Black & Veatch and Brown and Caldwell are collaborating on a water sustainability project in Winter Haven, Fla. According to a Brown and Caldwell press release, the engineering and design team of both companies have been selected to develop a water sustainability blueprint.
The city of Haven is home to the “Chain of Lakes” and has a population of more than 37,000 potable water customers. According to the press release, the plan will adopt a “one water” approach to this project. This approach includes multiple forms of water: drinking water, wastewater, storm water, reclaimed water, indirect and direct potable use and groundwater. The team will assess the city’s water resources and utility system. It will also decide how to incorporate its’ lakes and natural systems while promoting water sustainability and economic growth.
The city has joined the Polk Regional Water Cooperative to be “more proactive in addressing it’s water future” and to support regional water sustainability efforts. According to the press release, the City Commission adopted the Sustainable Water Management Plan in 2010. This established an approach that recognized how water is connected to the city’s economic future and quality of life.
"This master plan is incredibly important for Winter Haven to meet all of the water challenges we expect over the next 50 years, and it’s our hope that this effort will become a catalyst for positive change not only for our community, but other communities in Florida and beyond,” said Mike Britt, Winter Haven utility services assistant director, according to the press release.
In 2017, Brown and Caldwell partnered with the Water Research Foundation to develop Blueprint for One Water.According to the press release, it is a guide for agencies managing water resources.
"Winter Haven has already adopted a one water mindset and philosophy within their organization, and this formal planning effort speaks to their commitment to sustainably managing their water resources,” said Jim Murin, leader of Brown and Caldwell Florida “One Water.”
