Maya Burke presents Tampa Bay water quality report to local commissioners

The Hillsborough County Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 10, 2025, where Maya Burke, assistant director of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, presented an update on the water quality of Tampa Bay. Burke highlighted the program's annual report card, which assesses water quality conditions against regulatory limits and voluntary goals aimed at protecting the bay's ecosystem.

Burke emphasized the significant progress made in reducing nitrogen pollution in Tampa Bay, noting a decrease from over 9,000 tons in the 1970s and 1980s to approximately 3,000 tons currently. This reduction is attributed to improved wastewater treatment and smart growth planning, demonstrating that economic development and environmental protection can coexist.

However, Burke pointed out that stormwater runoff and atmospheric deposition remain major sources of nitrogen pollution. She urged the commission to consider implementing residential fertilizer ordinances and investing in transportation infrastructure to mitigate these issues. The presentation also revealed that while water quality in most bay segments is satisfactory, Lower Tampa Bay is facing challenges due to excessive algae growth, particularly following a record wet year in 2024.

The meeting included discussions on the impact of recent hurricanes on water quality and the aging wastewater infrastructure's ability to handle extreme weather events. Burke reported that approximately 90 million gallons of partially treated or untreated wastewater entered the bay in 2024, a significant concern for both nutrient loading and public health.

Commissioners raised questions about the effects of aircraft emissions from Tampa International Airport on water quality and the need for more precise data on atmospheric nitrogen sources. Burke acknowledged the limitations of current data and expressed a commitment to advancing research in this area.

In conclusion, Burke's presentation underscored the importance of continued investment in water quality management and infrastructure improvements to ensure the health of Tampa Bay. The commission's discussions highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address ongoing environmental challenges and protect the bay's vital ecosystems.