Yellow Staining from Irrigation Water

SLWSD’s irrigation water is a combination of treated reclaimed water and water from stormwater retention ponds. Using these water sources for irrigation helps conserve drinking water while putting available water resources to beneficial use.

Reclaimed water is treated and disinfected wastewater that meets water-quality requirements established by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for its permitted reuse. Click below to learn how wastewater is treated and reused as reclaimed water for irrigation.

How Your Wastewater Is Treated & Reused

Once reclaimed water enters outdoor holding ponds the water is exposed to natural environmental conditions and organic material. These conditions can affect the characteristics of the water used for irrigation.

*** SLWSD irrigation water is intended for irrigation, not drinking. ***

What Can Cause Staining?

Water stored in open ponds is naturally exposed to sunlight, vegetation, algae, sediment, and other environmental conditions. As algae and other organic material naturally die and decompose, they can leave behind mineral-rich organic compounds and tannins in the water.

When irrigation water repeatedly contacts porous or light-colored surfaces, these naturally occurring materials can sometimes contribute to discoloration or staining. The SLWSD has tested irrigation water for iron, with past sampling showing very low iron concentrations. Rust-colored staining may therefore have other causes, including corrosion or rust within individual irrigation components.

It is important to note that the presence of staining does not necessarily indicate a water-quality problem or that the reclaimed water does not meet applicable requirements for its intended use.

Why Might One Home Have Stains While Another Does Not?

Several property-specific factors can influence staining, including:

• Sprinkler heads repeatedly spraying walls, fences, sidewalks, or driveways.
• Rust or corrosion within sprinkler heads or other irrigation components.
• Differences in sprinkler placement and adjustment.
• The type, age and porosity of the surface being sprayed.
• Repeated wetting and drying of the same area.

If one property experiences significant staining while a neighboring property does not, the individual irrigation system and spray pattern may be contributing factors.

What Can Property Owners Do to Mitigate Staining?

Property owners can help reduce the potential for staining by adjusting sprinkler heads, so they irrigate landscaping rather than structures and hard surfaces. Periodically inspect sprinkler heads and other irrigation components for rust, corrosion, leaks or improper spray patterns.

If overspray is occurring, redirecting sprinkler heads or replacing damaged or corroded components may help prevent continued staining. 

Clean staining when it first becomes noticeable. Periodically rinsing or cleaning affected surfaces may help prevent discoloration and deposits from building up over time and becoming more difficult to remove. Always use cleaning products and methods appropriate for the surface.