Community Associations’ Impact on Water Quality and Water Use

Abstract

Southwest Florida has grown rapidly, which had a significant impact on the quality and quantity of natural resources. Well-meaning individuals, unfamiliar with Sarasota’s environment, often make poor decisions concerning the maintenance of landscapes and natural areas. Community managers and community association boards frequently lack knowledge about local and state regulations and best management practices for landscape and natural areas. The Sarasota County Extension Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program for Community Associations was established in 2000 to educate community associations, neighborhoods, and associated professionals, such as community managers, development and Green Industry professionals, on how to create and maintain landscapes that help reduce the pollutant load in storm water runoff. The program is funded through Sarasota County general funds, while additional funding for materials is provided by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program.