cROSS cONNEcTiON PROgRAm
Backflow prevention devices are not the most beautiful item in the yard, but they serve an important purpose. These devices must be maintained annually and occasionally require maintenance. That is why landscaping choices must take into consideration access by repair crews.
Landscaping around a backflow preventer requires a clearance of at least 2.5 feet all around the device. This allows maintenance crews the space they need to test and repair the device. To keep the required clearance, the Collier County Water Sewer District recommend s using small plants and ornamental grasses. These provide visual coverage without crowding the space. Plant shrubs an additional two feet beyond the clearance area to allow for growth. Be sure to trim the plants regularly and consider using decorative rocks or mulch around the device to mark the clearance area. Keep the space free of overgrown plants and other barriers that could make it difficult for crews to reach the device.CCCIC---
cROSS cONNEcTiON cONTROL Any connection between the potable (drinking) water supply and any other source of water has the potential to contaminate the drinking water supply and is illegal in any form, permanent or temporary. Some common things we do around the house and yard can create a cross connection. For instance, without the proper vacuum breaker installed, leaving a garden hose submerged in a swimming pool is a cross connection. Attaching a pesticide or weed killer mixing sprayer to the end of a hose has the potential to contaminate the drinking water. Connecting an irrigation system to both irrigation quality (reclaimed) water and the drinking water system is a cross connection that is not only dangerous, but also illegal. Only a licensed plumber should make changes to the plumbing on any property, or in any structure where any other source of water exists. To prevent the possibility of backflow, Collier County adopted the “Collier County Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Ordinance” (Ordinance 2008 32). This ordinance requires the installation of backflow prevention assemblies as part of any water service connection. The D istrict maintains a Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Section to install, maintain, repair and annually test backflow prevention assemblies. Please contact the Water Division for any necessary maintenance on the device.
14
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker