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Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater and can be used for irrigation and other uses to extend our water supplies.Our RoleThe District works with local utilities and water users to maximize the beneficial use of reclaimed water as an alternative water supply. The use of reclaimed water helps meet current and future water supply needs in the region and is a vital component of the District’s…

A Water Use Permit (WUP) allows withdrawal of a specified amount of water, either from the ground or from a lake or river.A Water Use Permit (WUP) authorizes the consumptive use of particular quantities of ground or surface water. The Florida Statutes (Chapters 120 and …

Water 101 for Homeowners Welcome homeowners! The choices you make - from the plants in your yard to what toilet you install - can make a big difference in your overall water use. And, everything we do on land can affect the health of our water resources. It’s important to consider water savings and protection to understand your personal impact. The resources below will help you and your neighbors learn more about all things water!  

The districts administer flood protection programs and perform technical investigations into water resources. They also develop water management plans for water shortages in times of drought, and acquire and manage lands for water management purposes. Delegated regulatory programs include management of the consumptive use of water, aquifer recharge, well construction and surface water management.  

With more than 70 springs, Crystal River/Kings Bay is the largest natural winter refuge for manatees on the Florida Gulf Coast. About the SpringsCrystal River/Kings Bay is a first-magnitude spring system that originates in Citrus County. Kings Bay is a 600-acre bay at the headwaters of the Crystal River, which is a…

The District Water Management Plan serves as a comprehensive guide describing our responsibilities for water supply, flood protection, water quality and natural systems. Section 373.036(2)(e)4 Florida Statutes (F.S.) indicates the water management districts may substitute an annual work plan report included as an addendum to an annual strategic plan for the statutorily required District Water Management Plan. The statute specifies that the strategic plan establish the…

Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Florida Water Starsm?Florida Water Star is a voluntary certification program designed to increase water efficiency inside the home and in landscapes and irrigation systems. While many certification programs provide general guidelines for water efficiency, Florida Water Star specifically addresses uses relevant to Florida. Following Florida Water Star criteria in new and existing buildings will help sustain the area’s…

The Five-Year Water Resource Development Work Program (Work Program) is part of the District’s annual budget reporting process.  The Work Program describes the District’s implementation strategy and five-year funding plan for the water resource and water supply development components of the approved Regional Water Supply Plans. The District provides a Proposed Work Program to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for review within 30 days of adoption of the…

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (District) Governing Board declared April Water Conservation Month at its March 25 meeting. April is historically one of the driest months of the year and typically marks the peak demand season for public water suppliers. With these 10 simple tips, you can lower your monthly water bill and do your part to save hundreds of gallons of water: INDOOR

• Only run your washing machine and…

February 2025Q: What is an invasive species?A: An invasive species is an organism that does not naturally occur in a specified geographic area, has been introduced intentionally or unintentionally by humans, and either does or could harm the environment, economy or human health. Invasive species pose a significant threat to Florida's ecosystems by impacting water quality, native habitats and biodiversity. Both aquatic and…

Water Conservation Is Critical During Drought The District is continuing to step up its water conservation efforts during the state’s annual “Water Conservation Month” in April. Each year the District joins with the state Legislature, Tampa Bay Water and dozens of local governments to make the declaration. However, because the state is experiencing a severe drought, the message is even more timely. “Because April is part of Florida’s dry season, it…

 Highlights

• Weeki Wachee Springs are the headwaters of the Weeki Wachee River
• The headspring is home to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, which features a water park and the famous underwater mermaid show 
• Located in Hernando County
• First magnitude spring: 260-square-mile springshed

ChallengesFour main challenges exist in the Weeki Wachee River and springshed: 

• Potential decrease in historic flows
• Elevated…

Five counties within the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s region are now under a Modified Phase III water shortage order due to below-normal rainfall this winter. The District’s Governing Board voted last month to declare the Phase III order for northern counties in the District’s region, which are: Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, and Sumter as well as the City of Dunnellon and The Villages in Marion County. A Modified Phase I alert remains in effect for the…

Fertilizing your lawn the right way can make a big difference for Florida’s water quality. When fertilizers are applied incorrectly, they can wash into nearby water bodies, harming ecosystems and diminishing water quality. This guide will help you understand the best practices for fertilizing responsibly, following local regulations and protecting Florida’s unique environment Why Fertilizing Responsibly Matters More than 1,000 new residents move to Florida daily,…

A Water Use Caution Area, or WUCA, is an area where regional action is necessary to address cumulative water withdrawals which are causing or may cause adverse impacts to the water and related natural resources or the public interest. The District Governing Board designates WUCAs and establishes rules that enhance the protection and/or…

Your Questions Answered November 2022 Q: What is the SWIM Program? A: The Surface Water Improvement and Management or SWIM Program evaluates priority water bodies, identifies issues and drivers, and implements projects to improve water quality and habitat. In 1987, the Florida Legislature established the SWIM Act to protect, maintain, and restore Florida's surface water bodies. The Act required the five water…