Aquifer performance test begins the week of April 17 in Ocala

MAITLAND, Fla., April 11, 2017 – In its work to protect Florida’s water resources, the St. Johns River Water Management District will conduct an aquifer performance test to determine characteristics of the aquifer system. The test, conducted in partnership with the city of Ocala, provides valuable information about long-term reliability of the aquifer system’s ability to yield an adequate water supply in an area.

WHAT: Aquifer performance testing

WHEN: April 17-24

WHERE: Near S.E. 31st Street near S.E. Lake Weir Avenue

This well will be tested at a pumping rate of 3,500 gallons per minute for a duration of 7 to 12 days, with minimal inconveniences to nearby residents. Water in the Lower Floridan Aquifer may give off a rotten egg smell when exposed to the atmosphere. The odor is sometimes released during pumping, but is temporary and harmless to people and wildlife.

Water discharged from the test well is conveyed through 12-inch diameter pipes to four city-owned and maintained stormwater treatment ponds for temporary storage before recharging into the Upper Floridan Aquifer. Construction of the 24-inch diameter Lower Floridan Aquifer test well was completed in February.