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Jansen Shutters & Windows Providing Hurricane Protection, Storm Protection Products, Hurricane Windows and Entry Doors

Jansen Shutters & Windows Providing Hurricane Protection, Storm Protection Products, Hurricane Windows and Entry Doors

  • Posted: Aug 12, 2021
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Jansen Shutters & Windows

941-484-4700

It is our goal to shelter your family, protect your investments and secure your well-being.

 

Providing Hurricane Protection, Storm Protection Products, Hurricane Windows and Entry Doors in Sarasota, Venice, Englewood, Boca Grande, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Osprey, Nokomis, Long Boat Key, Bird Key, The Keys, Siesta Key, Casey Key, Manasota Key, Bradenton, Pinellas, Tampa, Odessa, Parrish, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Anna Maria Island, City of Sarasota, Cape Coral, Tarpon Springs, and all surrounding areas.

 

Our Products

Storm Protection

Motorized Croci Rolling Shutters, Nautilus Rolling Shutters, Accordion Shutters, Armor Screen, Rolling Hurricane Screens, Impact Bahama & Colonial Shutters, Clear Lexan, White Aluminum & Metal Storm Panels.

 

Windows & Doors

Impact and Non Impact, Single and Double Hung Windows, Casement and Horizontal Roller Windows, Sliding Glass, French Doors, Entry Doors by Plastpro, DAB Garage Doors, Windoor  PGT Vinyl & Jeld-Wen Vinyl & Wood Products.

 

Outdoor Living

Jansen “Vista” Motorized Insect Screens, Solar Shades, Pergolas, Sunbrella Awnings, Sun Air Retractable Awnings, Canopies, Sun Sails, Fencing, Estate Gates, Louvers, Bahama Shades  and Privacy Barriers.

 

Aluminum Products

Fabrication is our specialty. You Dream it we will weld it! Wrought Iron Interior and Exterior Railings, Gates with Access Control Systems, Carports, Welded Ornamental Products, Soffits, Gutters, Elite Rooms and more.

 

JANSEN SHUTTERS & WINDOWS
341 SAND PINE BLVD,
VENICE, FL, 34292,
941 484 4700
PHIL@JANSENSHUTTERS.COM

 

 

 

Make Your Waterbody A Focal Point by SOLitude

Make Your Waterbody A Focal Point by SOLitude

  • Posted: Jul 29, 2021
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Make Your Waterbody A Focal Point

Create a functional, beautiful pond your community can enjoy with four strategies that will surely impress local community members.

 

Without proper management, community ponds can develop invasive aquatic weeds, algal blooms, and foul odors, quickly becoming an eye-sore to residents…  Lakes and ponds offer a multitude of opportunities for recreation, fishing, sightseeing, and overall enjoyment of nature. Take advantage of your aquatic resource! Discover the four steps you can implement to create a beautiful, healthy waterbody that community members can appreciate.

 

How To Make Your Waterbody A Focal Point In Your Community

Written by: Greg Blackham, Aquatic Specialist

Many homeowners live on a lake or in a community association with several ponds and stormwater facilities. Without proper management, you may find these waterbodies covered in aquatic weeds and algae, or they could simply look like an uninspired waste of space. No matter the condition of your waterbody, one thing is for certain – it should be so much more!

Lakes and ponds provide a multitude of opportunities for recreation, sightseeing, and overall enjoyment of nature, so it can be sad for aquatic specialists when we see this potential go untapped. Luckily, it is never too late to cultivate a stellar focal point in your community. A professional can get you on the right track with innovative modifications and informed management techniques.

Introduce Floating Fountains

Introduce Floating Fountains

One of the first enhancements we recommend for both visual and functional enhancements is a floating fountain. There are two main fountain types: A decorative fountain is designed to spray water into the air in eye-catching spray patterns, though they are generally not relied on for water circulation. Many have brightly-colored (and customizable) lights that draw attention to the waterbody at night. An aerating fountain, on the other hand, is one that is designed primarily for functional purposes, but that doesn’t mean these devices aren’t aesthetically pleasing too. Some of the best-looking aerating fountains combine decorative vertical spray with lower tiers that provide horizontal spray dispersion to effectively circulate the water column below.

Aeration can have many compound benefits when fountain systems are professionally sized and spaced in the waterbody, and in certain instances, it may be beneficial to pair fountains with submersed aeration systems and oxygen saturation technologies. Water movement helps increase dissolved oxygen levels, which in turn helps stabilize pH and inhibits the nutrient pollution that contributes to aquatic weed, nuisance algae, and toxic cyanobacteria growth. Well-circulated and oxygenated water also help prevent mosquito reproduction while supporting healthy zooplankton – small aquatic animals that feed on algae and serve as food for fish and all types of wildlife.

Plant Beneficial Vegetation

Planting beneficial vegetation is a second improvement that should be considered. But before planting anything in or around the water it’s necessary to remove all the noxious and invasive vegetation first, such as cattails, Phragmites (common reed), and purple loosestrife. This helps reduce the risk of collateral damage to newly planted vegetation. It’s best to work with a professional to identify nuisance species and design a removal program, which can vary widely from species to species and might include hand-pulling, burning, or even herbicide applications by drone!

Decorative plants can be used in so many ways to enhance your waterbody. A well-vegetated buffer zone should include a variety of native wildflowers, grasses, and even shrubs that provide a beautiful frame or border around the water. Sometimes, just the contrast alone can make all the difference. There are many other creative ways to plant for color and vibrancy, and a professional lake manager can help assist in the strategic design. In addition to creating a beautiful backdrop, deep-rooted, flowering species can help filter trash and pollutants, protect the shoreline from erosion, and create a sanctuary for wildlife.

Beneficial aquatic plants should also be installed along with the shallow areas of the waterbody for added benefits like serving as a source of oxygen, balancing predator-prey relationships, and filtering nutrients from the water column so they cannot fuel undesirable weeds and algae. One creative installation method could be a floating island of plants and flowers. Floating islands are designed to add color on top and create beneficial bacterial col

Restore Depth and volume

Restore Depth And Volume

Another great solution for the almost immediate improvement of a lake or pond is the mechanical removal of polluted sediment, muck, and organic matter from the water. This may be accomplished by a full-on dredging project or through spot treatments via hydro-rake, which is essentially a floating barge equipped with a backhoe that scoops sediment onto the shoreline for disposal.

Shortly after the disturbance has settled there is a significant improvement to water clarity and reduction in bad odors that may exist. More importantly, storage capacity increases. This is crucial for a well-functioning stormwater system that does not flood.

Final touches and consistent maintenance

Final Touches And Consistent Maintenance

There are many other improvements that can enhance the beauty of a waterbody without sacrificing functionality. The environmentally friendly blue and black dyes can change the color to a more desirable look, while also reducing available light for weeds and algae. Strategic birdhouses placed around a pond can help reduce midge and mosquito populations in the area while also adding a colorful dynamic to the ecosystem. Even installing a gazebo, a dock, or a small beach area can help break up the landscape and provide more ways for people to engage and interact with their amenities through fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Oftentimes, this extra community engagement can spark even larger momentum for creating a truly beautiful and immersive focal point, cherished by everyone that lives there!

Once these efforts have been implemented, they are best maintained through an annual management program, which prioritizes the three central pillars of health, beauty, and functionality. Long-term programs ensure a professional can keep an eye on the multitude of factors that support the ecological balance of the ecosystem, as well as the aesthetic components. Your local aquatic professional can help you design a plan that’s customized to your unique waterbody.

View the Original Website SOLitude blog post.

 

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JOIN US FOR A DOUBLE WEBINAR ON JULY 28TH, 2021.

JOIN US FOR A DOUBLE WEBINAR ON JULY 28TH, 2021.

  • Posted: Jul 14, 2021
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JOIN US FOR A DOUBLE WEBINAR ON JULY 28TH, 2021.

GREGG WALLICK WILL BE TEACHING ROOFING 101 AND WILL BE POINTING OUT DANGER SIGNS IN YOUR ROOF AND ANSWERING ALL OF YOUR QUESTIONS.

ATTORNEY ERIC GLAZER KNOWS THAT ASSOCIATIONS ARE MORE EAGER THAN EVER TO BEGIN MAKING REPAIRS, BUT WILL TEACH THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTRACT REVIEW BEFORE SIGNING ON THE DOTTED LINE.

TO REGISTER FOR THIS ON-LINE WEBINAR: CLICK HERE

PIONEER PEST SERVICES, INC.

PIONEER PEST SERVICES, INC.

  • Posted: Jul 12, 2021
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PIONEER PEST SERVICES, INC.

Pioneer Pest Services first starts by conducting a thorough inspection of the residential or commercial property with a focus on areas that attract pests or allow them access in. Our technicians will then perform a thorough interior and exterior treatment pertaining directly to your needs. The greatest part of Pioneer’s pest service program is that it’s convenient, effective, and most importantly, family friendly. We will only need to come inside for the first service! Our pest prevention done on the outside greatly reduces any need for products being used on the inside of your home.

 

  • Perimeter treatment on exterior to prevent bugs inside
  • Only 4 treatments a year (unless additional services requested)
  • No hidden upcharges
  • Money-Back Guarantee
  • Removal of cobwebs, spider webs, and mud daubers
  • Application of products in all cracks and crevices under appliances, cabinetry and water source areas
  • Products not accessible by pets or children
  • No baseboard spraying needed
  • FREE follow ups and customer service calls between services

 

Pioneer Pest Services

(386) 753-3744

Dependability starts with Pioneer Pest Services!

Pioneer Pest Services, Inc. was established in 1985 and proudly serves Volusia, Flagler, Lake, and Seminole counties. We are a local family-owned and operated company with a proven track record for reliable and professional pest services.

Our goal is to partner with homeowners, business owners, and property managers to control pest, termite, and lawn and shrub problems. We will immediately assess and address current pest issues, as well as your lawn and shrub needs, and help you to prevent them from happening in the future.

Whether they fly, creep, sting, or swarm, pests are a persistent problem for Floridians—and they can do serious damage if they’re not kept in check. At Pioneer Pest Services, we understand that pests need to be taken care of promptly and effectively. That’s been our mission for the past three decades! A local, family-owned company, we’re committed to quality service for residential and commercial customers in Volusia, Flagler, Seminole, and Lake counties. RELIABLE PEST SERVICES SINCE 1985

If problems do occur between scheduled services we return at no cost to you. 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

 

CONTACT PIONEER PEST SERVICES, INC.

Wesley Rapplean
wrapplean@pioneerpestservices.com
Business Development Manager

Pioneer Pest Services
480 Old Daytona Rd
http://www.pioneerpestservices.com
386-212-3407

 

 

 

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Engineering & Compliance for your Buildings

Engineering & Compliance for your Buildings

Engineering & Compliance for your Buildings

The question on the minds of many South Floridians, especially those in older, beachfront buildings that are faced day in and day out with similar conditions as the Champlain Towers South: salty air, rising seas and aging concrete. here are some of our members of SFPMA in Engineering & Compliance. Members of the State of Florida Property Management Association SFPMA.ORG are ready to help!


UNITED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING

561-582-1733

Leaders in Professional Engineering

Providing exceptional engineering services through integrity, reliability and professionalism. With over 21 years of experience, we are the leaders in the industry, and we can help you as well!

United Professional Engineering (UPE) provides a unique “one-stop-shop” for all your structural engineering needs. Our South Florida area founded firm has been in business since 2005 and we have a diverse team; from licensed designers and structural engineers to inspectors and general contractors. For that reason, our projects range from designing and restoration to structural inspections and more!

At UPE, we understand how valuable your time is and we are committed to providing our industry leading expertise to your next project. Our team welcomes any and all challenges to ensure a smooth and cost-effective project for all our clients and everyone involved. Your journey with us is important, and we take pride in making it memorable!

 


SRI Consultants

561-372-1290

Coastal areas like South Florida have a unique need for concrete rehabilitation and protection services predominantly related to assessing structural damage. At SRI Consultants, we provide the highest level of expertise in assessing the state of aging structures and are committed to saving clients time and money by determining repair quantities during inspection. With over thirty-five years of experience, and a registered professional engineer in Florida & Virginia, the president and founder of SRI, Mr. Shirish “Raj”pathak, is a NACE Cathodic Protection Specialist. We have specialists in structural engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering and corrosion engineering at your disposal. The extra effort and attention to detail put forth by our team ensure you receive the highest quality services available to the industry.

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of expertise in assessing the state of aging structures. Our staff is committed to saving clients time and money by determining any repair quantities during inspection.


The Falcon Group – Engineering Architecture Energy Consultants Specialists

An industry-leader providing professional, cost effective and innovative architectural and engineering designs, solutions and services through the use of highly qualified staff and outstanding customer service.


The Falcon Group is a multidisciplinary engineering, architectural and energy consulting firm with offices in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia and Miami. Our services include Civil, Structural, MEP Engineering, Architecture. Energy Consulting and Aerial Imaging services.

The Falcon Group is a unique Engineering and Architectural firm that focuses on the specific needs of Community Associations, including Capital Reserve Studies and Transition Reports, along with full-service engineering capabilities: Civil, Structural, Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing (MEP), Architecture, Energy Consulting and Litigation Support services.

 

 


O&S Engineers & Architects

305.676.9888

O&S Associates, Inc. (O&S) is a full-service multi-disciplinary architectural and engineering consulting and design firm.

One key attribute that separates O&S from a typical engineering firm is the range and diversity of our experience. Our team of seasoned professionals excels in project leadership, teamwork, dedication, and cooperation, which provides our clients with superior designs and exceptional service. This expertise and our commitment to quality provide clients with the latest technologies and advances in materials and products.

O&S specializes in design and restoration, particularly structural/civil engineering and MEP services including historic preservation and facility renewal. Our engineering specialties include parking, MEP, structural, restoration, exterior envelope services, energy audits, façade law compliance, cogeneration, and HVAC. O&S provides sustainable design on all our projects. We maintain LEED Accredited Professionals as an effort to show our commitment to “Green” design.


ONM&J Structural Engineers & Special Inspections

(561) 835-9994

O’Donnell, Naccarato, Mignogna & Jackson, Inc. (ONM&J) is one of Florida’s most experienced structural engineering firms.  It is the firm’s reputation for innovative design solutions that keeps ONM&J ready to service public and private clients.

  Headquartered in West Palm Beach since 1985, ONM&J offers clients resources throughout the state of Florida.

ONM&J approaches every project with a fresh eye providing flexible, economical, structural design.  The firm is a capable and integral member of the project team for projects ranging from high-rise residential to single-story retail, including all types of civic facilities.  Functional and aesthetic project goals are identified and resolved through the firm’s unique project management approach. This approach involves a design strategy that meets at the project’s inception, followed by the development of inventive solutions to structural systems, thorough pre-construction consultations, as well as assisting the project team during construction and beyond with post construction evaluations.

 


 

 

 

 

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Sealcoating Makes All The Difference

Sealcoating Makes All The Difference

  • Posted: Jul 05, 2021
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Sealcoating Makes All The Difference

There is one thing that is certain, when it comes to your asphalt driveway or parking lot. Over time, the elements of nature and the spillage of oils and gas from vehicles will cause harmful deterioration. This can also be a cause for many unwanted and costly repairs. Sealcoating will make a significant difference when it comes to keeping your asphalt in excellent shape.

Sealcoating Experts

Due to these inevitable circumstances, the best course of action is hiring a group of sealcoating experts to come evaluate your asphalt parking areas and determine the best approach. Because this type of wear and tear is unavoidable, sealcoating will help reduce the harm your asphalt takes, and extend its life for many years. At Sunshine Services Unlimited, Inc., we can’t stress enough the importance of making the decision to sealcoat your asphalt parking area.

Maintenance

Keeping your parking area well maintained is extremely important in order to avoid any future issues. Cracks and potholes can cause damage to vehicles and also your reputation, as either a homeowner or business owner. There are many repair services we offer to help you steer clear of the issues that can arise from not keeping your asphalt well maintained.

Hire a Company You Can Trust

Sunshine Services Unlimited, Inc. is your premier paving company located in beautiful West Palm Beach, FL. Established in 1962, we have decades of experience and proudly service Broward, Palm Beach, Martin and St Lucie counties.

When you are making the decision to hire a company for your sealcoating, give us a call and at Sunshine Service Unlimited, Inc. to explore our service options. We have many satisfied customers that can attest to the quality of service we provide. Call us today for your free estimate. Our trained professionals will visit you and determine what is needed to keep your asphalt in top condition.

 

Contact us Today for a Free Estimate

on Your Sealcoating or Paving Project!

Thank you for choosing Sunshine Services Unlimited Inc. for all your asphalt and seal coating needs. We handle repairs, maintenance and new construction projects for commercial and residential properties. Our crews are dedicated to delivering the highest possible standards of service.

Your project is important to us. If you need a free estimate or a free consultation, do not hesitate to contact us using contact form or our contact information below. We look forward to working with you.

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Introducing Oxygen Saturation Technology

Introducing Oxygen Saturation Technology

Introducing Oxygen Saturation Technology

Protect your waterbody from poor water quality conditions
with NEW premium management solution.

Without healthy levels of dissolved oxygen, lakes and ponds can struggle with water quality issues like algal blooms, nuisance aquatic weeds, and foul odors.

Oxygen Saturation Technology injects high levels of oxygen into the water column (without mixing layers) which promotes naturally occurring bacteria and microbes to break down the organic pollutants and utilize excess nutrients that can fuel water quality issues.

Pond Safety Checklist: 5 Items to Cross Off

Just as lifejackets or first aid kits are important, so is addressing the maintenance needs of your lake or pond. Discover the five things you should monitor to ensure a safe summer on and around the water…

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AKWA TECHNOLOGIES PARTNERS WITH SMART WATER PROTECTION

AKWA TECHNOLOGIES PARTNERS WITH SMART WATER PROTECTION

  • Posted: Jul 05, 2021
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AKWA TECHNOLOGIES PARTNERS WITH SMART WATER PROTECTION

 

SARASOTA, FLORIDA / JULY 1st, 2021

AKWA Technologies (www.AKWAtek.com) signed a partnership agreement with Smart Water Protection, based in Sarasota.

Smart Water Protection (www.smartwaterprotection.comis first in the US market with the AKWA Technologies Water Alarm system and will focus on the condominium and multi-residential building markets in Florida. Owners Dennis McSweeney and his partner have a strong background in commercial risk management and years of experience in the water restoration / remediation industries.

The system, designed to prevent and detect water leaks, offers industry-leading features such as automatic shut-off valve, multi-type sensors and a unique dashboard to manage multiple properties. 

McSweeney said: “Loss trends show non-weather-related water damage is the fastest growing exposure both in frequency and severity, according to the insurance industry. Stopping water flow immediately is the key to limiting the cost of the damage. Insurance companies may soon start requiring such systems in high-rise buildings.”  He added: “The challenge in the market is to get the attention of property managers and condominium / building owners to the risks of water damage before disasters strike.  AKWA Technologies brings a state-of-the-art, IoT solution that every condominium association should be considering.”

ABOUT AKWA TECHNOLOGIES

AKWA Technologies, a brand of AKWA Technologies Solutions inc. (www.AKWAtek.com) is a leader in Water Alarm systems!  Our mission is to prevent property damage caused by water leaks through a smart, reliable alarm system that can be adapted to different building configurations. With our centralized management dashboard, AKWA Concierge, this solution is ideal for multi-residential, condominium or commercial properties of all sizes.

Our company is committed to on-going market development for this technology with new partners in North America and other countries based on the system’s highly customizable features and flexibility to meet the needs of different markets.

CONTACTS:
AKWA Technologies Solutions inc.
Valérie Mélignon
Executive Director, Strategic Alliances
941.726.7806
valerie@AKWAtek.com

Smart Water Protection
Dennis McSweeney
President
941.350.1227
dmcsweeney.swp@gmail.com

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Nothing worse than delivering to clients with flooded docks – Call us Today!

Nothing worse than delivering to clients with flooded docks – Call us Today!

  • Posted: Jun 29, 2021
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We were hired to inspect, clean, and document the underground storm utilities and structures for 12 commercial office buildings and 6 retention ponds on a large stretch of land on International Drive. Having crews in Miami and Orlando has me excited about the future!

 

SOUTH FLORIDA COMMERCIAL PLUMBING CONTRACTORS

GreenTeam Service Corp. is a professional and reliable commercial plumbing contractor, providing timely service for commercial buildings including Class-A office buildings, industrial properties and healthcare facilities throughout South Florida. GreenTeam’s number one focus is customer experience

We live by the words: Exceptional service.  No exceptions.

Providing off-the-chart service is more than just a motto at GreenTeam Service Corp. We hold each other accountable and never quit until we know we’ve done a quality job for each and every client we come into contact with. Put GreenTeam’s unending dedication to service into play for your next plumbing project. You’ll be glad you did!

HEALTHCARE | CLASS-A OFFICE | INSTITUTIONAL
INDUSTRIAL | HOA | HOSPITALITY | GOVERNMENT

Storm drain cleaning and vac truck projects and we couldn’t be more thrilled. We are now servicing Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. Let’s get you on the schedule!

GreenTeam Service Corp

Call

(954) 210-4100   or

email plumbing@greenteamservicecorp.com

 

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Eradicating Pond Weed at Golf Course

Eradicating Pond Weed at Golf Course

SOLitude Lake Management has been servicing this property for over ten years. Due to southeast Florida’s tropical climate and year-round growing season, many plants, both native and non-native, become invasive on land and water, requiring constant control methods. Aquatic vegetation (algae, Vallisneria, and hydrilla) was managed by repeated herbicide treatments in order to maintain proper water flow and lake/pond health.

 

water flow and lake/pond health.

before-and-after-fl-gc-case study before and after procellacor invasive weeds floating hearts

Location: Palm Beach, FL

This property is a collection of suburban residential homes surrounding a golf course located at the northern tip of the Everglades. Due to seasonal flooding in this region, land development requires stormwater collection and flood control systems mandated by several drainage district government entities. This property has a series of interconnected lakes and ponds to collect and move floodwaters into discharge canals that eventually lead out to the Atlantic Ocean. Water flows into the site from other areas, including agricultural lands to the west. The lakes and ponds at the property provide important habitats to migratory and wading bird populations.

nutrient remediation products - on the job - lake and pond treatment - algae and aquatic weed control - alum - calcis - phoslock

Scope Of Work:

ProcellaCOR was used to eradicate invasive floating heart in two ponds. ProcellaCOR is a new herbicide technology that can be used for the selective control of some of our nation’s most invasive and recurring aquatic weeds. Leveraging new mechanisms to specifically target the unique growth processes of these undesirable species, ProcellaCOR helps property owners achieve long-term control of the following aquatic plants without the need for costly re-application. The product’s premium low dosing features allow for a 100-1000x reduction (compared to other aquatic herbicides) in the active ingredient necessary to eradicate the invasive and noxious aquatic weeds responsible for degrading the health and use of waterbodies. These superior results are paired with a Reduced Risk classification by the EPA, meaning it can be applied to lakes and ponds without impacting the native plants you enjoy or interfering with recreation.

Nymphoides_cristata-floating hearts invasive aquatic weeds

Project Description:

 In 2017, project managers observed a new species of aquatic invasive – Nymphoides cristata, commonly called floating hearts – a CATEGORY I on the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council’s (FLEPPC) 2017 List of Invasive Plant Species. Nymphoides have become established in South Florida surface waters after escaping from the ornamental plant trade. It has small heart-shaped leaves that float on the water’s surface while the roots grow into the hydrosoil. It is presumed that Nymphoides were introduced into the property by inflowing surface water from adjacent drainage canals.

Repeated attempts were made to control Nymphoides by carefully applying systemic herbicides that were already being used to treat other aquatics found on the property. The results of these treatments were unsuccessful. Next, a foliar contact herbicide was used to treat the plant on the water surface; however, it did nothing to the submersed portion, which continued growing.

procellacor nutrient remediation algae and aquatic weed before 3

In 2018, a new solution called ProcellaCOR became available. SOLitude began a test study in two ponds on the property with Nymphoides where previous control had not been successful. This alternative solution has several useful features (environmental and cost-effective) that made it a good choice for this problematic aquatic plant: 1) Its unique formulation targets a hormone in certain plants, Nymphoides being one of those, without affecting other native aquatic plants. 2) Application only needs to be done in the areas where the plant is physically growing, not the entire pond.

The ponds selected on the property for this test study were chosen for their similar size, the amount of Nymphoides present in the water (60 – 70% coverage), and location. Pond A is located farthest away from any surface water canal inflow. Pond B is located closest (40 feet) to the inflow surface water canal from the west. Water from Pond A is used to irrigate residential lawns. Pond B is not used for irrigation.

procellacor nutrient remediation algae and aquatic weed after 3

Efficacy was visible on plants within days of application, and complete control was established about three weeks later in both ponds. Regrowth of Nymphoides was not observed for approximately 8 months in Pond A and 10 months in Pond B. There were no incidents of issues using irrigation water from Pond A. Current treatment methods include the use of ProcellaCOR as needed to treat all waterbodies on the property with 100% control of Nymphoides.

 

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A TRAGEDY WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS  By Eric Glazer, Esq.

A TRAGEDY WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS By Eric Glazer, Esq.

  • Posted: Jun 29, 2021
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A TRAGEDY WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS

By Eric Glazer, Esq.

Published June 28, 2021

 I was lucky enough to be on vacation the past two weeks.  On my last day, I woke up to the tragedy that was unfolding in Dade County as the Champlain Towers South Condominium came crashing down in Surfside.  There are still over 150 people missing or unaccounted for.  Before commenting on this devastation that will no doubt change the way Boards and counties and municipalities inspect condominiums going forward, let’s start by feeling terrible for the victims and families of this tragedy.  My heart truly goes out to them.

I’ve seen a lot of strange things happen in my legal career.  I’ve seen owners spray their unit with ammunition from an AK-47.  I’ve seen unit owners throw contents of an entire apartment over their 20 story balcony from roid rage, I’ve seen owners store dangerous toxic chemicals in their unit.  But, you know what I have never seen………..a building like the Champlain Towers simply collapse.  Sorry, I’ve never seen that before.  We have all seen buildings that collapsed after a terrorist attack and buildings that were destroyed by a hurricane.  But I don’t believe we have seen anything quite like what happened here.

So…….what the hell really happened?

Apparently, an Engineer gave the Board of Directors a report in October of 2018 that found “failed waterproofing is causing major damage to the concrete slab.  Failure to replace the waterproofing in the near future will cause the extent of the concrete deterioration to expand exponentially.”  The engineer recommended a very expensive but necessary process to correct this.  In the garage, there was evidence of cracking and spalling in the concrete columns, beams and walls —- with exposed rebar.  “Most of the concrete needs to be repaired in a timely fashion.  Clearly, the Board knew about structural defects that needed repair.  The question is, did those necessary repairs go unanswered and if so, was that the cause of this tragedy.  I am not blaming anyone for anything.  However, the lawyer in me tells me that buildings don’t just simply fall down without any warning signs whatsoever.  .  But here is what I want to know and see:

  1. Has the City or County previously notified the condominium about any structural defects?  If so when and how?
  2. Has any contractor or engineer notified the condominium about any structural defects?  If so, when and how?
  3. Has any engineer or contractor inspected the property or performed repairs on the property that could have caused damage that led to this disaster?
  4. Has any unit owner or the association made any material alterations to the property by removing any structural walls?
  5. Was the Board ever made aware that the structure of the building needed repair?  If so, when and how?
  6. Was the board aware that balconies were spalling and rebar was rusting?  If so, what did they know and when did they know it?
  7. Has the insurance carrier performed any inspections of the property and if so, when and what were the results?
  8. Has the County required a 40 year certification regarding the structural and electrical components of the building?  If so, what were the results?
  9. Was a reserve study performed on the condominium?  When?  What were the results?
  10. What bid packages were sent to contractors?  When were bids received?
  11. What follow-up was done by the association with the engineer of the 2018 report?
  12. What was discussed at Board meetings regarding the need for repairs to the structure?
  13. Were any owners complaining about damage in their unit or parking spots?

The results of reviewing these documents are crucial for several reasons and may lead to a need to review additional documentation.

In addition to their unit, many people at Champlain Towers South lost every piece of personal property they owned.  They lost all of their furniture, appliances, electronics, clothing, jewelry etc… If they did not have an HO-6 insurance policy, the only way they can get reimbursed for their loss is by proving negligence against the association.  The above documents will be crucial in knowing whether or not there was or was not negligence here. If there was, owners can sue the association for damages .  If there wasn’t, the owners suffered a total loss without a chance for recovering damages for their personal property.  And by the way…….just because the building exploded and people died does not relieve any of these owners from having to continue to pay their mortgages while now having to find a new home.  It is a tragedy on many levels.

As many of you know, in both Miami-Dade and Broward County, condominiums are required to undergo a 40 certification process whereby an engineer must attest that the building is structurally safe and electrically safe.  If you can believe it, it appears that the Carlisle was in its 40th year.  Apparently, there was a demand for certification by the county.

It would not surprise me if we see a change going forward, reducing the 40 year certification to 30 years or even less.  I think engineers are about to be busy.  I don’t think anyone in condominium buildings will ever turn a blind eye to cracks in the concrete that is so often done.

I pray for the families that have suffered a loss and/or still don’t know for sure if a loved one is among the rubble.  I also pray that the Boards of Directors of every condominium understand the immense power they have to potentially save lives by making sure the property is always safe and sound.  Too many times you hear about not being able to afford necessary repairs.  Too many times the can is kicked down the road.  The reserves are waived for the umpteenth year again and again and again.  I’m not saying that this definitely happened here at the Champlain Towers.  I am saying what I said at the top:  buildings just don’t fall down.  But every board everywhere has the solemn obligation to make sure something like this never happens again.