HAVANA — Continuing its focus on water supply and natural resource protection, the Northwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board today approved an agreement of up to $200,000 with Washington County for a series of streambank restoration and protection activities along Holmes Creek. In a separate item, the Board also approved up to $235,845 in grant funding to the City of Blountstown to complete needed repairs and upgrades to its water distribution system.
“The District is pleased to partner with local governments to implement projects and improvements that will help protect the water resources of northwest Florida and ensure a reliable supply of water for our citizens,” said District Executive Director Jon Steverson.
Under the agreement with Washington County, the District will provide the county funds to complete environmental restoration, protection and improvement projects and repairs at the popular Hightower, Spurling and Live Oak landings within the Holmes Creek Water Management Area. Projects include initiating streambank restoration and protection measures at all three sites by constructing vegetative retaining walls that will help reduce erosion and restore natural functions.
Additional protection activities include constructing several small stormwater facilities that will help capture and treat runoff before it enters Holmes Creek — a major spring-fed tributary of the Choctawhatchee River. The county will also construct a boardwalk and overlook deck at Hightower Landing, which will give the public access to view the spring pool while offering shoreline protection. Other improvements include boat ramp repairs and other recreational improvements, such as developing parking and picnic areas and primitive campsites.
The Washington County Commission approved this agreement in December 2012.
Under the agreement with the City of Blountstown, the District will provide funding—to be matched by the city—to replace an existing pipeline that runs under approximately 5,500 linear feet of State Road 20. The existing pipeline requires extensive annual maintenance and repairs, causing periodic disruptions. Replacing the line will reduce the cost and burden of the maintenance, as well as improve service to residents.
An important part of the District’s water supply development programs include assisting local governments and non-profit utilities with water supply development projects. In addition to improving public water supply, the District’s grant to the City of Blountstown is also providing funding for a community within a designated Rural Area of Critical Economic Concern.
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