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Measuring Water Quality »
Scientists use many different instruments to determine the quality of water, including Secchi disks, 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 scientist, there are some simple tests you can perform to…
Water Matters Podcast »
The Water Matters Podcast answers your most popular questions about the work done by the Southwest Florida Water Management District and services offered including new projects, springs protection, water conservation efforts and more. Learn about the many ways we serve the community and protect your resources.
Become a Water Superhero »
We all play a role in protecting and conserving our water resources, both above and below ground. But we need leaders like YOU to help inspire others and become a water superhero! How can you become a water superhero? Start by incorporating some of the actions in the chart below into your everyday life. It’s also important to educate your friends, family and neighbors to encourage them to do the same! Ways to Conserve Water
  • Take short…
Florida Water Star℠ »
Certifying excellence in water conservation, saving resources and protecting the environmentThe Florida Water Starsm program is a voluntary certification program for new residential and commercial construction and existing home renovation. The program encourages water efficiency in appliances, plumbing fixtures, irrigation systems and landscapes, as well as water quality benefits from best management practices in landscapes. An average Florida Water Star homeowner…
Water Conservation in Restaurants »
Don’t allow your water bill to drain additional money from your restaurant’s profits. Many water-saving tips take little effort or expense, while some require a financial investment that often pays back over time. Regardless of your restaurant’s size, there are simple low-cost steps to save water and money.Educate Your Staff and GuestsConservation at your restaurant starts with you, but management can’t do it alone. It is important to share best management practices with…
Water Education Videos »
These short videos with coordinating teacher’s guides are a great way to introduce your students to a variety of topics, which include: the water cycle, wetlands, watersheds, groundwater, water quality and alternative water supply.
The Scary Side of Water »
Danger Down BelowRemember that an aquifer is an underground layer of spongelike rock that holds water. Since the water lies hidden underground, most people can only imagine what an aquifer looks like. Here in Florida, highly-trained experts can visit an aquifer!Of course, it’s not that simple. Cave diving requires expensive equipment, plenty of knowledge and special skills. Even then it is very dangerous.Windows into the Aquifer Want a…
Stormwater Discharges to Impaired Waters »
The District and the Department of Environmental Protection (Department) recently issued a joint response to concerns expressed by regulated interests regarding implementation of these permitting criteria. This response is summarized below:
  • The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District), following the direction of the Department of Environmental Protection (Department), has informed permit applicants that stormwater discharges contributing to…
Grant Topic 3: Water Quality »
Overview Applicants will be asked to break this down in more detail in the application. Students will work together to test various water quality parameters and conduct a macroinvertebrate sampling at locations along the Hillsborough River. To determine a healthy ecosystem, students will work in groups and use different monitoring tools to collect data on the river’s temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity and nutrient levels. Students…
Florida Water Star℠ Consumers »
What does Florida Water StarSM mean for me?
  • Saves an estimated $530 on annual utility bills
  • Reduces water and energy use
  • Creates peace of mind due to additional home inspections
  • Increases resale through higher quality landscape designs and irrigation systems 
What’s in the Florida Water Star criteria?Florida Water Star criteria focus on three main areas: landscapes, irrigation and indoor.Landscape …
Grant Topic 1: Water Cycle Basics »
OverviewApplicants will be asked to break this down in more detail in the application. Students will explore and understand the basics of water and how it moves above, on and beneath the Earth’s surface. As an introduction to the water cycle, students will make Water Cycle Wristbands and learn about the different processes…
More Tips for Saving Water Outdoors »
More Tips for Saving Water Outdoors
  • Do not leave sprinklers unattended. Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn off sprinklers.
  • Water slowly to reduce runoff and to allow deep penetration.
  • Observe the watering schedule for your address.
  • Dig out water-loving weeds and cultivate soil often.
  • Use a rain barrel to…
Grant Topic 4: Water Supply and Conservation »
OverviewApplicants will be asked to break this down in more detail in the application. Students will begin this grant project by developing a deeper understanding of the importance of clean, fresh water for humans and wildlife. Through in-classroom activities, students will learn about the source of our fresh water in west-central Florida and the importance of water conservation. This will include…
Southern Water Use Caution Area »
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…