August 30, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District and Alachua County are pleased to announce the expansion of the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area (LWCA). The District, a key steward of nearly 40,000 acres in Alachua County, has joined forces with Alachua County to acquire 156 acres adjacent to LWCA.
August 20, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 42-acre prescribed burn today at Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County. The burn will be located on the Hatchet Creek Tract near the property’s northern boundary. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
August 14, 2024
After five consecutive months of below-average rainfall, July brought a much-needed increase in precipitation to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county region. Eleven of these counties saw above-average rainfall, with northern and central areas benefiting the most. However, southern counties experienced a shortfall, including Brevard which was nearly 2.5 inches below compared to the July average.
August 13, 2024
Lake Apopka, Florida’s fourth-largest lake, is experiencing a revival thanks to a four-decade, $200 million restoration effort led by the St. Johns River Water Management District and its partners. These restoration efforts, which focus on wetland restoration, phosphorus reduction and habitat enhancement, have achieved a 69% decline in phosphorus concentrations and a 93% increase in water clarity as of 2023.
August 7, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District announces the temporary closure of the Headwaters Lake parking lot, located within the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA), for resurfacing from Aug.19–23. While the Headwaters Lake boat ramp will not be accessible, the Fellsmere Grade Recreation Area (Stick Marsh boat ramp) will remain fully operational and offers access for both motorized and non-motorized vessels into Stick Marsh and Blue Cypress Conservation Area.
August 2, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District is monitoring the tropics as Invest 97L is expected to develop further and potentially impact Florida throughout the weekend. While the storm’s exact landfall location remains uncertain, the District’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) team and executive leadership are ensuring the District is ready should the storm continue to organize and become a threat to the region.
July 12, 2024
The District is conducting a 40-acre prescribed burn today at Black Creek Ravines Conversation Area in Clay County, situated within the Lower St. Johns River Basin. The burn will be in the northwest portion of the property. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
July 12, 2024
The District is conducting a 175-acre prescribed burn today at Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County, situated in the Lower St. Johns River Basin. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
July 10, 2024
Rainfall in June was below average for the fifth consecutive month across the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county region. Invest 90L brought much-needed rainfall mid-month, followed by increased thunderstorm precipitation during the last week of June, especially benefiting the southern region of the District.
July 10, 2024
The District has approved the 2024–2034 Land Management Plan for the Gourd Island Conservation Area, highlighting its commitment to protecting water resources and ecological diversity in St. Johns County.
July 9, 2024
The District has unveiled an update to the 2017 Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Feasibility Study.
July 9, 2024
The District’s Governing Board recognized July 2024 as Lakes Appreciation Month, aligning with the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) and organizations nationwide to spotlight the significance of lakes and their benefits.
July 2, 2024
Whether you’ve been a resident of Florida for years or are new to the state, you’ve likely noticed the numerous stormwater ponds scattered across our landscape. Despite Florida’s wealth of natural waterways, these ponds are man-made and often mistaken for natural features.
June 28, 2024
As storms gear up in the Atlantic, key partners in hurricane preparedness and flood management gathered today at the Central Florida Coordination meeting hosted by the District.
June 21, 2024
The District is conducting a 4,000-acre prescribed burn today at Fellsmere Water Management Area in Indian River County. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
June 12, 2024
May brought persistent dry conditions to the District’s 18-county region. Rainfall was sparse and unevenly distributed, with all counties receiving less than their monthly average. In some areas, the deficit was nearly two inches, underscoring the importance of continuing water conservation measures.
June 11, 2024
The District is actively researching the dynamic changes in seagrass abundance within Florida’s Indian River Lagoon (IRL), a crucial estuary spanning 40 percent of the state’s eastern coastline. The IRL has long faced challenges stemming from compromised water quality and recurring harmful algal blooms, resulting in significant seagrass loss.
June 4, 2024
The District will be performing maintenance work on Laughlin Road just south of McDonald Canal Road from May 28 to June 13.
May 29, 2024
The District announces a delay in the construction upgrades at the Burrell Lock. Initially scheduled to begin on June 3 and be completed by December 2024, construction is now expected to begin in 2025.
May 16, 2024
The District remains committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices in the region through innovative projects aimed at conserving water, protecting water quality, and enhancing farm management efficiency.
May 15, 2024
April marks the third consecutive month of below-average rainfall for the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county region. While frontal systems brought some rain, it primarily benefited the northern counties, leaving the southern counties drier.
May 15, 2024
In recognition of the critical importance of conserving Florida’s water resources and promoting sustainable practices, the District Governing Board has officially designated May 19–25, 2024, as Water Reuse Week.
May 7, 2024
The District announces the temporary closure of the Headwaters Lake boat ramp located within the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) for essential repairs from June 10 through June 20. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety and functionality of the facility for visitors.
May 7, 2024
The District is conducting a 662-acre prescribed burn today at Lake Apopka North Shore in Lake County, situated within the Ocklawaha River Basin. The burn, taking place near Clay Island along the northwest shoreline of Lake Apopka, is aimed at reducing hazardous fuel loads and maintaining fire-dependent natural communities.
April 25, 2024
The District plans to aerially treat 1,200 acres of floating plants on the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA), including Headwaters Lake, beginning on April 30 through May 2, weather permitting, to address ongoing navigation concerns, manage water control structures and protect the lake’s health.
April 24, 2024
The District is conducting a 67-acre prescribed burn today at Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area in Clay County. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel. During ignition, portions of the white and yellow trail will be closed.
April 17, 2024
The District is conducting a 3,779-acre prescribed burn today at River Lakes Conservation Area in Brevard County. The burn will be located on the central portion of the property, southeast of Lake Winder. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
April 16, 2024
The District is conducting a 3,340-acre prescribed burn today at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area in Volusia County. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
April 10, 2024
In March, rainfall across the District was slightly below the monthly average, with frontal systems being the main source of precipitation. Northern counties received the majority of the rain, while southern counties experienced drier conditions. Despite variations, overall rainfall across the District remains above the annual average.
April 10, 2024
The District is conducting a 31-acre prescribed burn today at Deep Creek Conservation Area in St. Johns County. The burn will be located on the east side of the property near Cowpen Branch Road. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
April 9, 2024
The District is conducting a 138-acre prescribed burn today at Deep Creek Conservation Area in St. Johns County. The burn will be located on the east side of the property near Cowpen Branch Road. The property’s trail system will be closed for the duration of the burn. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
March 29, 2024
The District is conducting a 4,412-acre prescribed burn today at River Lakes Conservation Area in Brevard County.
March 27, 2024
The District is conducting a 250-acre prescribed burn today at Crescent Lake Conservation Area in Volusia County.
March 20, 2024
The District is conducting a 196-acre prescribed burn today at its J.P. Hall Bayard Point Conservation Area in Clay County.
March 15, 2024
Demonstrating its support for the contributions of government finance professionals, the District Governing Board proudly announces the adoption of a proclamation in honor of Government Finance Professionals Week.
March 14, 2024
The District reaffirms its commitment to protecting Florida’s springs by marking the 11th consecutive year of designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month.
March 13, 2024
Highlighting its commitment to the preservation and sustainable use of Florida’s water resources, the District’s Governing Board has officially proclaimed April 2024 as Water Conservation Month.
March 13, 2024
The District is conducting a 155-acre prescribed burn today at Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
March 12, 2024
In February, the District region witnessed below-average rainfall, with the majority of precipitation concentrated in the middle of the month, driven by a frontal boundary traversing the central counties.
March 8, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting an 87-acre prescribed burn today at Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area in Marion County.
March 8, 2024
The District is conducting an 62-acre prescribed burn today at Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
March 7, 2024
In a proactive effort to protect communities from potential wildfires, the Econlockhatchee Sandhills Conservation Area, located in Orange County, will be closed to the public starting March 8.
February 14, 2024
In January, the District region continued its trend of above-average rainfall, mainly due to frontal systems, a common occurrence during this time of the year.
February 13, 2024
The District Governing Board approved three land acquisitions today that will provide additional protection for Florida’s water resources.
February 13, 2024
The District has initiated its shoreline stabilization project along Welland Road, scheduled to continue until Feb. 23.
February 5, 2024
Despite ongoing recovery efforts from the previous year’s hurricane season, the St. Johns River and South Florida water management districts are already taking steps to ensure operational readiness.
January 19, 2024
The District recently held a coordination meeting, inviting representatives from city, county and state agencies to share ideas on regional water management and local resiliency efforts.
January 10, 2024
December’s weather defied the usual dry trend of this time of year with the districtwide average rainfall more than doubling the typical total.
January 9, 2024
The District Governing Board continues to fund the Artesian Abandoned Well Plugging program in 2024.
January 5, 2024
The St. Johns River Water Management District is now accepting applications for the 2025 Cost-Share Program.
December 15, 2023
The 2023 North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan (NFRWSP) was approved by the District’s Governing Board on Dec. 12.
December 14, 2023
The District has completed work on the Apopka-Beauclair Lock ahead of schedule.
December 14, 2023
Above-average rainfall is anticipated from today through the weekend, raising concerns for potential flooding in low-lying areas, regions with inadequate drainage, and coastal zones affected by high tides.
December 12, 2023
Since its establishment in 2015, the Districtwide Agricultural Cost-Share program has assisted farmers and growers in implementing sustainable projects within the District’s 18-county region.
December 12, 2023
November, typically known for its dry weather, took an unexpected turn this year, bringing an unusual amount of rainfall to the southern half of the District.
December 7, 2023
The District will temporarily close the Apopka-Beauclair Lock beginning Monday, Dec. 11, to facilitate construction upgrades.
November 15, 2023
The District’s Governing Board re-elected Sen. Rob Bradley of Fleming Island to serve as its chair for a third year.
November 15, 2023
In October, the District witnessed a diverse range of rainfall patterns.
November 1, 2023
Starting Sunday, Nov. 5, residents across the 18 counties of the St. Johns River Water Management District are urged to adjust their sprinkler systems.
October 13, 2023
The District is providing nearly $40,000 in grants to 20 schools within its 18-county region through the Blue School Grants program.
October 12, 2023
In September, the St. Johns River Water Management District noted disparity in rainfall patterns. Some areas received a mere 3 inches, while others saw over 9 inches.
October 11, 2023
As the summer’s stifling heat gives way to the cooler temperatures of a Florida fall, the St. Johns River Water Management District encourages the community to enjoy the weather by exploring our extensive network of properties.
October 10, 2023
Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area in Putnam County is expanding, further enhancing its role in preserving natural habitats and providing recreational opportunities.
September 26, 2023
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board has unanimously approved its fiscal year 2023‒2024 budget, marking the 11th consecutive year of reduced millage rates.
September 15, 2023
As football season gets underway, the District and the Jacksonville Jaguars have joined forces to pay tribute to the St. Johns River and promote water conservation.
September 13, 2023
After months of gathering data, soliciting project ideas a draft update to the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership water supply plan is now ready for review and public comment.
September 13, 2023
The District Governing Board approved the execution of six contracts that will provide local growers with nearly $470,000 in cost-share funds.
September 12, 2023
The District is recognizing another year of strong, effective management of its more than 425,000 acres across the 18-county region. During Tuesday’s Governing Board meeting, staff shared how collaboration between District staff and partners ensures the lands are managed well.
September 12, 2023
Overall, rainfall across the District’s 18-county region was drier than average in August.
August 31, 2023
As of today, the District has reopened several of their lands and all the navigational locks.
August 30, 2023
Hurricane Idalia quickly made its way across the state Wednesday, leaving minimal damage across the District’s 18-county region.
August 29, 2023
As Hurricane Idalia barrels toward the west coast, the District Emergency Operations Center is continuing preparations and will monitor the storm as it moves across the peninsula.
August 28, 2023
The District is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Idalia and is taking proactive measures to manage the anticipated winds and rainfall in the coming days.
August 26, 2023
The District continues to monitor the tropics today and throughout the weekend as forecasters predict a tropical wave in the Caribbean Sea has a high chance of development over the next several days.
August 8, 2023
A majority of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county region received above-average rainfall in July.
August 2, 2023
Now entering the eighth year of its Blue School Grant program, the District, with full support of its Governing Board, is offering up to $60,000 in grants for education projects that enrich student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
July 11, 2023
June brought above-average rainfall to the District’s 18-county region.
July 10, 2023
Today, the District gathered with local and regional partners, residents, and other interested stakeholders to celebrate several projects that will help further restoration efforts in the Indian River Lagoon.
June 13, 2023
May brought average to above-average rainfall to the District’s 18-county region.
June 12, 2023
The will close the boat ramp at the Orange Creek Restoration Area in Marion County beginning June 12 to make repairs.
June 9, 2023
The District invited representatives from city, county and state agencies to attend a coordination meeting to share ideas on how to better predict, manage and respond before and after a storm event.
June 8, 2023
The District will close the Lake Apopka North Shore Loop Trail from Magnolia Park to Conrad Road beginning June 5 until further notice due to construction in the area.
May 11, 2023
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board has approved a resolution proclaiming May 14–20 as Water Reuse Week.
May 9, 2023
Drought conditions throughout the District’s 18-county region improved, especially along the coast, thanks to above-average rainfall in April.
April 13, 2023
The District Governing Board recently approved $20 million in funding for cost-share projects for fiscal year 2023–2024.
April 12, 2023
The District’s 18-county region is experiencing varying degrees of drought conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor’s latest report.
April 6, 2023
The St. Johns River Water Management District has long been dedicated to protecting Florida’s springs and approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month for the 10th consecutive year.
April 5, 2023
Water conservation is at the core of the District’s mission of protecting and ensuring the sustainability of Florida’s water supplies.
March 31, 2023
Maintenance on the Baily bridges at Country Road 448A has been completed ahead of schedule and the District will reopen the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to vehicular traffic Saturday, April 1.
March 17, 2023
The District will be conducting maintenance at the Lake Apopka North Shore property beginning March 20.
March 14, 2023
The District’s 18-county region is experiencing moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
March 9, 2023
As daylight saving time begins this Sunday March 12, the District is reminding Floridians to check their irrigation systems and ensure timers are operating correctly.
March 3, 2023
The District recently repaired the L-77W levee that forms the western border of the Blue Cypress Water Management Area West after it experienced significant erosion
February 21, 2023
The District will be conducting maintenance at the Lake Apopka North Shore property beginning March 20.
February 14, 2023
After two months of low rainfall, the District’s 18-county region is experiencing abnormally dry conditions, especially in Nassau, Baker and portions of Duval and Clay counties.
February 1, 2023
The District has recently received several inquiries about the operational status of the Apopka-Beauclair Lock.
January 10, 2023
Today, the District Governing Board voted to approve the execution of a $19.5 million contract to begin construction of the Crane Creek M-1 Canal Flow Restoration Project
January 10, 2023
December rainfall was less than half the average for this time of year throughout the District’s 18-county region.
December 15, 2022
The Headwaters boat ramp located within the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) will be temporarily closed to conduct repairs on Dec. 22 and will re-open Dec. 23.
December 13, 2022
Hurricane Nicole’s pattern of heavy rainfall echoed that of Hurricane Ian’s and brought above-average rainfall across most of the District’s 18-county region.
December 1, 2022
The District is accepting applications Dec. 1 – Jan. 31 for both its Fiscal Year 2023–2024 Districtwide Cost-Share Program and its FY 2023–2024 funding program for REDI communities and innovative projects.
November 17, 2022
The District is re-opening the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for public use beginning Nov.18.
November 14, 2022
Over the weekend, District staff were busy working to assist our local partners with their recovery efforts and completing post storm inspections on all District-owned lands following Hurricane Nicole.
November 11, 2022
Today, the District re-opened several of their lands and all the navigational locks.
November 10, 2022
The District is continuing to monitor Tropical Storm Nicole as it moves across the state and stands ready to assist our state, regional and local partners in their response efforts.
November 9, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District is closing all District-managed navigational locks, campgrounds and properties, to include trails and day-use areas, throughout its 18-county region beginning Wednesday. Nov. 9.
November 8, 2022
The District’s Governing Board re-elected Sen. Rob Bradley of Fleming Island to serve as its chair for a second year.
November 8, 2022
Today, the District Governing Board approved the execution of 13 contracts that will provide local growers with over $1.1 million in cost-share funds.
November 8, 2022
After Hurricane Ian drenched the central Florida region, below-average rainfall across the District was a welcome relief to those still experiencing flooding.
November 7, 2022
The District is closely monitoring Subtropical Storm Nicole and is taking proactive measures to help manage the anticipated rainfall in the coming days.
November 2, 2022
Starting Sunday, Nov. 6, residents across the 18 counties of the District should reset their automatic sprinkler systems to water no more than once a week.
October 28, 2022
The Burrell Lock in Lake County is scheduled to be temporarily closed Nov. 1 and 2 as part of the District’s ongoing maintenance of the structure.
October 27, 2022
The District will reopen the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for public use beginning Oct. 28.
October 24, 2022
Today, the District gathered with local and regional partners, residents, and other interested stakeholders to celebrate the launching of the Black Creek Water Resource Development project.
October 12, 2022
A majority of the District received well above average rainfall in September thanks to Hurricane Ian.
October 11, 2022
Today, the District Governing Board approved a joint real estate transaction with Volusia County and the city of Ormond Beach that will add 18.5 acres of conservation lands.
October 11, 2022
Today, for the eighth consecutive year, the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board voted to approve $500,000 in funding for the Indian River Lagoon Council (IRL Council).
October 6, 2022
The District will open the Lake Apopka North Shore Loop Trail for pedestrian traffic beginning Oct. 7. The Red Trail will remain closed due to flooding.
October 5, 2022
The District has reopened all its conservation lands to public recreation following Hurricane Ian, except for seven properties that are still experiencing some flooding.
October 4, 2022
Staff at the District continue to perform land and safety assessments of all properties and recreational access points, including boat ramps and trails.
October 2, 2022
A decorative wall was all that was standing between flood water and a small community in Longwood until two crews from the District deployed to assist Seminole County in diverting water away from the homes.
October 1, 2022
After several days of rain, Floridians are now able to get out and enjoy the sunny, cooler weather left behind by Hurricane Ian. As of today, the District has re-opened several of their lands and all the navigational locks.
September 30, 2022
As Hurricane Ian makes its way up the east coast, District staff are beginning to assess properties across the 18-county region.
September 28, 2022
In anticipation of heavy rainfall, the District continues to proactively take steps to help minimize flooding. In the Upper St. Johns River Basin and Upper Ocklawaha River Basin.
September 27, 2022
While funding an unprecedented number of projects, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board on Tuesday adopted its fiscal year 2022‒2023 budget and reduced its millage rate for a 10th consecutive year
September 27, 2022
The District will close all District-managed navigational locks, campgrounds and properties, to include trails and day use areas, throughout its 18-county region Tuesday, Sept. 27
September 27, 2022
The District is closely monitoring Hurricane Ian and is taking proactive measures to help manage the anticipated rainfall in the coming days.
September 26, 2022
The District is closely monitoring Tropical Depression Nine and is preparing for potential heavy rainfall throughout the region.
September 13, 2022
Today, the District Governing Board approved the execution of seven contracts that will provide local growers with over $860,000 in cost-share funds.
September 13, 2022
While some areas in the central and northern region of the District received more than 9 inches of rain, southern portions of the District, including parts of Brevard, Indian River, Okeechobee and Osceola counties.
August 16, 2022
The District will be conducting a 45-acre prescribed burn Tuesday at the Newnans Lake Conservation Area, on the northeastern portion of the property in Alachua County. During this time, the Hatchet Creek Tract will be closed.
August 9, 2022
Yesterday, the St. Johns River Water Management District and Volusia County gathered to celebrate the addition of 1,282 acres to the Palm Bluff Conservation Area.
August 9, 2022
Today, the District’s Governing Board approved two land purchases that will add an additional 101 acres to the Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County.
August 9, 2022
While some areas in the central and northern region of the District received more than 10 inches of rain, portions of the District were left abnormally dry as reported in the U.S. Drought Monitor.
August 4, 2022
Now entering the seventh year of its Blue School Grant Program, the District with full support of its Governing Board is offering up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that enrich student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
August 2, 2022
The District is accepting applications through August 26 from farmers, growers and ranchers interested in participating in the Districtwide Agricultural Cost-share Program.
July 14, 2022
A land management update is among the items to be discussed July 27 during the District’s Deep Creek Conservation Area (DCCA) Public Meeting.
July 13, 2022
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season will be busier than normal. This is a good time to remember that even when a storm does not make landfall, heavy rainfall can still cause flooding.
July 12, 2022
Recent rainfall throughout the District’s 18-county region has relieved portions of northeast Florida that had been abnormally dry after below-average rainfall in June.
July 12, 2022
Florida has more than 4,200 natural lakes, and nearly 1,500 of those are within the boundaries of the District.
July 12, 2022
The District is launching a project to increase recharge to the Upper Floridan aquifer in northeast Florida.
June 27, 2022
The District will temporarily close two parking areas at Silver Springs Forest Conservation beginning June 27 through July 4 to complete upgrades.
June 27, 2022
The District has temporarily designated the area along the L-77 West Levee in the Blue Cypress Water Management Area, also known locally as Lake Garcia, as an idle speed zone.
June 14, 2022
Today, the District Governing Board approved the execution of ten contracts that will provide local growers with over $1 million in cost-share funds.
June 14, 2022
The District is launching a project to mechanically harvest and remove mats of floating vegetation —and their associated nutrients — from waters within the Orange Creek Restoration Area.
June 14, 2022
Below average rainfall in May leads to parts of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s southern region (Brevard, Indian River, Osceola and Okeechobee) abnormally dry, as reported in the U.S. Drought Monitor.
May 16, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District will temporarily close the Fellsmere Grade Recreation Area (also known as Stick Marsh) parking area and boat ramp beginning the evening of May 22 through May 25 to conduct repairs.
May 10, 2022
The District’s Governing Board today approved a resolution proclaiming May 15-21 as Water Reuse Week.
May 10, 2022
The District Governing Board approved $20.5 million in funding for cost-share projects for fiscal year 2022–2023.
May 10, 2022
The District’s Governing Board today approved two land purchases that will expand a popular recreation and conservation area near Osteen.
May 10, 2022
Two consecutive months of above-average rainfall in northeast Florida still leaves parts of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s southern region.
May 6, 2022
The District will close a portion of Burnt Island Road in Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area from May 9 through May 13 to conduct repairs to a nearby airboat crossing.
April 20, 2022
The Sweetwater boat ramp located within the Three Forks Conservation Area, near highway 192, will be temporarily closed to conduct repairs beginning April 25 through May 16.
April 13, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will be closed to vehicles on Friday, April 15.
April 12, 2022
The District Governing Board approved moving forward with contracts for five diverse agricultural projects, totaling nearly $552,000 in cost-share funds.
April 12, 2022
After a dry February, above-average rainfall throughout most of the region relieved signs of drought in the central and northern region of the District as reported in the U.S. Drought Monitor.
April 7, 2022
A land management update is among the items to be discussed April 26 during the District’s Northern Recreational Public Meeting.
March 18, 2022
Construction will begin next week on the Lake Apopka North Shore to mitigate erosion damage caused when water is discharged from the canal or attached cells.
March 15, 2022
Sharing similar goals to conserve and manage natural resources, the District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are partnering to acquire topobathymetric data (an underwater map) for the Indian River Lagoon (IRL).
March 8, 2022
The District has long been dedicated to protecting Florida’s springs. Demonstrating that commitment, the District’s Governing Board approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month for the ninth consecutive year.
March 8, 2022
Water conservation is at the core of the District’s mission of protecting and ensuring the sustainability of Florida’s water supplies.
March 8, 2022
Since October, the District has plugged 62 free-flowing wells saving 10.4 million gallons of water a day.
March 8, 2022
February brought well below-average rainfall to the region, with signs of drought showing in the central and northern region of the District as reported in the U.S. Drought Monitor.
February 22, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through March 14 from farmers, growers and ranchers interested in participating in the Silver Springs Springshed Cost-share Program.
February 14, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board approved a regional water supply plan to address current and long-term water supply needs in the Central Springs/East Coast (CSEC) region on Tuesday.
February 11, 2022
The District will hold a public meeting on March 3 to begin the peer review process for the surface water model for Johns Lake in Orange and Lake counties.
February 9, 2022
The east public access point into the Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area located in Indian River County will be closed weekdays beginning Feb.9 through the end of the month.
February 9, 2022
Thanks to donations made to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, the District and volunteers were able to provide a new resting place for both birds and humans alike, complete with picnic tables, covered shelter area and bird perches.
February 8, 2022
District scientists and partners are sharing data, analyses and insights to help improve water quality and overall health of the Indian River Lagoon region and other water bodies through a series of articles in a scientific journal.
February 8, 2022
January brought well below average rainfall to the region, with Marion County receiving the least amount of rain for the month at .83 inches.
January 19, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District will hold a public meeting on Feb. 8 to begin the peer review process for the surface water model for Johns Lake in Orange and Lake counties, located within the CFWI area.
January 12, 2022
Today, the District joined partners and interested stakeholders in celebrating the groundbreaking of a project that is integral to the success of the Volusia Prevention and Recovery Strategy
January 11, 2022
December brought average rainfall to the region with most of the activity occurring along the central coastline.
January 11, 2022
Two airboat ramps near water control structure S-96C within the St. Johns Water Management Area at the Blue Cypress Conservation Area will be closed daily until 5 p.m. for repairs beginning the week of Jan. 10.
January 6, 2022
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications Jan. 4–Feb. 18 for both its Fiscal Year 2022–2023 Districtwide Cost-Share Program.
December 20, 2021
The District and Earth Advantage Inc. recently announced a partnership to deliver water conservation certification data through the Green Building Registry
December 17, 2021
Today, the District and the Florida DEP joined partners and interested stakeholders in celebrating the Lake Jesup Innovative Algae Harvesting Pilot Project on the shores of Lake Jesup.
December 15, 2021
Eleven agricultural projects will share in nearly $880,000 in cost-share funds from the District to improve water conservation.
December 14, 2021
November brought above average rainfall, with most of the activity occurring between Nov. 5 and Nov. 6. The remainder of November was dry.
December 8, 2021
The District has waived any associated fees to plug eligible abandoned artesian wells within the District’s 18-county region.
December 7, 2021
The District has closed the Stick Marsh air boat ramp due to nearby construction activities at Structure S-96.
November 23, 2021
A land management update is among the items to be discussed Dec. 16 during the District’s virtual Central Recreational Public Meeting.
November 19, 2021
The District will host a celebration of the Lake Jesup Innovative Algae Harvesting Pilot Project on Dec. 17.
November 17, 2021
The District will host a public webinar regarding the Lake Minneola Innovative Algal Bloom Treatment Project on Dec. 16.
November 9, 2021
The District’s Governing Board today elected Rob Bradley to serve as its Chairman through November 2022.
November 9, 2021
The District has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense, on behalf of the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve Forces.
November 9, 2021
District Board approves purchase of nearly 380 acres for water resource protection in Brevard County
The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved the purchase of two adjacent properties for water resource protection efforts in Brevard County.
November 9, 2021
While it is still storm season around the St. Johns River Water Management District, October brought rainfall well below the long-term average.
November 5, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting Nov. 9 at its Palatka headquarters. The public is invited to attend and to offer in-person comment on Board agenda items.
November 3, 2021
Starting Sunday, Nov. 7, homeowners and businesses across the 18 counties of the District should reset their automatic sprinkler systems.
November 2, 2021
The District is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its annual youth and women’s deer hunts Nov.
October 25, 2021
Access to the southern portion of the Three Forks Conservation Area and T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area will be intermittently closed beginning in early November.
October 12, 2021
The District Governing Board today adopted the 2021 Minimum Flows and Levels (MFL) priority list, which lays out the agency’s plan for completing and re-evaluating MFLs through 2024.
October 12, 2021
While it is still storm season around the St. Johns River Water Management District, September brought rainfall slightly below the long-term average.
October 5, 2021
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its October monthly meeting offsite at Fernandina Beach City Hall on Oct. 12.
October 4, 2021
A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Oct. 6 during the District’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
September 30, 2021
Thirteen schools and 14 classroom projects in eight counties will receive Blue School Grant funding from the District for hands-on projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math.
September 28, 2021
The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday adopted its fiscal year 2021‒2022 budget and reduced its millage rate for a ninth consecutive year.
September 24, 2021
Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Shawn Hamilton and local officials to announce the awards for the Wastewater Grant Program, which was established in the Clean Waterways Act and funded in this year’s Florida Leads Budget for projects statewide to reduce nutrient pollution.
September 23, 2021
The St. Johns River Water Management District has launched a web-based portal to collect feedback from local community members and stakeholders regarding the Kirkpatrick Dam and Rodman Reservoir.
September 14, 2021
The District Governing Board today unanimously appointed Michael A. Register, P.E., as the District’s Executive Director.
September 14, 2021
Ten agricultural projects will share nearly $1 million from the District to improve water conservation and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways.
September 14, 2021
August is typically the wettest month of the year, bringing rainy conditions to the District. The month wrapped up with rainfall slightly below the long-term average.
September 10, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting and budget hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 14.
September 1, 2021
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his appointment of Emile D. “Shawn” Hamilton as Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
August 31, 2021
The deadline is fast approaching for teachers planning to apply for this year’s round of Blue School Grant Funding. Now entering the sixth year of this water education grant program, the District anticipates offering up to $20,000 in grants for projects that enrich student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning. The application deadline is Sept. 10.
August 30, 2021
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Maryam Ghyabi-White to the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board.
August 24, 2021
The District will hold two public workshops, including a joint workshop with Southwest and South Florida water management districts.
August 12, 2021
The District achieved a new milestone in July, hitting an all-time annual high 52,289 acres of District lands receiving prescribed burns.
August 10, 2021
The St. Johns River Water Management District continues to support and highlight state, regional, and local resiliency efforts through its core missions.
August 10, 2021
Water quality in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) is getting another boost from the state with two additional projects selected to receive legislative funding.
August 10, 2021
July started with Tropical Storm Elsa making landfall on Florida’s northern Gulf Coast, bringing rainy conditions to the District.
August 6, 2021
The District is launching a pilot project this week to harvest and remove algae, suspended solids and associated nutrients from Lake Jesup’s waters. The project’s data will help the District determine the potential for a full-scale system to help achieve state water quality standards established for Lake Jesup.
August 5, 2021
There are a lot of “dos” when visiting public lands owned and managed by the District — do take your time to enjoy natural Florida, do take drinking water and insect repellent, do hike or bike and take advantage of these unspoiled acres.
August 4, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting Aug. 10 at its Palatka headquarters. The public is invited to attend and to offer in-person comment on Board agenda items. A livestream will also be available for members of the public to observe the meeting online.
August 4, 2021
The District is accepting public comment on the draft Central Springs/East Coast Regional Water Supply Plan through Aug. 27.
July 30, 2021
The District is launching a project to mechanically harvest and remove mats of floating vegetation —and their associated nutrients — from waters within the Orange Creek Restoration Area.
July 28, 2021
Annual water use reporting conducted by the District shows that 2020 total water use was 1% lower than the five-year average but 4% higher than 2019.
July 13, 2021
On Tuesday, the District’s Governing Board recognized July 2021 as Lakes Appreciation Month, joining the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) and groups around the country in the annual proclamation to raise awareness of lakes’ importance and benefits.
July 13, 2021
The District’s Governing Board today approved partnership agreements with four north Florida water supply utilities to participate in the Black Creek Water Resource Development Project
July 13, 2021
The District’s Governing Board approved a tentative budget Tuesday that maintains the current millage rate for taxpayers.
July 13, 2021
In a word, June was wet — and in some areas, extremely wet. The western edge of the District recorded more than 10 inches of rain in June.
July 13, 2021
The District is conducting three public workshops to discuss the draft Central Springs/East Coast Regional Water Supply Plan and to take public comment.
July 8, 2021
The District is reopening its public lands Thursday at noon, having completed safety assessments following Tropical Storm Elsa’s effects in north and east-central Florida.
July 7, 2021
District headquarters in Palatka, service centers in Jacksonville and Maitland and its field stations will reopen at 8 a.m., Thursday, July 9, in the wake of Tropical Storm Elsa.
July 6, 2021
The District will close its public lands and all offices north of I-4 on Wednesday in anticipation of effects from Tropical Storm Elsa.
July 6, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting July 13 at its Palatka headquarters.
July 2, 2021
By being proactive ahead of a storm, homeowners can protect themselves and their property from flooding effects that are often the biggest problem associated with tropical systems in Florida. The District’s website provides easy access to valuable data and information to assist the public and local governments before, during and after severe storm events.
June 9, 2021
Public access to the most up-to-date water quality information in the St. Johns River and the Indian River Lagoon just got better, thanks to a web portal redesign by the District’s data collection and management team.
June 8, 2021
The District is now offering other Florida water management districts and the State of Florida access to a proprietary algicide treatment to fight cyanobacterial.
June 8, 2021
May rainfall was well below average across the District, with only a few areas of near-average rainfall.
June 1, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting June 8 at its Palatka headquarters. The public is invited to attend and to offer in-person comment on Board agenda items.
May 28, 2021
While the start of hurricane season is just days away, the District works year-round to address resiliency through its core missions and through cost-share project funding with local partners.
May 26, 2021
The District has completed a $2.7 million maintenance and improvement project to the nearly 20-year-old Lake Apopka Marsh Flow-Way.
May 18, 2021
Now entering the sixth year of its Blue School Grant Program, the District anticipates offering up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that enrich student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
May 14, 2021
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Douglas Burnett and Ryan Atwood to the District’s Governing Board.
May 12, 2021
Twenty-four projects will share in nearly $10.6 million from the District for construction of water supply and water conservation, water quality improvement, natural systems restoration and flood protection projects.
May 12, 2021
Access to Headwaters Lake Boat Ramp in Indian River County will be limited to one ramp while the St. Johns River Water Management District repairs the two ramps at the popular facility beginning May 15.
May 12, 2021
To promote and encourage efficient use of reclaimed water, the District’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a resolution proclaiming May 16–22 as Water Reuse Week.
May 11, 2021
The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a land exchange that will increase District conservation land on the St. Johns River by 1,200 acres.
May 11, 2021
While April is usually one of Florida’s drier months, above-average rainfall last month across the St. Johns River Water Management District benefited water levels in the Floridan aquifer.
May 11, 2021
The District Governing Board today voted to adopt revised minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for lakes Brooklyn and Geneva, in Keystone Heights.
May 4, 2021
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting May 11 at its Palatka headquarters.
April 27, 2021
In Florida, April is typically a dry month when water demands are higher due to springtime planting and low rainfall amounts.
April 13, 2021
For the eighth consecutive year, the District’s Governing Board has approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month.
April 13, 2021
The District is nearing completion of the process to revise minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for lakes Brooklyn and Geneva, in Keystone Heights.
April 13, 2021
Fifteen agricultural projects will share in cost-share funds from two different funding programs of the District to assist farmers and growers on projects that conserve water and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways.
April 13, 2021
With below-average rainfall in March across the central and southern ends of the District, it’s a good reminder why April is Water Conservation Month in Florida.
April 12, 2021
The District and Brevard Zoo today celebrated the launch of an innovative cost-sharing project to reintroduce clams into the Indian River Lagoon with the goal of establishing new clam populations in the estuary.
April 6, 2021
The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting April 13 at the Cocoa City Hall.
April 1, 2021
The District will hold a virtual public meeting April 15 to discuss the management of District lands in its northern region.
March 29, 2021
The District will hold a public teleconference April 12 as part of the peer review process for the minimum flows and levels (MFLs) report for Sylvan Lake in Seminole County.
March 26, 2021
The District today officially launched a two-month pilot project to test an innovative treatment process to remove natural tannins and nutrients from Black Creek water.
March 12, 2021
Recreational users of the Loop Trail at Lake Apopka will experience a detour beginning March 15 to allow for construction activities on the District’s Lake Apopka Duda Property Water Storage Improvement Project.
March 11, 2021
Spring is a great time to give your automatic sprinkler system a checkup. As warm temperatures return and spring planting begins, the District’s seasonal Water Less campaign message focuses on irrigation system maintenance with the question “Did you set it and forget it?”
March 10, 2021
District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Program with its prestigious Employer Patriot Award for the agency’s strong support of its employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. District Governing Board Chairman Gen. Douglas Burnett, retired commanding officer of the Florida National Guard, presented the award to Dr. Shortelle at the board’s regular monthly meeting on March 9.
March 9, 2021
Water conservation is at the heart of the District’s mission of protecting and ensuring the sustainability of Florida’s water supplies. The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a proclamation that designates April 2021 as Water Conservation Month to heighten awareness about the importance of water conservation.
March 9, 2021
February rainfall was above average throughout the St. Johns River Water Management District, although the northern half of the District received considerably more rain than the southern half.
March 9, 2021
The District will conduct a prescribed burn Tuesday totaling 6,000 acres at Three Forks Conservation Area in Brevard County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and to improve wildlife habitat conditions.
March 3, 2021
Join the District for a virtual journey along the 310 miles of the St. Johns River and head to places you may never have seen before.
March 2, 2021
The District will hold a public teleconference on March 15 to discuss draft peer review findings for the minimum flows and levels (MFLs) report for Sylvan Lake in Seminole County.
February 26, 2021
Visitors to the District’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive (LAWD) this weekend will see their donations at work.
February 18, 2021
The District will hold a public webinar March 4 to discuss the draft technical memo and receive final stakeholder comments on the surface water model peer review for Red Bug Lake, in Seminole County.
February 17, 2021
Construction has started on a project to replace old cast-iron water pipes in the city of Palatka’s central downtown and eastern Palatka Heights communities.
February 15, 2021
The District will hold a public teleconference Feb. 23 to discuss management of lands within the south region of the District.
February 12, 2021
Visitors to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive should anticipate a temporary closure at the western McDonald/Canal roads section of the drive this weekend.
February 9, 2021
An annual progress report on the District’s water resource management and protection initiatives was approved by its Governing Board on Tuesday.
February 9, 2021
A dry weather trend continued across most of the District in January, with eight counties receiving less than a half-inch of rainfall over the month.
February 2, 2021
The District Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on Feb. 9 at the Apopka City Hall.
January 27, 2021
District surplus lab equipment is getting a second life in the Silver River Museum lab, which is being created to offer Marion County middle and high school students an opportunity to learn about water chemistry in the Silver River.
January 15, 2021
The District is accepting applications Jan. 14–Feb. 19 for both its Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Districtwide Cost-Share Program and its FY 2021-2022 funding program for REDI communities and innovative technology.
January 14, 2021
The District will hold a webinar on Jan. 28 to discuss flood risk reduction and emergency action plans for the Ocklawaha River and Upper St. Johns River federal flood control projects.
January 13, 2021
The District is offering three course options for community association managers (CAM) to earn free continuing education credits.
January 12, 2021
Many counties across the District had a very dry December, with the southern half of the District receiving less than an inch of rainfall over the month.
January 12, 2021
The District will hold a public teleconference Jan. 14 to discuss management of lands within the central portion of the District.
January 5, 2021
The District has created interim parking and a new small gate at the entrance of the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to allow pedestrian and bicycle access to the recreational Loop Trail as Orange County upgrades its Magnolia Park amenities.
December 29, 2020
The District is accepting cost-share applications through Jan. 29 from farmers, growers and ranchers interested in partnering on agricultural projects that promote water conservation.
December 17, 2020
Construction will begin this week on the Lake Apopka Duda Property Water Storage Improvement Project to improve water management abilities and reduce phosphorus loading to Lake Apopka through infrastructure improvements.
December 8, 2020
The District Governing Board today approved the contract for a $2.19 million project to reduce phosphorus loads to Lake Apopka through infrastructure improvements to the Duda portion of the North Shore.
December 8, 2020
The final month of 2020’s Atlantic hurricane season ended with good news for most counties in the District: No drought conditions, the Floridan aquifer system is in the high ranges, and Orlando-area springs are experiencing strong flows.
December 4, 2020
The District will hold a rule development workshop on Dec. 10 to discuss recovery strategies for the minimum levels in lakes Brooklyn and Geneva, located in Clay and Bradford counties.
December 2, 2020
The District is holding a virtual public hearing on Dec. 16 to take public comment on its draft 10-year land management plan for the Julington-Durbin Preserve.
December 2, 2020
The District will hold a public webinar on Dec. 16 to discuss initial peer review comments on the surface water model that will be used to develop minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for Red Bug Lake in Seminole County.
December 1, 2020
The District is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for its annual youth and women’s deer hunts.
December 1, 2020
The District Governing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting on Dec. 8 both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate.
November 28, 2020
The District and other partners have received several reports of localized fish kills in the Indian River Lagoon over the past few days. District staff, along with Brevard County, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program and others, are investigating.
November 13, 2020
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board voted Tuesday to partner with Alachua Conservation Trust (ACT) and the Florida Forest Service (FFS) to purchase nearly 102 acres.
November 13, 2020
Nine agricultural projects will share in nearly $779,000 in cost-share funds from the District to improve water conservation and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways.
November 10, 2020
The District Governing Board on Tuesday awarded a contract for the construction of the Crane Creek/M-1 Canal Flow Restoration Project, a project aimed at reducing nutrient flows to the Indian River Lagoon.
November 10, 2020
The District’s Governing Board re-elected Gen. Douglas Burnett of St. Augustine to serve as its chairman for a second year.
November 10, 2020
The District Governing Board today approved an updated plan to address central Florida’s current and long-term water supply needs.
November 10, 2020
An extreme range of dry conditions in inland counties to very wet coastal counties in October demonstrated how fickle Florida’s seasonal rainfall patterns can be.
November 5, 2020
Visitors to the District’s widely popular Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive at the Lake Apopka North Shore now have the option to donate toward the drive’s upkeep.
November 3, 2020
An innovative project to fight algal blooms in Lake Minneola is getting under way this week with water quality monitoring.
November 3, 2020
The District Governing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting on Nov. 10 both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate.
November 3, 2020
The District’s free bimonthly Thursday morning webinar series continues with upcoming presentations on Indian River Lagoon water quality, protecting water resources through partnerships, and freshwater wetland restoration in the Upper St. Johns River Basin.
October 30, 2020
The District is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its annual youth and women’s deer hunts Nov. 13–15 and Dec. 4–6 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
October 28, 2020
Starting Sunday, Nov. 1, homeowners and businesses across the 18 counties of the District should reset their automatic sprinkler systems to water no more than once a week.
October 22, 2020
The District will temporarily restrict public access around the service bridge and nearby levees at a water control structure known as S-96D in Indian River County while the structure undergoes renovation.
October 15, 2020
Fourteen schools in eight counties will receive Blue School Grant funding from the District for hands-on projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related topics.
October 14, 2020
The District will hold a public teleconference to discuss management of lands within the Upper St. Johns River Basin, as well as projects and recreational management in the basin.
October 14, 2020
The District will hold a public webinar Oct. 27 to kick off the peer review of the surface water model being used to develop minimum flows and levels for Redbug Lake in Seminole County, within the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) area.
October 13, 2020
High September rainfall has boosted the District’s cumulative 12-month rainfall totals over its long-term average by 2.65 inches.
October 13, 2020
The District Governing Board Tuesday adopted the 2020 Minimum Flows and Levels (MFL) priority list, which lays out the agency’s plan for completing and re-evaluating MFLs through 2024.
October 6, 2020
The District Governing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting on Oct. 13 both electronically and in-person for the benefit of the public wishing to participate.
September 22, 2020
The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday adopted its fiscal year 2020-2021 budget and reduced its millage rate for an eighth consecutive year, keeping taxes low while providing significant funds for water resource protection and cost-share projects.
September 9, 2020
The District’s free Thursday morning webinar series continues with upcoming discussions about waterwise landscaping, agricultural innovation and how aerial imagery can help the District protect water resources.
September 9, 2020
The District’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved its 2021–2025 Strategic Plan, a five-year outlook for the agency in its work to protect water supplies, water quality and ecosystems, as well as protecting people, property and infrastructure from flooding.
September 8, 2020
August brought above-average rainfall across much of the District and shrank a 12-month rainfall deficit in Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties.
September 4, 2020
The eagerly anticipated new trailhead, picnic area and expanded parking area for the Bayard Conservation Area on State Road 16 in Clay County is now open, the District announced today.
September 3, 2020
The District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting and budget hearing on Sept. 8 via teleconference.
September 3, 2020
The district will hold a public webinar on Sept. 24 to discuss draft minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for lakes Brooklyn and Geneva, in Clay and Bradford counties.
August 31, 2020
The District and the Florida Forest Service (FFS) are teaming up on a wildfire fuels mitigation project to help reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires along the boundary between Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park and the Wedgefield community in Orange County.
August 24, 2020
The district will hold two public workshops, including a joint workshop with Southwest and South Florida water management districts, on the draft 2020 minimum flows and levels priority list and schedule.
August 24, 2020
Take an online adventure into the world of water — visit the district’s updated educational webpages.
August 21, 2020
As Florida keeps a close eye on the path of Tropical Storm Laura, here are five tips from the district to prepare for heavy rains from severe storms, including torrential rain from recent summer thunderstorms.
August 13, 2020
The city of Cocoa Beach has completed improvements to its water reclamation facility, thanks in part to the district’s 2019 cost-share program.
August 11, 2020
The district is nearing completion of the process to set protective minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for Lake Butler, a 296-acre sandhill lake in Volusia County.
August 11, 2020
Along with the threat of a hurricane at the end of July, some portions of the district received copious rainfall.
August 7, 2020
The district is accepting applications through Sept. 8 from farmers, growers and ranchers interested in participating in the districtwide Agricultural Cost-share Program funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and reduce nutrient runoff.
August 7, 2020
Anglers rejoice! The district will open the highly anticipated Headwaters Lake Boat Ramp in Indian River County on Aug 10.
August 6, 2020
Teachers have until Sept. 4 to apply for 2020-2021 Blue School Grant funds from the district
August 4, 2020
Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ directions to limit the size of public gatherings and practice social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the district Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on Aug. 11 via teleconference.
August 1, 2020
Due to the potential effects of Hurricane Isaias, navigation through the Burrell Lock, Moss Bluff Lock and Apopka Lock and Dam will be closed at sundown today and navigation suspended through Sunday.
July 31, 2020
As Florida prepares for potential impacts from Hurricane Isaias, the district reminds northeast and east-central Floridians to bookmark its storm webpages.
July 31, 2020
The district will hold a public teleconference on Aug. 12 to discuss the recommended selection of a peer reviewer for the Sylvan Lake minimum flows and levels (MFLs) report.
July 31, 2020
The district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will be closed Sunday, Aug. 2.
July 28, 2020
Water quality in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) is getting a boost, thanks to $25 million in funding approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for fiscal year 2020–2021.
July 23, 2020
Community association managers (CAM) are invited to earn free continuing education credits through the district’s certified training courses on water quality and water conservation best practices for communities.
July 21, 2020
The Moss Bluff Lock in Marion County has been repaired and is reopened. The district operates and maintains the structure, which serves as a navigational aid and flood control structure on the Ocklawaha River.
July 18, 2020
The Moss Bluff Lock in Marion County is temporarily closed due to a hydraulic/electrical issue. The district operates and maintains the structure, which serves as a navigational aid and flood control structure on the Ocklawaha River.
July 17, 2020
Annual water use reporting conducted by the district shows that 2019 total water use was 9 percent below the 10-year average.
July 15, 2020
The district will host a public webinar on July 29 to provide information about an innovative technology to reduce or eliminate harmful algal blooms in Lake Minneola.
July 14, 2020
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday joined the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) and groups around the country in recognizing July 2020 as Lakes Appreciation Month.
July 14, 2020
The district’s Governing Board Tuesday approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for an 8th consecutive year.
July 14, 2020
Groundwater levels across the district rebounded slightly in June after a late spring downward trend, while rainfall varied with above-average rainfall in the north and western portions and below-average totals in coastal and southern regions.
July 14, 2020
Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature have approved $40 million in funding for fiscal year 2020-21 for development of water supply and water resource development projects.
July 7, 2020
The district Governing Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting on July 14 both electronically and in-person.
July 1, 2020
The district’s free Thursday morning webinar series continues with upcoming discussions about the Water Less outdoor water conservation campaign, setting minimum flows and levels and ensuring resiliency in Florida’s communities.
June 22, 2020
The district is conducting a pilot project in the DeBary Bayou in Volusia County involving the mechanical removal of nuisance and exotic vegetation.
June 11, 2020
The district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is reopening to vehicular access on Friday, June 12.
June 9, 2020
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday authorized staff to begin rulemaking to set minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for Lake Butler, in Volusia County.
June 9, 2020
Two water conservation projects in the district’s portion of the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) are under consideration for funding through a CFWI Water Conservation Cost-Share Program.
June 9, 2020
After a slow start, Florida’s rainy season kicked off in mid to late May, which rounded out the month with above-average rainfall.
June 8, 2020
A full-scale demonstration project of the district to remove phosphorus from treated wastewater is now working to reduce the overabundance of nutrients that cause algal blooms in Doctors Lake in Clay County.
June 3, 2020
Summer afternoon showers and tropical rainfall mean that Mother Nature may be able to handle much of your lawn sprinkling over the next few months, saving water and your money.
June 3, 2020
Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ directions to limit the size of public gatherings and practice social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the district Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on June 9 through teleconference.
June 1, 2020
District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle is the featured speaker on June 4 in the district’s free educational webinar series.
May 29, 2020
With the start of hurricane season just days away, the district’s website provides easy access to valuable data and information to assist the public and local governments before, during and after severe storm events.
May 28, 2020
Now entering the fifth year of its Blue School Grant Program, the district anticipates offering up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that enrich student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
May 27, 2020
The district’s Office of Communications was recently honored by the Jacksonville Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) with a Grand All Image Award for its 2019 “Fall Back” outdoor water conservation campaign.
May 20, 2020
The district is reopening campsites on district lands. Effective 1 p.m. on Friday, May 22, both first-come/first-serve and reservable campsites are open.
May 18, 2020
The next topics in the district’s free educational webinar series include stormwater systems, Florida springs and the district’s core missions of water supply, water quality protection, natural systems and flood protection.
May 12, 2020
To promote and encourage efficient use of reclaimed water, the district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a resolution proclaiming May 17–23 as Florida Water Reuse Week.
May 12, 2020
Even with above-average rainfall in April, abnormally dry conditions continue throughout much of the district.
May 11, 2020
Mary-Lou Pickles, financial services director for the St. Johns River Water Management District, has been awarded the 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (FGFOA).
May 8, 2020
Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ directions to limit the size of public gatherings and practice social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the district Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on May 12 through teleconference.
May 4, 2020
The second in a series of free educational webinars about Florida’s water and its protection will be held Thursday, May 7, by the district.
April 27, 2020
The district will hold a series of Thursday morning educational webinars, beginning April 30, to explore the agency’s work to manage and protect water resources while engaging everyone to do their part.
April 14, 2020
To protect the health and safety of its staff and the public during the COVID-19 public health emergency, the district’s Governing Board held its regular monthly meeting today via teleconference.
April 10, 2020
Staying home is staying safe, and many parents of school-aged kids are looking for ways to keep those busy young minds engaged in learning. The district is bolstering its online water education resources to help both teachers and parent-teachers meet that challenge while at home.
April 8, 2020
With below-normal rainfall causing increasingly drier conditions, the district wants to remind water users about the importance of outdoor water conservation.
April 7, 2020
Following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ directions to reduce public gatherings and practice social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on April 14 through teleconference.
March 18, 2020
The district is following continuing guidance from the state of Florida and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and taking proactive measures to protect staff and the public.
March 17, 2020
The St. Johns River Water Management District is taking steps to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of its staff and the public. Effective today, all locations will be open only to employees.
March 13, 2020
The district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will be closed as a precaution this evening and will remain closed until further notice in response to concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus commonly referred to as COVID-19.
March 12, 2020
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for FWC’s annual youth turkey hunt March 13–14 and women’s hunt on April 4–5 on portions of the district’s Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
March 10, 2020
For the seventh consecutive year, the district’s Governing Board has approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month.
March 10, 2020
Most of the St. Johns River Water Management District is seeing dry conditions, with 16 of its 18 counties experiencing a 12-month rainfall deficit, including three counties with a 10-inch rainfall deficit.
March 2, 2020
With the change of the seasons, the district’s year-long #WaterLess campaign has shifted to focus on springtime watering needs and a timely reminder to give your sprinkler system a checkup.
February 28, 2020
With land clearing underway for the First Coast Expressway along State Road (SR) 16 in Clay County, the district will be relocating the SR 16 entrance and trailhead at its Bayard Conservation Area.
February 14, 2020
A portion of the district’s Lake Apopka Loop Trail will be temporarily closed from Tuesday, Feb. 18, through Thursday, Feb. 20. The closure is due to construction of a restoration project and is necessary to ensure public safety as the district anticipates heavy equipment in the area. Visitors during these days should follow detour signs.
February 13, 2020
The district’s Governing Board today approved an interlocal agreement with Brevard County for a project that will capture thousands of pounds of nutrients annually before they can reach the Indian River Lagoon and will restore clean water to the St. Johns River.
February 13, 2020
January kicked off the year with below-average rainfall across the entire 18-county St. Johns River Water Management District, adding to a rainfall deficit for the past 12 months.
February 13, 2020
A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Feb. 20 during the district’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
February 10, 2020
The district Board will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb. 13, at district headquarters in Palatka.
February 5, 2020
A $7.3 million partnership project between the city of Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, the district and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) will remove 200,000 cubic yards of muck from 12 canals in the Banana River Lagoon — and along with it,189,000 pounds of total nitrogen and 115,800 pounds of total phosphorus.
January 30, 2020
The district and North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) have partnered on the conservation of 578 acres with three miles of riverfront on the north shore of Black Creek.
January 27, 2020
The district has closed public access to levees near the water control structure known as S-96C in the headwaters of the St. Johns River in Indian River County.
January 24, 2020
The district today hosted a preview visit to Lake Apopka highlighting a project that will soon use innovative technology to remove phosphorus and continue improving the lake’s water quality. The technology was successfully tested in 2017 on the Lake Apopka North Shore. Following a competitive bid process, this new project is the next step toward securing further water quality benefits for Lake Apopka.
January 23, 2020
District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle today joined student-scientists benefiting from the district’s Blue School Grant Program as they began field research testing water quality along the St. Johns River at Julington-Durbin Preserve.
January 13, 2020
The district Governing Board today approved an agreement with Clay County Utility Authority (CCUA) to convert up to 79 septic tanks to central sewer on properties adjacent to Doctors Lake.
January 13, 2020
December brought above-average rain across most of the 18 counties of the district, increasing lake levels in the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin and groundwater levels in the Floridan aquifer.
January 10, 2020
The district has closed the Harris Bayou Spillway, and flow at the Burrell and Moss Bluff dams has been reduced to base flow and should not adversely affect downstream areas.
January 7, 2020
Construction has begun on the highly anticipated boat ramp and recreation facility at Headwaters Lake, located at the north end of the district’s Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) in Indian River County.
January 6, 2020
The district Board will hold its first regular monthly meeting of 2020 on Monday, Jan. 13, at district headquarters in Palatka.
January 3, 2020
The district will hold two public teleconferences Jan. 21 to discuss peer review findings for surface water models for Lake Apshawa in Lake County and Sylvan Lake in Seminole County, both located within the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) area.
December 30, 2019
Recent heavy rainfall combined with seasonal high lake levels in the Upper Ocklawaha River Basin (UORB) has prompted the district to temporarily open the Harris Bayou Spillway and to maximize flows through three of the five water control structures on the chain of lakes.
December 12, 2019
The District and Putnam County have completed a $2.5 million cost-share project to replace the Paradise Point wastewater treatment plant, reducing nutrient loading to Dunns Creek and protecting water quality in the St. Johns River system.
December 10, 2019
The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board on Tuesday approved two projects in Flagler County to share $1 million in district cost-share funds for economically disadvantaged communities or innovative technologies.
December 10, 2019
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board voted today to buy one of the few remaining undeveloped parcels in the area between State Road 46 and the district’s existing Buck Lake boundary.
December 10, 2019
Although November rainfall was average or below-average across much of the St. Johns River Water Management District, groundwater in the Floridan aquifer system remained in the normal to high range for much of the 18-county region.
December 2, 2019
The district is asking homeowners across its 18-county region help save a billion gallons of water this winter by joining in the annual statewide “Skip a Week” campaign. During the cooler months of December, January and February, lawns and landscapes typically need less water.
December 2, 2019
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its annual youth and women’s deer hunts Dec. 6–8 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
November 22, 2019
For the 15th consecutive year, the St. Johns River Water Management District has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its fiscal year 2017-2018 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).
November 19, 2019
The St. Johns River Water Management District will hold two public meetings on Dec. 3 to discuss initial peer review comments on the surface water models for Lake Apshawa in Lake County and Sylvan Lake in Seminole County, both located within the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) area.
November 12, 2019
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved moving forward with contracts for two agricultural projects that will reduce water use by 1.41 million gallons per day and reduce nitrogen and phosphorus.
November 12, 2019
After a dry September, October brought rain across most of the 18 counties of the district, keeping groundwater levels in the Floridan aquifer high.
November 4, 2019
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its annual youth and women’s deer hunts Nov. 8–10 and Dec. 6–8 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
November 1, 2019
The district’s Sunnyhill Restoration Area will host wounded veterans in an Operation Outdoor Freedom guided deer hunt Nov. 5–7. A portion of the property, located in Marion County, will close for the event.
November 1, 2019
Starting Sunday, Nov. 3, homeowners and businesses will fall back to once-a-week landscape irrigation across the 18 counties of the St. Johns River Water Management District. Nov. 3 is the day that Eastern Standard Time begins.
October 30, 2019
Today, the district helped celebrate the completion of Osprey Acres Stormwater Park, Indian River County’s newest recreational and environmental oasis engineered to capture nutrients before they reach the Indian River Lagoon.
October 21, 2019
The district has launched a year-long “Water Less” campaign to help raise awareness about water conservation and communicate easy ways to integrate outdoor water conservation into Floridians’ daily lives.
October 11, 2019
The district is hosting a public meeting to discuss updates to land management and recreation across Lake, Orange and Seminole counties as well as portions of Marion, Volusia and Brevard counties.
October 11, 2019
A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Oct. 17 during the district’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
October 9, 2019
The district’s Governing Board awarded a contract Tuesday for construction services for a water quality project at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 8, 2019
Thirteen agricultural projects will share in $1.56 million from the district to improve water conservation and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways.
October 8, 2019
Typically one of Florida’s wettest months of the year, this September was drier on average, according to data collected by the district, and drought conditions are developing in north Florida, with Baker County experiencing severe drought.
October 2, 2019
Boaters in central Florida will be in for a pleasant surprise this week if they visit the navigational locks on the Ocklawaha Chain of Lakes.
October 1, 2019
The district will hold two public meetings on Oct. 22 to kick off the peer review process of surface water models.
September 27, 2019
Fourteen schools are receiving grant funding from the district’s Blue School Grant Program for projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
September 24, 2019
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday adopted its fiscal year 2019-2020 budget, which reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a seventh consecutive year. The $158 million budget continues to provide significant funds for water resource protection and cost-share projects to ensure sustainable water resources, increase water conservation and protect water quality in springs and other priority water bodies.
September 24, 2019
Clay County Utility Authority and the district joined Sen. Rob Bradley and Rep. Travis Cummings on Tuesday in a ground-breaking ceremony for an innovative pilot project to remove phosphorus from treated wastewater.
September 10, 2019
Data collected by the district shows August 2019 rainfall was above average districtwide. Additionally, in a flipflop of recent months, Indian River County, which has been below average for many months, had the highest countywide rainfall total, with 10.2 inches.
September 10, 2019
The bistrict’s Governing Board Tuesday approved purchasing a 60-acre borrow pit near Volusia Blue Spring for a strategic partnership project that will allow wetland treatment
September 9, 2019
The district is accepting applications through Oct. 19 for Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and innovative projects to share in cost-share funding that supports the agency’s water resource protection mission.
September 6, 2019
The district has reopened all of its conservation lands to public recreation following Hurricane Dorian, except for the island portion of Murphy Creek Conservation Area.
September 6, 2019
The district has extended the application period for Blue School Grant project proposals to Sept. 11 due to school closures caused by Hurricane Dorian.
September 5, 2019
The district is working to reopen conservation lands to public recreation following Hurricane Dorian. Openings occur after district staff complete a safety assessment of recreational access points, levees, trails and boat ramps.
September 5, 2019
The district is reopening the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for regular operating hours Sept. 6.
September 4, 2019
A summary of the district’s current status of operations.
September 4, 2019
With Hurricane Dorian pushing past Florida’s east coast, two public workshops will move forward as scheduled.
September 3, 2019
A summary of the district’s current status of operations
September 2, 2019
A summary of the district’s current status of operations.
September 1, 2019
A summary of the district’s current status of operations
August 31, 2019
A summary of the district’s current status of operations.
August 30, 2019
When hurricanes and other storms bring high volumes of rain in short periods of time, flooding can result. The district’s water control structures in the Upper St. Johns River Basin (USJRB) and Upper Ocklawaha River Basin (UORB) are important federal flood protection projects.
August 30, 2019
The district will close all its public lands districtwide at noon on Saturday, Aug. 31, in advance of Hurricane Dorian to ensure public and land management staff safety.
August 29, 2019
As Florida’s east coast prepares for potential impacts from Hurricane Dorian, the district reminds northeast and east-central Floridians to bookmark its storm webpages for easy access to flooding information
August 29, 2019
The district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will be closed from Aug. 30–Sept. 2. The closure is necessary to ensure public safety in anticipation of Hurricane Dorian.
August 28, 2019
As Tropical Storm Dorian approaches Florida early next week, likely as a hurricane, the district reminds property owners to be prepared for the storm’s heavy rains by cleaning debris from storm drains and reporting clogged ditches to local governments in advance of the storm.
August 26, 2019
The district will hold two public workshops, including a joint workshop with Southwest and South Florida water management districts, on the draft 2019 minimum flows and levels priority list and schedule.
August 23, 2019
The district’s Lake George gizzard shad harvest removed approximately 5,176 lbs. of phosphorus and 13,192 lbs. of nitrogen from the largest lake in the St. Johns River system, located in Marion, Lake, Volusia and Putnam counties.
August 14, 2019
The district’s Office of Communications was recently honored by the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) with a Golden Image Award for its Blue Schools Grant Program video.
August 13, 2019
A mobile application developed by the district’s Office of Information Technology recently earned recognition for its innovative use of technology.
August 13, 2019
Data collected by the St. Johns River Water Management District shows July 2019 rainfall was above average in most areas of north and central Florida, but some coastal areas, particularly in the southern portion of the district, were drier.
August 8, 2019
The district will host a teleconference to discuss the selection of surface water model peer reviewers in support of the MFLs determination for Lake Apshawa South and Sylvan Lake.
August 7, 2019
The district will hold a community meeting to exchange information with people interested in the Crane Creek/M-1 Canal Flow Restoration Project Restoration Project
August 7, 2019
Teachers have just one more month, until Sept. 6, to apply for a Blue School Grant for education projects to enhance student knowledge about Florida’s water resources.
August 6, 2019
Work is underway to plant about 5,000 leafy “burritos” in Lake Apopka to help protect water quality. The district is partnering with the University of Florida on the project to determine the best planting techniques and strategies.
July 30, 2019
The district is conducting a 107-acre prescribed burn Tuesday at the north end of Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County, along Fish Camp Road.
July 18, 2019
The district and the city of Titusville are partnering on a state-of-the-art stormwater “baffle box” that will capture hundreds of pounds of nutrients annually before they can reach the Indian River Lagoon.
July 17, 2019
PALM BAY, Fla., July 17, 2019 — A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed July 24 during the district’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
July 10, 2019
The district’s Governing Board approved a pair of agreements for construction of a 2.78-mile paved, multi-use trail in Orange and Lake counties.
July 9, 2019
With nearly 1,500 lakes within its boundaries, the district’s Governing Board on Tuesday recognized July 2019 as Lakes Appreciation Month.
July 9, 2019
Data collected in June by the district show groundwater conditions somewhat mirror the varied rainfall patterns measured across the district during the previous three months.
July 9, 2019
The district’s Governing Board Tuesday approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a seventh consecutive year.
July 9, 2019
Anglers rejoice! The process to build the Headwaters Lake boat ramp at the Fellsmere Water Management Area (FWMA) took another step forward after the district’s Governing Board
June 27, 2019
Two cities recently completed projects that will bring reclaimed water service to 349 existing households in central Florida.
June 25, 2019
The district is accepting applications through Aug. 16 from farmers interested in participating in cost-share funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in area waterways.
June 11, 2019
Annual water use reporting conducted by the district shows that 2018 total water use was 7 percent lower than 2017 and 11 percent below the 10-year average
June 11, 2019
Below-average rainfall persisted throughout the district throughout May, with the greatest deficit in the northern counties.
June 4, 2019
The district Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on June 11 at district headquarters in Palatka. The full board meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Governing Board Room.
May 31, 2019
Now entering the fourth year of its Blue School Grant Program, the district anticipates offering up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that enhance student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
May 30, 2019
With the arrival of hurricane season on June 1, the district is more than ready for the worst Mother Nature may dish up this storm season.
May 23, 2019
The district has recently completed dredging to create a 2,000-foot-wide sump, or depression, on the bottom of Lake Apopka.
May 22, 2019
PALATKA, Fla., May 22, 2019 ― Updates on land management and recreation activities will be discussed May 23 during the district’s Northern Recreational Public Meeting.
May 14, 2019
The district Governing Board today approved $450,000 in funding for gizzard shad harvesting from Lake George, part of the St. Johns River system in Putnam and Volusia counties.
May 14, 2019
While central and northern regions of the district received typical rainfall for April, below-average rainfall persisted in the southern third of the district.
May 13, 2019
The district, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), state and local elected officials, and Indian River Lagoon protection advocates gathered today to celebrate the completion of a two-year-long muck dredging project in the Eau Gallie River aimed at improving water quality.
May 7, 2019
The district Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on May 14 off-site at the Canaveral Port Authority headquarters in Cape Canaveral. While governing board meetings are routinely held at district headquarters in Palatka, the board holds periodic off-site meetings to be more accessible to the public and enhance transparency in district business.
May 7, 2019
The district, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, state and local elected officials and Indian River Lagoon protection advocates will celebrate the completion of muck dredging from the Eau Gallie River in Melbourne.
May 1, 2019
To help promote and encourage efficient use of reclaimed water, the district’s Governing Board has approved a resolution proclaiming May 19-25 as Florida Water Reuse Week.
April 12, 2019
Vendors small and large are invited to an outreach event on May 9 to learn how to do business with the district.
April 10, 2019
The district has published its Annual Wetland Activities Report, showing that 449,135 acres of wetlands have been created, protected, enhanced or restored by the district since 1989. This is equivalent to more than 700 square miles of wetlands.
April 10, 2019
Navigational access near the mouth of the Apopka-Beauclair Canal may be limited as the district enters the final stages of a sump dredge project designed to help improve water quality in Lake Apopka. Additional dredging will also improve navigational access in the area.
April 9, 2019
Data collected by the district shows that March rainfall was below average districtwide, with a zone of very low rainfall in Lake, Marion and portions of Volusia County. A full report outlining changing hydrological conditions was presented at today’s Governing Board meeting.
April 9, 2019
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved moving forward with contracts for eight diverse agricultural projects, totaling nearly $1.3 million in cost-share funds, that will reduce water use by 1.53 million gallons per day and reduce nutrient loading in the Tri County Agricultural Area (TCAA) of Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties.
April 9, 2019
Twenty-one projects in 10 counties will share in nearly $16.2 million for construction of water supply and water conservation, water quality improvement and flood protection projects. The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved the project ranking for the fiscal year 2019–2020 Annual Districtwide Cost-share Program.
April 8, 2019
District, Volusia County complete partnership project to reduce nutrients, flooding to Halifax River
The district and Volusia County have completed construction of a stormwater treatment facility that will improve water quality in the Halifax River and reduce flooding to a 129-acre area.
April 4, 2019
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its women’s turkey hunt April 5-7 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
April 2, 2019
Work is underway to reconstruct about 4.4 miles of levee at the Lake Apopka North Shore. This levee not only serves as a separator between Lake Apopka and the North Shore but is also part of the district’s recreational Lake Apopka Loop Trail.
March 22, 2019
Five years after construction, the district’s Sawgrass Lake Water Management Area (SLWMA) – part of Phase 1 of the C-1 Flow Restoration Project (C-1 Project) – continues to provide outstanding benefit to both the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Johns River by restoring previously diverted stormwater flows back to their natural basin.
March 14, 2019
If you’re looking for a quick get-a-way for spring break but don’t want to break the bank, then lands owned by the district offer the perfect one-tank stay-cation.
March 12, 2019
Data collected by the district shows rainfall during February was below average in all areas except Brevard County and parts of Osceola County. A full report outlining changing hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s March Governing Board meeting, in addition to a proclamation designating April as Water Conservation Month.
March 12, 2019
For the sixth consecutive year, the district’s Governing Board has approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month. The annual designation helps increase awareness about the importance of Florida’s springs and encourages residents and stakeholders to participate in the protection of springs.
March 8, 2019
With more than 600,000 cubic yards of muck already removed from the Eau Gallie River in Melbourne, the district is scheduled to embark on the final leg of dredging on March 11.
March 7, 2019
A partnership between the district, city of Apopka and Orange Audubon Society is bringing a new community birding park to the Lake Apopka North Shore.
March 1, 2019
Portions of recreational trails at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore will close as work to reconstruct about 4.4 miles of levee begins March 4. This levee not only serves as a separator between Lake Apopka and the North Shore but is also part of the district’s recreational Lake Apopka Loop Trail.
February 15, 2019
A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Feb. 21 during the district’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
February 14, 2019
The seasonal wildlife drive at the district’s Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area will reopen this week.
February 12, 2019
The district’s Governing Board has approved a contract for work to reconstruct about 4.7 miles of levee on the east side of the Lake Apopka North Shore, between Magnolia Park and Laughlin Road.
February 12, 2019
Thirteen agricultural projects will share in $1.2 million from the District to improve water conservation and reduce the amount of nutrients flowing into area waterways. The district’s Governing Board approved the project ranking at Tuesday’s meeting.
February 12, 2019
Rainfall during January 2019 was above average across the 18 counties of the district. A full report outlining hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s February Governing Board meeting, held offsite today at the University of Central Florida.
February 12, 2019
The district and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are partnering to open Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area in Marion County as a Public Small-Game Hunting Area this year, with the intent to convert it to a Wildlife Management Area in the future. More than 65 percent of the district’s conservation lands are open to hunting.
January 16, 2019
The district will offer stakeholders and residents an opportunity to see the “marsh buggy” excavating equipment up close at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area in Flagler Beach on Jan. 28 at 1:30 p.m. This excavator is specialized equipment that will be used to return dragline ditch spoil mounds to wetland elevation in the Flagler County Wetland Restoration Project.
January 15, 2019
Data collected by the district shows rainfall during December 2018 as a mixed bag depending on whether you live in north or central Florida or in the district’s southernmost counties. Rainfall was above average in most areas, except for a zone of below-average rainfall in the district’s southernmost counties.
January 9, 2019
The district is reminding homeowners across its 18-county region about the “Skip a Week” campaign to save water. During the cooler months of December, January and February, weekly irrigation isn’t always needed.
January 9, 2019
A three-phase septic-to-sewer and stormwater treatment project in Merritt Island will benefit water quality in the Indian River Lagoon —— including Banana River Lagoon —thanks in large part to a cost-share grant from the district.
January 8, 2019
The district will hold its regular monthly Governing Board meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 15, at its Palatka headquarters.
January 7, 2019
The district’s Crescent Lake Conservation Area will host veteran’s group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided deer hunt Jan. 7-11. The property will remain open to recreation during this time; signage about the hunt will be placed at property entry points.
January 4, 2019
The district is accepting applications through Feb. 15 to share in cost-share funding for water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection construction projects.
December 14, 2018
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on Friday presented a $2.45 million check to the St. Johns River Water Management District toward a project to clean up Melbourne’s Crane Creek, a tributary of the Indian River Lagoon.
December 11, 2018
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved the ranking of projects to share in up to $2.83 million in cost-share funds to benefit water resources in Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and for projects that use innovative technology to provide data supporting future permitting and full-scale implementation of alternative water supplies.
December 11, 2018
The district’s Governing Board voted Tuesday to transfer its Edgefield property, including the Dog Branch Regional Stormwater Treatment Facility, to Putnam County. The transfer will help Putnam County meet its obligation under state water quality rules to reduce nutrients entering the St. Johns River.
December 11, 2018
Data collected by the district shows rainfall during November was above average in most areas, except for a zone of below-average rainfall in the district’s southernmost counties. A full report outlining hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s December Governing Board meeting.
December 3, 2018
The district is asking homeowners across its 18-county region to join the statewide “Skip a Week” campaign to save water during the cooler months of December, January and February when weekly irrigation isn’t always needed.
November 30, 2018
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its youth deer hunt Dec. 1–2 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
November 20, 2018
A small section of the Three Forks Trail in Indian River County will be closed until June due to a construction project in the Upper St. Johns River Basin.
November 20, 2018
The district’s Seminole Ranch Conservation Area will host veteran’s group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided deer hunt Nov. 27–29. The property will remain open to recreation during this time; signage about the hunt will be placed at property entry points.
November 16, 2018
Thanks to a $51,000 award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), habitat improvements will occur at district properties: Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park in Orange County, Lake Monroe Conservation Area in Volusia County and Pellicer Creek Conservation Area in Flagler County. The district will provide matching funds and in-kind services.
November 15, 2018
The district has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its fiscal year 2016-2017 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. District Accounting Director Greg Rockwell also was recognized.
November 15, 2018
The district Governing Board voted this week to award contracts for water quality projects at Doctors Lake in Clay County and at Lake Apopka in Orange and Lake counties. Projects at each lake will utilize innovative technology to remove phosphorus.
November 13, 2018
The district’s Governing Board will maintain its current slate of officers to serve in the same capacity for another year. Officers are John A. Miklos of Orlando, board chairman; Fred N. Roberts Jr. of Ocala, vice chairman; Charles “Chuck” Drake of Orlando, secretary; and Ron Howse of Cocoa, treasurer.
November 13, 2018
The district data for October shows the month’s rainfall was below average, except for a zone of above-average rainfall along the central coast. The data provided a snapshot of rainfall and surface water conditions across the district’s 18-county service area to the district’s Governing Board Tuesday.
November 7, 2018
The district is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for its youth deer hunt Nov.10–11 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
November 1, 2018
The district’s Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County will host veteran’s group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided deer hunt Nov. 6–8.
November 1, 2018
Be sure to reset the timer on your irrigation controller when changing your clocks this weekend to mark the end of daylight saving time. The time change corresponds with the semi-annual shift in watering restrictions ensuring the efficient use of water for landscape irrigation across the district. Following irrigation rules helps protect our water resources and can save you money.
October 19, 2018
The Moss Bluff Lock has reopened to boat traffic following maintenance and repair work. The district operates three locks and dams in its 18-county service area to help manage lake levels.
October 17, 2018
The district’s Southern recreational public meeting has been postponed. The public meeting was originally scheduled for Oct. 18 at 6:30 p.m. A new date will be announced as soon as possible.
October 17, 2018
On Nov. 7, the district will hold the second of two community meetings to share information with stakeholders interested in the Flagler County Wetland Restoration Project. The location of the meeting has changed to ensure there is ample seating — the new location will comfortably seat nearly 1,000 people.
October 9, 2018
The district is accepting applications through Nov. 30 from farmers interested in participating in cost-share funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in area waterways.
October 9, 2018
The district recently presented data that provided a snapshot of rainfall, aquifer and surface water conditions across the district’s 18-county service area.
October 4, 2018
Group camping reservations on St. Johns River Water Management District land just got easier. The district is now using Sunrise Reservations to ensure faster turnaround times for group camping reservations and vehicular access to designated properties.
September 28, 2018
Fourteen schools are receiving grant funding from the district’s Blue School Grant Program for projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related topics. Thirty-seven teachers applied for funding this year and of them the top 14 projects were selected.
September 27, 2018
On Oct. 4, the St. Johns River Water Management District will hold the first of two community meetings to exchange information with stakeholders interested in the Flagler County Wetland Restoration Project, a project designed to increase the amount of wetland area, which increases productivity and provides valuable habitat.
September 25, 2018
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday adopted its fiscal year 2018-2019 budget, which reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a sixth consecutive year.
September 21, 2018
The district will hold two community meetings to exchange information with stakeholders interested in the Flagler County Wetland Restoration Project, a project designed to increase the amount of wetland area, which increases productivity and provides valuable habitat.
September 19, 2018
The district will hold a public meeting and field site tour, kicking off the Wekiva Basin Minimum Flows and Levels (MFLs) surface water model peer review.
September 19, 2018
Construction is underway in Mascotte to replace about 2.5 miles of aging water main. The district provided $500,000 for the project, as part of a Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) cost-share grant. The project will be constructed in two phases and help prevent water loss caused by breaks in the water main.
September 18, 2018
The district will hold two public workshops, including a joint workshop with Southwest and South Florida water management districts, on the draft 2018 minimum flows and levels priority list and schedule.
September 13, 2018
The district is hosting a public meeting to discuss updates to land management and recreation on district lands in Lake, Orange and Seminole counties as well as portions of Marion, Volusia and Brevard counties. The meeting will also include an opportunity for public comment.
September 12, 2018
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved moving forward with contracts for three agricultural projects, totaling nearly $525,500 in cost-share funds, that will reduce water use by 109 million gallons per year and reduce nutrient loading in the Tri County Agricultural Area (TCAA) of Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties.
September 10, 2018
As we enter into the peak of hurricane season, we want all residents to have access to the information they need to keep themselves, their families and their communities safe. Florida is especially vulnerable to flooding, given its location and many waterways, and that means Floridians must plan and prepare to weather the inevitable storms.
September 5, 2018
The district is accepting applications through Oct. 18 for Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and innovative projects to share in cost-share funding that supports the agency’s water resource protection mission.
August 31, 2018
As a tropical wave is forecast to approach Florida over the Labor Day weekend, district staff are closely monitoring water levels in the St. Johns and Ocklawaha rivers and advising homeowners to prepare for potential impacts from possible heavy rainfall.
August 31, 2018
The district is reopening the eastern portion of the Lake Apopka Loop Trail on Sept. 1, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma.
August 29, 2018
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through Sept. 14, 2018, from farmers and ranchers interested in seeking funding through the Agricultural Cost-share Program for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and reduction of nutrient runoff in the Silver Springs springshed.
August 17, 2018
If nature is your thing, geocaching is a great way to explore some of the scenic and unspoiled public lands owned by the district, enjoy the outdoors and celebrate International Geocache Day on Saturday, Aug. 18.
August 16, 2018
The district will present construction details for one of the dispersed water storage pilot projects in progress in the Indian River Lagoon drainage area at a meeting Aug. 22.
August 14, 2018
Despite July’s patchy rainfall, 12-month rainfall totals remain above average across the district. A report outlining hydrologic conditions was presented today to the district’s Governing Board.
August 9, 2018
The district will hold a public workshop to discuss the peer review of Minimum Flows and Levels (MFLs) for water bodies within the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) area. This workshop will include discussion of surface water model peer review plans for MFLs water bodies within the Wekiva Basin.
August 7, 2018
Teachers have just one more month, until Sept. 7, to apply for a Blue School Grant for education projects to enhance students’ knowledge about Florida’s water resources. The district is offering up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that promote hands-on learning about water resources.
July 26, 2018
Community leaders joined together in Eustis today to celebrate the completion of a wastewater treatment plant expansion that will serve new development in the area as well as provide more reclaimed water.
July 23, 2018
The city of Eustis is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completed expansion of its wastewater treatment plant. As part of the event, attendees are also invited to tour the facility, which increased treatment capacity by one million gallons per day (mgd) and will also provide an additional 1.0 mgd of reclaimed water.
July 10, 2018
The acquisition of a 240-acre parcel in Marion County will help the district protect water resources by eliminating an outparcel near the center of the district’s Sunnyhill Restoration Area. The land purchase was approved at today’s Governing Board meeting.
July 10, 2018
While rainfall has not reached record-breaking levels, June continued a trend of higher-than-average rainfall for counties within the district. A full hydrological report was presented during today’s governing board meeting.
July 10, 2018
The district’s Governing Board Tuesday approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a sixth consecutive year while continuing to provide significant funds for programs and projects to ensure sustainable water resources, increase water conservation and protect water quality in springs and other priority water bodies.
June 27, 2018
Today, outdoor lovers celebrated the opening of the district’s latest property available for recreation: Micco Water Management Area (WMA) in south Brevard.
June 21, 2018
The district is giving away limited edition geocache coins to adventurers visiting district recreational public lands between June 21 and Aug. 18. The first 50 people who visit at least three different district lands and post a collection of “selfies” in front of the properties’ entrance signs on district social media sites are eligible.
June 20, 2018
High water levels in and near the St. Johns River have prompted the district to temporarily close campsites at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area in Brevard County and Buck Lake Conservation Area in Volusia County.
June 18, 2018
The district’s regularly scheduled Southern Recreational Public Meeting is set to take place Thursday.
June 12, 2018
With nearly 1,500 lakes within its boundaries, the district will recognize July 2018 as Lakes Appreciation Month to increase public awareness about the value of Florida’s lakes and to encourage behaviors that will enhance lakes’ health.
June 12, 2018
May’s wet weather pushed rainfall totals across the St. Johns River Water Management District to double the average.
May 31, 2018
With subtropical storm Alberto having already swept through the Florida panhandle and hurricane season arriving June 1, the district is ready for any action this storm season may bring.
May 21, 2018
Now entering the third year of its Blue School Grant Program, the district plans to offer up to $20,000 in grants for education projects that enhance student knowledge of Florida’s water resources through hands-on learning.
May 18, 2018
Two airboat crossings within the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area will be temporarily closed while the district installs block mats, which will help to further stabilize the crossings.
May 17, 2018
The district will hold a rule development workshop on May 24 to discuss and receive stakeholder input on proposed rule amendments updating the types of consumptive use permits that may be delegated to district staff to approve.
May 11, 2018
More than 207 million gallons of reclaimed water is reused daily within the district. Next week, May 13-19, the district, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and fellow agencies across the state will recognize the benefits of reusing treated wastewater, or reclaimed water.
May 8, 2018
The district Governing Board on Tuesday authorized staff to initiate the rulemaking process to revise the existing minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for lakes Brooklyn and Geneva near Keystone Heights.
May 8, 2018
All counties in the district’s service area experienced higher-than-average rainfall during April, with several counties seeing twice their average.
May 3, 2018
Trail repairs are underway on sections of the district’s Lake Apopka Loop Trail. The work, which requires closing the lakeside section of the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, will repair damage from Hurricane Irma.
April 25, 2018
Averaging about 10,000 visitors each month, the district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will celebrate its third anniversary since opening in May 2015.
April 17, 2018
Muck dredging in the Eau Gallie River will pause until early June while manatees are most active in the Indian River Lagoon tributary.
April 13, 2018
Nine agricultural projects will share in more than $918,000 from the district to improve water conservation and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways.
April 11, 2018
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved moving forward with contracts for three agricultural projects, totaling nearly $419,000 in cost-share funds, that will reduce water use by 218,537 gallons per day and reduce nutrient loading in the Tri County Agricultural Area (TCAA) of Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties.
April 10, 2018
Twenty-seven projects in nine counties will share in nearly $16 million for construction of water supply and water conservation, water quality improvement, flood protection and natural systems restoration projects.
April 10, 2018
Six projects will share in $699,245 in cost-share funding from the district and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in the Silver Springs springshed.
April 10, 2018
Hydrologic conditions within the district show that while the aquifer is still benefiting from last year’s rain, things are starting to dry out, especially in Orlando and the Upper St. Johns River Basin.
April 3, 2018
The district has opened all areas of the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for regular operating hours. The opening includes Interceptor Road, a portion of Laughlin Road, and the lakeside road which had been closed for repairs.
March 28, 2018
The district and the city of Palatka are coming down the homestretch on three water resource protection projects totaling nearly $2 million. Projects will reduce potable water losses from old cast-iron water pipes, aid in fire suppression and reduce stormwater discharges into the St. Johns River from commercial and residential areas of the city.
March 27, 2018
The district has issued an environmental resource permit related to construction of the new First Coast Expressway. The permit authorizes a stormwater management system for a 31-mile segment of the highway from Blanding Boulevard in Clay County to I-95 in St. Johns County, the second phase of the project.
March 27, 2018
The district’s Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County will host veterans’ group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided turkey hunt on March 28 and 29.
March 15, 2018
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a feasibility evaluation of a proposed project to restore the flow between the St. Johns River and the eastern portion of Lake Jesup. The project would potentially enhance water quality and habitat in the lake and is supported by local stakeholders and Sen. David Simmons, R-Altamonte Springs.
March 13, 2018
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved an agreement with Fellsmere Joint Ventures that will allow for construction of a boat ramp and other amenities at the northeast corner of the 10,000-acre reservoir.
March 13, 2018
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday approved a proclamation designating April as Water Conservation Month to encourage awareness about the importance of water conservation.
March 13, 2018
February proved to be a dry month for the 18 counties within the district, with most of the district receiving less than an inch of rain. By comparison, average February rainfall for the district’s southern counties ranged between 2.5 and 3 inches.
March 13, 2018
For the fifth consecutive year, the district’s Governing Board has approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month. The annual designation helps increase awareness about the importance of Florida’s springs and encourages residents and stakeholders to participate in the protection of springs.
March 9, 2018
The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for its youth turkey hunt March 10–11 on portions of the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
March 2, 2018
The district will begin regrading the roads of the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive beginning Monday, March 5, 2018. Weekend access will not be affected by the regrading project, which will take place Monday through Thursday each week.
February 23, 2018
The reconnection of Lake Griffin to Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area in Lake County was a cause for celebration today for the district and its partners, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Lake County.
February 20, 2018
Gov. Rick Scott has appointed Allan Roberts of St. Augustine to the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board, filling a vacant seat that represents the St. Johns River below the Ocklawaha River and the coastal area between the St. Johns River and Ponce Inlet. The appointment takes effect immediately and runs through March 1, 2020.
February 16, 2018
A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Feb. 22 during the district’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
The southern recreational area includes district properties in Brevard and Indian River counties. The public will have an opportunity at this meeting to provide input on recreational topics involving district lands.
February 15, 2018
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s popular wildlife drive at Lake Apopka is open on Presidents’ Day, Monday, Feb. 19.
February 13, 2018
January brought above-average rainfall to north and east-central Florida counties, and Silver Springs in Marion County and Volusia Blue Spring continue to experience flow increases corresponding with greater rainfall received over the past several months. A full report outlining hydrological conditions was presented Tuesday at the district’s February Governing Board meeting.
February 6, 2018
Ever wonder how clean that water in a nearby lake, stream or spring is? The district is now making it easier than ever before to get those answers. Data from more than 400 monitoring stations has been compiled into an interactive web page to help the public understand what’s going on with water quality in their area
January 30, 2018
The district is reopening seven and a half miles of additional trails, including the western end of the Loop Trail on Feb. 2.
January 22, 2018
The district is currently accepting applications through Feb. 16, 2018, from farmers and ranchers interested in participating in the districtwide Agricultural Cost-share Program funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and reduction of nutrient runoff.
January 17, 2018
The district is conducting a 3,000-acre prescribed fire today on the Lake Apopka North Shore. The purpose of the controlled burn is for marsh management, burning hardwoods and cattails and to promote the expansion of native marsh grasses. The fire was set by aerial ignition.
January 9, 2018
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday entered a Final Order adopting an administrative law judge’s recommended order to issue a consumptive use permit modification to Sleepy Creek Lands LLC.
January 9, 2018
While 12-month rainfall totals are still above average throughout the district’s 18-county service area, December rainfall was below average, especially through the southeastern corridor from southern Lake County through Orlando to Daytona. A full report outlining hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s January Governing Board meeting Tuesday.
January 5, 2018
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through Feb. 15 to share in cost-share funding for water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection construction projects. An informational workshop is being held Jan. 16 at 10 a.m. at district headquarters, 4049 Reid St., Palatka, or via webinar.
January 5, 2018
Scientists and engineers with the St. Johns River Water Management District and University of Florida have completed a collaborative multi-year science investigation into the health of priority spring systems. The partnership was launched in 2014 to develop an enhanced scientific foundation to help identify the most effective projects and strategies to protect or restore the district’s Outstanding Florida Springs.
December 22, 2017
The district is reopening portions of the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive for regular operating hours Dec. 22.
December 20, 2017
The district is conducting a 400-acre prescribed fire Wednesday at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area in Indian River County. The purpose of the controlled burn is for marsh management and fuel reduction.
December 19, 2017
The district has started work on a sump dredge project designed to help improve water quality at Lake Apopka. The project is not expected to impede navigation on the canal or lake.
December 15, 2017
The district is introducing a new cost-share funding opportunity for local governments and utilities within the springsheds of Volusia Blue, Wekiwa and Silver Springs to replace septic tanks with more efficient systems.
December 12, 2017
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved the ranking of projects to share in up to $3.5 million in cost-share funds to benefit water resources in Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and for projects that use innovative technology to provide data supporting future permitting and full-scale implementation of alternative water supplies.
December 12, 2017
While November brought above-average rainfall to counties across the northern and southern coast of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county service area, central Florida saw less rain than usual. A full report outlining hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s December Governing Board meeting.
December 8, 2017
The district continues to assess and repair areas of the Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside, the district will provide updates as needed on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
December 7, 2017
The district is encouraging homeowners in its 18-county region to “Skip a Week” of lawn and landscape irrigation during the cooler months of December, January and February.
December 4, 2017
Fishermen recently netted 100,000 pounds of nutrient-laden gizzard shad from Lake Apopka in one week. The district funds the fish harvest as part of a multifaceted approach to restoring water quality.
December 1, 2017
An easement on three acres of county-owned property on Black Creek was approved Tuesday night by the Clay County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to implement the Black Creek Water Resource Development Project (WRD), a key component to meeting northeast Florida’s water supply needs.
December 1, 2017
The district continues to assess and repair areas of the Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside the district is continuing to provide weekly updates on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
December 1, 2017
Knowing that septic tanks have been identified as one of the reasons for declining water quality in Florida’s springsheds, the district is working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local governments to fund their removal.
November 30, 2017
The removal of more than 44,000 cubic yards of muck was a cause for celebration today for the district and its partners, Brevard County and the city of Cocoa Beach.
November 20, 2017
The district and the city of Flagler Beach are partnering on a project to reduce flooding and recurring property damage to the Ocean Palm area and improve water quality. The district’s cost-share program is funding $675,000 toward the project, which is currently under construction.
November 20, 2017
Work is complete on a project that will help improve water quality at Lake Apopka and provide increased flood protection in the town of Oakland. The district provided $184,803 in funding for the project.
November 17, 2017
Repairs are underway at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district is continuing to provide weekly updates on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
November 14, 2017
Twelve agricultural projects will share in $1.5 million from the district to improve water conservation and reduce nutrient loading to area waterways. The district’s Governing Board approved the project ranking at Tuesday’s meeting.
November 14, 2017
The district’s Governing Board on Tuesday re-elected its current slate of officers to serve in the same capacity for another year.
November 14, 2017
October’s rainfall amounts were dominated by the heavy nor’easter rain event at the beginning of the month, leaving the 12-month rainfall total for the district 4.4 inches above average.
November 9, 2017
Dr. Erich Marzolf with the district was recently elected to serve on the North American Lake Management Society Board of Directors.
November 3, 2017
Chances are, the vegetables and maybe even the potato chips you’re buying in your local supermarket are grown on local farms in northeast Florida. There’s also a good chance those farms are partnering with the district on innovative practices and technologies to lessen groundwater use and reduce agricultural runoff entering the St. Johns River while working to keep their farms productive.
November 3, 2017
The district’s Newnans Lake Conservation Area will host a guided deer hunt for disabled veterans Nov. 5–7. The north tract of the conservation area will be closed throughout the special Operation Outdoor Freedom hunt.
November 3, 2017
Repairs are underway at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district is continuing to provide weekly updates on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
November 3, 2017
Be sure to reset your sprinkler timer when changing your clocks this weekend to mark the end of daylight saving time. The time change corresponds with the semi-annual shift in watering restrictions ensuring the efficient use of water for landscape irrigation across the St. Johns River Water Management District. The move helps protect our water resources and can save residents money.
October 27, 2017
Repairs are underway at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district is continuing to provide weekly updates on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 27, 2017
The district and the city of Fernandina Beach are partnering on a project that will help reduce flooding along 26 city blocks while also reducing nutrient loading to the Amelia River.
October 20, 2017
Repairs are underway at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district will provide a weekly update on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 20, 2017
The Moss Bluff Lock is closed to boat traffic until further notice. The lock was scheduled for maintenance in September but Hurricane Irma delayed that work.
October 17, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of Jacksonville Beach are partnering to extend central sewer service to eight properties along the Intracoastal Waterway. By eliminating septic tanks, the project is anticipated to reduce total nitrogen discharges by 240 pounds per year and total phosphorus discharges by 32 pounds per year.
October 13, 2017
Repairs are underway at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district will provide a weekly update on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 12, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a public meeting to discuss updates to land management and recreational across Brevard and Indian River counties. The meeting will also include an opportunity for public comment.
October 11, 2017
Eleven schools are receiving grant funding from the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Blue School Grant Program for projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related topics.
October 10, 2017
The district’s Governing Board is commending the city of Altamonte Springs for its award-winning work to expand water resources in Florida. The city’s pureALTA Potable Reuse Demonstration Pilot was recently named the 2017 WaterReuse Innovative Project of the Year at the national WaterReuse Symposium in Phoenix, Ariz.
October 10, 2017
The Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) estimates central Florida will need an additional 250 million gallons of water per day by 2035 to meet the demands of a growing population. An update on the CFWI’s work to meet that demand through increased water conservation and alternative water sources was presented today to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board.
October 10, 2017
The district Governing Board on Tuesday approved moving forward with contracts for nine agricultural projects, totaling nearly $1.5 million in cost-share funds, that reduce water use by 34 million gallons per year and reduce nutrient loading in the Tri County Agricultural Area (TCAA) of Putnam, St. Johns and Flagler counties.
October 10, 2017
Over two days, Hurricane Irma brought 2.2 trillion gallons of rainwater, or enough to cover 6.7 million football fields in one foot of water, to the district’s 18-county service area. A full report outlining September’s hydrological conditions, flood control system and the district’s response during Hurricane Irma, was presented to the district’s Governing Board Tuesday.
October 6, 2017
Repairs are underway at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district will provide a weekly update on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 5, 2017
The district has opened water control structures on the 11-mile C-54 Canal in Brevard County to reduce the amount of water flowing north in the St. Johns River. The opening is due to flooding on the St. Johns River, as well as ongoing rainfall and predicted rainfall resulting from Tropical Storm Nate.
October 4, 2017
The Indian River Lagoon and cities of Fellsmere and Sebastian in Indian River County will gain improved water quality, thanks in large part to a Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) cost-share grant from the district.
October 3, 2017
The district is hosting a public meeting to discuss updates to land management and recreation across Lake, Orange and Seminole counties as well as portions of Marion, Volusia and Brevard counties. The meeting will also include an opportunity for public comment.
October 2, 2017
Repairs are underway at the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma. As water levels subside and assessments are completed, the district will provide weekly updates on the status of repairs and recreation at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
October 2, 2017
The district closed two water control structures in its Upper St. Johns River Basin project on Sunday to lessen the potential for flooding in residential neighborhoods along Lake Washington, in Brevard County.
September 27, 2017
Repairs are underway in areas of the district’s Lake Apopka North Shore, which experienced damage due to Hurricane Irma.
September 27, 2017
The district joined city of Winter Garden leaders and others to celebrate the start of a reclaimed water and stormwater project. The district provided $750,000 for the work, which captures and stores excess stormwater, improving aquifer recharge and water quality at nearby Lake Apopka.
September 26, 2017
The district’s Governing Board today adopted its fiscal year 2017-2018 budget, which provides funds for cost-share projects and major programs to support the agency’s core missions of water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection. The board also approved reducing the millage rate for taxpayers for a fifth year.
September 26, 2017
The district has reopened the C-54 Canal to recreation now that the water control structures at either end of the 11-mile-long canal are closed.
September 22, 2017
The district has reopened 40 of its properties following Hurricane Irma’s impact last week. The district continues to assess damage from Hurricane Irma and make repairs to its public lands, with a goal to reopen the properties for recreational uses as soon as it is safe to do so.
September 21, 2017
The district has reopened 39 of its conservation lands following Hurricane Irma’s impact last week. The district continues to assess damage from Hurricane Irma and make repairs to its public lands, with a goal to reopen the properties for recreational uses as soon as it is safe to do so.
September 20, 2017
More district conservation lands are reopening to public recreation following Hurricane Irma’s impact last week. Openings are made as the district continues its in-depth assessment of recreational access points, levees, trails and boat ramps.
September 19, 2017
The district’s Governing Board voted to rescind the districtwide Water Shortage Warning Order following an extended period of increased rainfall.
September 19, 2017
The district is accepting applications through Oct. 19 to share in $3.6 million in cost-share funding for Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and innovative projects that support the agency’s core missions. The submission deadline has been extended to Oct. 19 due to Hurricane Irma.
September 18, 2017
Just a week ago, Hurricane Irma pummeled the Florida peninsula, causing severe flooding and wind damage across the 18 counties of the St. Johns River Water Management District. Since then, the district has been working with local governments and other stakeholders in their recovery efforts by reducing floodwater flows to the north, providing pumps and personnel to lessen localized flooding, and assessing damage from the storm.
September 17, 2017
Two properties within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s service area are open to public recreation, including hunting. The openings were made as the district continues an in-depth assessment of recreational access points, levees, trails, and boat ramps.
September 15, 2017
Days after Hurricane Irma’s storm surge has receded, the St. Johns River and other water bodies continue to rise in many areas, causing flooding headaches for local governments and their residents. The St. Johns River Water Management District continues to mitigate flooding impacts in support of local emergency operations as communities work to recover and restore services.
September 14, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District today continued its support of local emergency operations by working to drain floodwaters from communities across northeast Florida and supporting its local government partners to reduce impacts from Hurricane Irma.
September 13, 2017
Staff members from the St. Johns River Water Management District on Wednesday began partnering with local government staff to survey damage from Hurricane Irma in Jacksonville.
September 13, 2017
All lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District will remain closed to the public as staff continue to assess each property for safety and accessibility. This includes the district’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.
September 12, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District will reopen its offices for business on Wednesday.
September 12, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is assisting Flagler, Putnam and St. Johns counties by deploying pumps and staff to assist in recovery efforts from flooding caused by Hurricane Irma.
September 12, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its September meeting at the district’s Maitland Service Center, where the board will discuss pressing agenda items, the tentative millage rate and budget adoption. The district will also hold the final budget adoption hearing, scheduled for Sept. 26, in Maitland.
September 11, 2017
Massive Hurricane Irma brought dramatic flooding across Florida, from the Keys all the way to the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. On Monday, the St. Johns River Water Management District began diverting water from the Upper St. Johns River Basin Project to reduce floodwaters flowing north, providing flood protection for people and property downstream, particularly in hard-hit Jacksonville.
September 11, 2017
All St. Johns River Water Management District offices and public lands will remain closed through Tuesday as district staff recover from the impacts of Hurricane Irma and also inspect district facilities to ensure staff and visitor safety.
September 8, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 8, 2017 — As Hurricane Irma approaches Florida this weekend, the St. Johns River Water Management District reminds property owners to be prepared for heavy rains by cleaning debris from storm drains and reporting clogged ditches to local governments in advance of the storm. The public also is encouraged to bookmark flooding information, water levels and other resources found on the district’s website at www.sjrwmd.com/localgovernments/flooding/.
September 7, 2017
The district will postpone its monthly Governing Board meeting and tentative Fiscal Year 2017-2018 millage and budget hearing due to Hurricane Irma and the storm’s potential for impacts in the district’s 18-county area. Several other public meetings also are being postponed.
September 7, 2017
The district will close its offices districtwide on Friday to give employees time to prepare their homes for Hurricane Irma.
September 6, 2017
The district is closing all its public lands districtwide at 5 p.m. Thursday in advance of Hurricane Irma. The closure includes the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.
September 5, 2017
The district is making preparations for Hurricane Irma. As in years past, the district’s flood control systems are prepared for a deluge, but there are limitations.
September 5, 2017
The district joins other organizations to raise awareness for protecting groundwater supplies and quality during Protect Your Groundwater Day. “The main source of water for most of northeast and central Florida comes from underground aquifers, primarily the Floridan aquifer, which is limited,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “We remain dedicated to using data-driven science to safeguard future supplies, while recognizing the role important role of water conservation to ensure its efficient use.”
September 1, 2017
Scientists and engineers from the St. Johns River Water Management District and the University of Florida will hold a technical meeting Sept. 8 at Austin Cary Forest in Gainesville to share the scientific findings of the Collaborative Research Initiative on Sustainability and Protection of Springs (CRISPS).
August 30, 2017
The district and Vulcan Materials Co. on Wednesday celebrated the completion of a well conversion project in Putnam County that will benefit Clay-Putnam minimum flows and levels (MFLs) while meeting the needs of the Grandin Sand Plant in producing vital construction materials for northeast Florida.
August 29, 2017
Brevard County installed a state-of-the art second-generation “baffle box” with a high-tech chamber that will capture and treat nitrogen and phosphorus before they can reach the Banana River Lagoon, which is part of the Indian River Lagoon. The St. Johns River Water Management District is a funding partner in this cost-share project, as well, as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
August 21, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting aerial herbicide treatments at several locations within its Lake Apopka North Shore. District staff are stationed to guide visitors in treatment areas adjacent to trails.
August 18, 2017
Work is under way on a $500,000 project to replace old water mains in downtown Hawthorne, which will save millions of gallons of water currently lost through its antiquated distribution system. The St. Johns River Water Management District is fully funding the city’s project through its cost-share program to help Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities meet their water conservation and water resource development goals.
August 17, 2017
The district is providing $700,000 in cost-share funds to the city of Palm Coast for a project to rebuild aging flood control structures and allow for remote monitoring and control of the slide gates. The project will help protect residents and property in a 1,739-acre area of the city.
August 17, 2017
There are a lot of “dos” when visiting public lands owned and managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District — do take your time to enjoy natural Florida, do take drinking water and insect repellent, do hike or bike and take advantage of these unspoiled acres. However, with saw palmetto berry season in full swing, the district wants to remind visitors of an important “don’t.” Harvesting saw palmetto berries is prohibited on public properties across Florida, including the district’s conservation lands.
August 16, 2017
The district has launched a new and improved website featuring a more contemporary look, streamlined pages and improved navigability.
August 15, 2017
The district has been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its fiscal year 2016-2017 budget from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. Mary-Lou Pickles, director of the district’s Office of Financial Services and the district’s former budget director, also was recognized.
August 14, 2017
Modern day adventurers may score a new commemorative coin by geocaching on St. Johns River Water Management District lands this summer, just in time for International Geocaching Day on Aug. 19.
August 14, 2017
District staff recently met with Orange County residents to talk about wildfire safety and how they can work together to reduce the risk of fire damage to their homes through prescribed fire.
August 8, 2017
The district is providing $2 million in cost-share funds to Putnam County toward expansion of its East Putnam Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. The project will significantly reduce nutrient loading to Dunns Creek and the St. Johns River.
August 8, 2017
The district has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its fiscal year 2015-2016 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. District Finance Director Greg Rockwell also was recognized.
August 8, 2017
Soggy lawns might make drought conditions from eight weeks ago feel like a distant memory, yet areas within the district are still recovering from the spring’s dry spell.
August 4, 2017
Visitors to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore should expect larger-than-usual crowds this weekend. Portions of the property’s nonmotorized loop trail are part of the mapped route for the 2017 Magnolia Park Forest Run.
August 3, 2017
The district is accepting applications for its Blue School Grant Program. In its second year, the educational grant program offers up to a total of $20,000 for teachers working to promote water resource protection through hands-on learning opportunities.
August 3, 2017
Informational public meetings on Black Creek Water Resource Development Project scheduled for August
Two informational public meetings will be held in August to present information about the Black Creek Water Resource Development (WRD) Project to interested residents and stakeholders.
August 2, 2017
Ensuring that central Florida has the water it needs is at the core of the Central Florida Water Initiative.
July 21, 2017
A 120-acre wildfire reported at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area on July 20 is fully contained.
July 20, 2017
The district is responding to a wildfire reported on the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (at the convergence of Orange, Brevard, Volusia and Seminole counties).
July 11, 2017
A project to provide recharge to the Floridan aquifer using excess water from flood-prone Black Creek received a nod from the district’s Governing Board Tuesday, which directed its executive director to negotiate with the top-ranked design/engineering firm to get the project off the ground.
July 11, 2017
The district’s Governing Board Tuesday approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a fifth consecutive year while continuing to provide significant funds for programs and projects to ensure sustainable water resources, increase water conservation and protect water quality in springs and other priority water bodies.
July 11, 2017
Recent wet weather has brought an end to drought conditions, as well as indications of rebounding aquifer levels, within the district. A report outlining hydrological conditions was presented at the district’s July Governing Board meeting.
July 11, 2017
The Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) is developing innovative projects to meet the growing water needs of the five-county Central Florida region while also protecting the region’s water resources.
June 30, 2017
A local memorial park will save 215 gallons of water per day after reclaimed water infrastructure for irrigation is installed. The St. Johns River Water Management District contributed $168,261 to the recently completed project at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Orange County.
June 29, 2017
Residents of the Breeze Swept subdivision in Rockledge have begun making the switch from septic to sewer, thanks to a cost-share project designed to reduce septic tank pollution in the Indian River Lagoon.
June 28, 2017
A recently completed project at a central Florida RV park and campground will help achieve water quality improvements for Lake Apopka and springs of the Wekiva system. The St. Johns River Water Management District contributed $34,425 to the project at Orange Blossom KOA in Orange County, which dismantled an old wastewater treatment plant and connected the campground to a central sewer system.
June 27, 2017
On June 26, lightning ignited a wildfire on a St. Johns River Water Management District property west of Interstate 95 and south of State Road 520 in Brevard County.
June 27, 2017
A wildfire continues to burn on a St. Johns River Water Management District property west of Interstate 95 and south of State Road 520 in Brevard County.
June 27, 2017
A wildfire continues to burn on a St. Johns River Water Management District property west of Interstate 95 and south of State Road 520 in Brevard County.
June 26, 2017
A wildfire is burning on a district property west of Interstate 95 and south of State Road 520 in Brevard County. Approximately 800 acres burned Monday evening. District staff plan to burn out the entire 5,000-acre property on Tuesday morning.
June 26, 2017
A wildfire has been reported at River Lakes 8, a St. Johns River Water Management District property south of State Road 520 and west of Interstate 95. The blaze was started by a lightning strike.
June 22, 2017
Only four months after dredging began, approximately 125,000 cubic yards of muck have already been pumped from the Eau Gallie River in Melbourne. The river is a tributary of the Indian River Lagoon.
June 13, 2017
Annual reporting conducted by the St. Johns River Water Management District shows that total water use was approximately two percent above the 10-year average, and was 14 percent higher than 2015, while total population increased about two percent. The district’s 2016 Survey of Annual Water Use was presented at the district’s June Governing Board meeting.
June 13, 2017
Forty-three projects will share in approximately $21.3 million from the St. Johns River Water Management District for construction of water supply and water conservation, water quality improvement, flood protection and natural systems restoration projects.
June 8, 2017
St. Johns River Water Management District maintenance crews are using an innovative technique to slash culvert repairs by as much as 80 percent.
June 7, 2017
As a result of recent rainfall, the St. Johns River Water Management District is lifting the districtwide burn ban on campfires. Campfires on district lands are still prohibited by the burn bans issued by the following counties: Putnam, Flagler, Volusia, Orange, Osceola and Indian River.
June 7, 2017
Gov. Rick Scott has appointed Janet Price of Fernandina Beach to the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board, filling a vacant seat that represents the St. Marys River Basin and the adjacent coastal area. The appointment takes effect immediately and runs through March 1, 2018.
June 1, 2017
Built on the concept of collaboration, the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) works with the area’s 83 utilities to scale water conservation efforts and promote alternative water supplies for a growing population.
May 30, 2017
Between 2014 and 2016 the St. Johns River Water Management District has realized a net decrease in permitted groundwater of approximately 3.5 million gallons of water per day (MGD). The reduction is a result of several factors but primarily changes in demonstrated need by permit holders.
May 26, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through July 28 from farmers interested in participating in cost-share funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in area waterways. Up to $1.5 million is available to support the efforts.
May 23, 2017
Florida Water Star SM presented six awards to local organizations and individuals for their work to further water conservation. Developed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and launched in 2007, the Florida Water Star program provides water conservation certification for homes, entire communities and commercial developments.
May 9, 2017
As hydrologic trends reflect below-average rainfall across the district, the district Governing Board approved expanding the current Water Shortage Warning Order to include all areas within the district’s 18-county jurisdiction.
April 11, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., April 11, 2017 – In its work to protect Florida’s water resources, the St. Johns River Water Management District will conduct an aquifer performance test to determine characteristics of the aquifer system. The test, conducted in partnership with the city of Ocala, provides valuable information about long-term reliability of the aquifer system’s ability to yield an adequate water supply in an area. WHAT: Aquifer performance testing WHEN: April 17-24 WHERE: Near S.E. 31st Street near S.E. Lake Weir Avenue This well will be tested at a pumping rate of 3,500 gallons per minute for a duration of […]
April 6, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., April 6, 2017 — On April 5, wildfires were reported on or near two St. Johns River Water Management District properties. The district responded to wildfire reported on the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (at the convergence of Orange, Brevard, Volusia and Seminole counties) and at Silver Springs in Marion County, adjacent to district property. The wildfire at Silver Springs is contained. District staff and equipment are assisting with mop up operations to reduce smoke and prevent the chance of fire breaking out. The wildfire at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area is south of the marsh area. Work is underway to access […]
April 6, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., April 6, 2017 — On April 5, wildfires were reported on or near two St. Johns River Water Management District properties. Update as of April 6 at 3:20 p.m.: The district responded to wildfire reported on the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (at the convergence of Orange, Brevard, Volusia and Seminole counties) and at Silver Springs in Marion County, adjacent to district property. The wildfire at Silver Springs is contained. The wildfire at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area is 4 acres and located south of the marsh area. Recent rain has inhibited the spread of the fire. District staff are […]
April 4, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board is holding its April monthly meeting offsite at the Eustis City Commission Chambers April 11. While board meetings are routinely held at district headquarters in Palatka, the board holds periodic off-site meetings to be more accessible to the public and enhance transparency in district business.
April 4, 2017
The number of certifications being sought for water conservation increased 200 percent in 2016. Developed by the St. Johns River Water Management District and launched in 2007, the Florida Water StarSM program provides water conservation certification for homes, entire communities and commercial developments.
March 31, 2017
Governor Rick Scott announced one appointment and one reappointment to the Governing Board of the St. Johns River Water Management District. Susan Dolan, 51, of Longwood, is the director of community affairs for Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. She succeeds Maryam Ghyabi, whose term ended in March 2017. The appointment takes effect immediately and runs through March 1, 2021.
March 30, 2017
Putnam County schools, the city of Bunnell and the town of Pomona Park are benefitting from thousands of dollars of surplus items from the St. Johns River Water Management District. These Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) community partners were notified last week that they will receive a variety of computer monitors, PCs and vehicles from the district’s program to donate surplus equipment to economically disadvantaged communities.
March 16, 2017
St. Johns River Water Management District land managers and partnering agencies are burning interior pockets within a wildfire that began Wednesday afternoon on the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area. When finished by nightfall on Thursday, the total area burned within the wildfire is expected to be more than 6,800 acres.
March 15, 2017
A wildfire is reported on St. Johns River Water Management District property and a second fire is burning toward district land. One fire is burning on private land and heading toward Canaveral Marshes Conservation Area southeast of the St. Johns River channel. The Florida Forest Service has plowed a protective fire line on district property and district staff have begun an operation to burn the fire out. Smoke is impacting nearby State Road 520.
March 15, 2017
A large-scale renovation of the Moss Bluff Lock and Dam in Marion County is scheduled to begin in mid-April and work is already underway to prepare the site. The St. Johns River Water Management District operates and maintains the structure, which serves as a navigational aid and flood control structure on the Ocklawaha River.
March 15, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board on Tuesday approved the ranking of projects that will share in $1.5 million in Tri-County Agricultural Area (TCAA) Ag Cost-Share Program funds for water conservation and nutrient reduction by ag operations. Proposed projects would result in an estimated 266 million gallons of water conserved each year and an estimated reduction of 6,916 pounds per year of total nitrogen and 1,426 pounds per year of total phosphorus.
March 15, 2017
A wildfire near Canaveral Marshes Conservation Area has been extinguished but a second fire at Seminole Ranch Conservation Area has grown to 450 acres, according to St. Johns River Water Management District officials.
March 14, 2017
In the second of a series of informational presentations to the Governing Board and the public, St. Johns River Water Management District staff Tuesday worked to demystify one of the most complex tools used by the agency to strike the necessary balance between nature’s needs and people’s needs for water — the Minimum Flows and Levels (MFLs) program. MFLs define the limits at which further water withdrawals would be significantly harmful to the water resources or ecology of an area.
March 14, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board approved a Water Shortage Warning Order as hydrologic trends reflect below-average rainfall across parts of the district. This comes after several months of proactive messaging by the district to keep the public well-informed about the potential for prolonged drought. The order further aligns water management districts, which each continue to monitor weather conditions to best inform decisions on water management across the state.
March 14, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications March 15–April 13 to share in $25 million in cost-share funding for water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection construction projects. An informational workshop will be held March 16 at 2 p.m. at district headquarters, 4049 Reid St., Palatka.
March 14, 2017
For the fourth consecutive year, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board has approved a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month. The annual designation helps increase awareness about the importance of Florida’s springs and encourages residents and stakeholders to participate in the protection of springs.
March 14, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board voted Tuesday to finalize the transfer of the 948-acre Gemini Springs Addition property to Volusia County.
March 10, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a public workshop to provide information and receive public comments on proposed minimum flows and a proposed prevention strategy for Silver Springs in Marion County.
March 10, 2017
Updates on land management and recreation activities will be discussed March 15 during the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Northern Recreational Public Meeting.
March 10, 2017
St. Johns River Water Management District staff recently met with residents in Orange and Brevard counties to talk about wildfire safety and how they can work together to reduce the risk of fire damage to their homes through prescribed fire. The meetings are part of the residents’ ongoing participation in the national Firewise Communities fire prevention program for homeowners.
March 9, 2017
The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for a youth turkey hunt March 11-12 at the River Styx portion of Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the north tract of Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
March 8, 2017
The district is responding to wildfire reported on the Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park in Orange County and on the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (at the convergence of Orange, Brevard, Volusia and Seminole counties).
March 8, 2017
A 43-year-old office building on University Boulevard North in Jacksonville has received an energy and water makeover and is poised to receive the first-ever Florida Water StarSM certification for existing commercial buildings within the St. Johns River Water Management District. District staff expect to issue the certification this week to Custom Builders, which overhauled the seven-story office building to significantly reduce water use.
March 6, 2017
Scientists and engineers from the district and the University of Florida (UF) are holding a technical meeting March 10 at district headquarters in Palatka to discuss the progress of the district’s Springs Protection Initiative science program. The meeting is a semi-annual event that includes the lead researchers from the six collaborative workgroups involved in the three-year scientific investigation.
March 6, 2017
Nothing can stop the St. Johns River Water Management District from cleaning up the Eau Gallie River – except for possibly frolicking manatees.
March 1, 2017
The district is conducting a 12,000-acre prescribed fire on Wednesday at Blue Cypress Conservation Area in Indian River County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to maintain a healthy ecosystem and to reduce fuels that can cause wildfires.
February 28, 2017
The district is conducting a 436-acre prescribed burn Tuesday at the Orange Creek Restoration Area in Alachua County, a mile north of the parking area on County Road 318. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 23, 2017
Visitors and outdoor enthusiasts have a new way to explore the Lake Apopka North Shore. Representatives from several community organizations and governments joined the district Thursday to celebrate the opening of a new recreational facilities at Lake Apopka North Shore.
February 22, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 22, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a special workday Saturday, Feb. 25, to remove invasive air potato from its Deep Creek Conservation Area’s Edgefield tract in East Palatka. The workday is being held as an observance of National Invasive Species Awareness Week 2017, which is Feb. 27 through March 3.
February 17, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 17, 2017 — Lake Lawton Recreation Area in Brevard County is closed until further notice as St. Johns River Water Management District and partnering agencies manage a wildfire that ignited Wednesday.
February 16, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 16, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, state and local elected officials, and Indian River Lagoon protection advocates celebrated the commencement of muck dredging from the Eau Gallie River today at Ballard Park in Melbourne.
February 16, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 16, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s popular wildlife drive at Lake Apopka is open on Presidents’ Day, Monday, Feb. 20. WHAT: Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive open WHEN: Feb. 20 from sunrise to sunset WHERE: Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, 2803 Lust Road, Apopka, FL 32703 A recently launched audio guide provides visitors with a narrative on the area’s history, wildlife and district-led restoration efforts. Since the drive has opened, more than 100,000 visitors have experienced a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities along a network of wetlands, levees and canals. To access the audio guide, […]
February 15, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 15, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of new recreational facilities at the Lake Apopka North Shore.
February 14, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 14, 2017 — Water use from approximately 96 percent of permitted groundwater allocations across 18 counties is measured and reported to the St. Johns River Water Management District and verified by state-of-the-art science. District staff presented an overview of the district’s Consumptive Use Permitting (CUP) program and methodologies used to estimate the total water use within the district at Tuesday’s board meeting, the first of a series of informational presentations to correct recent published inaccuracies.
February 14, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 14, 2017 — A land management update and the Upper St. Johns River Basin project are among the items to be discussed Feb. 16 during the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Southern Recreational Public Meeting.
February 13, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 13, 2017 — Visitors to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore should expect additional traffic this coming weekend. The property has grown in popularity for nature-based recreation. WHAT: 13th Annual Orlando Xtreme Half Marathon and 5K WHEN: Feb. 18 from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Lake Apopka North Shore at the Magnolia Park Trailhead 2929 S. Binion Road Apopka, FL 32703 On Feb. 18, the district-owned property is part of the mapped run for a half marathon and 5K. Runners will follow trails within the 20,000-acre Lake Apopka North Shore, which […]
February 10, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 5,900-acre prescribed fire today at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area in Brevard County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to maintain a healthy ecosystem and to reduce fuels that can cause wildfires. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases, and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent […]
February 10, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 10, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 471-acre prescribed burn today at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County, approximately one mile south of Nelson’s Outdoor Resort. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and the maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. The fire was set by aerial ignition. Aerial ignition allows district staff to ignite fires more quickly, which results in faster burnout and less lingering smoke. Convection produced by igniting an area rapidly can help move the smoke up and away more quickly. Aerial ignition also allows […]
February 7, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 7, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 300-acre prescribed fire today at River Lakes Conservation Area in Brevard County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to maintain a healthy ecosystem and to reduce fuels that can cause wildfires. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases, and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent wildfires […]
February 6, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 6, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a public workshop for outside vendors and companies to present a brief overview of treatment technologies in the removal of total phosphorus from Lake Jesup’s water column. Preregistration to present at the workshop is required by Feb. 20.
February 3, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 3, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 128-acre controlled burn Friday at the Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce fuels and improve habitat for wildlife. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent wildfires by burning off fuels that naturally build […]
February 1, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 1, 2017 — Manatee protection is getting a boost today when new water resource protection rules for Ponce de Leon Springs, set by the St. Johns River Water Management District, become effective. In mid-December 2016, the district’s Governing Board approved rule amendments to adopt minimum flows for the spring in Volusia County.
February 1, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 1, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 61-acre controlled burn Wednesday at the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County, just south of Hatchet Creek and southeast of Austin Carey Memorial Forest. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent ecosystems. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening […]
January 27, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 27, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 182-acre prescribed burn Friday at the Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County, east of County Road 209, south of Green Cove Springs. The purpose of this burn is to enhance wildlife habitat and reduce hazardous fuel loads. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed […]
January 25, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 25, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 209-acre prescribed burn today at the Orange Creek Restoration Area in Marion County, immediately north of the parking area on County Road 318. During the burn, parking and trail access will be closed at this location, but visitors can access the property at the S.E. 219 Avenue trailhead. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and the maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. […]
January 24, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 24, 2017 — Known for their enticing wildlife habitats, two of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s properties are being featured during the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival.
January 20, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 20, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 44-acre prescribed burn Friday at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area near the intersection of County Road 325 and County Road 346 in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce fuel loading and maintain a fire-dependent ecosystem. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic […]
January 20, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Jan. 20, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 304-acre prescribed fire today at the Seminole Ranch Conservation Area in Brevard County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to maintain a healthy ecosystem and to reduce fuels that can cause wildfires. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases, and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent […]
January 18, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 18, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting an 83-acre controlled burn Wednesday at the Orange Creek Restoration Area in Alachua County, east of the parking area on Southeast 219th Ave. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic vistas. […]
January 17, 2017
The governing boards of the St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts on Jan. 17 jointly approved a 20-year plan to protect the sustainability of water supplies and identify potential future water supply sources. Approval of the North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan completes a four-year public process and the first-ever joint planning effort between the two agencies and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
January 17, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 17, 2017 — Visitors to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore should expect additional traffic on select dates, as the area will host several walking and biking tours related to the fifth annual Lake Apopka Wildlife Festival and Birdapalooza. WHAT: Lake Apopka Wildlife Festival (registration required) WHEN: Jan. 20 and 22 WHERE: Lake Apopka North Shore WHAT: Lake Apopka Wildlife Festival and Birdapalooza WHEN: Jan. 21 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. WHERE: Lake Apopka Loop Trail and Magnolia Park The three-day event is a celebration of the rich diversity of birds […]
January 12, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 12, 2017 — Negotiations on a proposed land exchange on the Bull Creek Wildlife Management Area have been called off. The St. Johns River Water Management District and the landowner were unable to reach a suitable agreement. The item will not go before the Governing Board in February. The informational public meeting scheduled for Jan. 31 on the potential exchange is also being canceled. Information on the property can be found here.
January 12, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Jan. 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 2,800-acre prescribed fire today at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area in Indian River County. The purpose of the controlled burn is for marsh management and fuel reduction. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases, and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent wildfires by burning off fuels that […]
January 12, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 12, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting an 85-acre prescribed burn today at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County, near the intersection of Highway 42 and S.E. 182nd Avenue Road. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and the maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening […]
January 12, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 12, 2017 — Visitors to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore should expect additional traffic this coming weekend. The property has grown in popularity for nature-based recreation. WHAT: Masters of All Terrain Off Road Ultramarathon WHEN: Jan. 14 from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Lake Apopka North Shore (multiple trails) WHAT: Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day WHEN: Jan. 16 from sunrise to sunset WHERE: Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, 2803 Lust Road, Apopka, FL 32703 On Jan. 14, the district-owned property is part of the mapped […]
January 11, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 11, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 141-acre prescribed burn today at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and the maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic vistas. Prescribed fires help prevent wildfires by burning off fuels […]
January 10, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Jan. 10, 2017 — High-paying jobs are coming to Orlando-Melbourne International Airport, thanks in part to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s issuance of an Environmental Resource Permit. “Our regulatory staff and general counsel worked closely with the applicants to provide effective solutions that benefit our water resources,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “We ensured Northrup Grumman would be able to expand its Center of Excellence at the Orlando-Melbourne International Airport as quickly as possible while ensuring appropriate environmental protection.” District staff have approved a permit application that will […]
January 10, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 10, 2017 — Data compiled by the St. Johns River Water Management District shows rainfall over most of the district remained below average during the past 12 months. A full report outlining rainfall totals was presented at the district’s January Governing Board meeting. “Recent dry conditions reinforce the importance of providing sufficient water for people and the environment,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “In pursuit of this balance, we’ll continue to promote water conservation as it plays a significant role in determining future water supply needs.” Looking at annual rainfall […]
January 10, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 10, 2017 — The governing boards of the St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts are meeting Jan. 17 to jointly consider the North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan. The plan looks at the sustainability of water supplies 20 years into the future and identifies potential future water supply sources. The boards’ consideration of the plan is the culmination of a four-year public process that included 36 Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) meetings, more than 50 other stakeholder meetings and two public workshops.
January 9, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 9, 2017 — Due to a legal challenge, the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board will not consider Consumptive Use Permit 91926-4 for applicant Sleepy Creek Land, LLC at the January 10 Governing Board meeting. Petitions for a formal administrative hearing have been filed by multiple parties objecting to the staff recommendation for approval of the application. The permit application is a modification of an existing permit and allocates additional 1.22 million gallons per day (mgd) for a total of 2.68 mgd from 2017 through 2023, requiring a nearly 50 percent reduction for years 2024 […]
January 6, 2017
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 6, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a meeting to share updated information with the public about a proposed land exchange involving the Bull Creek Wildlife Management Area. The public will have an opportunity to listen to a detailed presentation about the proposal followed by public comment. Information related to the proposed exchange will be available on the district’s website beginning Sunday, January 15, 2017. What: Public Meeting When: Tuesday, January 31, 2017 6-8 p.m. Where: Brevard County Commission Chambers 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, FL 32940
January 4, 2017
PALM BAY, Fla., Jan. 4, 2017 — St. Johns River Water Management District plans to temporarily lower water levels slightly in two areas of the headwaters of the St. Johns River to facilitate land elevation data collection. These new data will update hydrologic models and ensure environmental goals for both project areas are met. “Ground elevations in both the Blue Cypress Water Management Area and Ft. Drum Marsh Conservation Area are based on only a few old survey transects,” said District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “A temporary drawdown – less than a foot in Blue Cypress – will allow […]
January 3, 2017
MAITLAND, Fla., Jan. 3, 2017 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore has become one of the premier locations to observe birds in the southeastern United States. From Jan. 20-22 it will set the stage for the fifth annual Lake Apopka Wildlife Festival and Birdapalooza. “Water management districts are charged by the Florida Legislature with managing and restoring lands to their natural state and condition to the extent practical,” said district Land Resources Bureau Chief Steve Miller. “When we do that, those lands become prime habitat for many wildlife species. Birds respond dramatically to available […]
December 29, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Dec. 29, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 700-acre prescribed fire today at Kenansvilee Lake in Indian River County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to reduce fuel loads that contribute to wildfires.
December 20, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 20, 2016 — Three St. Johns County schoolteachers are receiving grant funding from the St. Johns River Water Management District’s new Blue School Grant Program for projects to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related topics. The program offers financial support for teachers working to promote water resource protection through hands-on learning opportunities.
December 19, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Dec. 19, 2016 — St. Johns River Water Management District regulatory staff have approved a permit application for a stormwater park in Indian River County that will capture nutrients from a 9,780-acre watershed before they can reach the Indian River Lagoon. “Osprey Acres will support a district core mission by improving water quality through nutrient reduction,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “Osprey Acres also supports another core mission – protecting natural systems – by preserving more than 60 acres of uplands and creating roughly 17 acres of aquatic habitat for […]
December 16, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Dec. 16, 2016 — The North Shore Trailhead, located within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore, will temporarily close to accommodate bridge repairs within the property.
December 15, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Dec. 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the National Audubon Society for its 117th Annual Christmas Bird Count. Several district properties will host birdwatchers during the nationwide event.
December 14, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Dec. 14, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection celebrated the rehabilitation of a water control structure at Taylor Creek Reservoir that provides flood protection and water supply benefits to Brevard and Osceola counties.
December 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Dec. 14, 2016 — During three days in January, birds will take center stage at the Lake Apopka Wildlife Festival and Birdapalooza. Registration is now open for a variety of activities during the festival, including tours of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore, a popular birding destination.
December 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 13, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board Tuesday approved moving forward with proposed rule amendments to adopt minimum flows for DeLeon Springs in Volusia County and amend minimum water levels for Lake Cowpen in Putnam County.
December 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 13, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board on Tuesday approved the ranking of projects that will share in $5 million in cost-share funds to benefit water resources in Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and for projects that use innovative technology to provide data supporting future permitting and full-scale implementation of alternative water supplies.
December 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 13, 2016 — Data compiled by the St. Johns River Water Management District shows a lack of rainfall during November which left much of Central Florida as one of the driest the areas for that month. A full report outlining rainfall totals for November and the previous 12 months was presented at the district’s December Governing Board meeting Tuesday.
December 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 786-acre controlled burn Friday at the Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce fuels and improve the health of the forest.
December 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 160-acre prescribed burn Thursday at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area near the intersection of County Road 325 and County Road 346 in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to prepare the site for reforestation into longleaf pine and to reduce fuel loads.
December 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for a youth deer hunt Dec. 9-11 at the River Styx portion of Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the north tract of Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
December 5, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Dec. 5, 2016 — Work is nearly complete on upgrades to the city of Umatilla’s wastewater system, which includes about 17,500 linear feet of gravity sewer line and 65 manholes. The St. Johns River Water Management District committed $500,000 to this phase of the project, which complements other projects meant to improve the city’s wastewater infrastructure.
December 2, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Dec. 2, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District, with the city of Daytona Beach, Volusia County and the Florida Forest Service, celebrated Friday the completion of a new weir across Tiger Bay Canal that enhances recharge to the aquifer system, benefits nearby Indian Lake and decreases stormwater discharges to the Tomoka/Halifax river system.
December 2, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Dec. 2, 2016 — Work is nearly complete on the installation of 1.5 miles of reclaimed water main within the city of Apopka. The St. Johns River Water Management District provided $231,254 for the project, which complements other reclaimed water projects in the city.
November 30, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Nov. 30, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 53-acre prescribed fire today at the Buck Lake Conservation Area in Brevard County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to enhance scrubby flatwoods for the Florida scrub jay and other wildlife species.
November 18, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Nov. 18, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 1,000-acre prescribed fire today at the Blue Cypress Conservation Area in Indian River County. The purpose of the controlled burn is to reduce organic fuels in an area north of the property’s boat ramp.
November 17, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Nov. 17, 2016 — St. Johns River Water Management District researchers will be safer while checking the status of water quality monitoring equipment in the Indian River Lagoon, thanks to new platforms the agency is constructing at five locations.
November 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board on Tuesday re-elected John A. Miklos of Orlando to serve as board chairman for a fourth year.
November 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 15, 2016 — Despite experiencing above average rainfall across most of the St. Johns River Water Management District during October, the district continues to see a deficit when compared to a 12-month average. A full report outlining rainfall totals for October and the previous 12 months was presented at November’s Governing Board meeting.
November 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board Tuesday approved the rankings of projects that will share $1.5 million in agricultural cost-share funds to assist farmers, growers and ranchers in water conservation projects that conserve water and result in nutrient loading reductions.
November 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Nov. 14, 2016 — Visitors to the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore should expect additional bicycle traffic on western segments of the non-motorized loop trail on select dates.
November 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for a youth deer hunt Nov. 11-13 at the River Styx portion of Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and the north tract of Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County.
November 10, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Nov. 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County will host veteran’s group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided deer hunt Nov. 15-17.
November 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 9, 2016 — All St. Johns River Water Management District lands are open once again to the pubic after extensive cleanup following Hurricane Matthew last month. The Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area reopened late last week in time for the start of hunting season, and Pellicer Creek Conservation Area reopened Tuesday.
November 7, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Nov. 7, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s popular wildlife drive at Lake Apopka is open on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11.
November 7, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 7, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a rule development workshop to provide information and receive public comments on proposed rule amendments to adopt minimum flows for DeLeon Springs in Volusia County and amend minimum water levels for Lake Cowpen in Putnam County.
November 4, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Nov. 4, 2016 — The stakeholder advisory committee of the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership Wednesday unanimously voted to support and recommend approval of the draft regional water supply plan for north Florida to the governing boards of the St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts. The committee has served as an advisory body since June 2012 to offer viewpoints from stakeholder groups to the St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to help address the region’s water supply challenges. As its final action, the committee then voted to dissolve itself, having completed the tasks for which it was created.
November 1, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Nov. 1, 2016 — Reset your sprinklers when you reset your clocks to mark the end of daylight saving time at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 6. The change coincides with a shift in watering restrictions across the St. Johns River Water Management District, designed to ensure the efficient use of water for landscape irrigation.
October 31, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 31, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is launching a new educational grant program to enhance student development in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) related topics. The Blue School Grant Program offers financial support for teachers working to promote water resource protection through hands-on learning opportunities.
October 27, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 27, 2016 — The stakeholder advisory committee of the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership is holding its final meeting Wednesday, Nov. 2. The agenda includes a proposed consensus recommendation in support of the draft North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan, which was recently released for public review and comment. The committee will also consider a motion to dissolve itself, having completed the tasks for which it was created.
October 24, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Oct. 24, 2016 — St. Johns River Water Management District scientists have installed four water quality monitors in the headwaters of the St. Johns River to help the district best manage the black water systems and marshes of the waterway.
October 20, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 20, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is opening 2.5 miles of new trails on the popular district-owned Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. The new segments will help alleviate traffic bottlenecks.
October 19, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Oct. 19, 2016 — An additional $1.5 million for restoration work is set to benefit the Indian River Lagoon. The Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) is allocating the funding through its cooperative assistance program for the dredging of muck from the Eau Gallie River. This additional money raises the total FIND contribution to $3.9 million. Other funding partners include DEP, which is providing $20 million approved by the Legislature in 2014 and 2015, and the city of Melbourne, which contributed $50,000 for the initial feasibility study.
October 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 17, 2016 — The St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts are conducting two public workshops to discuss the draft North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan and to take public comment.
October 14, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 14, 2016 — Only a week ago, Hurricane Matthew skirted the east coast of Florida, causing severe flooding and damage from strong winds. Since then, the St. Johns River Water Management District has been working with local governments and other stakeholders in their recovery efforts by providing pumps and personnel to lower floodwaters and assess damage from the storm.
October 13, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Oct. 13, 2016 — A land management update, the Upper St. Johns River Basin project and the Fellsmere Water Management Area Recreation Plan are among the items to be discussed Oct. 20 during the St. Johns River Water Management District’s southern recreational area public meeting.
October 13, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Oct. 13, 2016 — One of the largest flood control and marsh restoration projects in the world proved itself once again during Hurricane Matthew.
October 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 12, 2016 — Fifteen staff members from the St. Johns River Water Management District partnered with local government staff to canvas four north Florida counties this week to survey damage from Hurricane Matthew.
October 11, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 11, 2016 — In support of post-hurricane recovery efforts, the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) has authorized certain flood relief measures for local governments and property owners who need to pump or divert floodwaters. The Governing Board today approved an emergency order that also gives permit holders additional time to comply with permit conditions that will come due after Oct. 5. The board’s action extends the duration of permits that expire between Oct. 5 and Nov. 2.
October 11, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 11, 2016 — As Hurricane Matthew traveled Florida’s east coast, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county service area received widespread rain, with the highest rainfall totals experienced in the northern coastal areas of the state. A full report of the storm’s impacts before and immediately after the storm was presented at today’s Governing Board meeting.
October 11, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 11, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board approved two water permit renewals today that reflect a decreased allocation of approximately 197 million gallons of water per year in central Florida. District staff worked with the cities of Belleview and Maitland on efforts to implement water-saving measures, including greater use of reclaimed water, system leak detection and water conserving rate structures, resulting in significant reductions to their consumptive use permits.
October 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 10, 2016 — As the post-hurricane recovery continues in northeast and central Florida coastal counties, the St. Johns River Water Management District today reopened its offices as well as nearly 20 conservation areas. District employees have worked more than 400 staff hours over the recovery period, inspecting levees, structures and public lands. Staff are also assisting local governments in their work to alleviate flooding.
October 9, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 9, 2016 — After completing inspections and cleanup, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive will reopen on Monday, Oct. 10. The nonmotorized Lake Apopka Loop Trail will remain closed as land managers continue cleanup efforts in the wake of Hurricane Matthew.
October 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District continued recovery efforts today in the Jacksonville Beach area in the wake of Hurricane Matthew.
October 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is assisting state and local governments with recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Matthew.
October 6, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 6, 2016 — Due to the potential effects of Hurricane Matthew, navigation through the Burrell Lock, Moss Bluff Lock and the Apopka Lock and Dam will be temporarily suspended as of noon today (Oct. 6).
October 6, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 6, 2016 — Effective immediately, the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, and all lands owned by the St. Johns River Water Management District, are closed to public access and recreation.
October 5, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 5, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District will close its offices districtwide on Thursday and Friday to give employees time to prepare their homes for Hurricane Matthew. Additionally, all district public lands are closing as of sunset today.
October 5, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 5, 2016 — As Florida’s east coast braces for impacts from Hurricane Matthew, the St. Johns River Water Management District will close its Palm Bay Service Center at 3 p.m. today, and the office will remain closed on Thursday and Friday. District management will continue to evaluate the path of the storm and may close other offices and public lands as conditions intensify.
October 5, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 5, 2016 — Preparing for the possibility of impacts from Hurricane Matthew later this week, the St. Johns River Water Management District will hold its monthly Governing Board meeting at its Palatka headquarters on Tuesday, Oct. 11. The board had been scheduled to meet off-site Tuesday in Ormond Beach as part of its ongoing commitment to being accessible to the public and stakeholders.
October 4, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 4, 2016 — With the likelihood of Hurricane Matthew nearing the coasts of east-central and northeast Florida later this week, the St. Johns River Water Management District reminds property owners to be prepared for heavy rains by cleaning debris from storm drains and reporting clogged ditches to local governments in advance of the storm. The public also is encouraged to bookmark the storm page on the district’s website, www.sjrwmd.com/storm, for easy access to flooding information, water levels and other resources.
October 4, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Oct. 4, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water and Suwannee River water management districts today released the draft North Florida Regional Water Supply Plan for public review and comment. The release of the draft plan is the result of a four-year collaborative process that looked at the sustainability of water supplies 20 years into the future and identifies potential future water supply sources.
October 3, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 3, 2016 — The community is invited to join St. Johns River Water Management District staff as they participate in the Annual HalloWeed Count, a statewide data collection event to identify and map invasive plants.
September 30, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 30, 2016 — Recent news reports and social media posts have raised concerns about the alligator population near the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore and the safety of visitors to the area.
September 29, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 29, 2016 — More than 1,000 jobs are headed to northeast Florida after Amazon announces the opening of its new fulfillment center. The St. Johns River Water Management District supported the move by quickly assessing and issuing environmental resource permits (ERP) for the 105-acre warehouse facility. The applicant and district employees remained committed to working collaboratively through the permitting process to achieve this positive result.
September 28, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 28, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is launching an audio guide for visitors to its Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. The audio guide, which can be streamed through mobile devices, provides visitors with a narrative on the area’s history, wildlife and district-led restoration efforts.
September 27, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 27, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today approved its fiscal year 2016-2017 budget, which will provide funds for cost-share projects and major programs to support the agency’s core missions of water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection. The board also voted to reduce the millage rate for taxpayers for a fourth year.
September 20, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 20, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with Orange County Utilities on a project that could realize a 4.9 percent water savings for residential utility customers. The district contributed $112,334 toward the project as part of its cooperative cost-share program.
September 19, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 19, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications now through Oct. 13 to share in $5 million in cost-share funding for rural communities and innovative projects that support the agency’s core missions.
September 19, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 19, 2016 — Drinking water supplies in the 18 counties of the St. Johns River Water Management District are not at risk from a recent Polk County phosphate mine spill caused by a sinkhole, according to district scientists.
September 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 14, 2016 — Tuesday afternoon, the St. Johns River Water Management District presented Mary Prescott from Orlando, Florida, with the Bob Owens award for volunteer service. Prescott received the award for her service to her local Firewise program, a national program that emphasizes community involvement and educates residents on ways to reduce the risk of wildland fire igniting homes.
September 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 14, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a public meeting to discuss updates to land management and recreation across Lake, Orange and Seminole counties as well as portions of Marion, Volusia and Brevard counties. The meeting will also include an opportunity for public comment.
September 13, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 13, 2016 — Continuing an unusually low rainfall pattern from July, rainfall during August was below average across most of the St. Johns River Water Management District. All counties except Brevard, Indian River and Okeechobee had below average rainfall.
September 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Sept. 9, 2016 — More than 50 scientists and engineers with the St. Johns River Water Management District and University of Florida (UF) met Sept. 9 to report on progress made in the second year of a three-year partnership to enhance the scientific foundation needed to develop solutions to restore and protect Florida’s springs.
September 8, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting two public meetings to provide information and hear public comments on the draft 2016 Minimum Flows and Levels Priority List and Schedule.
September 1, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Sept. 1, 2016 — Two projects that received funding from the St. Johns River Water Management District will provide stormwater treatment for residential and commercial areas of downtown Leesburg.
August 31, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 31, 2016 — Scientists and engineers from the St. Johns River Water Management District and the University of Florida (UF) are holding a technical meeting Sept. 9 in Gainesville to discuss the progress of the district’s Springs Protection Initiative science program. The project meeting will focus on technical details related to the progress of six collaborative workgroups during the recently completed second year of the scientific investigation.
August 31, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 30, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is teaming up with Alachua County, the University of Florida and UF Shands to undertake an innovative stormwater project designed to recharge Florida’s aquifer while simultaneously capturing and treating pollutants.
August 31, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 30, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s website provides easy access to flooding information and other resources that can help before, during and after severe storms.
August 29, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 29, 2016 — An employee with the St. Johns River Water Management District recently traveled to California to help firefighters contain an active wildfire that spans 33,000 acres. Jeremy Johnson, a land management technician in the district’s Bureau of Land Resources, is wrapping up a 14-day assignment on the west coast.
August 24, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 24, 2016 — Construction is complete on a new 1 million gallon reclaimed water storage tank in St. Augustine Beach that will further extend north Florida’s drinking water supply and protect the Matanzas River. The project is a cost-share partnership between St. Johns County and the St. Johns River Water Management District.
August 23, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Aug. 23, 2016 — Four decades after it was first conceived, one of the largest wetland restoration projects in the world is now complete, although operation and maintenance of the award-winning project will continue.
August 22, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 22, 2016 — Wrapping up the first phase of work, the St. Johns River Water Management District is on schedule to complete several projects at the Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area. The scheduled work is part of the district’s land management plan, which outlines long-term restoration and recreation activities for the property.
August 22, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 22, 2016 — Building upon a multi-pronged strategy to reduce water use, the St. Johns River Water Management District continues its funding partnership with Orange County Utilities for a rain sensor replacement project.
August 19, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 19, 2016 — Construction is underway on an innovative pilot project in DeLand to help with nitrogen accumulations in the Volusia Blue Spring springshed. The project is a cost-share partnership between the city of DeLand, the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
August 19, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Aug. 19, 2016 — Now underway, a partnership project between the St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of Sebastian will capture pollutants before they can reach the Indian River Lagoon.
August 18, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 18, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area in Marion County will host veteran’s group Operation Outdoor Freedom for a guided alligator hunt Aug. 19 and 20.
August 17, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 17, 2016 — With the start of high school football fast approaching, a needed permit for construction work at Showalter Field in Winter Park has been expedited for approval by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
August 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 17, 2016 — Work is nearly complete on a project that will reduce nutrient discharges from septic tanks and storm water entering the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). The cost-share partnership project between the city of Edgewater and the St. Johns River Water Management District will remove nearly 1,500 pounds of nitrogen and nearly 260 pounds of phosphorus annually from the IRL basin.
August 12, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the city of Ocoee in Orange County to help fund smart meter technology that aims to reduce water use and streamline other water conservation efforts.
August 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 11, 2016 — Putnam County schools and the cities of Bunnell, Hawthorne and Palatka are again benefitting from dozens of items surplused from the St. Johns River Water Management District.
August 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 10, 2016 — One of the pump stations located within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore is scheduled for an overhaul. The governing board recently approved the project, which has an estimated budget of $350,000.
August 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2016 — July was an unusually dry month across the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county service area. The district’s monthly hydrologic conditions report shows that total rainfall over the past 12 months is more than 4 inches lower than average.
August 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District continues to move forward with water supply planning in north Florida, addressing governing board and stakeholders’ questions in preparation for the release of the draft for public comment in September. Staff provided an update today to the district’s governing board.
August 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2016 — For more than 40 years, the St. Johns River Water Management District and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have collaborated on data collection and analysis, sharing water quality and water level information that both agencies use to protect Florida’s water resources. Today, the district’s Governing Board approved its annual joint funding agreement with the USGS, which currently calls for monitoring 71 sites in springs, rivers and streams throughout the district.
August 12, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 2, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the city of Apopka to help fund a water conservation program that targets high water use across residential, commercial and city accounts.
August 11, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 11, 2016 — Putnam County schools and the cities of Bunnell, Hawthorne and Palatka are again benefitting from dozens of items surplused from the St. Johns River Water Management District.
August 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 10, 2016 — One of the pump stations located within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore is scheduled for an overhaul. The governing board recently approved the project, which has an estimated budget of $350,000.
August 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District continues to move forward with water supply planning in north Florida, addressing governing board and stakeholders’ questions in preparation for the release of the draft for public comment in September. Staff provided an update today to the district’s governing board.
August 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2016 — For more than 40 years, the St. Johns River Water Management District and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have collaborated on data collection and analysis, sharing water quality and water level information that both agencies use to protect Florida’s water resources. Today, the district’s Governing Board approved its annual joint funding agreement with the USGS, which currently calls for monitoring 71 sites in springs, rivers and streams throughout the district.
August 2, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Aug. 2, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the city of Apopka to help fund a water conservation program that targets high water use across residential, commercial and city accounts.
August 1, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 29, 2016 — Gov. Rick Scott has reappointed Douglas C. Bournique to a third term on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board. “I am pleased to know the district will continue to benefit from Mr. Bournique’s wealth of knowledge and experience,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “Mr. Bournique’s far-reaching knowledge on water resources issues, especially as they pertain to the agricultural community and the Indian River Lagoon, have been an asset to the District.” Bournique, who represents the Northern Coastal and Indian River Lagoon basins, was first […]
July 29, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 29, 2016 — Now that the Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area is in public ownership and opened for recreation in late May, the St. Johns River Water Management District has begun work to improve the quality of water leaving the property and flowing to the nearby Silver River. “We have accomplished a great deal in a very short time. One purpose in buying the property in December 2015 was to protect the headwaters of creeks that flow into the Outstanding Florida Waters of the Silver and Ocklawaha rivers,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director […]
July 29, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 29, 2016 — Gov. Rick Scott has reappointed Douglas C. Bournique to a third term on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board.
July 29, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 29, 2016 — Now that the Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area is in public ownership and opened for recreation in late May, the St. Johns River Water Management District has begun work to improve the quality of water leaving the property and flowing to the nearby Silver River.
July 26, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through Sept. 9 from farmers interested in participating in cost-share funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in area waterways.
July 26, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 26, 2016 — A partnership project to restore six acres of wetlands and enhance 30 more at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park is set to kick off in late July.
July 26, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through Sept. 9 from farmers interested in participating in cost-share funding for agricultural projects that promote water conservation and improve water quality in area waterways.
July 26, 2016
A partnership project to restore six acres of wetlands and enhance 30 more at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park is set to kick off in late July. [July 26, 2016]
July 21, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 21, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is pitching in to make a difference with algal bloom concerns in south Florida. The district is turning on pumps at Canal 54 (C-54), which is located five miles north of the city of Fellsmere and will redirect more than 6,300 gallons of water each minute.
July 21, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 21, 2016 — An eroded shoreline within the Canaveral National Seashore is set to be restored and stabilized, following an expedited permit approval by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
July 21, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s summer StreamLines magazine is now available online. The latest edition celebrates the completion of the Upper St. Johns River Basin Project, showcases a farming family that participates in the district’s successful agricultural cost-share program, looks at accomplishments in the northern stretch of the St. Johns River as partners mark the 10-year anniversary of the River Accord, and takes a look at the year-round, ongoing emergency training among district staff. [July 21, 2016]
July 21, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is pitching in to make a difference with algal bloom concerns in south Florida. The district is turning on pumps at Canal 54 (C-54), which is located five miles north of the city of Fellsmere and will redirect more than 6,300 gallons of water each minute. [July 21, 2016]
July 21, 2016
An eroded shoreline within the Canaveral National Seashore is set to be restored and stabilized, following an expedited permit approval by the St. Johns River Water Management District. [July 21, 2016]
July 21, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 21, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is pitching in to make a difference with algal bloom concerns in south Florida. The district is turning on pumps at Canal 54 (C-54), which is located five miles north of the city of Fellsmere and will redirect more than 6,300 gallons of water each minute.
July 21, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 21, 2016 — An eroded shoreline within the Canaveral National Seashore is set to be restored and stabilized, following an expedited permit approval by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
July 20, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 20, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 121-acre prescribed burn today at the Bayard Conservation Area at the end of Bayard Road in Clay County. The purpose of the burn is to maintain fire-dependent ecosystems and to manage wildland fuel loads.
July 20, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 20, 2016 – The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 121-acre prescribed burn today at the Bayard Conservation Area at the end of Bayard Road in Clay County. The purpose of the burn is to maintain fire-dependent ecosystems and to manage wildland fuel loads.
July 20, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 121-acre prescribed burn today at the Bayard Conservation Area at the end of Bayard Road in Clay County. [July 20, 2016]
July 19, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., July 19, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is working to relocate an estimated 140 gopher tortoises from their burrows in an Orange County levee to the Apalachicola National Forest.
July 19, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is working to relocate an estimated 140 gopher tortoises from their burrows in an Orange County levee to the Apalachicola National Forest. [July 19, 2016]
July 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., July 14, 2016 — Join the St. Johns River Water Management District as staff members work to relocate an estimated 140 gopher tortoises from their burrows in Taylor Creek levee in Orange County. Finding a new home for the threatened species is necessary as their burrows can cause erosion that compromises the structural integrity of the levee.
July 14, 2016
Join the St. Johns River Water Management District as staff members work to relocate an estimated 140 gopher tortoises from their burrows in Taylor Creek levee in Orange County. Finding a new home for the threatened species is necessary as their burrows can cause erosion that compromises the structural integrity of the levee. [July 14, 2016]
July 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a fourth year, provides significant funding for cost-share programs supporting water related projects, partnership programs to protect water quality in springs and other priority water bodies, and enhances water supply planning efforts.
July 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) Governing Board passed a resolution today directing the St. Johns River Water Management District to offer assistance to south Florida. The move is in response to Gov. Scott’s recent Executive Order declaring a state of emergency in the southern part of the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). The order commits the SJRWMD to support the ongoing efforts of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) with algae sampling and offer other resources for potential water storage, as needed.
July 12, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today approved a tentative budget that reduces the millage rate for taxpayers for a fourth year, provides significant funding for cost-share programs supporting water related projects, partnership programs to protect water quality in springs and other priority water bodies, and enhances water supply planning efforts. [July 12, 2016]
July 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board passed a resolution today directing the district to offer assistance to south Florida. [July 12, 2016]
July 11, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 11, 2016 — Donning binoculars and clutching clipboards, 78 volunteers fanned out across two St. Johns River Water Management District properties to tally threatened Florida scrub jays.
July 11, 2016
Donning binoculars and clutching clipboards, 78 volunteers fanned out across two St. Johns River Water Management District properties to tally threatened Florida scrub jays. [July 11, 2016]
July 8, 2016
“Funding provided through Amendment One has had a direct benefit on expanding opportunities for restoration across the district,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “The district continues to demonstrate responsible fiscal stewardship by focusing on projects that directly contribute to our core mission areas of water supply, flood protection, water quality and natural systems.”
July 8, 2016
Several projects that utilize Amendment One funds are underway or nearing completion within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county service area. [July 8, 2016]
July 7, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., July 7, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of Hawthorne are teaming up to reduce nutrient loading from an existing commercial septic system at the city’s Little Orange Creek Nature Park.
July 7, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of Hawthorne are teaming up to reduce nutrient loading from an existing commercial septic system at the city’s Little Orange Creek Nature Park. [July 7, 2016]
July 6, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 6, 2016 — Nearly three dozen volunteers are expected to scan the skies for rare Florida scrub jays at two St. Johns River Water Management District properties during the annual statewide Jay Watch survey from Friday through Sunday, July 8-10. Media are invited out Friday and will have access to the property and wildlife experts who will be ready to share why this activity is important to Florida’s scrub jay community.
July 6, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 6, 2016 — The St.Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 208-acre prescribed burn today at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area, east of County Road 325 and south of Fish Camp Road, in Alachua County.
July 6, 2016
Nearly three dozen volunteers are expected to scan the skies for rare Florida scrub jays at two St. Johns River Water Management District properties during the annual statewide Jay Watch survey from Friday through Sunday, July 8-10. Media are invited out Friday and will have access to the property and wildlife experts who will be ready to share why this activity is important to Florida’s scrub jay community. [July 6, 2016]
July 5, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., July 5, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the city of Sanford on a project to address future water supply demands.
July 5, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the city of Sanford on a project to address future water supply demands. [July 5, 2016]
July 1, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., July 1, 2016 — The first step necessary to clean up the Eau Gallie River — an Indian River Lagoon tributary — began this week as crews started constructing a facility to store the muck that will be dredged later this year from the river’s bottom.
July 1, 2016
The first step necessary to clean up the Eau Gallie River — an Indian River Lagoon tributary — began this week as crews started constructing a facility to store the muck that will be dredged later this year from the river’s bottom. [July 1, 2016]
June 28, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 28, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 292-acre prescribed burn today at the Hatchet Creek Tract of the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County, approximately a mile north of State Road 26 and west of Hatchet Creek. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
June 27, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., June 27, 2016 — More than 50 community volunteers helped plant 1,000 bald cypress trees at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore the weekend of June 25. Cherry Lake Tree Farm in Groveland worked with local nonprofit Keep Lake Beautiful to donate the trees and help raise awareness about the importance of the area’s natural systems.
June 27, 2016
More than 50 community volunteers helped plant 1,000 bald cypress trees at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore the weekend of June 25. Cherry Lake Tree Farm in Groveland worked with local nonprofit Keep Lake Beautiful to donate the trees and help raise awareness about the importance of the area’s natural systems. [June 27, 2016]
June 24, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 24, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 39-acre prescribed burn today at the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve, west of County Road 235, in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
June 23, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 23, 2016 — Construction is complete on a project to expand the use of reclaimed water by 1 million gallons per day in St. Johns County, which helps to reduce nutrient loading to the St. Johns River. The project also protects and further extends north Florida’s drinking water supply. The project is a cost-share partnership between St. Johns County and the St. Johns River Water Management District.
June 23, 2016
Construction is complete on a project to expand the use of reclaimed water by 1 million gallons per day in St. Johns County, which helps to reduce nutrient loading to the St. Johns River. The project also protects and further extends north Florida’s drinking water supply. The project is a cost-share partnership between St. Johns County and the St. Johns River Water Management District. [June 23, 2016]
June 21, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 21, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 181-acre prescribed burn today at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area, just west of Forest Road 8 and south of the camping area, in Marion County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
June 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 17, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is being awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its fiscal year 2015-2016 budget from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. District Budget Director Mary-Lou Pickles was also recognized for her leadership and contributions to the process.
June 17, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is being awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its fiscal year 2015-2016 budget from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. District Budget Director Mary-Lou Pickles was also recognized for her leadership and contributions to the process. [June 17, 2016]
June 16, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 16, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 484-acre prescribed burn today at Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County. The burn’s purpose is fuel reduction and ecological improvement.
June 15, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 121-acre prescribed burn today at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area, west of Lochloosa Lake and south of Fish Camp Road, in Alachua County.
June 15, 2016
The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 121-acre prescribed burn today at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area, west of Lochloosa Lake and south of Fish Camp Road, in Alachua County. [June 15, 2016]
June 14, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 14, 2016 — An external audit of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s financial statements gave the agency high marks for its latest annual financial report and showed the agency in compliance with state law and accounting standards.
June 14, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 14, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board voted today to donate the 947-acre Gemini Springs Addition to Volusia County with a conservation easement to protect its conservation values and to comply with the mitigation permit requirements.
June 14, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 14, 2016 — Fifty-nine projects will share in more than $30 million from the St. Johns River Water Management District for alternative water supply, water quality, water conservation and flood protection construction cost-share projects. The district’s governing board today approved the project ranking.
June 10, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., June 10, 2016 — St. Johns River Water Management District staff recently met with residents in Orange and Brevard counties to talk about wildfire safety and how they can work together to reduce the risk of fire damage to their homes through prescribed fire. The meetings are part of the residents’ ongoing participation in the national Firewise Communities fire prevention program for homeowners.
June 9, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., June 9, 2016 — St. Johns River Water Management District regulatory staff have approved a permit application for the Blue Origin manufacturing facility, which is expected to bring 330 jobs to the Space Coast.
June 8, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., June 8, 2016 — Fifty volunteers are needed to help plant 1,000 bald cypress trees at the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore. Cherry Lake Tree Farm in Groveland is donating the trees to help raise awareness about the importance of the area’s natural systems.
June 3, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., June 3, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District has a unique group of firefighters helping to conduct prescribed fires on its conservation lands. Yeller, Joe, Maude, Grumpy and Kid are fire-trained working horses.
June 2, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., June 2, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a meeting June 7 in Melbourne to provide the public with an update on the status of the Eau Gallie River dredging project.
June 1, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., June 1, 2016 — A land management update, the Upper St. Johns River Basin project and the Fellsmere Water Management Area Recreation Plan are among the items to be discussed June 9 during the St. Johns River Water Management District’s southern recreational area public meeting.
May 31, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., May 31, 2016 — Homeowners living near the Indian River Lagoon are hooking up to an innovative septic-to-sewer project funded by the St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of Vero Beach that will help improve water quality by reducing nutrients flowing into the lagoon.
May 27, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 27, 2016 — Hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders by the dozen joined the St. Johns River Water Management District today for their first look at the Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area in Marion County during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and official opening of the property.
May 26, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s website provides easy access to valuable information to assist the public and local governments before, during and after severe storm events.
May 20, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 20,2016 — With the start of hurricane season just days away, now is the time to remember Florida is especially vulnerable to flooding, given its location and many waterways. The St. Johns River Water Management District works closely with local governments to develop improved flood management plans through the regulatory process. It also assists communities in developing and implementing mitigation strategies.
May 19, 2016
PALATKA, Fla.,May 19, 2016 — Just in time for the three-day Memorial Day weekend, the St.Johns River Water Management District is formally opening the Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area to the public at a ribbon-cutting ceremony May 27.
May 19, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., May 19, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District has begun work to repair gates at the Burrell Spillway in Lake County. The spillway structure provides a controlled release of water from the Burrell Lock and Dam into Haynes Creek.
May 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 13, 2016 — The St. Johns River and Southwest Florida water management districts’ Florida Water Star(SM) (FWS) administrators are holding a training on May 24 in Winter Haven for prospective FWS certifiers.
May 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 13, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District, Alachua County and the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) are holding a training on May 18 for landscapers seeking to be Florida Water StarSM Accredited Professionals (AP).
May 10, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., May 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today approved a resolution proclaiming May 15-21, 2016, as Water Reuse Week. This is in an effort to help promote and encourage efficient use of reclaimed water in the district. Florida remains the national leader in water reuse.
May 10, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., May, 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board today voted to provide an additional $160,185 to the city of Rockledge for the removal of 143 failing septic tanks situated near the Indian River Lagoon.
May 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 10, 2016 — A dozen surplus St. Johns River Water Management District vehicles have new homes in Putnam County and the cities of Hawthorne, Palatka and Bunnell.
May 5, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., May 5, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting Splash Night on May 12 for students, parents and teachers at RJ Longstreet Elementary School in Volusia County. The event uses interactive activities to teach students about water supply and natural systems with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math learning.
May 5, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., May 5, 2016 — Construction is underway on a project that will help improve water quality in Lake Jesup and Soldiers Creek, two water bodies in Seminole County. The St. Johns River Water Management District contributed $800,000 to Seminole County’s Lake Jesup Nutrient Reduction Facility as part of a cost-share program.
May 2, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., May 2, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District joins the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and water professionals across the country this week in recognizing national Drinking Water Week and the vital role water plays in the daily lives and quality of life of Floridians. Drinking Water Week has been celebrated for more than 35 years.
April 29, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 29, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District recently launched a Pinterest page to further engage the community in protecting Florida’s natural resources. Fans can follow the district on Pinterest at pinterest.com/SJRWMD for a variety of visuals that promote sustainable use of Florida’s water.
April 29, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 29, 2016 — After two years of planning and construction, reclaimed water lines connecting the reuse distribution systems of DeLand, Deltona, Orange City and Volusia County are complete. The $6 million cost-share project was funded through the St. Johns River Water Management District and a 2013 state legislative appropriation in partnership with the West Volusia Water Suppliers, made up of Volusia County local governments.
April 28, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 28, 2016 — One year after the St. Johns River Water Management District opened the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, about 50,000 visitors have experienced the one-way, 11-mile drive that traverses a network of wetlands, levees and canals, providing a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities.
April 27, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 27, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District recently hosted a water conservation seminar for staff who want to learn more about water-saving methods and programs. The seminar was part of a “Lunch and Learn” event in honor of Water Conservation Month.
April 26, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 26, 2016 — About 700 homes in St. Augustine are receiving new automatic water metering technology allowing the city and homeowners to track their water conservation efforts through real-time data collection and identify leaks more quickly. The pilot project is a cost-share partnership between the St. Johns River Water Management District and the city of St. Augustine.
April 25, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 25, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 262-acre prescribed burn today at the Julington-Durbin Preserve in Duval County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and promote native vegetation, such as wiregrass.
April 21, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 21, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is encouraging all residents to inspect their rain sensors on irrigation systems. This one move can help drastically reduce the amount of water needed for proper irrigation.
April 21, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 21, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 170-acre prescribed burn today at the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain fire-dependent natural communities.
April 19, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., April 19, 2016 — A new sediment trap, or “baffle box,” funded through the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Cost-Share Funding Program will capture hundreds of pounds of pollutants annually before they reach the Eau Gallie River, a tributary of the Indian River Lagoon, helping to improve water quality in the waterways.
April 19, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 19, 2016 — The stakeholder advisory committee of the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership is meeting April 25 at Florida Gateway College, 149 S.E. College Place, Lake City. The meeting will be held at 1 p.m. in the Wilson S. Rivers Library and Media Center, Building 200, Room 102.
April 15, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 15, 2016 — In honor of Earth Day, the St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting an exhibit at the Orlando Science Center’s Earth Day Celebration: Party for the Planet! on Saturday, April 23.
April 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 14, 2016 — Needed improvement projects are coming to one of the district’s most visited properties, which means visitors are encouraged to explore other public lands until the work is complete. The wildlife drive and surrounding property within the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area in Lake County will remain closed to motorized and non-motorized traffic throughout the 2016 season.
April 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 14, 2016 — With a mission to ensure sustainable use of Florida’s water, the St. Johns River Water Management District recently revealed plans to install a cistern to aid landscape irrigation. Plans for the new cistern coincide with Water Conservation Month, an annual observance each April to celebrate conservation and increase awareness about the need to reduce water use.
April 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., April 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s purchasing division is being recognized for excellence by the Florida Association of Public Procurement Officials Inc. (FAPPO). The district is one of only 13 agencies in Florida to receive the Award of Excellence in Public Procurement for 2016.
April 12, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., April 12, 2016 — Surveys of groundwater, water quality and fish will help St. Johns River Water Management District scientists better understand the pollution sources delivered to the Indian River Lagoon through groundwater and tributaries. The surveys will also show how these nutrients are cycled into algal blooms.
April 7, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 7, 2016 — In many cases, the greatest use of water by people is outdoors for lawn and landscape irrigation. To encourage efficient irrigation, the St. Johns River Water Management District recently demonstrated the process.
April 7, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 7, 2016 — Visitors to Haynes Creek in Leesburg were treated to an unusual site recently as nearly a dozen steamboats passed through the Burrell Lock and Dam. Situated on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s property, the Burrell Lock and Dam were constructed in 1957 to assist in flood control as well as the passage of fishing boats and pleasure crafts between Lake Eustis and Lake Griffin.
April 7, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 7, 2016 — Representatives from local and state governments joined today to celebrate the opening of a new segment of recreational trail in Lake County. The St. Johns River Water Management District partnered with Lake County to build the new 2.0-mile trail connection that joins the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead with the Apopka Loop Trail and provides expanded opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking and bicycling.
April 1, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., April 1, 2016 — April is Water Conservation Month and to celebrate the St. Johns River Water Management District is asking everyone to pledge to help reduce water use. The online pledge program launches this Friday, April 1 to raise awareness about simple changes you can make to help conserve Florida’s water supply.
March 31, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 31, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) for a “Women in the Outdoors” turkey hunt April 2-3 at the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve in Alachua County.
March 31, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 31, 2016 — Anglers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts will encounter road construction as the St. Johns River Water Management District works to complete flood control safety improvements along a nearly one-mile stretch of the Fellsmere grade.
March 30, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 30, 2016 — The first phase of improvements to stabilize the banks of Canal 1 in Palm Bay are now under way. The current project follows pump upgrades in November at the west end of the canal, where a water quality improvement project is sending hundreds of millions of gallons of water to the Upper St. Johns River Basin.
March 30, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 30, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the opening of a new segment of recreational trail in Lake County that joins the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead with the Apopka Loop Trail.
March 28, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 28, 2016 — A recent partnership between the St. Johns River Water Management District and the City of Ocala has saved over 4 million gallons of water in 5 months. The savings were achieved after implementing a water-savings WaterSmart program in October 2015 across 5,000 residential utility customers.
March 24, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 24, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Newnans Lake Conservation Area’s North Tract will be closed this weekend, March 25-27, for a special opportunity turkey hunt for World War II, Korea and Vietnam veterans.
March 24, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 24, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is hosting an informational workshop in Palm Bay about $25 million in cost-share funding available districtwide. The workshop is geared toward educating local municipalities about how to move through the application process. Projects that focus on improving the health of the Indian River Lagoon are encouraged.
March 23, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 23, 2016 — A 9,000-acre prescribed fire today at Three Forks Marsh Conservation Area in Brevard County has temporarily closed Thomas O. Lawton Recreation Area — including the boat ramp — to public use for safety reasons. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. The burn was started by aerial ignition.
March 23, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 23, 2016 — It’s all hands on deck to expedite cleanup efforts in the Indian River Lagoon after a recent fish kill. St. Johns River Water Management District staff are heading to Brevard County to assist with the recovery.
March 23, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 23, 2016 –The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and Crimeline are seeking help from anyone who may have information about a weather shelter on the St. Johns River that burned on Feb 27.
March 22, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 22, 2016 — Each month, a team of dedicated volunteers visits the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka North Shore to monitor and map butterfly activity. The group tracks each type of butterfly species as well as the number of eggs, larvae and pupae observed. In February, volunteers observed 21 butterfly species, including Black Swallowtail, Ceraunus Blue and White Peacock.
March 18, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 18, 2016 — A 9,000-acre prescribed fire at Three Forks Marsh Conservation Area in Brevard County is expected to temporarily close Thomas O. Lawton Recreation Area — including the boat ramp — to public use for safety reasons on Monday, March 21. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems.
March 17, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 17, 2016 — A recent sunrise and sunset tour of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s wildlife drive at Lake Apopka provided a small group of photographers and nature enthusiasts with unprecedented access to the area.
March 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 130-acre prescribed fire today on the Hatchet Creek Tract of the Newnans Lake Conservation Area in Alachua County, north of State Road 26. The purpose of today’s burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain fire-dependent ecosystems.
March 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 15, 2016 — Monday, Governor Rick Scott appointed John Browning to the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board. Browning takes the place of George Robbins whose term ended in March 2016. The appointment takes effect immediately and runs through March 1, 2020.
March 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 14, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District recently expanded the recreational opportunities available to visitors at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County. Located south of County Road (CR) 42, the newly opened South Tract Trail sits on 3,401 acres and is home to seven miles of new hiking and biking trail, as well as additional parking.
March 14, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 14, 2016 — Visitors to the Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park in east Orange County should expect larger-than-usual crowds this weekend. Portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District property are part of the mapped route for the Masters of All Terrain Half Marathon.
March 11, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 11, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through April 22 to share in $25 million in cost-share funding for water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection construction projects.
March 11, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 11, 2016 — Reset your sprinklers when you reset your clocks to mark the return of daylight saving time at 2 a.m. this Sunday, March 13.
March 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is partnering with the Gainesville chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Alachua County for a youth turkey hunt March 12-13 at the Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve in Alachua County.
March 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 8, 2016 — Water conservation is at the heart of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s mission of protecting and ensuring the sustainability of Florida’s water supplies. The district’s Governing Board today approved a proclamation that designates April 2016 as Water Conservation Month to heighten awareness about the importance of water conservation.
March 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Governing Board continues to demonstrate its commitment to springs protection, today approving for the third consecutive year a proclamation designating April as Springs Protection Awareness Month. The annual designation helps increase awareness about the importance of Florida’s springs and encourages residents and stakeholders to participate in enhancing the quality and flow of springs.
March 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 8, 2016 — Florida’s taxpayers may receive more muck for the buck.
March 8, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 111-acre prescribed burn today at Emeralda Marsh Conservation Area in Lake County west of County Road 452. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous wildfire fuel loads.
March 3, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., March 3, 2016 — Visitors to the popular Lake Apopka Loop Trail should expect larger-than-usual crowds this weekend. Portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District property are part of the mapped route for the Florida Sea to Sea, a 72-hour race that involves trekking, biking, paddling and orienteering across Florida.
March 2, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., March 2, 2016 — Updates on land management activities and a presentation on the draft management plan for Ralph E. Simmons Memorial State Forest are among the items to be discussed March 16 during the St. Johns River Water Management District’s northern recreational public meeting.
March 1, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., March 1, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 180-acre prescribed burn today at Buck Lake Conservation Area in Brevard County. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 26, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb .26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 1,260-acre prescribed burn today at Lake Apopka North Shore in Orange County. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction, control of exotic vegetation and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems. Fires were set by aerial ignition.
February 26, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 2,606-acre prescribed burn today at the Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area in Marion County. The fire was set by aerial ignition.
February 26, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 40-acre prescribed burn today at Fort Drum Conservation Area in Indian River County. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 26, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 26, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is excited to announce the launch of an Instagram account to further engage the community in conversations about sustainable use of Florida’s water and natural systems. The district’s Instagram username is @SJRWMD and will focus on visual storytelling related to the water supply and water resources that encompass the district’s 18-county service area.
February 23, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 23, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 46-acre prescribed burn today at the Lake George Conservation Area along Troy Road in Volusia County. The burn is a continuation of yesterday’s prescribed fire at the property. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and to prepare the property for a future aerial burn.
February 23, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 23, 2016 — Native plants continue to expand in Lake Apopka thanks to a variety of restoration projects aimed at improving the health of Florida’s fourth-largest lake. An analysis conducted by the St. Johns River Water Management District reveals native submersed aquatic vegetation is expanding, an indication of improving water quality.
February 22, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 22, 2016 — Observe National Invasive Species Awareness Week this Saturday, Feb. 27, by helping St. Johns River Water Management District staff hunt for a new invasive species on the Palatka to St. Augustine Trail.
February 22, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 22, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 19-acre prescribed burn today at the Lake George Conservation Area, near the west end of Middle Road, in Putnam County. The burn is a continuation of Friday’s prescribed fire at the property. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and to prepare the property for a future aerial burn.
February 18, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 18, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 250-acre prescribed burn today at Lake Apopka North Shore in Orange County. The burn’s purpose is wildfire fuel reduction and maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 18, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 18, 2016 — Staff from the St. Johns River Water Management District recently met with residents in Brevard County to talk about wildfire safety and how they can work together to reduce the risk of fire damage to their homes through prescribed fire. The event is part of the residents’ ongoing participation in the national Firewise Communities fire prevention program for homeowners.
February 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 17, 2016 — Prescribed fires at Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve and Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County will temporarily close all or part of the properties to public use on Thursday, Feb. 18.
February 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 17, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting two controlled burns today in northeast Florida: a 635-acre prescribed burn at the Bayard Conservation Area in Clay County and a 133-acre prescribed burn on the Redshirt Tract at the Thomas Creek Conservation Area in Nassau County. Both fires were set by aerial ignition. The purpose of the burns is wildfire hazard reduction.
February 17, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 17, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting an 80-acre prescribed burn today at Heart Island Conservation Area in Volusia County. The burn site is south of State Road 40 and west of Bee Road. The burn’s purpose is to reduce hazardous fuel loads.
February 16, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 16, 2016 — Visitors to the popular St. Johns River Water Management District’s Lake Apopka Loop Trail should expect larger-than-usual crowds this weekend. The district-owned property is part of the mapped run for the 12th Annual Orlando Xtreme Half Marathon and 5k.
February 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 15, 2016 — The stakeholder advisory committee of the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership will meet Feb. 22 at Florida Gateway College, 149 S.E. College Place, Lake City.
February 15, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 138-acre prescribed burn today at the Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Marion County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and the maintenance of fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 15, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 15, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a Splash into Science Night on Feb. 18 for students, parents and teachers at Interlachen Elementary School.
February 13, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 13, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 508-acre prescribed burn today at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County. The fire was set by aerial ignition.
February 12, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 12, 2016 — Schools will close on Presidents Day, but the St. Johns River Water Management District’s popular Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is open for the federal holiday, which falls on Monday, Feb. 15. The wildlife drive provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore the area’s diverse wildlife habitat.
February 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 548-acre prescribed burn today at the Heart Island Conservation Area in Volusia County. The fire was set by aerial ignition. The purpose of the burn is ecological enhancement and hazardous fuel reduction.
February 12, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 12, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 77-acre prescribed burn today at the Pellicer Creek Conservation Area in Flagler County, east of I-95. The purpose of the burn is to prepare the site for groundcover restoration planting.
February 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb.10,2016 — Project partners today celebrated the completion of an innovative project in Clay County to protect drinking water supplies and to reduce wastewater discharges to the St. Johns River and Black Creek. At a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at a 22-acre site in Green Cove Springs, Clay County Utility Authority (CCUA) and the St. Johns River Water Management District formally launched the operation of nine rapid infiltration basins (RIBs) at CCUA’s Mid-Clay Wastewater Treatment Facility.
February 10, 2016
MAITLAND, Fla., Feb. 10, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board this week approved the rankings of projects that will share $2.9 million in agricultural cost-share funds to assist farmers, growers and ranchers in water conservation and reduction of nutrient run-off.
February 10, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 10, 2016 — Brevard County rancher and chair of the St. Johns River Water Management District’s Agricultural Advisory Committee Billy Kempfer is now officially a member of the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place Tuesday evening. Below is a copy of the letter sent by District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle commending Kempfer’s service.
February 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is continuing the 114-acre prescribed burn begun yesterday at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 9, 2016 –The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board today approved the ranking of projects that will share in $5 million in cost-share funds to benefit water resources in Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities and for projects that use innovative technology to provide data supporting future permitting and full-scale implementation of alternative water supplies.
February 9, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 9, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board today approved moving forward with a public-private partnership project in Putnam County that will help meet future water demands and offset impacts from domestic self-supply wells in north Florida. The project calls for moving the Grandin Sand Plant’s groundwater withdrawals from the Upper Floridan aquifer to the Lower Floridan aquifer.
February 8, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 8, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 114-acre prescribed burn tonight at the Lochloosa Wildlife Conservation Area in Alachua County. The purpose of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain fire-dependent ecosystems.
February 8, 2016
PALM BAY, Fla., Feb. 8, 2016 — A new stormwater park in south Brevard County is being heralded for its benefits to the Indian River Lagoon. Today, St. Johns River Water Management District and its partners celebrated the near-completion of Wheeler Stormwater Park, a manmade oasis that captures pollutants from a 21,000-acre watershed before they can reach the lagoon.
February 5, 2016
PALATKA, Fla., Feb. 5, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is holding a Splash into Science Night on Feb. 11 for students, parents and teachers at Middleton-Burney Elementary School in Crescent City. The event uses interactive activities to teach students about water supply and natural systems with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math learning.
I am raw html block.
Click edit button to change this html