March/April 2023
The Keys for Innovation
An Op-Ed written by Greg Veliz, Executive Director of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority
Source: WaterWorld | Published: March/April 2023
When you think of the Florida Keys, the first images and thoughts that come to mind are probably not in the potable water realm. The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) and its water system manage what may be one of the best-kept secrets of the Florida Keys: its 130-mile linear system pumps 20 million gallons of water per day to approximately 55,000 customers, and it is home to two low-pressure reverse osmosis (RO) treatment systems, with a third entering design in 2023.
SEAWATER REVERSE OSMOSIS
The FKAA owns and operates the second-ever seawater reverse osmosis (RO) treatment plant in the world.
The technology allows FKAA to use seawater as an alternative potable water source and partially alleviate its reliance on the Biscayne and Floridan aquifers. It also provides relief for saltwater intrusion to protect these water sources long-term.
This is especially important during times of drought when the aquifers experience greater demand and a lower rate of recharge. In this way, RO treatment helps to protect critical habitats such as the Everglades during dry seasons.
The RO plants also provide redundancy in the system to avoid service interruptions during emergencies or when performing maintenance on pipelines. This is especially critical during hurricane season when high winds and storm surges put infrastructure at risk.
With RO water to supplement the main source water, customers are less likely to experience service interruptions during hurricanes or other climate-related weather events.