Suwannee River Water Management District
Decency
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday, Dec. 3, the approval of more than $4.5 million in funding for three projects that will help strengthen water resources in the Suwannee River Water Management District.
The funding is part of a total of $112 million announced by Governor DeSantis for statewide projects identified by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Florida water management districts.
Funding for these projects comes from both DEP's Sources and Watershed Restoration Programs, which provide funds for projects that improve the quality and quantity of the state's water resources, as well as funds for the development of alternative water supply sources to supplement and reduce water use from the Floridan Aquifer. The district's board of directors approved the project funding applications earlier this year and sent them to the DEP for approval.
“Governor DeSantis’ unwavering commitment to protecting Florida’s environment and water resources underscores a powerful truth: By advancing innovative investments now, we can lay the foundation for reliable, sustainable water security to support healthy ecosystems and resilient communities that can benefit for generations,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the Suwannee River Water Management District.
Projects include:
- Agricultural Source Protection Phase Two – $3 million – This county-wide cost-share project will work to reduce nutrient pollution and water use by prioritizing projects under a Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) and/or a Florida Water Resource Caution Area (WRCA).
- Alternative Water Supply Feasibility Study, Phase Two – $750,000 – This project examines available water during flood events and alternative sources of recharge and/or storage to support minimum flows and levels (MFLs) in the district.
- Remote Irrigation Management and Reporting – $800,000 – This project will install meters in the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership area so the district can work with producers to better monitor water use for planning purposes.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The district is headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, and serves 15 surrounding counties in north central Florida.
Further information about the district can be found at www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or keep following them Facebook, Instagram, YouTube And X.