This project includes canals, pumps, water control structures, and an in-ground storage reservoir with a total capacity of approximately 90,000 acre-feet located in Miami-Dade County.

The initial design of the reservoir assumed 4,500 acres with water levels fluctuating from ground level to 20 feet below grade. A subterranean seepage barrier will be constructed around the perimeter to enable drawdown during dry periods, to prevent seepage losses, and to prevent water quality impact due to the high transmissivity of the Biscayne Aquifer in the area. The reservoir will be located within an area proposed for rock mining. A pilot test of this component will be conducted prior to final design to determine construction technologies, storage efficiencies, impacts upon local hydrology, and water quality effects.

The water quality assessment will include a determination as to whether the in-ground reservoir with perimeter seepage barrier will allow storage of untreated runoff. The final size, depth and configuration of these facilities including treatment facilities will be determined through more detailed planning and design.

The purpose of this project is to capture and store a portion of the stormwater runoff from the C-6, Western C-11 and C-9 Basins. The stored water will be used to maintain stages during the dry season in the C-9, C-6, C-7, C-4 and C-2 Canals and to provide water deliveries to Biscayne Bay to aid in meeting salinity targets. Runoff is pumped and gravity fed into the in-ground reservoir from the C-6 (west of Florida?s Turnpike), Western C-11 and C-9 Basins. Outflows from the facility will be directed into the C-9 Stormwater Treatment Area/Impoundment for treatment prior to delivery to the C-9, C-7, C-6, C-4 and C-2 Canals. If necessary, additional stormwater treatment areas will be constructed adjacent to the in-ground reservoir.