AIM provided design, permitting, surveying, and construction phase services for this multi-phase project involving the creation of treatment wetlands to provide water quality treatment and additional surface water storage capacity in the Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District (LA-MSID) Able Canal (Orange River) basin for large storm events. The 206-acre multi-purpose use parcel serves as a reservoir and treatment wetland known as the West Marsh Preserve. The Preserve is adjacent to and is now a part of the existing Harns Marsh Water Management Area (WMA), a 578-acre facility that provides flood control and water quality improvement for drainage to the Orange River, which runs through the West Marsh parcel. The project also creates lakes, expands wildlife habitats, and provides improvements for passive recreational opportunities, including guided interpretive tours, bird watching, bicycling, hiking, and (non-motorized) boating. AIM was responsible for providing the necessary design and permitting services, including topographic surveying and the creation of a Digital Terrain Model (DTM), environmental assessment, hydraulic modeling of the system in conjunction with the existing Harns Marsh facility to optimize operation and performance, as well as determine control structure details. The hydraulic modeling focused on peak stage reduction in storm events and increasing dry season water levels. Permitting and coordination activities were required through the SFWMD, USFWS, and USACE.

This project was awarded the American Council of Engineering Companies of Florida’s (ACEC-FL) 2023 Engineering Excellence Honor Award.