people kayaking in Hillsborough River

Published
May 5, 2023

Contact
Planner – [email protected] – 813-272-5940

Last updated
July 25, 2023

The Hillsborough River Interlocal Planning Board’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) held its first meeting of the new year on February 21. As required by their bylaws, their first business was to hold elections of officers. Both Dr. Richard Brown and Mr. Stu Marvin were re-elected as Chair and Vice Chair, respectively. This stability and continuity enhance continued focus on the priorities of the TAC and Board.

Dr. Brown reported that he participated in a meeting with the City of Tampa to discuss their “PURE” project. This project would potentially add treated wastewater to the Hillsborough River Reservoir. Dr. Brown said that questions remain from stakeholders about contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals and hormones, in the water and the effect the contaminants can have on the river ecosystem and human health.

Ping Wang, Margaret Winter, and Taryn Sabia with the University of South Florida presented their proposed project on nature-based solutions on the Hillsborough River. USF, in collaboration with the City of Tampa, is seeking funding from the Gulf Research Program for this proposed project. Their goal is to develop a full proposal for nature-based solutions for the Lower Hillsborough River this year. The project would involve extensive community engagement, including communities of concern. If successful, the project could restore and improve areas of the lower river that are in need.

The River Board is looking forward to a successful year of protecting, improving, and maintaining the river as an important natural and recreational resource for residents and visitors.