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How do I know if the structure on the waterbody I live near is open or closed?The District has an interactive water control structure map online that the public can view. When using the map, click on the yellow circle to see the data for that structure. Gate status and water levels are updated hourly for each water control structure location.Do all District… Read more
May 2025Q: What is a water control structure?A: The primary purpose of the District’s water control structures is to manage the flow of water. Water control structures vary greatly in size and are used for multiple purposes. The District’s water control structures can be classified into three main categories: flood control, salinity barriers, and water conservation structures. These structures allow the District to provide… Read more
The District’s Regional Water Supply Plan (RWSP) is updated every five years. It assesses projected water demands and potential sources of water to meet demands over a 20-year period.2020 Regional Water Supply Plan 2015 Regional Water Supply Plan
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Your Questions Answered
July 2021
Floridians use nearly 6.4 billion gallons of water per day. With an estimated 1,000 people moving to the state daily, residents are projected to use an additional 1 billion gallons per day by 2040. That’s why exploring potable reuse, or recycled water, is one way we can help ensure there is plenty of water to meet the demand. Southwest Florida Water Management District Water Supply Manager Jay Hoecker outlines… Read more
Your Questions Answered
June 2022
Q: What is reclaimed water?
A: Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater which can be used for irrigation and other uses to extend our water supplies. Reclaimed water is delivered through purple pipes, which you have probably seen in your community.
Q: What are some of the ways reclaimed water is used?
A: Reclaimed water is used to irrigate crops, residential lawns, schools,… Read more
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) created the Water Conservation Hotel and Motel Program (Water CHAMP℠) to reduce high water use in the hospitality industry. Water CHAMP has more than 350 participants throughout the 16-county District. Participants receive an environmental self-audit checklist, printed materials for a towel and linen reuse program, staff training materials, and publicity through Water CHAMP’s website and other promotional efforts… Read more
Measuring Water Quality
Scientists use many different instruments to determine the quality of water, including Secchi disks (measure water clarity), probes, nets, gauges and meters. Water quality is not just measured by direct sampling. Information can also be derived from aerial and satellite photographs by observing the surrounding environment and by collecting organisms that live in the body of water.
Although you might not have access to the resources of a… Read more
Your Questions Answered
October 2022
Q: What is a water control structure?
A: The primary purpose of the District’s water control structures is to manage the flow of water. Water control structures vary greatly in size and are used for multiple purposes. The District’s water control structures can be classified into three main categories: flood control, salinity barriers, and water conservation structures. These… Read more
In today's environmentally-conscious world, conserving water is not just a choice, it's a responsibility. Your landscape presents many opportunities to contribute to water conservation efforts, while also enhancing the beauty and sustainability of your outdoor space. Here are some effective strategies to reduce water use in your landscape. For more information to better understand your irrigation system, click on the tiles below.
During the summer months of June, July, August and September, yards need no more than ½ to ¾ inch of water every 2 to 3 days. If your lawn has received enough water from rainfall, turn off your irrigation system, and turn it back on when needed. Follow these tips when you "watch the weather, wait to water":Water only when your yard needs it
- The simplest way to determine if your yard needs water is to look for these visual clues:
- Grass blades are…
Your Questions Answered
June 2020
We're often asked about the water resources in our area and what we do to manage and improve their water quality. Southwest Florida Water Management District Chief Water Quality Scientist Chris Anastasiou explains what water quality really means and the District’s role in managing the region’s water quality.
Q: What is water quality?
A: Water quality is a broad term… Read more
Year-Round Water Conservation MeasuresAlways refer to your city or county regulations first. … Read more
This ongoing conservation program provides assistance to public water utilities in an effort to increase system efficiency and reduce system losses. To evaluate a utility’s system and identify opportunities for water loss improvement, the following practices may be recommended:
- Water Audits
- Leak Detection Surveys
- Meter Accuracy Testing
Your Questions Answered
February 2021
Nearly one thousand people move to Florida every day. That population growth puts significant demand on the region’s water supply. To help meet these water supply needs, local governments, water managers, builders and developers are working cooperatively through the Florida Water Star℠ (FWS) program. Southwest Florida Water Management District Lead Communications Coordinator Robin Grantham has details about… Read more
The Southwest Florida Water Management District maintains and operates 84 structures throughout the District’s 16-county region. These structures help provide flood protection, manage lake water levels and prevent salt water from flowing up freshwater streams and creeks.
Your Questions Answered
February 2022
Q: What is water quality and why is it important?
A: Water quality is a description of the condition of water. Water quality can refer to the chemical, physical and biological condition of water, including the suitability of the water to be used for a specific purpose like drinking, recreation or support of wildlife. The quality of our water is important because it has a direct impact on people… Read more
The Water Conservation Hotel and Motel Program, or Water CHAMPSM, is a free towel and linen reuse program that encourages hotel and motel guests to use their towels and linens more than once during their stay.
Tourists flock to Florida to enjoy the sandy beaches, scenic lakes and meandering rivers. Water CHAMP lodging facilities protect Florida's water resources by conserving water and reducing pollutants entering the environment.
You can help keep… Read more
July 2023Q: Why is water supply a challenge in Polk County?A: Polk County lies wholly within the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) and the majority of the county also lies within the District’s Southern Water Use Caution Area, where groundwater withdrawals have caused adverse impacts to lakes, wetlands and natural systems. The District identified that Polk County was reaching sustainable limits of traditional groundwater supplies… Read more
Saving Water IndoorsBy taking just a few simple steps, you can reduce your water use indoors. If we don’t conserve, we’re pouring water — and money — down the drain. It is estimated that each person in our region uses an average of 99 gallons of water each day. You can reduce your water use by taking just a few simple steps. So stop the leaks, slow the flow and use water wisely!Click on the following topics to learn more:
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