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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d) It’s a confusing time for everyone affected, and we can all use some extra clarity.

Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d) It’s a confusing time for everyone affected, and we can all use some extra clarity.

  • Posted: Mar 02, 2023
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Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d)

It’s a confusing time for everyone affected, and we can all use some extra clarity.

Florida state legislature took swift action to implement inspection reform to mitigate the risk of a similar tragedy in the future. As of May 27th, 2022, Florida passed several laws to keep building safer in the state by requiring specific inspections and funding mechanisms. These new Florida condo laws mean significant changes for building owners across Florida, all within a relatively short time.

 

  • Under the new legislation, a licensed engineer or architect must visually evaluate condominiums older than 30 years, or 25 years if the building is within 3 miles of the shore, and every 10 years thereafter.

 

  • A secondary inspection will be required if there is evidence of significant structural damage.

 

  • The new rule also mandates that condo organizations review their reserve money every ten years to ensure that they can cover substantial repairs.

 

This is a great Video to start your education on SB-4D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QdEqUgL1CM&t=51s


Milestone Inspections

Addition of F.S. 533.889 – Milestone Inspections

 

What buildings does this law affect, and what does the new law say? 

Structural inspections are now mandatory for condominium and cooperative buildings that are 3 stories or greater in height.

 

What do I have to do?

Have a Milestone Inspection performed when a building is 30 years old and every ten years after the initial inspection. If your building is within 3 miles of the coastline, a Milestone Inspection must be performed when the building is 25 years old and every ten years after the initial inspection.

 

What else do I need to know about this inspection? 

The purpose is to verify the safety and adequacy of the structural components of the building. There are two possible phases of this Milestone Inspection. If you pass the first, you don’t need the second. If you don’t pass the first, you’re required to have the second performed, which is much more extensive.

Phase 1is a visual examination and qualitative assessment. Ideally, this will be all you have to complete.

Phase 2is a full assessment of distress to determine if the building is structurally sound and safe for its intended use. The inspector is to recommend a program for complete evaluation and repair of distressed and damaged portions of the building.


On SFPMA.COM find the top rated engineers for your SB-4D Inspections.

A Florida Licensed Engineer or Architect must perform both phases of this Milestone Inspection.

Find the Top rated Engineers on our State of Florida Members Directory. Members are located all over Florida, Boards, Managers, Owners, Investors can view our open directory and find these companies to start the Inspections.

 


When is the deadline?

If your building is over 30 years old (or 25 if you’re within 3 miles of the coast), you must complete this inspection by December 31st, 2024.

 

We at SFPMA recommend you know about this new Florida condo law?

Don’t wait to get started on this. If you act now, you can likely avoid a Phase 2 inspection by correcting any items that might force you into a Phase 2, before the December 31st, 2024 date. Those who wait may be forced into a more expensive Phase 2 can’t make necessary repairs in time. (*If a building is less than 3 miles from the coastline, these inspections start at year 25). 

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AQUATIC PEST CONTROL- Allstate Resource Management offers full service larvicide spraying and/or briquette treatments

AQUATIC PEST CONTROL- Allstate Resource Management offers full service larvicide spraying and/or briquette treatments

  • Posted: Mar 01, 2023
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AQUATIC PEST CONTROL

Allstate Resource Management offers full service larvicide spraying and/or briquette treatments to attack the insect’s breeding ground.
GOT MOSQUITO OR MIDGE ISSUES?
We can also stock lakes and ponds with mosquitofish which is a long term biological control method that is also environmentally sensitive. There is nothing like mosquito bites to take the fun out of water related activities.
There are many weapons in the war against these types of pests!
Call us today for a free quote!
954-382-9766
info@allstatemanagement.com

 

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Aruba Permit Services helping you with Building Permits and Code Violations at your Buildings.

Aruba Permit Services helping you with Building Permits and Code Violations at your Buildings.

  • Posted: Feb 27, 2023
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Aruba Permit Services helping you with Building Permits and Code Violations at your Buildings.

As repairs come up due to Florida Storms or Projects at your Properties, You need to make sure your permits are handled by a Trusted Company.

Permits will be pulled for the repairs. All work will be followed up by the engineer to assure compliance. Aruba Permit Services is licensed and insured.

 

 

Aruba Construction who has been a Certified General Contractor since 1990 and has qualified Engineers available to handle inspections of any size building.

These inspections are for the conditions of the building that include:

·         Masonry Walls (concrete condition, exposed rebar, spalling)

·         Floors and Roof Systems (drains, scuppers, supports for A/C)

·         Steel Framing (corrosion, fireproofing)

·         Concrete Framing (cracks, exposed rebar)

·         Windows (general condition, seals, anchorage)

·         Wood Framing (connector condition, rotting, bearing deficiencies)

·         Exterior Finishes (stucco, soffit, veneer deficiencies)

·         Electrical (panels, wiring, breakers)

 

Phone: (954) 786-7292
Email: 
info@aruba-services.com
Address: 1413 S. Powerline Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Industry Members of SFPMA < View our membership page

 

 

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New Module: Inspections and Checklists by BuildingLink

New Module: Inspections and Checklists by BuildingLink

  • Posted: Feb 27, 2023
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New Module: Inspections and Checklists

by BuildingLink

We can’t think of a better time than the current environment to be introducing to you our newly released Inspections and Checklists Module! Whether you want to document all of the new practices in place because of COVID-19, or to lock down your existing routines for property inspections, employee daily task lists, or monthly/yearly PM (preventative maintenance), there is a new way to do it all:

Make A Checklist Out Of It!

The new Inspections and Checklists Module will help bring consistency and excellence to your daily routines. Your property managers can build checklists of any kind and length – and your staff can document existing conditions or completed tasks conveniently in the field, using the same BuildingLink GEO mobile app they already know and use every day!

This is a very feature-rich module! Be sure to read the below ‘Q & A’ to learn more about automated inspections via the built-in scheduler, or easily creating work orders during an inspection – and lots of other useful shortcuts and features!

We’ve released the initial version of our Inspections and Checklists module to most of our buildings, and are eager to hear your feedback! Managers can access the module under the “Maintenance” section of the left-hand navigation in BuildingLink. If you’re not seeing it, and want it released for your building, email us at support@buildinglink.com, or call 212-501-7117.

 

You’ve got questions? We’ve got answers!

Q: What types of checklists have buildings been creating so far?A: We are seeing lots of diversity here! For example:

  • Daily/weekly/monthly task lists
  • Lobby, common areas, and grounds walk-throughs
  • Move-in/move-out, in-unit inspections
  • Mechanical room and rooftop inspections and PM
  • Start-of-shift checklists
  • Amenities opening checklists (i.e. fitness center, pool)

Q: Is there a limit to the number of checklists, or number of items on a checklist, that can be created?

A: No, there is no limit! In addition, if you want to make multiple versions of a checklist with small changes (to reflect different apartment layouts or daily/monthly/yearly routines), there is a convenient “Clone a Checklist” function that you can use and modify, to save you time!

Q: What types of inputs are possible for each checklist item?

A: Obviously, a checkbox is added for you, and a textbox for comments from the person conducting the inspection. Finally – and most importantly – the ability to upload one or more photos that document the condition or space being checked.

Q: Is there a library of pre-built checklists that BuildingLink is making available?

A: There are currently three pre-built inspections checklists that a building can use or modify. More will be added in the coming weeks! Topics of pre-built checklists: Facility Exterior, Fire Prevention Checklist, Inspection Plan.

Q: Is there a “Scheduler” or “Assigner” function for inspection checklists that need to be performed on fixed intervals?

A: Yes! The module allows for the scheduling of checklists recurring at fixed intervals, or by specific employees. Any scheduled checklists not assigned to a specific employee, can be completed by any staff member.

Q: Can staff complete checklists “on the fly”, that have not been scheduled?

A: Sure! Any existing checklist can be selected and completed by your staff at any time – even if unscheduled.

Q: What if staff discovers items needing work or repair while completing an inspection? How can they flag it for further attention?

A: Glad you asked! From the in-progress checklist page, your staff can effortlessly generate a maintenance request for any checklist item – which flows directly into BuildingLink’s Maintenance Request Module! It is a one-step integration that allows staff to fluidly complete their assigned inspections and checklists, while still queuing up additional work to be done.

Q: How does management know when a checklist is completed (or not completed)?

A: Managers are notified by email once a checklist is completed and, from their Inspections Dashboard within BuildingLink, they can review the results, export to PDF, or print! On the inspections dashboard, managers can also see scheduled inspections that are overdue.

Q: I have more questions about this module. How can I learn more about it?

A: Visit our help section for more information about the Inspections and Checklists Module!

For more info, contact us at support@buildinglink.com, or give us a call at (212) 501-7117.

BuildingLink

407-529-6063

BuildingLink is currently used in over 5,000 properties in the U.S. and worldwide, offering efficient management, seamless communication, and an enhanced living experience for residents.

BuildingLink is the gold standard for property managers looking to upgrade the experience of managing, working and living in a luxury residence, our clients can be found near and far – in New York, Boston, Miami, Dallas, and San Francisco, but also in Toronto, Melbourne, Tokyo and Singapore.

 

Streamline maintenance and operations.

BuildingLink works like magic to save your employees time, delight your residents, and give you the insights on your building that you need to tackle issues and avoid costly mistakes. Our central dashboard lets you track, search, and monitor everything that matters:

  • Service tickets
  • Inventory levels
  • Employee performance
  • Legal documents
  • The latest shift
  • Your resident’s preferences and requests.
  • And even more management tools!

 

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Complete Parking Lot Maintenance, Care, Repair and restoration. 3-D Paving is South Florida’s top parking lot services contractor.

Complete Parking Lot Maintenance, Care, Repair and restoration. 3-D Paving is South Florida’s top parking lot services contractor.

  • Posted: Feb 27, 2023
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Complete Parking Lot Maintenance, Care, Repair and restoration. 3-D Paving is South Florida’s top parking lot services contractor.

No matter how big your commercial job, 3-D Paving & Sealcoating in Coral Springs, FL has you covered.
Want us to take a look at your parking lot project? Get a FREE quote and consultation today.
Call toll free 1-855-735-ROAD (7623)

Visit us –> https://linktr.ee/3dpaving


Expertise in Commercial Asphalt Paving Services from 3-D Paving in Coral Springs, FL

Voted 2022s best & most trusted commercial asphalt paving contractor in Broward County, Lee County, Charlotte County, Martin County, St. Lucie County and Palm Beach County. We offer a myriad of Asphalt and Concrete Paving Services, Sealcoating and Concrete Construction Services like sidewalks, paths, ramps, slabs, curbs, gutters and so much more. New building project? Let our skilled site development team assist you in all of your project’s needs. Need ADA compliance help? Our expert team can assist you in every step of the process. Contact us today!

 

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Beachfront is thrilled to be working with The Bridges, a luxe Delray Beach community surrounded by 299 acres of sparkling lakes, pristine landscapes, and cascading waterfalls.

Beachfront is thrilled to be working with The Bridges, a luxe Delray Beach community surrounded by 299 acres of sparkling lakes, pristine landscapes, and cascading waterfalls.

  • Posted: Feb 13, 2023
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Beachfront is thrilled to be working with The Bridges, on all of their Painting needs, its a luxe Delray Beach community surrounded by 299 acres of sparkling lakes, pristine landscapes, and cascading waterfalls.

After completing a clubhouse refresh, we’re now offering homeowners a special group rate for exterior painting for its 590 single-family residences. Residents who wish to have their homes painted, or who would like more information about the project, can contact Jim Wolff,

Business Development Manager, at jim.wolff@beachfrontpainting.net or 772.789.7915.

Our team is honored to have been selected to help maintain the beauty and luxury expected at The Bridges. We have a lot of painting ahead of us. Stay tuned for “after” reveals in the coming months

Our Services:

 From single-family homes to shopping centers to high-rise condos, Beachfront combines quality workmanship with competitive pricing to give each client a meticulous paint job that lasts. Preparation is critical to our success and includes pressure washing, priming, and patching as needed.

Waterproofing

 At Beachfront, we make sure buildings are watertight. Our mastery of vertical and horizontal waterproofing extends to glazing and sealants, expansion joints and waterproof deck coatings.

Roofing

Through Beachfront Roofing, Inc, we repair, re-cover, and replace flat and sloped roofs no matter the material—metal, tile or shingle. We’re licensed applicators of Truco, Sika, PM, Karnak, Uniflex, Tropical, Henry and Gaco coatings. Our goal? To extend the useful life of your assets.

Restoration

We’re experts in concrete restoration and can quickly address issues like cracking, spalling and buckling. Whether surface repair or intricate strengthening project, clients count on us to keep their structures safe and sound.

Sealants

Beachfront specializes in sealant replacement and repair. Sealants are integral to the waterproofing process, serving as a water barrier in all types of exterior applications. We perform all of our sealant projects with precision using only the finest products available.

Pressure Cleaning

Regular pressure cleaning helps protect homes, hardscaping, decks and fences from damage and deterioration. Our low-pressure cleaning devices rid clients’ properties of dirt, oil, grease, algae, mold, rust and staining.

 


  Contact Us at

561.557.8534
info@beachfrontpainting.net

5840 Corporate Way, Suite 102
West Palm Beach, Florida 33407

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Here at Commercial Fitness Products, our new medical and fitness products were designed to do just that!

Here at Commercial Fitness Products, our new medical and fitness products were designed to do just that!

  • Posted: Feb 13, 2023
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Here at CFP, we feel passionately about restoring active lifestyles and able bodies with simple movement and strength training – and our new medical products were designed to do just that!

 

With thoughtful features that give therapists more control and opportunity to get their patients on the road to recovery, our equipment is easily integrated into client progression programs to get them back to living an injury-free life! Commercial Fitness Products has been a leading supplier of commercial fitness equipment for over 30 years. We have developed a high level of expertise in equipping all types of facilities. We pride ourselves on being able to serve large scale fitness facilities looking for top of the line commercial equipment, as well as smaller facilities looking for stay within budget and work with limited spaces.

Our years of work with various brand-name equipment manufacturers have helped us to build solid business relationships and connections for all types of product…resulting in lower costs for our customers. We are able to access a wide variety of equipment for the best prices, and we pass those benefits on to you.

Along with great prices, we place Customer Service at the top of our company’s priority list. Our staff is courteous, accessible, and qualified. Our goal is to exceed your expectations…before, during and after the sale. We know you are going to have a good experience in working with us…along with receiving quality equipment at a great price. We offer services that we feel are just part of the total package:

  • We provide facility design services to assist you in creating an organized, functional and aesthetically pleasing arrangement of your equipment that maximizes your space and facilitates an optimal fitness environment.
  • We offer in-service demonstrations for your staff so that they can learn how to correctly use each piece of equipment as well as derive the most benefit through proper form and operation. We emphasize safety measures that prevent unnecessary injuries or equipment malfunction.
  • We provide Preventative Maintenance Plans to keep your equipment running smoothly and reduce downtime.
  • We provide full service repairs for all types of equipment including parts and labor.
  • We offer professional Delivery & Assembly and moving services. Delivering large fitness equipment requires specialized knowledge and tools to prevent injury and maintain the integrity of the equipment.
  • We offer financing through local Leasing companies experienced in the fitness equipment industry.

Whether you’re looking for top of the line commercial equipment, lighter commercial-grade equipment, or something unique and innovative, we have it all. Take a look at our online commercial equipment section or call us today!

Commercial Fitness Products

5034 N. Hiatus Road
Sunrise, Florida 33351

(954)-747-5128

 

One of our recent Installs and Design.

 

We are grateful to have worked with D.R. Horton Homes on Promenade Estates on Palmer Ranch!

Reach out to us for all of your Fitness Rooms in Condo’s and HOA’s in Florida.

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5 Potential Risks to Your Business If You Have Poor Security

5 Potential Risks to Your Business If You Have Poor Security

  • Posted: Feb 13, 2023
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Every business is susceptible to threats, hacking, vandalism, etc. which is why prioritizing security for your business can help reduce the implications of these situations. The risks of having poor security can far outweigh what you’d invest in for a good system, so keep these 5 potential risks in mind when considering the security (or lack thereof) at your business.

No Procedure to Handle Incidents

Security breaches and theft does happen, but what’s worse is not having any sort of procedure to handle the issue. And without a proper security procedure, it’s likely incidents will happen more often. It’s better to be prepared for something that could happen then to be surprised and ill-equipped for when something does, so it’s essential for your business to have a clear security procedure.

Legal Liability

As a business owner, you not only have to protect your brand, but you have the responsibility of protecting the safety of your customers, clients, and vendors’. If that information is not secure and something were to happen, these people could lose trust in you, or possibly pursue legal action that could heavily impact your business. It’s important you are following regulations and complying with routine security checks to ensure your business is safe and running efficiently, and so that information is safe and secure under your account. Taking the right steps to safeguard data and regulate personnel allowed access to this information will help your business improve security and reduce liability.

Increase of Theft and Vandalism

Unfortunately, no business is safe from theft or vandalism, and a lack of security only makes you more vulnerable. This can delay business growth and without action, lead to an increase of incidents. Poor security at your business can cost you stolen goods or assets that can’t be replaced, which can affect your profits, and employee’s safety and trust.

There are a few ways to act on these incidents. First, get a security assessment to help you determine your company’s current state of security, and what needs to be improved upon. Then you can figure out an acceptable security system to be installed, to ensure you’re taking the right precautions to safeguarding your property.

Tainted Business Reputation

If employees and clients are susceptible to your poor security measures, the reputation of your business could sink. Customers and employees could possibly seek other places to feel safe, exposing you to harsh reviews and a decrease in business. People and workers want to interact with a business they trust, this can include having latest technology, and security systems such as cameras or alarms. On the flip side, a business that is growing should increase their security, as there are more visitors, employees, or important data that needs to be protected. You should want your business to be a safe and trusted establishment for all involved, which is why having a good security system is vital for your reputation.

Employees Feel Unsafe

The safety of your employees and company data should be the upmost of importance to your business, so if you’re employees are aware of your poor security, it’s likely they will feel unsafe at work. Security issues, limited regulation of the building, or outdated technology can show a lack of interest in the company’s security precautions, which can contribute to a negative work environment and high employee turnover rates. As mentioned previously, this can also harm the reputation of your business, so having a strong security system is the best way to ensure a sense of safety and reliability for your business.

Contact:

John Libby
Regional Manager
United Security, Inc.
950 South Pine Island Road-Suite A 150
Plantation, FL 33324
Mobile: (407)-675-7960
JLibby@usisecurity.com

 

  United Security Inc. (USI) provides contract security solutions and investigation services to a select group of vertical markets. For the past 30 years, USI has created safe, secure environments for commercial and government employees and customers by investing in our people, innovation and relationships. USI is committed to delivering:

  • Responsive management and security personnel
  • Continuous quality improvement and training
  • Consistent, client-focused service and performance

 

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Friday 2pm Est | They Did What? How SB-2A Affects Your Association by KBRLegal

Friday 2pm Est | They Did What? How SB-2A Affects Your Association by KBRLegal

  • Posted: Feb 10, 2023
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Friday 2pm Est | They Did What? How SB-2A Affects Your Association

Presented by Shawn G. Brown, Esq., BCS (Kaye Bender Rembaum)

Feb 10, 2023 02:00 PM

Register NOW

The Florida Legislature convened for a Special Session specifically to address property insurance and other topics starting December 12, 2022. Among the legislation, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 2A, which makes sweeping changes to the property insurance claims process, reinsurance, regulation of insurance companies and more. This webinar will summarize SB-2A.

Speaker: Shawn G. Brown, Esq., BCS (Kaye Bender Rembaum)

This webinar is informational only, is not to be considered legal advice, and contains no CE credit (or certificates).

 

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Lake Experts Answer Top 10 FAQs by SOLitude

Lake Experts Answer Top 10 FAQs by SOLitude

  • Posted: Feb 08, 2023
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Our top 10 FAQs blog breaks down common questions about lakes and management practices, including:

 

🐟 If a bunch of fish die, should I assume the water was poisoned?
❔ What is causing the lake’s shoreline to erode?
🌾 Why do the specialists spray some plants and not spray others?

Read all the answers from our experts…

Common Questions About Lake & Pond Management

10 FAQs About Lake Management

Lakes and ponds play a central role in our communities by collecting stormwater, creating recreational opportunities, providing drinking water, and allowing us to nurture our biological desire to spend time around the water. You deserve to have beautiful, clean water to enjoy, but achieving it can be difficult – where should you begin? When you have a better understanding of these complex ecosystems, you’re able to make more informed decisions about how yours is managed. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get started.

1. Why is my pond turning green? Is it normal for my lake or pond to have algae?

Green can be an alarming color when it comes to any body of water, but it doesn’t always reflect unhealthy conditions; plants and algae are natural features in lakes and ponds that provide essential food and habitat to native beneficial species. However, they can get out of control when the aquatic environment becomes imbalanced.

The best way to detect imbalances and identify the plants and algae that are present is through professional water quality testing. The results can help inform your management choices.

2. Why does the pond across the street always look better than mine?

It’s crucial to remember that no two waterbodies are the same. There can be vast physical and chemical characteristics based on hundreds of surprising factors, including water depth, gardening and landscaping practices, the presence of pets or livestock, how the waterbody is used, and even the level of sunlight that penetrates the aquatic ecosystem each day. The contours of the surrounding land may allow pollutants to flow into one waterbody during rainstorms without impacting the other.

While it’s tempting to replicate the maintenance strategies used by the neighbor with the beautiful pond, this underscores the importance of customized management programs. A one-size-fits-all approach will rarely yield the long-term results you desire.

3. How is the pond behind my Florida home different from one in Michigan?

As you know, all aquatic ecosystems are unique, but the reasons can extend far beyond water depth or landscaping. Seasonal weather patterns, climate, rainfall, and other regional factors will have a powerful impact.

For instance, many lakes and ponds in Florida are exposed to brackish water, especially during flooding and hurricanes. The higher salinity (accumulation of salt) can significantly alter the chemical composition of the waterbody. Likewise, Florida waterbodies are now home to many invasive plants and animals, which pose unique challenges that require different solutions. Undesirable plant growth is further accelerated by the intense humidity in Florida, which leads to more frequent maintenance.

This is not to say that waterbodies are healthier in one state versus the other; they all face similar obstacles, but the strategies and management styles may differ dramatically.

4. If a bunch of fish die, should I assume the water was poisoned?

Fish kills are rare and are sometimes connected to poisoning, but many fish kills occur naturally due to insufficient dissolved oxygen levels. Oxygen can be impacted by the level of sunlight, recent rain storms or forceful weather events, excess vegetation growth, or the transition of the seasons. However, they are preventable.

Many aquatic experts recommend fountains and aeration systems to keep dissolved oxygen levels balanced throughout the entire water column through consistent mixing. Preventing the growth of aquatic weeds and filamentous algae will also free up the water column to maximize the benefits of circulation.

Finally, testing dissolved oxygen levels on a recurring basis will help you identify and get ahead of oxygen imbalances before the fish population is affected. If lab reports indicate that dissolved oxygen levels are sufficient, then it may be worth consulting with your professional about the possibility of pollution or poisoning.

5. What is a stormwater retention pond?

Stormwater facilities (also known as BMPs) are structures that play a vital and multifaceted role in the preservation of our surrounding wetland and aquatic ecosystems. These systems are typically constructed in relation to residential and commercial development infrastructure that increases impervious surfaces and overland stormwater flow. They provide the essential temporary collection of stormwater in order to allow for filtration and basic improvement of water quality (removal of sediment, organic debris, animal waste, fertilizers, and other contaminants/nutrients) before entering natural wetland systems.

For this reason, it is critical that these specially designed and constructed systems remain functioning as intended and maintain pond compliance with local, state, and federal stormwater regulations.

6. What is causing the lake’s shoreline to erode?

Erosion is natural. It gradually happens as rainwater flows into lakes and ponds and when wildlife interact with the ecosystem. But recreation, landscaping, and urban development also influence the rate at which erosion occurs. Gutter downspouts and pavement concentrate and accelerate the flow of runoff over the shoreline. As sediment accumulates at the bottom, it reduces depth and volume – increasing the risk of flooding. Stormwater runoff also picks up animal waste, trash, leaves, lawn clippings, and other organic materials that promote nuisance weeds, algae, toxic cyanobacteria, and other water quality issues.

Though shoreline erosion is inevitable, it can be slowed and even reversed with the right management tools and strategies. Professionals encourage the introduction of beneficial buffer plants that are native to your region. Flowering, deep-rooted species can help hold the shoreline in place and deter people and nuisance animals like geese from venturing too close to the water’s edge. Shorelines can also be bioengineered for improved stability and aesthetics using a patented mesh technology called SOX Solutions.

7. Why does the shallow area near the shoreline have plants growing in it? Are those plants invasive?

Emergent plant species generally grow in shallow water near shorelines. Your lake management professional can help you determine if the species is native or invasive, and walk you through maintenance options if undesirable growth is identified.

Some invasive weeds are aesthetically pleasing. Purple loosestrife, for example, is known for its gorgeous purple blooms. However, invasive plants are detrimental to the ecosystems they invade by crowding out native plants and displacing the wildlife that relies on them for food and shelter. Without intervention, exotic weeds can quickly repopulate and spread to other ecosystems nearby.

It’s important to have regular inspections of your waterbody and consult with your lake management professional if you suspect an invasive plant has taken root.

8. Why do the specialists spray some plants and not spray others?

Every plant species is unique. From their physical characteristics to their growth patterns to their methods of repopulation, plants vary widely – and so do the methods used to manage them. Spraying may be the most effective management style for some. Others may respond best to cutting, burning, or physically pulling.

Stakeholders also have different goals, budgets, and priorities. Some may prefer to swiftly manage undesirable plants using herbicides while others desire a more holistic approach that targets the “root cause” of the growth. This typically means addressing shoreline erosion and balancing water quality with nutrient mitigation products like AlumPhoslock, or EutroSORB.

9. Won’t the algae or weed products harm the fish and wildlife?

All herbicides and algaecides used by professional lake managers have gone through rigorous testing and are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Licensed aquatic experts also have access to advanced products that are designed to target the specific growth mechanisms in nuisance and invasive species without impacting desirable plants, wildlife, or people.

These products are considered very low risk when applied by licensed professionals. Furthermore, certain weeds and algae species can actually be detrimental to an aquatic ecosystem. Invasive plants are known to outcompete native growth and displace beneficial wildlife, threatening the biodiversity of our local ecosystems. And nuisance algae like cyanobacteria (also known as Harmful Algal Blooms or blue-green algae) can develop toxins that are fatal to fish and birds, as well as dogs, cats, horses, and livestock.

Your lake manager will be able to help you understand these intricate dynamics and weigh the management options that align best with your priorities.

10. Can’t we just let the pond take care of itself naturally?

Lakes and ponds have natural checks and balances that keep them in a healthy, functional state with a flourishing food chain. But the rise of urban development, pollution, deforestation, mass agriculture, and other human activities has created new challenges that may overwhelm the ecosystem. In unbalanced conditions, lakes and ponds are more likely to experience aquatic weeds, algae and toxic cyanobacteria, fish kills, bad odors, muck development, flooding, and other problems.

These human-caused factors will not go away, but proactive management can help reduce their influence on our aquatic ecosystems. Annual Management Programs provide ongoing, professional care to maintain a healthy waterbody and catch potential problems before they get out of hand. Over time, annual maintenance approaches are often more effective and affordable for many stakeholders.


Achieve the Water You Desire with SOLitude

You value your waterbody – and so do we. We’re committed to arming you with knowledge and resources to help you visualize your ideal lake or pond and understand how to achieve it. As your partner, we’ll guide you every step of the way, so you can have peace of mind that your waterbody is on the right track at all times.

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Register for our upcoming webinar to discover how to repair shoreline erosion and enhance your lake’s bank with native buffer plants.

Register for our upcoming webinar to discover how to repair shoreline erosion and enhance your lake’s bank with native buffer plants.

  • Posted: Jan 29, 2023
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Repair Your Shoreline with SOX Erosion Solutions & Native Plantings

Register for our upcoming webinar to discover how to repair shoreline erosion and enhance your lake’s bank with native buffer plants.

January 31, 2023 3:00 pm EST

Sign Up Now for the Webinar.


Don’t Miss This Exciting Webinar with Our Erosion Experts!

Erosion is a natural occurrence that can damage your shoreline over time. Eroded shorelines not only increase the likelihood of water quality issues, but they can have an economic impact on your property and can even lead to liability risks. Knowing when and how to repair erosion damage can be stressful and confusing…

Join our upcoming webinar to discover how erosion occurs, signs your shoreline has erosion damage, and how you can restore your bank with SOX Erosion Solutions and native buffer plantings. Experts Chase Morgan, Business Development Consultant for SOLitude Lake Management, and Casey Cittadino, National Sales Director for SOX Erosion Solutions, are excited to discuss the innovative erosion control solutions available.

This webinar is free and open to the public. Can’t make the live discussion? Register anyway and you’ll receive a follow-up email with the recording.

Having issues with the form on this page? Click here to register.

 

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