[Freehiker]

Originally Posted by BrianL99

No need to wait very long.

The District doesn't necessarily have to keep the ponds "Algae Free", they have to maintain them pursuant to their permits and rules promulgated by SFWMD, the State of Florida and subject to the US Clean Water Act.

Under SFWMD, they don't have to be "free from native vegetation", but non-native invasive species taking over, would likely be a violation of their permit.

Folks that don't understand how drainage works, are sometimes confused about "natural impoundments". A 6th grader would understand that a "broken pipe" has to be fixed, natural impoundments are no different. They have to be maintained in a way that their original design intent is maintained and in a way that doesn't significantly change the design habitat for flora and fauna. In simple terms, you can't build a "lake" and then allow it to become a "marsh". In most cases, that would be a violation of a permit. Wildlife habitat values, usually have to be maintained.

You can find the regulations here:

Summary of the Clean Water Act | US EPA

Drainage Design Guide

Watershed Management Program | WaterMatters.org

So they don’t have to keep them free of the things that people are complaining about; thanks!