Search Content

May 2026Q: What is a water control structure?A: The primary purpose of the District’s water control structures is to manage the flow of water in lakes and river systems. Water control structures vary greatly in size and complexity. The District’s water control structures can be broadly classified into three categories: flood control, water conservation, and salinity barriers. Collectively, these structures allow the…

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.

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…

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,…

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.An…

Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Restrictions Begin April 3Always refer to your city or county regulations first.Effective Date and Areas

• The District’s Modified Phase III one-day-per-week water shortage…

Modified Phase II Water Shortage RestrictionsAlways refer to your city or county regulations first.Effective Date and Areas

• The District’s Modified Phase II one-day-per-week water shortage restrictions are in effect Feb. 8, 2026,…

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…

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…

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  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…

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 Florida…

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 

Water AuditsWater audits are periodic, quantitative assessments of water…

April 2026Q: What is Water 101?A: Water 101 is a Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) initiated campaign to connect homeowners with helpful water conservation and water quality tips and resources. The campaign encompasses two avenues of information that can be found on the Water 101 for Homeowners webpage or the Water 101 for Communities webpage.Q: What resources are available for…

April 2026Q: What is Water 101?A: Water 101 is a Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) initiated campaign to connect homeowners with helpful water conservation and water quality tips and resources. The campaign encompasses two avenues of information that can be found on the Water 101 for Homeowners webpage or the Water 101 for Communities webpage.Q: What resources are available for…

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.           

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!  

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…

Water 101 for Communities Welcome community leaders! As decision makers, your choices – from when to irrigate to which plumbing fixtures you use - can have significant impacts on your community’s water use. That’s why we’re here to help by teaching best practices with online classes for your employees, offering educational material for you and your communities and sharing water-saving project reimbursement opportunities.Online Water Conservation Classes  The…