Miami Beach keeps it clean

I was disappointed to read reporter Jenny Staletovich’s article in Monday’s Miami Herald, Miami Beach king tides flush human waste into bay, study finds paper.

It perpetuates the misconception that Miami Beach’s stormwater pumps are adversely impacting Biscayne Bay.

In reality, these upgrades provide enhanced stormwater treatment and protection.

As referenced in the article, Professor Henry Briceno’s study relies on limited sampling and questionable interpretation. Miami Beach relies on monthly sampling regulated by the EPA.

Based on this continuous sampling, we know that our waterways are healthy and provide marine habitat, recreational opportunities and an enviable quality of life.

In order to keep streets dry and properties free of flood waters, all cities throughout the U.S. discharge stormwater runoff.

In Miami Beach, our stormwater system is intentionally separate from our sewer system — eliminating the potential for cross-contamination. In order to further protect the quality of our water, we no longer allow new septic tanks.

We know that as water flows into our drains, some bacteria is captured and discharged into the bay and it naturally breaks down when exposed to the sun, salt and elements.

We take great pride in protecting our bay and our beaches, and we go above and beyond regulatory requirements.

For more information on our efforts, visit: miamibeachfl.gov/green.

This story was originally published May 17, 2016 at 11:09 PM with the headline "Miami Beach keeps it clean."