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.