Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Middle River Wastewater Spills 
Published: April 2, 2025

Q1: What is the FDEP’s enforcement claim? 

A: The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has filed a complaint against the City because wastewater was released from the collection system during 10 events (nine heavy rainstorms and a force main pipe break). 

The complaint cites more than 10 events because each rainstorm lasted multiple days and the FDEP counts each location as a separate event.

Q2: What caused the spills?

A: Spills may occur when wastewater is released to the ground through manholes, cleanout caps, or other sources.  These spills may be discharged to the Middle River if wastewater enters the City’s storm drain systems.  The most common reasons spills occur are:  

1. when rain and/or groundwater leaks into the City’s wastewater system and increases the volume of flow (surcharge) being pumped through and out of the system, and 
2. when the City’s ability to pump into Fort Lauderdale’s regional system, where wastewater is treated, is restricted due to surcharges occurring within that regional system.

These issues often happen in combination during heavy rainstorms.

Q3: What is the status of the water in the river right now? 

A: Every month, the City and nearby cities test the Middle River for bacteria. Right now, all test results meet FDEP water quality standards. There are no advisories limiting recreational waterway activities in the Middle River.

As a standard protocol, if test results do not meet FDEP water quality standards in the future, the City will post cautionary signage and send out notices by email and social media to keep the public informed.

Q4: Do the spills have any impact on drinking water? 

A: No, the City’s drinking water is provided by the City of Fort Lauderdale through a sealed distribution system. It is tested regularly to make sure it meets or exceeds all local, state, and federal requirements. 

Q5: What is the City doing to help prevent future spills? 

A: In 2021, the City signed an agreement (called a Consent Order) with the FDEP to strengthen its wastewater system. The City was required to take 32 actions to reduce the chances of future spills. To date, the City has completed 25 of the required actions and continues work on the remaining seven actions. That agreement is still in effect and the City is on schedule to complete the required upgrades to its wastewater system.  $10,854,878 has been spent over the last four years with another $11,112,830 budgeted for additional repairs and system upgrades. 

One of the most important actions is lining the wastewater pipes to reduce Infiltration & Inflow (I&I) that contributes to spills during rain events. As of December 20, 2024, the City has lined approximately 91% of its gravity wastewater mains and continues efforts to improve manholes and other parts of the system.  

Q6: What happens next with FDEP’s complaint?

A: The case may be amicably resolved. If not, it will go to court and a judge will decide if the City needs to take more action.

Q7: How can I stay informed?

A: Updates may be shared through official city channels and public notices. 
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