your local water utility takes extra measures to protect both the availability and quality of your water supply. Although no amount of preparation can prevent a disaster, planning can limit is effects. One of the most important supplies to have on hand in the event of a disaster is safe drinking water.
A good rule of thumb is to store one gallon of water per person per day. You should plan for at least three days. For example, a family of four should store 12 gallons of water, one for each person and enough for three days. Remember, you'll need more water in hot temperatures and for strenuous activities. People with special needs such as nursing mothers, young children, and family members with illnesses also require more water.
If you have advance warning of a disaster or other possible disruption of your water supply, fill bathtubs, sinks, and all available containers with water to supplement the water you have stored. If you are caught unprepared, the drain on your hot water heater can supply you with a good amount of water in an emergency.
If disinfected tap water is stored in a clean, airtight container and in a cool location, the water should remain safe indefinitely. As a general rule, change your emergency water supply at least every six months to ensure freshness.
For more information on disaster preparedness click here.
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Rain Barrels Still Available ˝ price coupon available for a 30-gallon rain barrel. This is a $36.00 value complete with spigot and screen. You pay only $18.00. Contact 943-7027 ext. 2611 for details. |
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Tip of the Month If you don’t have an automatic timer on your sprinkler, use a kitchen timer to remind you to turn off the water. Left unattended, a garden hose can waste as much as 600 gallons of water in just one hour. |
Coming to your Mailbox
The annual Consumer Confidence Report should be arriving in your mailbox during the month of July. This report is required by law and advises the consumer exactly what is in their water. As the report becomes available, it can also be viewed on Water Resources and Utilities home page.
You Might Ask
Q. When I travel to a different place in this country, sometimes I have an upset stomach for a couple of days. Is this because something is wrong with the water?
A. This probably does not result from a problem with germs in the drinking water. Waters with a high mineral content, particularly sulfate, may sometimes have a temporary laxative effect if your body is not accustomed to them. Therefore, the change in mineral content from place to place sometimes does bother travelers for a short time, until the body readjusts.
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Volusia County, Florida.