A stormwater master plan is a comprehensive planning document that helps a community assess its infrastructure for managing stormwater runoff from heavy and prolonged rainfall events that occur with significant storms and then outlines strategies for improving it.

The main goal of a stormwater master plan is to provide a roadmap for managing stormwater in a sustainable and cost-effective manner, reducing flood risks, and protecting water quality while supporting community and economic development.

The plan typically includes an inventory of existing stormwater systems and the community’s existing policies and regulations, identifies known problematic areas and areas with high flood risk, and proposes a series of recommendations for managing stormwater effectively.

First of all, a stormwater master plan is environmentally sound. Florida’s geography---flat topography, abundant rainfall, and extensive coastal areas---makes us prone to flooding during heavy storms, when there is too much water in too short a period of time. When rainwater falls on impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, and rooftops, the ground cannot filter it fast enough, leading to increased runoff and flooding. Stormwater runoff can carry pollutants, such as oil, pesticides, and fertilizers, from the surface into nearby waterbodies, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and human health.

A master plan will allow St. Lucie County to build up its infrastructure where it is needed to prevent or lessen flooding in neighborhoods where we know flooding has been a problem.

Secondly, it is good economics. If we can prevent problems for our residents in flood-prone areas, we can limit the economic impact on both the county and the residents during significant storms.

Thirdly, it is required to obtain certain funding sources from the State of Florida. Both state and federal regulations require a county to have a stormwater master plan to qualify for certain funding sources for stormwater infrastructure improvements.

St. Lucie County has a history of flooding from storms due to its location on Florida's east coast, which makes it susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes. The county has experienced several significant storm events, including Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne in 2004 and Hurricane Irma in 2017.

In September 2004, Hurricane Frances made landfall on Hutchinson Island in St. Lucie County, causing widespread flooding throughout the area. Many homes and businesses were damaged, and roads were closed due to high water levels. The flooding was severe in some areas, and it took several weeks for the water to recede.

Just a few weeks later, Hurricane Jeanne made landfall near Stuart and caused additional flooding in St. Lucie County. The flooding was exacerbated by the already saturated ground from Hurricane Frances, and many areas experienced significant damage.

In September 2017, Hurricane Irma made landfall on Florida's west coast, but its impact was felt throughout the state, including St. Lucie County. The county experienced significant flooding, and many residents were without power for several days.

Even without a hurricane, the county has experienced significant flooding problems, particularly in the lower-lying neighborhoods, after strong storms.

In April of 2023, for example, fierce storms dumped huge amounts of rain on the region, and the same neighborhoods that have experienced flooding in the past were inundated. We experienced similar conditions in December 2023.

St. Lucie County has taken steps to mitigate the impacts of stormwater flooding by implementing a stormwater management program and updating its stormwater master plan to guide future infrastructure improvements. However, as with any coastal community, the risk of flooding from storms remains a significant concern for St. Lucie County.

St. Lucie County does have a Stormwater Master Plan. It is time, however, for it to be updated.

The plan will be updated to take into account changes in regulations, infrastructure improvements, and population growth since the current plan. Updating the plan allows the county to incorporate the newest technologies and innovative stormwater management practices that can improve the plan’s effectiveness. It is also an opportunity to align the county’s plan with state and federal regulations and requirements.

An updated plan assists the county in securing funding for infrastructure improvements. Most importantly, it ensures that the county's stormwater management system remains effective in reducing flooding and protecting water quality.

Stormwater management is a critical issue that affects everyone in St. Lucie County. It is important that the master plan addresses the concerns and priorities of all stakeholders.

The best way for this to happen is through public participation as the plan is updated.

By engaging with the public and asking for citizens’ input, the county’s stormwater management team can gain valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities associated with stormwater management in St. Lucie County. This information can be used to develop strategies and solutions that are tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of our community.

During the planning process, St. Lucie County will be hosting public informational sessions for county residents. Through these sessions, the community members can increase their awareness about the importance of stormwater management, learn about the newest strategies to manage stormwater, and add their own comments and insights to help guide the ultimate implementation of the plan.

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