RESPEC PROJECT

Branden River Utilities (BRU) provides non-potable water to customers in the Lakewood Ranch Stewardship District (Stewardship District) and has a system that includes three wastewater reuse sources of supply. These supply sources are supplemented by groundwater wells and stormwater collection locations throughout the service area, primarily at storage sites. RESPEC conducted a comprehensive assessment of the system’s infrastructure that examined various components, such as inlet metering stations from reuse sources, wells and meter services from the wells, open water storage facilities, pump stations providing pressure to irrigation systems and transferring water between storage sites, meter services to users, and pipelines.  

RESPEC’s approach involved a multi-step process to ensure a thorough evaluation. We reviewed BRU files and GIS databases, as well as interviewed the operations staff, to understand the system and identify potential areas of concern. RESEPC then conducted an on-site inspection of each facility to confirm the existing inventory, assess the vulnerability of the system infrastructure, and identify any deficiencies. The data collected helped certify the system’s condition for regulatory needs.  

Our assessment provided several benefits to the Stewardship District. This evaluation assisted the district in understanding the system infrastructure’s vulnerabilities, which is essential for developing strategies to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the system’s long-term sustainability. The assessment also identified any operational and maintenance needs within the system. By addressing these needs, BRU can enhance the efficiency and reliability of its non-potable water supply, ultimately benefiting customers. Additionally, this assessment supported a bond initiative by providing valuable information regarding the system’s condition to the Stewardship District. This knowledge was crucial for securing funding and ensuring the successful implementation of future projects.  

Throughout the project, our team worked nationwide—from Fairbanks, Alaska, to Sarasota, Florida—to collaborate closely with the Stewardship District, ensuring prompt delivery of the project and cost-effectively meeting the district’s needs.