In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing efforts to address water quality issues in the Clermont Chain of Lakes, particularly focusing on Lake Mineola. The meeting highlighted the findings from a comprehensive study conducted by the water authority, which aimed to identify the causes of significant algal blooms that have affected the lake in recent years.

Lance Lombard, a representative from WSP, presented the final report detailing the study's conclusions and recommendations. He emphasized that the research was prompted by a notable increase in algal blooms, which surpassed previous occurrences. The study primarily examined untreated stormwater outfalls that drain into Lake Mineola, particularly those constructed before the implementation of modern stormwater regulations in the 1980s.

Lombard explained that the study identified several small outfalls along Lake Shore Drive and Lake Minnehaha as key contributors to the nutrient loading in the lakes, specifically focusing on total phosphorus levels. He noted that while most outfalls had been addressed, the remaining untreated sources posed a challenge for water quality management.

The report included a model that assessed the mass loading from various subbasins, revealing that densely populated areas contributed significantly to nutrient runoff. Lombard pointed out that while the study provided a list of potential best management practices (BMPs) to mitigate these issues, the high density of development in certain areas limited the options for structural interventions.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among stakeholders to implement the recommended BMPs and improve water quality in the Clermont Chain of Lakes, ultimately aiming to reduce the impact of stormwater runoff on Lake Mineola and its surrounding ecosystems.