Webinar Spotlight: Tackling Toxic Algae in Florida Lakes with SOLitude Lake Management

Webinar Spotlight: Tackling Toxic Algae in Florida Lakes with SOLitude Lake Management

How to Fight Toxic Algae in Florida Lakes: Join the July 10 Webinar with SOLitude Lake Management

SOLitude Lake Management is a nationally recognized environmental firm specializing in the management and restoration of freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, ponds, and stormwater systems. In Winter Springs, SOLitude has been contracted to assist the City in improving water quality through science-based lake and stormwater management practices.

On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM EDT, they are hosting a free educational webinar titled Tackling Toxic Algae. This event will provide valuable insight into the causes and solutions surrounding toxic algae in Florida lakes, a growing concern for communities throughout the state.

Why This Webinar Matters

Florida’s climate creates ideal conditions for harmful cyanobacteria—commonly known as blue-green algae—to thrive. These blooms are fueled by warm water temperatures, excess nutrients, and low dissolved oxygen levels. Once present, they can disrupt ecosystems, pose health risks, and reduce the recreational value of lakes and ponds.

In Winter Springs and throughout Central Florida, residents have seen firsthand the environmental and aesthetic impacts of these blooms. Learning how to identify and mitigate them is essential to protecting our water bodies now and into the future.

What the Webinar Covers

Attendees will gain insight into:

  • How and why toxic algae blooms develop
  • The difference between harmless algae and cyanobacteria
  • Early signs of harmful blooms and how to monitor them
  • Proven strategies for algae control, including nutrient reduction and aeration
  • What residents, HOAs, and municipalities can do to manage and prevent future outbreaks

This webinar is an excellent opportunity for residents, property managers, and environmental advocates to better understand this pressing water quality issue.

Local Relevance for Winter Springs

Toxic algae in Florida lakes is more than just a seasonal inconvenience. It represents a long-term challenge to water quality, biodiversity, and public health. In Winter Springs, these risks are especially important to address as we continue investing in infrastructure improvements and environmental safeguards.

Educational events like this support informed decision-making and community participation. Staying ahead of these issues ensures that our lakes and stormwater systems remain safe, clean, and ecologically balanced.

Protecting local water quality requires both proactive leadership and informed community involvement. By understanding the science behind toxic algae and learning practical solutions, we can all contribute to healthier waterways across Florida.

For those interested in the future of our lakes, this webinar offers clear, actionable insights and a chance to be part of the solution.

Victoria K. Bruce

Commissioner, District 2

Winter Springs, Florida

Visit victoriaforwintersprings.com

Winter Springs Advances 5-Year Utilities Plan and Water Facility Upgrades at June 2025 Workshop

Winter Springs Advances 5-Year Utilities Plan and Water Facility Upgrades at June 2025 Workshop

On June 18, 2025, the City of Winter Springs hosted a Special Utilities Workshop to present its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and share progress on the modernization of the City’s East and West Water Reclamation Facilities. The workshop was led by the Public Works and Utilities Department alongside key consultants and the City’s construction partners.

Capital Improvement Plan Overview

The City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a multi-year roadmap used to prioritize and fund essential utility infrastructure projects. This planning tool ensures that Winter Springs can proactively manage and upgrade systems that support public health, environmental protection, and community growth.

Utilities Capital Infrastructure Plan (CIP) for:

  • Wastewater (Sewage) Projects
  • Potable Water (Drinking) Projects
  • Reclaimed Water (Irrigation) Projects

These categories reflect the City’s focus on critical infrastructure areas that serve homes, businesses, and recreational areas throughout Winter Springs.

Active Projects for Fiscal Year 2025

Current utility improvements are underway across several systems. These include:

  • Generator installation at Water Treatment Plant #3
  • Lift Station 7W reconstruction
  • Michael Blake reclaimed water main extension
  • Lead and copper inventory for compliance
  • SCADA upgrades for emergency response
  • Sheoah Boulevard and Vistawilla Boulevard main extension designs

5-Year Utilities Investment Plan

From 2026 to 2030, the City plans to carry out 31 infrastructure projects totaling nearly $34 million:

  • $17.9 million for potable water
  • $8.6 million for wastewater
  • $7.3 million for reclaimed water

These efforts address aging infrastructure, improve efficiency, expand service, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

Water Reclamation Facility Construction Updates

The City is replacing its outdated 1970s-era East and West Water Reclamation Facilities with modern plants that are more reliable and capable of meeting future demands. The facilities will be constructed with multiple treatment trains to maintain operations during maintenance or disruptions.

Anticipated Construction Schedule:

  • East Wastewater Plant (Sam Smith Park)
    • Commence: Summer 2026
    • Complete: End of 2028
  • West Wastewater Plant (Highlands)
    • Commence: End of 2027
    • Complete: End of 2029

The East facility’s final design is complete and permitted. A construction loan application has been submitted to the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, with funding approval expected soon. Work on the West facility will begin once the East project is well underway.

Looking Ahead

Over the next several months, the City will continue to refine cost estimates, secure long-lead materials, and coordinate construction planning. Value engineering workshops will help ensure the final product remains within budget while delivering maximum performance.

View the Presentations:

Utilities Capital Infrastructure Program

East & West Water Reclamation Facility Update

Winter Springs remains committed to transparent governance, long-term sustainability, and strategic investment in the infrastructure that supports everyday life.

Victoria K. Bruce

Commissioner, District 2

Winter Springs, Florida

Visit victoriaforwintersprings.com