Water quality and conservation are high priority issues for both Sarasota County and the University of Florida. The local economy relies on healthy watersheds and reliable water supplies. At UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, we are fortunate to have a water resources agent position dedicated to educating and providing technical assistance for residents, homeowners associations, and businesses on the issues of protecting surface water quality and long-term supply for drinking water.

In August, we welcomed Michael D’Imperio as our new water resources agent.

The position is a partnership with the Sarasota County Public Utilities Department, and has programs in the areas of stormwater pond best management practices, reclaimed water, home and landscape water conservation, drinking water quality, and more. And Michael brings experience and expertise well-matched to the role and responsibilities.

Michael joins us from the Manatee County Utilities Department, where he served in the water treatment plant quality control laboratory, performing chemical analyses and microbial tests on drinking water and source waters. Prior to working in local government, Michael helped manage a local shellfish aquaculture facility, where he raised clams, oysters, and bay scallops for sale to small farmers and for use in state restoration efforts.

Michael holds a Professional Science Master’s degree in environmental science and a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental studies. In his leisure time, Michael enjoys gardening, cooking, and personal fitness. On the weekends he can often be found relaxing on our award-winning beaches, kayaking, and exploring local trails with his dog.

Since he joined Sarasota County Extension, Michael has been meeting with staff and stakeholders to identify community needs and develop program priorities. As our new water resources agent, Michael will draw upon his expertise in the biological, chemical, and societal aspects of our water resources. At Extension, he hopes to protect our waters through outreach, education, and public involvement.

You can reach Michael with your water-related questions or to learn more about his program by email to mdimperio@ufl.edu or call 941-861-9818.

We are happy to welcome Michael to the Sarasota County Extension Team!

Learn more about the Sarasota County Extension water resources program.

Co-author: Michael D’Imperio, water resources agent, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County (mdimperio@ufl.edu)

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