A shallow well rebate program funded by the Southwest Florida Water Management District and Manatee County will conserve potable water by converting existing irrigation systems to shallow well systems, which draw water from the surficial or intermediate aquifers.
The program will provide rebates to homeowners and business owners who currently use potable water for irrigation and live in western unincorporated Manatee County or the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach. Homeowners and business owners should first check with Manatee County Utilities to see if they are eligible for this program.
Once the conversion is complete, the home or business owner will receive up to 50 percent of the installation cost, up to $500, if the system meets all criteria set forth by the Shallow Well Feasibility Study. To receive a rebate payment, applicants must submit documentation of the cost to the Manatee County Utility Operations Department, Water Conservation Section, and the county must complete a site inspection of each well installed.
Project managers estimate at least 100 wells will be installed, which will save approximately 49,300 gallons per year of groundwater.
The total cost for this program is $50,000. As part of the agreement, Manatee County will receive up to $25,000 in financial assistance from the District’s Manasota Basin Board.
Residents interested in participating in the shallow well rebate project may contact Vicky Zimarino at (941) 795-3416.