Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/180498
Sarasota News Leader September 27, 2013 Page 33 If the sample results Fastiggi referenced in the email to Patterson were recorded from the Gulf of Mexico or freshwater bodies in the area where people swim or pursue other water activities, Higginbotham pointed out, "They would certainly be of a health concern." With stormwater, which is not considered recreational water, he pointed out, "We expect to see high levels of bacteria," adding that stormwater systems are designed to allow "good" bacteria and the sun's ultraviolet rays to break down harmful nutrients. That is why the systems have retention ponds, he added, "to let The Florida Department of Environmental nature take its course." Protection regulation regarding water quality As for concerns about people walking through says that, to ensure protection of the public's the areas of the Gulf & Bay property where health, no samples shall average a figure high- the samples were taken, Higginbotham said er than 200 or exceed 400 in 10 percent of the his recommendation would be that anyone samples, he continued. The samples also can- who has to wade through such standing wanot exceed 800 in any single given day. ter — or any area suspected to be unhealthful Another photo contrasts the stained sand with the white sand on the public beach. Photo courtesy Sarasota County