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Learn how to restore depth and prolong your lake’s lifespan with proactive solutions.

Learn how to restore depth and prolong your lake’s lifespan with proactive solutions.

  • Posted: Jan 21, 2024
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Why is My Pond Drying Up?

Why Is My Pond Drying Up?

We’ve all experienced the surprises and pain points that come with aging. Year after year, we undergo changes that impact our health and physical functions. This process is a natural and inevitable part of life that not only affects humans and animals, but also lakes and ponds. And just like people can expedite their rate of aging through unhealthy diets or lack of exercise, our water resources can age faster when exposed to excess nutrients, erosion, invasive weeds, harmful algal blooms, and pollution. As these factors compound, a waterbody will slowly fill in with muck, sediment, and debris, resulting in a loss of depth and volume. Over the course of 10-20 years, a pond can recede—or, seemingly, dry up—until it resembles nothing more than a marsh.

Once a waterbody has reached this point, dredging is one of the few solutions available to restore it to a healthier and more functional condition. Dredging is the process of physically removing hundreds or thousands of pounds of sediment and organic materials that accumulated over time.

Depending on the unique needs, budget, and characteristics of a property, professionals may recommend one of two styles of dredging:

 

mechanical-dredging

Mechanical Dredging

During mechanical dredging, a waterbody is completely drained to allow full visibility of the bottom. A long-reach excavator is used to scoop out excess materials, which are then removed from the site using semi-trucks and trailers.

hydraulic dredge - dredging - sediment removal - muck removal

Hydraulic Dredging

Hydraulic dredging does not require a waterbody to be fully drained. Instead, hydraulic dredges use a specialized tube to pump water and materials into a holding tank for filtration. The filtered water is then returned to the waterbody.

Though dredging is highly effective at resetting an aged waterbody, it is one of the largest expenses a community will ever face. Stakeholders should also be prepared to take swift and ongoing action to cultivate their new aquatic ecosystem once the project is complete. Without responsible management, they may see their water resource prematurely return to its prior condition.

 

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A Road Map to Your Ideal Waterbody by SOLitude

A Road Map to Your Ideal Waterbody by SOLitude

  • Posted: Jan 16, 2024
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A Road Map to Your Ideal Waterbody

Navigating Your Lake Management Journey

As any lake owner or manager knows, maintaining a waterbody is hard work. At best, you may experience a few hiccups every now and then like small mats of algae or cloudiness. At worst, you may face toxic blooms of cyanobacteria, severe erosion issues, or flooding. Achieving the lake or pond of your dreams is not a linear process; it’s a journey. Whether you’re new to water management or well into your quest, it’s never too late to reevaluate your trajectory and make sure you’re taking the safest and most efficient route toward your waterbody goals.

Identify your goals and stakeholders

In order to achieve the goals you’ve set for your lake or pond, it’s important to visualize them. Maybe you desire a small backyard pond for swimming, fishing, and kayaking with friends and family. You may need a stormwater pond that efficiently collects rainwater while providing aesthetic beauty. Perhaps you oversee a large lake or drinking water reservoir that requires safe, clean water for the public. With the support of an experienced Aquatic Expert, HOA managers, property owners, municipal leaders, golf course superintendents, and other decision-makers can develop a detailed roadmap tailored to their unique needs and budget, as well as to the one-of-a-kind characteristics of their waterbodies.

testing-water-quality-in-lakes

Conduct lake water quality testing

One of the most important steps when navigating your journey is establishing baseline knowledge about your aquatic ecosystem. Professionals conduct visual surveys and advanced water quality testing to learn about the physical and chemical properties of an aquatic ecosystem. Parameters like dissolved oxygen (DO), nutrient levels, pH, and turbidity provide valuable context by allowing professionals to identify potential imbalances, predict future problems, and develop a timeline to implement short- and long-term management solutions.

Plan ahead to prolong your lake’s lifespan

In lake and pond management, every waterbody has a countdown. Over time, sediment, debris, animal waste, and other organic materials accumulate at the bottom of all lakes and ponds. As an ecosystem becomes more shallow, it loses its capacity to hold water, which can increase the risk of flooding during storms and severely damage shoreline areas. Eventually, dredging services will be needed to physically remove these materials and restore the waterbody to its original depth and volume. Though this is a natural occurrence, it can be expedited by human activities such as construction and urban development, agriculture, and recreation. Luckily, by planning ahead, stakeholders can cruise past these dead-ends, ensuring a smoother journey.

Proactive management helps you stay ahead of water quality issues

If dredging is a dead-end street on the roadmap towards the waterbody of your dreams, proactive management solutions are shortcuts. By implementing preventive measures and sustainable practices, you can sidestep the need for extensive restoration efforts, as well as smaller roadblocks like nuisance weeds and algae. Shoreline management, nutrient mitigation, biological bacteria, fountains and aeration, and ongoing water quality monitoring can help you cultivate a healthy, beautiful, functional waterbody – and enjoy it for as long as possible.

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Elevate your pond management plan with new technologies

Furthermore, advanced technologies and solutions like professional drones, bathymetric mapping, and electrofishing can serve as navigational tools on your management journey. These technologies help stakeholders better understand depth, underwater features, and even fish populations, allowing them to use their time, attention, and resources more efficiently.

Achieve your ideal waterbody with help from experts

Lake and pond management is never smooth sailing. Water is in a constant state of change, impacted by weather conditions, wildlife, land use, and countless other factors. Navigating these complexities requires a proactive approach that incorporates as much knowledge and innovation as possible. With an experienced Aquatic Expert as your guide, you can enjoy each milestone on your journey while keeping your goals firmly on the horizon.

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United Professional Engineering (UPE) is a leading professional engineering company based in south-east Florida.

United Professional Engineering (UPE) is a leading professional engineering company based in south-east Florida.

  • Posted: Jan 16, 2024
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United Professional Engineering UPE has been in business since 2005 and we have a diverse team of Professional Engineers, Building Inspectors and General Contractors. Our services include Structural Engineering, Building Upkeep and Restoration Engineering, Building Inspections, Threshold Inspections, Civil Engineering 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!

Today, one of the largest investments is building a structure and how to maintain its lifespan. Structural integrity, environmental factors, atmospheric elements, and maintaining aesthetics are all important factors that we evaluate very carefully, when working on a project. At UPE our highly qualified licensed designers, engineers and general contractors promises to ensure your investment is protected.

Our trusted team members are ready to listen, help and guide you through the process from start to finish. It doesn’t matter what size of your project, we will be able to alleviate your stress and provide you with the quality of service you deserve.

Structural Engineering

Only a licensed, structural engineer can provide accurate assessments and solutions for a home buyer or seller.

Only a licensed, structural engineer can provide accurate assessments and solutions for a home buyer or seller.

  • Posted: Jan 10, 2024
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Many engineering firms do not offer residential services. But United Professional Engineering (UPE) does.

We understand the residential market and the homeowner and we value their business. Only a licensed, structural engineer can provide accurate assessments and solutions for a home buyer or seller.

 

Residential Structural Inspections

Many engineering firms do not offer residential services. At UPE, we understand the residential market and the homeowner. We value their business and our team is proud to service this sector. Most of the work that we perform for residential homeowners begins with an onsite engineering assessment. Our licensed, structural engineers make a site visit to the property. We survey the areas of concern and assess the severity of the structural problems in question.

After a site investigation is conducted, our structural engineers prepare a structural engineering report outlining onsite findings, identifying probable cause of the structural issue and recommendations for remediation of any structural deficiency uncovered. We provide our clients with a photograph log documenting existing conditions at the time of the site visit. Only a licensed, structural engineer can provide accurate assessments and solutions for a home buyer or seller. Give us a call today!

 

United Professional Engineering (UPE)

Provides a unique “one-stop-shop” for all your structural engineering needs in Palm Beach and Broward County. Our South Florida area founded firm has been in business since 1999 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!

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!

At UPE, we understand it is hard to find a service provider you can trust and count on and we are here to change that.

Today, one of the largest investments is building a structure and how to maintain its lifespan. Structural integrity, environmental factors, atmospheric elements, and maintaining aesthetics are all important factors that we evaluate very carefully, when working on a project.

Our highly qualified licensed designers, engineers and general contractors promises to ensure your investment is protected. We believe it’s important to exhibit and maintain an open communication network, while working towards each of our client’s best interests, as well as everyone involved.

We are committed to structural safety and serviceability, identify equilibrium conditions, resolve limitations and utilize preventive and corrective maintenance behavior. UPE is here to help accomplish each milestone of your project, together!

Give us a call today!
📱(561) 582-1733
💻 upefl.com

Find us on the Members Directory on SFPMA.com

LinkedIn:  Find us on LinkedIn

 

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30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

  • Posted: Jan 10, 2024
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30/40 Year Building Recertification: Your Property Depends on it.

Building inspections are crucial for maintaining the safety and integrity of buildings. This is particularly true here in South Florida due to our region’s unique climate and environmental conditions. High humidity, Salt Air, extreme heat, and the hurricane season can all cause damage to building’s structure and envelopes over time. These are some of the reasons why building recertification has become mandated in South Florida every 30 or 40 years, depending on the building’s age.

 

Identifying Hidden Problems

Building inspections are essential to identify underlying problems that may not be readily apparent to residents. For instance, buildings may develop foundation cracks, leaks in the roof, or other issues that can pose significant risks to the property’s structural integrity. Regular inspections can catch these issues early and detect severe problems that may cause serious water damage or building collapse.

Building inspections can prevent these situations, uncover hidden issues, and allow for prompt repair or replacement. Identifying problems early on can also save property owners money and time by preventing more severe cases from developing. Deterioration in coastal environments is a progressive problem that will cost more to address as time passes. By addressing these problems, property owners can promote their buildings’ safety and structural integrity.

 

Cost Savings

Building inspections can provide property owners with significant cost savings in the long run by identifying potential issues early on. Often, structural engineers can find problems during an inspection that can be repaired immediately at a lower cost than if they were allowed to escalate into more significant issues.

For example, if a building inspector discovers a small leak in the roof, the property owner can have it repaired before it causes more extensive damage to the interior of the building. If left unattended, this leak could cause extensive water damage, resulting in costly repairs and possible damage to the building’s structure.

Inspectors may identify areas in the building that could be more energy-efficient. In this case, the property owner can upgrade the building’s insulation, HVAC, or lighting systems—leading to significant savings in energy costs and reducing the property owner’s overall operating expenses.

 

Experience and Expertise

Structural Workshop has extensive experience conducting building inspections. Our experienced engineers and inspectors work closely with clients to help them keep their buildings safeand well-maintained. Whether you are a property manager, building owner, or homeowner, we can help you navigate the complexity of building inspections. Please get in touch with us today to schedule a recertification or learn more about our services.

 

If your company needs marketing please contact our member
Jessica Vail
Vail Marketing Solutions
(908) 528.4087
www.vailmarketingsolutions.com

 

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‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first! Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first! Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

  • Posted: Dec 13, 2023
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‘Tis the season to be jolly, but safety should always come first! 🚒 Here are some Christmas tree fire safety tips to keep your holiday celebrations worry-free:

💦 Keep it Hydrated: Water your tree daily to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
🕯️Placement Matters: Position your tree away from heat or open-flame sources, like candles, heaters and fireplaces. We know, there are not many fireplaces in South Florida, but just in case 😉.
💡Lights Check: Inspect your holiday lights for any frayed wires or damaged bulbs before decorating.
🔌Unplug at Night: Remember to turn off tree lights before heading to bed or leaving home.
🎄Quality Ornaments: Use non-flammable or flame-resistant decorations to minimize risks.
🧯Fire Extinguisher Ready: Have a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
We hope you follow these tips for a safe holiday season! While we are hopeful that you won’t experience any fire damage, remember that we are here for you, and we can manage ANY damage! 1-877-224-2532.
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4 “Tricks” to a Healthier Lake! Regularly test the water quality! by Allstate Resource Management

4 “Tricks” to a Healthier Lake! Regularly test the water quality! by Allstate Resource Management

  • Posted: Dec 08, 2023
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The first step in keeping your lake healthy is regularly testing the water quality. Ensure that your lake management company is testing the water before treatments.

Use algae control.
Algae is a common problem in Florida lakes, but there are methods you can use to control it. Partnering with a professional lake company is key! A lake maintenance company can put together a comprehensive plan designed specifically for your lake.
Use aeration to promote healthy oxygen levels.
Aeration is essential for maintaining healthy oxygen levels in your lake. Use a lake aerator to keep the water moving and to promote healthy oxygen levels.
Control invasive plant species.
Invasive plant species, such as cattails or water hyacinths, can quickly take over your lake and create an unhealthy environment for aquatic life. Let our lake specialists work with your HOA to help control and eradicate invasive plants.
Contact us today: info@allstatemanagement.com or 954-382-9766
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Feller Engineering – From high rise office buildings, condominiums and hotels to large single family homes, regional malls, industrial warehouses, airports, municipal and Federal facilities, sports arenas and much more.

Feller Engineering – From high rise office buildings, condominiums and hotels to large single family homes, regional malls, industrial warehouses, airports, municipal and Federal facilities, sports arenas and much more.

  • Posted: Nov 08, 2023
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Feller Engineering
myenni@fellerpe.com
cdiaz@fellerpe.com
914-467-1402
http://www.fellerpe.com

 

Our commitment to the team concept requires that the mechanical and electrical engineering of a project support the architectural and interior design concepts which have been approved by the client. As engineers, we look for inventive methods and solutions to maintain the integrity of the design, comply with codes and meet expected probable construction costs.

We have chosen consciously to remain a mid-size firm enabling Feller Engineering’s associates, officers and principals to provide personal attention to our client’s needs, assure that all the project requirements are met without over or under design, and that they are within the agreed budget.

We are not only committed to the design areas of the project, but once the construction documents are completed and the contractors are selected, we will meet with the client/architect and the assigned contractors to review the MEP design and resolve any areas of concern. During the construction of the project, our company commits itself to prompt shop drawing review and periodic site observations to assure that the project’s design intent and compliance with code are being met. The contractor’s requests for information or clarifications, extensive final punch listing and witness testings of the completed MEP construction are performed promptly and professionally.

This commitment assures the client that Feller Engineering will not only provide the design for the project, but will also provide engineering services through the entire construction and startup occupancy phases. Additionally, we remain available to resolve any issues that arise naturally or as a result of system changes as the project ages.