FL S0536

Department of Environmental Protection must conduct a comprehensive study in coordination with stakeholders on expanding beneficial use of reclaimed water, stormwater, and excess surface water.

Report must identify factors prohibiting or complicating expansion of these water sources and recommend mitigation strategies.

Report must examine environmental, engineering, public health, fiscal constraints, and utility rate structures; identify areas where traditional water sources are limited; and recommend permit incentives for entities substituting reclaimed water.

Report must determine feasibility, benefits, and costs of constructing regional storage infrastructure for reclaimed water and stormwater with delivery mechanisms for agricultural irrigation, power generation, public water supply, and groundwater recharge.

Department must hold at least two public meetings and provide opportunity for written public comment; report due to Governor and Legislature by December 1, 2015.