By Megan Sam
University of Florida (UF) researchers recently completed a countywide septic vulnerability assessment that adds new environmental data to Jacksonville’s existing prioritization framework for sewer expansion. The findings can help guide future planning and development decisions across Duval County. Researchers also used an optimization tool to identify where sewer infrastructure investments could have the greatest impact.
The analysis builds on a long-standing city matrix that previously ranked up to 37 neighborhoods using factors like proximity to waterways, current environmental conditions and access to existing sewer infrastructure. While the framework has guided past funding decisions, it covers only part of Duval County, leaving gaps in how septic-reliant areas are evaluated as development continues.
Led by Ron Fick, Ph.D., a research assistant scientist at the UF Artificial Intelligence and Informatics Institute, and Tricia Kyzar, Ph.D., a project manager at the UF Center for Landscape Conservation Planning, the team first mapped septic systems across Duval County.
The researchers then used an optimization tool to identify where sewer investments would be most cost-effective. They also completed a vulnerability assessment that incorporated additional factors, including flood risk and soil suitability for wastewater treatment, to evaluate how septic systems are likely to perform over time.
“This approach helps identify areas that may not be suitable for septic systems, allowing for more informed planning and smarter growth,” Kyzar said.
Fick said the goal is to improve wastewater decision-making by providing a more complete countywide view of where septic systems are most vulnerable and where sewer investment would have the greatest impact.
Septic-to-sewer conversions require major investment and carry long-term implications for environmental protection, public health and growth. Together, the assessment and optimization analysis give planners a more consistent, countywide basis for prioritizing investments.
Researchers presented findings at the 2026 Jacksonville Environmental Symposium on Feb. 13. The presentation drew attendees from environmental firms, housing agencies and the broader community. Results were also presented to the Jacksonville Environmental Protection Board in March to inform protection of environmental resources.
The tools used in this study were developed while the researchers were working at the Center for Coastal Solutions (CCS), in collaboration with the UF Center for Landscape Conservation Planning.