Southwest Florida Water Management District News Releases (RSS)

Governing Board Elects Officers

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management Governing Board voted today to elect new officers to the board.

Carlos M. Beruff was elected chair of the Governing Board. Beruff represents Manatee County, and is owner and president of Medallion Homes Gulf Coast, Inc. Beruff was appointed to the Board in July 2009, and re-appointed in March 2013.

Michael A. Babb was elected vice-chair of the Governing Board. Babb represents Hillsborough County and is president of Two Rivers Ranch, Inc. in Thonotosassa. Babb was appointed to the Board in June 2011.

Randall S. “Randy” Maggard was elected secretary of the Governing Board. Maggard represents Pasco County and is vice president of Sonny’s Discount Appliances Inc. in Dade City. Maggard was appointed to the Board in October 2011.

Jeffery M. Adams re-elected treasurer of the Governing Board. Adams represents Pinellas County and is an attorney and partner with the law firm of Abbey, Adams, LLP. Adams was appointed to the Board in April 2010.

Governing Board members are unpaid, citizen volunteers who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate. The Governing Board sets policy for the District, whose mission is to manage the water and related resources of west central Florida to meet the needs of current and future water users while protecting the environment.

District Recognizes Water Reuse Week

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) will observe May 19-25 as Water Reuse Week. Governor Rick Scott proclaimed Florida Water Reuse Week to highlight the importance of water reuse to the sustainability of Florida’s water supply and overall ecosystem. Water reuse is essential to ensuring safe, clean and sustainable water resources.

As part of the District’s efforts to highlight water reuse awareness throughout our 16-county coverage area, here are five facts about how we are working together to protect Florida’s water supply:

• The District has partnered with Tampa Bay Water to create 110 million gallons per day of new alternative water supplies in the Tampa Bay area.

• Our District has the lowest per capita usage in the state, with our consumers using 98 gallons per person, per day in the Tampa Bay area. In Florida, the statewide average is 133 gallons per person, per day.

• Ten percent of all water we use is reclaimed water, which offsets 160 million gallons per day of groundwater throughout the District.

• District-wide, we have funded enough reclaimed water projects for pipes reaching from Tampa to Washington D.C. (913 miles.)

• Since 1992, the District has funded indoor and outdoor water conservation projects ranging from toilet rebate/replacements to landscape and irrigation evaluations, conserving over 14.5 million gallons per day of potable water. That’s up to $217 million that didn’t need to be spent on creating new alternative water supply.

Florida began celebrating Water Reuse Week in 2007, after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Reuse Program as a national leader in water efficiency.

Governing Board to Meet in Brooksville

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 21, at 9:30 a.m. at the District headquarters, located at 2379 Broad Street in Brooksville. Please note, the 9:30 a.m. start time is a half hour later than regularly scheduled 9:00 a.m. meetings.

To view the Governing Board meeting online, visit Watermatters.org and click on the “Live Video Stream” link. The video stream link becomes active and the live video feed begins approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time.

The meeting agenda and meeting materials are posted one week before the meeting, and can be found online at Watermatters.org and click on the “Boards, Meetings & Events Calendar” link.

District to Hold Lakes Rogers and Raleigh Guidance Levels Workshop

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) invites the public to comment on proposed minimum guidance levels for Lakes Rogers and Raleigh in Hillsborough County at a public workshop on Wednesday, May 29. The workshop will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Walker Middle School Cafeteria, located at 8282 North Mobley Road in Odessa.

The state Legislature requires the District to set minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for priority water bodies within the District. A minimum flow or level is the limit at which further water withdrawals will cause significant harm to the water resources and/or environment. Minimum levels are established to protect lakes from impacts associated with ground water and surface water withdrawals. Guidance levels are developed as advisory information on expected water level fluctuations within lake basins. Minimum and Guidance levels serve as guidelines for the District’s permitting programs and for development of water resource projects.

During the workshop, District staff will review the technical basis for the proposed levels. The workshop will also provide an opportunity for local government, citizens, and others to be part of the development of the proposed levels for these two Hillsborough County lakes.

Information obtained at the workshop will be summarized and made available to the Governing Board. District staff anticipates presenting the proposed levels for Lakes Rogers and Raleigh at the June 25 Governing Board meeting, where the Governing Board may choose to recommend adoption of the minimum and guidance levels into District rules. Governing Board meetings are open to the public and brief oral comments are permitted on meeting agenda items.

Written comments are also welcome and can be submitted via mail or email to

Keith Kolasa, senior environmental scientist, at 2379 Broad Street, Brooksville, FL 34604-6899 or Keith.Kolasa@watermatters.org.

Draft reports summarizing the proposed Minimum and Guidance levels for these lakes will be made available for review one week prior to the workshop and will be posted on the District’s Internet site at http://WaterMatters.org/MFLreports, under the Proposed Minimum & Guidance Lake Levels section. In addition, digital copies of the draft reports will be made available at the workshop. For more information, please contact Keith Kolasa at 1-800-423-1476, ext. 4236.

Governing Board Emphasizes Importance of Springs Protection

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Following the Florida Legislature’s lead, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) Governing Board proclaimed April 2013 Springs Protection Awareness Month at their monthly board meeting. The Board emphasized that the state’s springs are essential to the environment, economy, citizens and visitors of the state.

The District invested more than $2.2 million in springs protection and restoration in FY11-12, has an approved budget of $3.9 million for FY12-13, and plans to begin construction on three major springs projects in the next six months including the City of Crystal River to Progress Energy Reclaimed Water Project, Chassahowitzka Spring Sediment Removal and Three Sisters Springs Wetland Treatment Project.

There are more than 150 documented springs throughout the 16-county District, with five first magnitude spring groups that collectively discharge more than one billion gallons of water per day.

The District, in partnership with the various stakeholders, is committed to implementing projects to conserve and restore the ecological balance of our spring systems, supporting the regional economies and quality of life.

Governing Board to Meet in Tampa

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 30, at 9 a.m. at the Tampa Service Office, located at 7601 Highway 301 North.

The meeting agenda and meeting materials are posted one week before the meeting, and can be found online at Watermatters.org and click on the “Boards, Meetings & Events Calendar” link.

District Construction to Close Flatwoods Park Paved Trail

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Beginning April 22, The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) will be reshaping a levee on the north-south portion next to the paved trail at Flatwoods Park, from the Bruce B. Downs entrance where the paved trail turns east.

The construction will close the paved recreation trail, but the shell maintenance road will remain open. Visitors are asked to exercise caution near the work area.

District staff will be reshaping the Lower Hillsborough Levee to comply with requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Failure to meet these requirements could jeopardize possible federal funding in an emergency.

A District staff member will be on-site to provide information to visitors. The work is expected to last approximately one month. For more information, call (800) 423-1476, ext. 4222.

District Reports Gains in Seagrass Coverage in Charlotte Harbor

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Scientists with the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Surface Water Improvement and Management (SWIM) Program released the results of the 2012 seagrass mapping study showing a 4.4 percent increase in seagrass coverage in Charlotte Harbor. The District maps seagrass in five estuaries spanning the five coastal counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte. Charlotte Harbor is Florida’s second largest open water estuary, and provides some of the most productive estuarine ecosystems in southwest Florida. This is the second consecutive survey to show increases for the system from 2008 values. The study also shows gains in Tampa Bay and Lemon Bay.

The results show Charlotte Harbor gained 804 acres of seagrass between 2010 and 2012. The area now collectively supports 18,991 acres of seagrass beds, the largest amount of seagrass measured since 1996. Seagrass acreage in Charlotte Harbor has remained around 18,000 acres since 2000, making 2012 estimates a significant gain towards the protection and recovery of seagrass in the system. Tampa Bay gained 5.3 percent gain while the smaller Lemon Bay system gained 67 acres, a 2.2 percent increase.

Documenting the extent of seagrass and how it changes overtime is a valuable tool for scientists throughout the state of Florida. Seagrasses are an important barometer of a bay’s health because they require relatively clean water to flourish, thus they are sensitive to changes in water clarity and quality. The District’s maps are used as a tool for measuring and tracking biological integrity of estuaries as it relates to water quality conditions. Seagrass generally grows in waters less than six feet deep, but in the clear waters around Boca Grande Pass it can be found in water 8 to 10 feet deep.

The District began its formal seagrass mapping program in 1988. As part of the program, SWIM scientists assess seagrass in five Gulf coast estuaries. Every two years maps are produced from aerial photographs and then verified for accuracy by conducting field surveys. The results are used to track trends in seagrass and to evaluate ongoing water quality improvement efforts.

10 Tips to Save Water for Water Conservation Month

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

While the Southwest Water Management District encourages water conservation year round, there is extra emphasis each April for Water Conservation Month. April is traditionally one of the driest months of the year and typically marks the peak demand season for public water suppliers.

With 10 simple tips, you can lower your monthly water bill and do your part to save hundreds of gallons of water:

INDOOR

• Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they are full.
• Use the shortest clothes washing cycle for lightly soiled loads; normal and permanent press wash cycles use more water.
• Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator or microwave, not under running water.
• Scrape, don’t rinse, your dishes before loading in the dishwasher.
• Install high-efficiency showerheads, faucets and toilets.

OUTDOOR

• Check your home’s irrigation system for leaks to save up to 6,300 gallons of water per month.
• Turn off your home’s irrigation system and only water as needed; save up to 2,000 gallons each time a watering day is skipped.
• Don’t leave sprinklers unattended. Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn sprinklers off.
• Use a hose with a shutoff nozzle when washing the car to save around 40 gallons per wash.
• Consider installing a rain barrel with a drip irrigation system for watering your landscaping. Rainwater is free and better for your plants because it doesn’t contain hard minerals.

Leaks are the biggest water waster, both inside and outside of your home. You can use your water meter to check for leaks. Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances and make sure no one uses water during the testing period. Remember to wait for the hot water heater and ice cube makers to refill and for regeneration of water softeners. Go to your water meter and record the current reading. Wait 30 minutes. (Remember: no water should be used during this period.) Read the meter again. If the reading has changed, you have a leak.

To learn more about saving water outdoors and to download or order the District’s free six-page “Saving Water Outdoors” brochure, log onto WaterMatters.org/SaveWaterOutdoors/.

To learn more about saving water indoors and to download or order the District’s free six-page “Saving Water Indoors” brochure, log onto WaterMatters.org/savewaterindoors/.

For more information about water conservation, please visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/conservation.

District Reports Gains in Seagrass Coverage in Tampa Bay

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Scientists with the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Surface Water Improvement and Management (SWIM) Program released the results of the 2012 seagrass mapping study showing a 5.3 percent increase in seagrass coverage in Tampa Bay. This is the fourth consecutive survey to show increases for the Tampa Bay system. The study also shows gains in Lemon Bay and Charlotte Harbor. The District maps seagrass in five estuaries spanning the five coastal counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte.

The results show Tampa Bay gained 1,745 acres of seagrass between 2010 and 2012. Tampa Bay now supports 34,642 acres of seagrass beds, the largest amount of seagrass measured since the 1950’s. The steady increase in seagrass since 2006 has brought the system closer to reaching the Tampa Bay Estuary Program’s goal of 38,000 acres bay wide. Charlotte Harbor gained 804 acres, a 4.4 percent gain while the smaller Lemon Bay system gained 67 acres, a 2.2 percent increase.

Sarasota Bay documented a one percent decrease in seagrass cover. The St. Joseph’s Sound/Clearwater Harbor system showed a decrease of less than two percent; however both are considered sustainable and stable seagrass resources. According to Kris Kaufman, a staff environmental scientist for the District, a change in mapped seagrass cover of less than two percent can be due to the accuracy of mapping methods or simply natural variability in seagrass.

“Seagrasses can be gained or lost due to changes in the environment beyond our control,” said Kaufman. “For example, heavy rainfall can bring excess freshwater runoff to the bays and affect water quality.”

Documenting the extent of seagrass and how it changes overtime is a valuable tool for scientists throughout the state of Florida. Seagrasses are an important barometer of a bay’s health because they require relatively clean water to flourish, thus they are sensitive to changes in water clarity and quality. The District’s maps are used as a tool for measuring and tracking biological integrity of estuaries as it relates to water quality conditions. Seagrass generally grows in waters less than six feet deep, but in the clear waters around Egmont and Anclote Keys it can be found in water 10 feet deep or more.

Governing Board to Meet in Brooksville

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 26, at 9:30 a.m. at the District headquarters, located at 2379 Broad Street in Brooksville. Please note, the 9:30 a.m. start time is a half hour later than regularly scheduled 9:00 a.m. meetings.

The meeting agenda and meeting materials are posted one week before the meeting, and can be found online at Watermatters.org and click on the “Boards, Meetings & Events Calendar” link.

District Reschedules Hydrilla Treatment on Rainbow River

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

An equipment failure prevented the Southwest Florida Water Management District from completing the hydrilla treatment scheduled on part of the Rainbow River on March 4-8. The treatment has been rescheduled for March 18-21 on the section of river upstream of the County Road 484 bridge.

Workers will apply the aquatic herbicide Aquathol Super K and post informational signs in the treatment areas noting treatment dates and applicable water use restrictions.

There are no restrictions on the use of treated water for swimming, fishing, boating or irrigating established turf and ornamental plants. Treated river water should not be used for drinking or irrigating annual nursery or green house crops including hydroponics and newly seeded or transplanted annual crops, newly seeded or transplanted ornamentals, and newly sodded or seeded turf for seven days following treatment. Water use restrictions do not apply to well or tap water.

Hydrilla is a troublesome aquatic plant from Southeast Asia, which escaped into Florida waters during the late 1950s. It is a fast-growing plant that expands quickly. If it is not controlled, native plant populations, recreational activities, navigation, flood control and fish and wildlife habitat are negatively impacted.

The management of hydrilla on the Rainbow River is a cooperative effort between the District, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

For more information, please call the District at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476.

Governor Reappoints Beruff and Mann to Governing Board

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Governor Rick Scott reappointed Carlos Beruff and George Mann to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Beruff represents Manatee County and Mann represents Polk County.

Beruff, of Bradenton, is owner and president of Medallion Homes Gulf Coast, Inc.

Mann, of Polk City, is a retired business development manager for Treatt USA.

Both men are reappointed for a term beginning March 8, 2013, and ending March 1, 2017. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

District Welcomes New Government Affairs Program Manager

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EDT

Estella Gray has joined the Southwest Florida Water Management District as a Government Affairs Program Manager.

Gray will serve as a liaison between the District and the constituents of Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties. She will work closely with county governments, municipalities and utilities staff.

Before joining the District, Gray was a senior project manager at the Collins Center for Public Policy, a public policy think tank. Prior to her role at the Collins Center, she served as the Public Affairs Specialist at the Florida League of Cities and advocated the interests for Florida’s 410 municipalities. She started her career in community relations at the Florida Commission on Relations. She is a graduate of Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication.

Gray will work from the District’s Tampa Service Office on US 301 Road. She can be reached at (813) 985-7481, ext. 2015 or estella.gray@watermatters.org.

Time Change Serves as Reminder to Check Your Irrigation Timer and System

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is reminding residents to check the timers on their irrigation system controllers this weekend, which is the beginning of Daylight Savings Time.

Saturday night we will “spring forward,” and turn our clocks ahead one hour. The time change is also a good time to make sure your irrigation system timer is set correctly to ensure your system operates consistently with current water restrictions.

As a reminder, the Tampa Bay Region will be under Phase III water restrictions beginning March 13, which limits lawn and landscape watering to a once-per-week schedule based on address and residents may only water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. There are no changes to the Phase I restrictions currently in place for other water uses, including agricultural irrigation, golf course operations, industrial processes, or pressure washing activities. Some local governments have imposed stricter measures, so always refer to your local government or utility restriction guidelines first.

Know and follow your local watering restrictions, but don’t water just because it’s your day. Irrigate your lawn when it shows signs of stress from lack of water. Pay attention to signs of stressed grass, such as a bluish-gray color, lingering tire tracks or footprints and leaf blades that are folded in half lengthwise.

For additional information about water restrictions and water conservation, please contact your local utility or visit the District’s web site at WaterMatters.org/conservation/.

Governor Appoints Beswick and Bronson to Governing Board

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

Governor Rick Scott appointed Bryan K. Beswick and Thomas E. “Tommy” Bronson to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Beswick represents DeSoto, Hardee and Highlands counties. Bronson is the representative for Hernando and Marion counties.

Beswick, of Arcadia, is the grove manager for Blue Goose Growers LLC and a sales associate with Blue Goose Realty. He previously served on the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Beswick received his bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College.

Bronson, of Brooksville, is the retired CEO of Meridian Aggregates. He is a former member of the Withlacoochee Regional Planning Council. Bronson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee.

Both appointments are for a term beginning March 4, 2013, and ending March 1, 2016, and the appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

District Increases Water Restrictions in Tampa Bay Area

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

Due to below normal rainfall, reduced river levels and increasing water supply concerns, the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board voted today to increase water restrictions in the Tampa Bay area. Even though December rainfall was near normal for our region, rainfall in January and February was 3.5 inches below normal.

The Governing Board enacted Phase III restrictions for lawn watering, car washing and fountain use in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. The tighter restrictions begin March 13th and take into account that Tampa Bay Water’s C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir is currently under renovation, meaning the utility is relying on its desalination plant and regional wellfields to meet public demand in the coming months. Tampa Bay Water is the wholesale water supplier for Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas county water utilities as well as the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg and New Port Richey.

Under the Phase III restrictions, the allowable lawn and landscape watering schedule is reduced to once-per-week on a specified day based on address. Micro-irrigation and hand watering of non-lawn areas still are allowed any day; but like all irrigation, such activity must now occur only during designated hours (before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. unless otherwise specified by a stricter local ordinance). Car washing is limited to once per week, and fountain operation will be limited to four hours per day. These restrictions apply to well, pond and canal water sources in addition to city or county water supplies. See fact sheet for more details on these restrictions.

There are no changes to the Phase I restrictions currently in place for other water uses, including agricultural irrigation, golf course operations, industrial processes, or pressure washing activities.

“For the last several months, we’ve watched the conditions decline, said Chairman Paul Senft. If we do not receive significant rainfall in the coming months, we may have to extend these restrictions into other areas of the District. We ask residents to be conservative with their water use, especially outdoor irrigation.”

Phase I restrictions remain the same in Charlotte, Citrus, Desoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Lake, Levy, Manatee, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter Counties. The City of Dunnellon and The Villages in Marion County also remain under Phase I restrictions. Other portions of Marion County and the City of Ocala follow restrictions set by the St. Johns River Water Management District.

For additional information about water restrictions and water conservation, please contact your local utility or visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/restrictions/.

Phase III
Water Restrictions
FACT SHEET

Effective Dates and Affected Areas

The restrictions are scheduled to begin on March 13, 2013 and expire on July 31, 2013.
The restrictions affect Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.

Lawn Watering Schedule and Times

Lawn watering is limited to a once-per-week schedule. The following schedule applies unless your city or county has a District-approved different schedule or more stringent restrictions.

Lawn Watering Schedule and Times

Lawn watering is limited to a once-per-week schedule. The following is a schedule and summary of the restrictions unless your city or county has a different once-per-week schedule or more stringent restrictions.

Addresses with “house numbers” …	May only irrigate on …
Ending in 0 or 1	Monday
Ending in 2 or 3	Tuesday
Ending in 4 or 5	Wednesday
Ending in 6 or 7	Thursday
Ending in 8 or 9	Friday
Rights-of-way, common areas and other “no address” locations	Friday

Allowable watering hours are before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

Landscape Watering

Handwatering and microirrigation of flower beds, shrubs and other plants (other than lawns) can be done on any day, if needed, but is limited to allowable watering hours.

New Lawns & Plants

New lawns and plants have a 60-day establishment period. On days 1-30, they may be watered any day of the week. During days 31-60, they may be watered three days a week. Even-numbered addresses may water on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Odd-numbered addresses may be watered on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Rights-of-way and other “no address” locations may be watered on Sunday, Tuesday and Friday.
Except on the day of installation or when sprigs are being grown, establishment watering must be done during allowable watering hours.
Be able to supply proof of installation date upon request.

Fountains

Fountains and other aesthetic water features may only operate four hours per day. The regular hours of operation can be selected by the owner, but must be posted.

Vehicle Washing

Car washing is limited to once per week on the designated watering day for the location.
Fundraising car washes cannot be scheduled after the effective date of these restrictions.
Commercial car washes, including mobile detailing businesses, may still operate on any day.
Fire engines and other emergency vehicles may still be washed on any day as needed.
Boats can be rinsed and boat engines can be flushed after each use.

Other Water Uses

Restaurants shall only serve water upon request.
Other than athletic play areas, including golf, football, baseball and other athletic fields, all lawn and landscape areas must comply with the once-per-week restrictions.

Deed Restrictions & Community Standards Enforcement

Homeowners associations and other entities must suspend any requirement to replace lawns, pressure wash or engage in other activity that increases water use during this water shortage declaration.

Water Utilities and Other Local Enforcement Agencies

Use automatic meter reading or weekly night patrols to monitor compliance where restriction violations or high-use single family residential accounts are concentrated.
Issue citations without needing to have first issued a warning.

Reclaimed Water

The District is not restricting use of reclaimed water at this time. Please refer to your local utility for specific restrictions.

This is just a summary; for complete information, please refer to the Phase III Water Shortage Order.

If you have any questions about how these restrictions apply to your situation, please call 1-800-848-0499 during normal business hours or send an inquiry to Water.Restrictions@WaterMatters.org any time.

District Launches New Social Media Site

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is now on Pinterest. The social media page, found at Pinterest.com/SWFWMD marks the District’s continued expansion into the growing world of social media.

Pinterest is an information-sharing website designed like a virtual bulletin board. Users can “pin” links to boards, manage themed collections of information and share with others. Pinterest is the third most popular social media site behind Facebook and Twitter. The District’s Pinterest page will launch with eight boards featuring recreation information, one of the most popular areas of the District’s website.

Through the Pinterest page, users can peruse their favorite District lands; gather information on species or save facts about popular recreational activities. Additional boards will continue to be added over time. Other planned boards include topics on water conservation, educational resources and District publications.

The purpose of the District’s Pinterest page is to provide another interactive resource of information for the public and direct people to WaterMatters.org.

“More and more people are using social media to get news and information,” said Michele Sager, who manages the District’s social media sites. “This is the next logical step to serving the public through a platform that delivers timely, interactive information in a user-friendly format.”

Pinterest joins the District’s other fast-growing social media channels:
• Twitter.com/SWFWMD for the District’s latest news.
• Facebook.com/WaterMatters for a collection of District events, hot topics and related information.
• YouTube.com/WaterMattersTV for a collection of District-produced videos.

District to Treat Hydrilla on Rainbow River

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be treating hydrilla on the Rainbow River in Marion County during the week of March 4-7.

District workers will treat scattered infestations on the river from upstream of K.P. Hole Park to the Withlacoochee River.

Workers will apply the aquatic herbicide Aquathol Super K and post informational signs in the treatment areas noting treatment dates and applicable water use restrictions.

There are no restrictions on the use of treated water for swimming, fishing or boating. Treated river water should not be used for drinking or irrigating annual nursery or green house crops including hydroponics and newly seeded or transplanted annual crops, newly seeded or transplanted ornamentals, and newly sodded or seeded turf for seven days following treatment. Water use restrictions do not apply to well or tap water.

For more information, please call the District at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476.

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The mission of the Southwest Florida Water Management District is to manage water and related natural resources to ensure their continued availability while maximizing environmental, economic and recreational benefits.

Governing Board to Meet in Sarasota

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 26, at 10:00 a.m. at the Sarasota Service Office, located at 6750 Fruitville Road. Please note, the 10:00 a.m. start time is an hour later than regularly scheduled 9:00 a.m. meetings.

To view the Governing Board meeting online, visit WaterMatters.org and click on the “Live Video Stream” link. The video stream link becomes active and the live video feed begins approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time.

The meeting agenda and materials are posted one week before the meeting, and can be found online at WaterMatters.org and click on the “Boards, Meetings & Events Calendar” link.

In an effort to encourage participation from local citizens, the Governing Board holds some of its monthly meetings away from District headquarters in Brooksville.

District Welcomes New Public Information Officer

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Susanna Martinez Tarokh has joined the Southwest Florida Water Management District as public information officer.

Martinez Tarokh will serve as the District’s principal representative for the news media and related public stakeholders in the 16-county coverage area, spanning as far north as Levy and Marion counties and south to Charlotte County. She replaces Robyn Felix who is now the District’s Communications manager.

Before joining the District, Martinez Tarokh spent seven years as the director of Media Relations at USF Health. Prior to her role at USF Health, she served as the director of Communications for the City of Tampa. Martinez Tarokh started her career in television, working as a news anchor and reporter, first at WKAG-TV 43 in Hopkinsville, KY and then as one of the first television news reporters on Bay News 9 when the station went on the air in 1997. She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky.

Martinez Tarokh will work from the District’s Tampa Office. She can be reached directly at (813) 985-7481, ext. 2008; by cell at (813) 781-9817 or at Susanna.MartinezTarokh@watermatters.org.

District and Polk County Partner to Offer Free Landscape and Irrigation System Evaluations

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District, Polk County Utilities, and the cities of Lakeland, Winter Haven, Haines City, Auburndale and Polk City are offering city water customers a free landscape and irrigation system evaluation.

The free Landscape and Irrigation Evaluation program provides evaluations for customers so they can learn how to make their landscaping and irrigation systems more efficient.

Water customers who irrigate with reclaimed or drinking water, and who also have an operating in-ground irrigation system with a timer are eligible for the free program.
Eligible participants in the program will receive:

A complete irrigation system evaluation.
Recommendation on how to improve their irrigation system and save water.
Installation of a rain sensor device if one does not exist or is not operating properly.
A conservation kit, which includes automatic shutoff watering nozzle.

The Landscape and Irrigation Evaluation program is funded by the District, Polk County Utilities, and the cities of Lakeland, Winter Haven, Haines City, Auburndale and Polk City.

For more information, call your water utility, go to http://www.polk-county.net/wconserv, call (863) 298-4100 or email JacquelineHollister@polk-county.net.

Pinellas County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Pinellas County students at 12 schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Pinellas County awardees are:

Irene Seybold, Cross Bayou Elementary, was awarded $3,000. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Christoper Cartier, Eisenhower Elementary, was awarded $2,900. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Leigh Loveland, Forest Lakes Elementary, was awarded $2,998. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Jennifer Shuman, Frontier Elementary, was awarded $3,000. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Leslie Pohley, Largo Middle, was awarded $2,810. Students will learn about water-conserving gardening methods while visiting the Largo Botanical Gardens. Students will plant a garden at their school and sample water and soil. Students will also create water-saving messages to educate others at school and in the community.

Natasha Coles, Madeira Beach Fundamental Elementary, was awarded $2,976. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Ted Anderson, New Heights Elementary, was awarded $3,000. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Carla March, Ozona Elementary, was awarded $1,800. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Denise Johnson, Pasadena Fundamental Elementary, was awarded $2,998. On a field trip to Fort De Soto Park, students will learn about water quality while discovering how water drains across a watershed and picks up pollutants before draining into a larger water body such as Tampa Bay.

Donna Blanton, Pinellas Park Elementary, was awarded $2,875. Students will tour Weedon Island Preserve and learn about upland and freshwater habitats and how their actions can affect these habitats and the watershed they live in. Students will design brochures and pledges to educate others on what they learn.

Mistie Meditz, Skyview Elementary, was awarded $2,470. Students will visit Sawgrass Lake to learn about the surrounding habitats and journey of water and pollutants to and from the lake. Students will also visit Tampa Bay Watch to conduct water quality testing and study aquatic plants and animals.

Megan Barnitz, Thurgood Marshall Fundamental Middle, was awarded $2,030. Students will learn how living and nonliving things affect the Tampa Bay watershed. Students will also conduct water quality testing at MOSI and build robotic sensors that move in and out of wetland areas to collect or test water in the MOSI Back Woods.

The goal of the Splash! school grant program is to provide teachers with funding to enhance student knowledge of topics that meet the District’s core mission and teach students about their local watersheds, water conservation, quality and supply. Splash! school grants provide up to $3,000 per school on a reimbursement basis and are available to public school teachers.

Melissa Gulvin, the District’s K-12 education coordinator, said the grant program is important because Splash! Grants provide funding teachers may not otherwise have to create water-resources programs specific to their students.

“For instance, if a school’s campus is near a local water body, students may conduct hands-on water testing and clean-ups while learning how their actions affect the health of that local water body and the surrounding watershed,” she said.

This year, 94 Splash! grants were awarded across the District’s 16-county region to educate students on water resources. Splash! grant projects include student monitoring of local water quality, environmental field studies and school or community outreach campaigns designed to encourage water conservation.

In addition to Splash! grant funding, the District offers free teacher professional development workshops and curriculum materials. The publications are correlated to Florida’s Next Generation Sunshine State Science Standards and the Common Core State Standards and can be ordered on the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/publications.

Pasco County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Pasco County students at six schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Pasco County awardees are:

Donna Hoaque Koljeski, Energy and Marine Center, was awarded $2,700. Students will learn what a watershed is and how humans contribute to pollution entering a watershed. Through literature and hands-on experiments, students will experience visual representations of how wetlands absorb and clean water.

Mary Lou Jordan, Moore-Mickens Education Center, was awarded $2,372. Students will maintain various plants and gardens while learning about water conservation through the use of rain barrels. They will also learn the importance of healthy water quality by using fertilizing practices that do not harm water resources.

Lisa Decker, Quail Hollow Elementary, was awarded $1,798. On a field trip to the Florida Aquarium, students will learn about estuaries, specifically Tampa Bay, the rivers flowing into the bay, and the plants and animals that live there. Students will also test water quality and learn about the water cycle and watersheds in the classroom.

Josh McCart, River Ridge High, was awarded $2,140. Students will track and compare water used in hydroponic gardening to water used in traditional gardening methods. Students will also learn about water quality as they test the water entering and leaving the garden and they will make podcasts to educate other students.

Margaret Higgins, Shady Hills Elementary, was awarded $1,225. On a field trip to the Crystal Springs Preserve, students will learn the importance of the aquifer as a supply of freshwater. Students will also study the aquatic species and water quality of the Hillsborough River.

Natalie Edgeman, Zephyrhills High, was awarded $2,998. Students will visit the Energy and Marine Center and the Crystal Springs Preserve to compare the ecology of an estuary and a spring. Students will also complete water and soil testing.

Hillsborough County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Hillsborough County students at 34 schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Hillsborough County awardees are:

Christine Lindbak, Alonso High, was awarded $2,150. Students will learn about the Hillsborough River watershed and then conduct water quality tests while on a field trip to the Crystal Springs Preserve.

Sonia Coleman, B.T. Washington Elementary, was awarded $1,425. Students will study freshwater species and the aquifer on a field trip to the Crystal Springs Preserve. Students will also track water usage at home and create posters and videos to share with the school.

Carol Mayo, Bailey Elementary, was awarded $3,000. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Daniel Opila, Bellamy Elementary, was awarded $3,000. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Melissa Triebwasser, Doby Elementary, was awarded $1,600. On a field trip to Tampa Bay, students will learn about estuaries and how to preserve the health of the bay. Students will share this knowledge with their school peers and parents.

Kyla DonLevy, Durant High, was awarded $850. Students will study freshwater systems, watersheds and water quality while visiting the Swamp Head River, the Hillsborough River and Crystal Springs.

Rebecca Rouch, Easy Bay High, was awarded $1,360. Students will learn how water is treated and supplied to local residents through field trips to a desalination plant and waste water treatment plant.

Alyssa Mormon, Edison Elementary, was awarded $1,033. Students will learn about freshwater habitats and types of pollution affecting freshwater habitats. Students will create posters and fliers to share with their families, school and community.

Laura Franklin, Foster Elementary, was awarded $1,225. Students will learn about water conservation through the use of rain barrels in the school’s garden. On field trips to the Hillsborough River and Upper Tampa Bay Park, students will study water quality and the difference in fresh and estuarine waters.

Jennifer Fritz, Gaither High, was awarded $1,600. Students will visit Crystal Springs Preserve to test water quality and gather biological samples to study the health of the Hillsborough River and the surrounding watershed.

Carolyn Klein, Giunta Middle, was awarded $1,931. Students will care for plants using water from rain barrels and other water-conserving methods learned in class. Students will create and distribute brochures about their garden conservation efforts.

Sara White, Henderson Hammock Charter, was awarded $754. Students will become “Watershed Warriors” and create a podcast sharing what they learn through classroom activities on the water cycle, watersheds and water quality.

Iris Willis, Hillsborough High, was awarded $2,500. Students will study stormwater runoff by monitoring water quality at the Robles Park retention pond. Students will work with the City of Tampa Beautification Department to design landscaping that filters pollutants before entering the pond. The project will be promoted by hosting community meetings, creating a digital movie and presenting to the school board among other outlets.

Deborah Flock, Jackson Elementary, was awarded $2,999. Students will tour a water treatment facility to learn how wastewater can affect freshwater resources. Students will also study wetland habitats and test water quality on a field trip to Walden Lake. A community awareness campaign will allow students to share what they’ve learned.

Kristy Carew, King High, was awarded $2,250. Students will test water and soil and learn about different animal and plant species while on field trips to Upper Tampa Bay Park and Crystal Springs Preserve.

Michele Smcox, Knights Elementary, was awarded $1,040. Students will take a field trip to Cockroach Bay to test the water quality and dip net for living organisms in the water. They will learn the importance of healthy water and ecosystems.

Jane Kemp, Lawton Chiles Elementary, was awarded $1,699. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm. Students will also maintain a water-conserving garden on the school’s campus and monitor water use in the garden.

Cynthia Doyle, Lincoln Elementary Magnet, was awarded $263. Through water-related books and classroom resources, students will learn water is a limited resource and why it’s important to conserve water. Students will make brochures to share with others.

Ashley Biernacki, Mann Middle, was awarded $2,802. Students will trace water and pollutants from Crystal Springs to Tampa Bay while testing water quality at several field locations. Students will educate others about how human actions on land affect freshwater resources.

LeeAnne Foster, Martinez Middle, was awarded $1,615. Students will learn about water conservation, water quality and watersheds through classroom activities and the use of rain barrels and hydroponic gardening systems. Students will teach fourth-graders from a nearby school about water conservation and watersheds.

Elaine Gibbs, Middleton High, was awarded $1,800. Students will study the various habitats at Crystal Springs Preserve and test water samples from each. Students will also perform an investigation of the Hillsborough River and tour a sewage treatment plant about a treatment plant’s role in water conservation.

Deborah Seto, Orange Grove Middle Magnet, was awarded $2,670. Students will test water and soil at Crystal Springs Preserve and compare it to data collected in retention and detention ponds in east Tampa. Through their comparison, students will learn about the health of the Hillsborough River.

Deetra McAlmont, Potter Elementary, was awarded $3,000. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Jennell Graham, Pride Elementary, was awarded $2,800. Students will learn about the water cycle and how it relates to weather patterns. They will track rain fall and learn about the importance of rain as a source of fresh water. Students will also learn about estuarine habitats while on a field trip at Tampa Bay Watch.

Georgianna Trowbridge, Riverview High School, was awarded $2,512. Students will test water quality and explore aquatic species at Crystal Springs Preserve. Students will complete a study to see how soil, vegetation and wildlife may be affected by their proximity to the Hillsborough River.

Gladys Jackson, Robles Elementary, was awarded $240. Through classroom activities, students will learn about the importance of water and conserving it. As a class, students will create a book about what they learn. The book will be published and shared with other classes and the student’s families.

Cindy Wilkinson, Seminole Elementary, was awarded $3,000. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Amy Stockard, Springhead Elementary, was awarded $1,170. Students will learn ways to minimize the negative effects of landscaping and agriculture on Florida’s water supply and water quality. Students will compare water saved through hydroponic versus traditional gardening methods.

Andria Keene, Strawberry Crest High, was awarded $1,634. Students will visit the Florida Aquarium and learn about rivers and estuaries while identifying aquatic species and testing water. Students will also participate in a community service-learning project to establish oyster bars with Tampa Bay Watch.

Christine Saettone, Tampa Bay Boulevard Elementary, was awarded $3,000. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Julie Sackles, Tampa Bay Technical High, was awarded $1,300. Students will learn about the Hillsborough River and its watershed on a field trip to Crystal Springs Preserve where students will test water samples and collect specimen. They will also remove invasive plants on the river as part of a community service project.

Michele Paschal, Tampa Palms Elementary, was awarded $2,984. Students will learn about the water cycle and water conservation and use water collected in rain barrels to supply the school’s garden. Students will share this information on the school’s morning news show and create a newsletter for the community.

Meichelle Long, Terrace Community Middle, was awarded $2,400. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Emily Petrilli, Tomlin Middle, was awarded $1,384. Students will visit Crystal Springs Preserve to test water quality and explore aquatic species. Students will also perform an invasive species clean-up along the Hillsborough River and educate others through the school’s website and morning show.

Levy County School Awarded Grant for Water Resources Education Project

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Students at Cedar Key School in Levy County will learn about water quality thanks to a Splash! school grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Melissa Gulvin, the District’s K–12 education coordinator, said the grant program is important because these funds are often the deciding factor in whether students learn firsthand about local water resources or not.

“For instance, if a school’s campus is near a local water body, students may conduct hands-on water testing and cleanups while learning how their actions affect the health of that local water body and the surrounding watershed,” she said.

Teacher Raymond Powers of Cedar Key School was awarded $1,341. Students will travel to selected sites along the Suwannee and the Waccasassa Rivers to conduct water quality testing and learn about the plants and animals at each site. Students will learn how human actions affect water quality and industries such as the local clamming industry in their town.

This year, 94 Splash! grants were awarded across the District’s 16-county region to educate students on water resources. Past Splash! grant projects include student monitoring of local water quality, environmental field studies and school or community outreach campaigns designed to encourage water conservation.

Hernando County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Hernando County students at two schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Hernando County awardees are:

David Peitzman, Gulf Coast Academy of Science, was awarded $1,520. Students will visit several river and spring locations to test water quality and learn about human impacts to Florida’s diverse freshwater ecosystems. Students also will learn the importance of preserving these ecosystems for future water supply and about watersheds, natural filtration processes and karst topography.

Rob Berger, Central High, was awarded $1,480. Students will visit Springs Coast Environmental Education Center, Bayport Park and Jenkins Creek Park to test water quality and survey the plant and animal species at each location. Students will learn how water quality and habitats change from a spring to an estuary and how humans affect some of these changes.

Citrus County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Citrus County students at two schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Citrus County awardees are:

Marla Gangler, Hernando Elementary, was awarded $1,141. Students will study the effects of pollution on the aquifer by collecting and analyzing water samples.

Zachary Leonard, Citrus Springs Middle, was awarded $1,400. Students will study the limiting factors for fresh water estuaries by creating and maintaining a classroom model.

Marion County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Marion County students at two schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Marion County awardees are:

Thomas Allison, Dunnellon Middle, was awarded $2,390. Students will visit the Withlacoochee and Rainbow rivers to test water quality. Students will learn how human actions affect the flora and fauna on the rivers. Students will participate in a public service project to educate their school and community members about protecting their local rivers.

Michelle Whipple, Hammett L. Bowen Jr. Elementary, was awarded $2,081. Students will learn how drinking water gets to the tap and how to conserve water while tracking their family’s water usage at home. Students will also set-up hydroponics systems and compare water use to that of traditional gardening.

Sumter County School Awarded Grant for Water Resources Education Project

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Students at Sumter Alternative School will learn about freshwater habitats in Florida thanks to a Splash! school grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Teacher Jerry Lipham, Sumter Alternative School, was awarded $498. Students will learn about the freshwater habitats in Florida while on a field trip to Richloam Fish Hatchery. Students will test water samples at the hatchery and compare them to samples tested on another field trip to the Sumter Environmental Education Center.

Polk County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Polk County students at 11 schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Polk County awardees are:

Herbert Maysonet, Auburndale High, was awarded $2,930. Students will learn to collect and test water samples from local ponds. They will explore various pollutants and learn how water is treated to eliminate these pollutants before human use.

Jessica Fredricks, Bethune Academy, was awarded $2,860. Students will learn about aquifers and the importance of protecting and conserving our water supply. They will visit Engstrom Lake to perform water quality tests and collect aquatic species to examine. Students will also create a school-wide water conservation campaign.

Natalie Holland, Chain of Lakes Elementary, was awarded $1,602. Students will learn the importance of protecting and conserving freshwater through various classroom activities. Students will read an assortment of water-related books and prepare skits to perform for the school. Students will also share conservation tips with their families.

Melanie Tucker, Daniel Jenkins Academy, was awarded $1,915. Students will learn the connection between land and water and how human actions affect water quality. They will determine the health of local water bodies through water testing and implement a plan to reduce stormwater runoff from the school’s campus.

Phyllis Harris, Fort Meade Middle, was awarded $2,000. While exploring various habitats at Crystal Springs Preserve, students will collect and test water samples. Students will also investigate species living in the Hillsborough River.

Angela Munoz, Lakeland High, was awarded $2,000. Students will visit Crystal Springs Preserve and Lake Hollingsworth to test water quality and compare a lake to a spring. Students will learn how pollution affects water quality and the surrounding ecosystems and will then educate others through presentations, signs and brochures.

Melissa Kelly, Polk Avenue Elementary, was awarded $2,990. Students will attend hands-on field trips to learn about freshwater resources and habitats. Through these trips students will learn the importance of protecting water resources and local watersheds.

Debra Porter, Southwest Middle, was awarded $1,333. Students will participate in two field days at Circle B Bar Reserve learning about the Peace River watershed, food chains, water quality, land management techniques and invasive species, and habitat restoration. Students will also visit Lake Beulah and compare the water quality and species found with that of Circle B.

Karen Horsting, Southwest Middle, was awarded $851. Students will learn about karst topography and groundwater on a field trip to Gator Sink. At Lake Hunter, students will learn about native and non-native flora and fauna and aquatic species. Students will also visit a reclaimed water facility to learn how water is purified and reused.

Tracy Fender, Tenoroc Senior High, was awarded $1,820. Students will visit Crystal Springs Preserve to learn about springs and their connection to the aquifer. Students will test water quality and gather biological samples to study the health of the Hillsborough River and the surrounding watershed.

Dawn Coatney, Westwood Middle, was awarded $2,537. Students will plant a hydroponic garden and document water usage. They will compare water used in the hydroponic garden to traditional gardening methods and begin to understand why water conservation is important.

Mary St. Denis, Winter Haven High, was awarded $1,998. Students will test water quality and collect aquatic species at their school’s campus, Lake Otis in Winter Haven and Crystal Springs Preserve. Students will learn how humans impact the health of water and the surrounding habitats.

Highlands County School Awarded Grant for Water Resources Education Project

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Students at The Kindergarten Learning Center in Highlands County will study water use and water conservation thanks to a Splash! school grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Teacher Elena Wirick-Velez at The Kindergarten Learning Center, was awarded $1,560. Through classroom activities and a field trip to Highlands Hammock, students will learn how the water cycle, weather and freshwater resources are connected. Students will survey the families of other schoolmates about water use and promote water conservation.

Sarasota County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Sarasota County students at eight schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Sarasota County awardees are:

Celestine Campbell, Emma E. Booker Elementary, was awarded $1,070. On a field trip to Emerson Point Preserve, students will learn about the habitats and wildlife adaptations of an estuary. They will also learn what a watershed is and the importance of protecting it.

Kelly Griffith, Gocio Elementary, was awarded $104. Students will learn about the water cycle, watersheds and human impact on water resources through use of the watershed model, water-related books and other classroom resources. Students will create announcements for the morning news show and design posters to educate other students about water conservation.

Mary Compton, Gulf Gate Elementary, was awarded $520. Students will complete classroom activities to learn about watersheds and water quality. They will learn more about these topics on a field trip to Oscar Scherer State Park where students will test water quality and analyze aquatic animal samples.

Marilyn Schwartz, Gulf Gate Elementary, was awarded $1,755. Students will explore the different species interacting within the ecosystems at Oscar Scherer State Park. Students will learn the importance of these ecosystems to the health of water bodies and freshwater resources and will create projects to educate other students in the school.

Kevin Feaster, Lakeview Elementary, was awarded $1,755. Students will learn how habitat restoration is important to water-resources management while on a field trip to Oscar Scherer State Park. Students will learn about animal species, most specifically the scrub jay, and learn to identify native versus non-native plants.

Barbara Stella, Laurel Nokomis School, was awarded $1,064. On a field trip to Bay Preserve, students will learn what a watershed is and the importance of protecting it. Students will learn to test water quality and research practices in urban landscaping and development that may reduce human impacts to local watersheds and water quality.

Lauren Watson, Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences, was awarded $1,980. Students will learn to test water quality and soils and conduct tests on field trips to Mote Marine Laboratory, Myakka River State Park and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Students will also learn about estuaries, mangrove habitats and wetlands, and they will create posters and brochures to educate others.

Nina Henderson, Suncoast Polytechnical High, was awarded $2,999. On a field trip to Myakka River State Park, students will learn about their local watershed and the upland and wetland habitats within it. Students will discuss pollutants found during water quality testing and learn about the food web and native versus invasive species.

Jennafer Slanger, Toledo Blade Elementary, was awarded $2,960. On a field trip to Mote Marine Laboratory, students will learn about the importance of estuaries and identify plants and animals that live in their local estuary, Sarasota Bay. Students will also learn about the water cycle and promote water conservation around their school.

Manatee County Teachers Awarded Grants for Water Resources Education Projects

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

**Manatee County students at 11 schools will study the issues surrounding our freshwater resources thanks to Splash! school grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Manatee County awardees are:

Reinhardt Badow, Bayshore High, was awarded $1,986. Students will learn about native versus invasive plants as they design, install and maintain native vegetation on the school’s campus and wetland area. Students also will focus on the reduced water needs of native plants.

Elizabeth Applegate, Blanche H. Daughtrey Elementary, was awarded $3,000. On a field trip to Coquina Beach, students will investigate the animals and plants in an estuary. They will test water quality and use dip nets to investigate living organisms.

Tracy Bohlmann, Carlos E. Haile Middle, was awarded $1,970. On a field trip to Coquina Beach, students will investigate the animals and plants in an estuary. They will test water quality and use dip nets to investigate living organisms.

Maurice Baxter, Central High, was awarded $2,052. On a field trip to Emerson Point Preserve, students will learn the importance of protecting water resources and watersheds, how human actions affect water and how to conduct water quality tests. Students will use what they learn to test and monitor water at a local site.

Shiela Milan, G. D. Rogers Garden Elementary, was awarded $2,634. Students will compare the water quality and ecosystems of a local pond to that of an estuary on a field trip to Emerson Point Preserve. They will learn how human actions affect these ecosystems and the surrounding watershed.

Rebecca Lentz, Manatee School for the Arts, was awarded $3,000. On a field trip to Coquina Beach, students will investigate the animals and plants in an estuary. They will test water quality and use dip nets to investigate living organisms.

Alyson Colosia, Palmetto Elementary, was awarded $800. Students will participate in activities centered on the water cycle, water pollution and aquifer recharge while on a field trip to Sweetwater Organic Farm.

Amy Ross Bradl, Robert E. Willis Elementary, was awarded $2,839. Students will learn about the water cycle, water quality and water conservation through a series of classroom activities. Activities include creating water filters and sediment tubes, building terrariums, recording water usage, making water cycle bracelets and testing water.

Stephanie Jenkins, Samoset Elementary, was awarded $990. On a field trip to Emerson Point Preserve, students will learn to identify animals and plants in an estuary and learn the importance of an estuary and its connection to watershed.

Cindy Richardson, Stewart Elementary, was awarded $1,000. On a field trip to Emerson Point Preserve, students will learn about the habitats and wildlife adaptations of an estuary. They will also learn what a watershed is and the importance of protecting it.

Andrea Distelhurst, WD Sugg Middle, was awarded $728. Students will learn how habitat restoration is important to water resources management while on a field trip to Rye Wilderness Preserve.

Charlotte County School Awarded Grant for Water Resources Education Project

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Peace River Elementary students in Charlotte County will study how rain barrels save water thanks to a Splash! school grant from the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Teacher Karen Roy at Peace River Elementary was awarded $1,850. Students will measure the amount of water saved from the use of rain barrels.

District to Treat Water Lettuce on Rainbow River

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be treating water lettuce on the Rainbow River in Marion County during the week of Jan 28-30.

District workers will treat scattered infestations on the river from Rainbow Springs State Park to the Withlacoochee River.

Workers will apply the aquatic herbicide Tribune and post informational signs in the treatment areas noting treatment dates and applicable water use restrictions.

There are no restrictions on the use of treated water for swimming, fishing or boating. Treated river water should not be used for drinking or irrigating turf or ornamental plants for one day following treatment. Treated river water should not be used to irrigate food crops for five days following treatment. Water use restrictions do not apply to well or tap water.

Water-lettuce populations often form large expanses of dense, impenetrable floating mats limiting boat traffic, recreation, flood control, and wildlife use. These dense canopies at the water surface shade out native submersed plant species and can uproot native emergent plants that are important to wildlife. Water-lettuce populations produce ideal breeding environments for mosquitoes.

The management of water lettuce on the Rainbow River is a cooperative effort between the District, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

For more information, please call the District at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476.

Governing Board to Meet in Tampa

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 29, at 9 a.m. at the Tampa Service Office, 7601 US 301.

The Governing Board holds some of its monthly meetings away from District headquarters in Brooksville to encourage participation from local citizens.

To view the meeting agenda, visit WaterMatters.org and click on the “Boards, Meetings & Events Calendar” link. The agenda and meeting materials are posted one week before the meeting. To view the Governing Board meeting online, visit WaterMatters.org and click on the “Live Video Stream” link. The video stream link becomes active and the live video feed begins approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time.

District Welcomes New Government Affairs Program Manager

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Tara Poulton has joined the Southwest Florida Water Management District as a Government Affairs program manager.

Poulton will serve as a liaison between the District and the constituents of Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. She will work closely with county governments, municipalities and utilities staff.

Prior to joining the District, Poulton was the communications manager at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, a department of Manatee County Government. She also spent several years at the United Way of Manatee County. Poulton started her career in television working as a news producer and reporter in the local market. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida.

Poulton will work from the District’s Sarasota Service Office on Fruitville Road. She can be reached at (941) 377-3722, ext. 6530 or Tara.Poulton@WaterMatters.org.

District’s Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve Hosts Night Hog Hunts Jan. 22-24

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve will be the site of wild hog hunts at night Jan. 22-24.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property at night during these dates. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve is located east of Interstate 75 and north of US 301 near the New Tampa area.

This activity is one of a series of wild hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

Wild hogs live throughout Florida in various habitats, but prefer moist forests and swamps, as well as pine flatwoods. They are omnivorous and feed by rooting with their broad snouts, which can cause extensive damage to the natural habitats. In fact, they can leave an area looking like a plowed field.

Wild hogs are not native to Florida and are believed to have been introduced by explorer Hernando DeSoto as early as 1539. They can weigh more than 300 pounds and travel in herds of several females and their offspring.

For more information, please call the Land Management Section at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.

District Asks Homeowners to "Skip A Week" of Irrigation This Winter

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

Overwatering in winter can encourage pests and disease

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is reminding residents who irrigate their lawns to “Skip a Week” or more of watering during the cooler months of December, January and February.

According to research by the University of Florida, grass doesn’t need to be watered as often during the cooler months. One-half to three-quarters of an inch of water every 10–14 days is sufficient. In fact, if your lawn has received any significant rainfall, then you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed.

“Overwatering can encourage pests and disease in your lawn,” said Robin Grantham, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ project manager. “Too much irrigation can also make lawns less able to survive droughts.” Skipping a week of watering is as easy as “off” for residents with irrigation timers. “Turn the timer to ‘off’ for the week that you want to skip, and ‘on’ for the week that you want to water,” said Grantham.

You can determine when your grass needs water when:

Grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on at least one-third of your yard.
Grass blades appear blue-gray.
Grass blades do not spring back, leaving footprints on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it.

Watering only every other week at most during the winter will help conserve drinking water supplies that the public needs for critical uses during the dry season. In fact, if everyone skipped one week of irrigation this season, it could save an estimated 1.9 billion gallons of water.

For additional information about water restrictions and water conservation, please contact your local utility or visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/SkipAWeek.

District’s Starkey Wilderness Preserve Closed Early for Hog Hunts Jan. 8-10

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Starkey Wilderness Preserve will be closing early to the public for wild hog hunts at night Jan. 8-10.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the Starkey Wilderness Preserve during these hunts. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

The Starkey Wilderness Preserve is located at 10500 Wilderness Park Boulevard in New Port Richey in Pasco.

This activity is one of a series of wild hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

For more information, please call the Land Management Section at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.

Governing Board to Meet in Tampa

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 9 a.m. at the Tampa Service Office, 7601 US 301.

The Governing Board holds some of its monthly meetings away from District headquarters to encourage participation from local citizens.

District to Conduct Work Near the Flatwoods Park Trail

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be removing vegetation near a portion of the Flatwoods Park Trail starting Dec. 11.

The work, which involves some tree removal, is required to put the Lower Hillsborough Levee in compliance with requirements of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Failure to meet the requirements would mean a loss of possible federal funding in an emergency.

Vegetation management is necessary because root systems can compromise the integrity of the levee. The levee is designed to hold back water when levels reach flood stage.

The work will be conducted near a north-south portion of the paved trail at Flatwoods Park from the Bruce B. Downs entrance to the point the trail turns east. The recreation trail will remain open but visitors are asked to exercise caution when near the work area.

A District staff member will be on hand to provide information to visitors during the work, which is expected to last about one month. For more information, call 800-423-1476, ext. 4222.

District’s Flying Eagle Nature Center Closed for Hog Hunts Dec. 14-16

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Flying Eagle Nature Center will be temporarily closed to the public for wild hog hunts Dec. 14-16.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property during these dates. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

The Flying Eagle Nature Center is located at 12650 East Boy Scout Road, Inverness.

This activity is one of a series of wild hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

For more information, please call the Land Resources Department at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.

Public Invited to Open House to Help Develop Polk County Flood Insurance Maps

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is gathering input to better identify flooding risks in the Peace Creek watershed.

The District is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on its national effort to update and modernize the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). As part of the effort, updates are being made to the floodplain information for the Peace Creek watershed.

The District is holding an open house in Polk County to present preliminary model results and explain the basis behind the findings. This information will be used to identify areas of flood risk and update FIRMs.

Open houses for residents living in the Peace Creek watershed will be held Dec. 11 and 12, at the Bartow Service Office. The office is located at 170 Century Boulevard, Bartow. District representatives will be available to meet with residents between 4 and 6:30 p.m.

Residents that may be affected by changes in flood risk have received letters advising them of the need to contact the District and attend the open house.

During the meeting, preliminary models and floodplain information will be presented to the public for review and comment. After addressing the comments, floodplain information will be finalized and presented to the District’s Governing Board for permission to develop the preliminary FIRMs for submittal to FEMA.

Upon receipt of the preliminary FIRMs, FEMA will begin its FIRM adoption process, which includes:

• A technical review by FEMA
• Review by Polk County
• Public input
• A 90-day appeals period
• Issuance of a letter of final determination that informs Polk County and the public of the date when the FIRMs will be considered effective

The floodplain information will be used by the county for land use and zoning decisions, to help manage development in and around floodplains and wetlands, to reduce flood risks, to preserve land and water resources, and for emergency planning. It also will provide valuable information to the public for decisions about purchasing and protecting property.

For more information or to find out which watershed you live in, please visit WaterMatters.org/FloodRisk/. You can also call the District at (352) 796-7211, ext. 4297.

District’s Green Swamp – Hampton Tract Closed for Hog Hunts Dec. 4-6

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Green Swamp – Hampton Tract will be temporarily closed to the public for wild hog hunts Dec. 4-6.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property during these dates. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

The area is located at 18490 Rock Ridge Road in Polk County, north of Lakeland and east of Zephyrhills.

This activity is one of a series of wild hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

For more information, please call the Land Management Section at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.

Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve Closed for Hog Hunts Dec. 4-6

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve will be temporarily closed to the public for wild hog hunts Dec. 4-6.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property during these dates. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve is approximately six miles east of Dunnellon, south of the Dunnellon Municipal Airport. Public access is located off County Road 484.

This activity is one of a series of wild hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

For more information, please call the Land Resources Department at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.

Governing Board to Meet in Haines City

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 9 a.m. at the Lake Eva Banquet Hall, 799 Johns Avenue, Haines City.

The Governing Board holds some of its monthly meetings away from District headquarters to encourage participation from local citizens.

Water-Saving Tips Make Holidays Bright

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

With the arrival of the holiday season, the Southwest Florida Water Management District has many gift and decorating ideas that can save and protect water resources and create new holiday traditions.

Here are some gift ideas:

Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water and an inexpensive gift when you pick one up at a local extension office.

Compost bins provide nutrients for a garden and keep food scraps out of the garbage disposal. A garbage disposal uses up to 4 gallons of water per minute.

Raised garden beds make great gifts for gardeners and they control water use and reduce the need for pesticides, which means less runoff into water resources.

Gift certificates are available at most local extension offices for free or inexpensive classes to make rain barrels, compost bins and other items.

Give plants that are water efficient and require little maintenance in Florida landscapes. Give an entire plant or just a seedling planted in a biodegradable eggshell or toilet paper roll.

Be water-wise also when selecting holiday decorations. Here are some suggestions:

Add some color to your holiday decorating with red salvia splendens. The plant requires little maintenance once placed in your garden after the holidays.

Use items found around your yard and home to decorate. Palm fronds, magnolia leaves, pinecones and citrus fruit make great ingredients for centerpieces.

Rosemary is easy to grow and makes a nice choice for holiday greenery and fills the home with a sweet fragrance.

And for year-round Florida-friendly tips, visit WaterMatters.org/Yards.

District’s Deep Creek Preserve Closed for Hog Hunts Nov. 27-29

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Deep Creek Preserve will be closing early to the public for hog hunts Nov. 27-29.

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on the property during these dates. All of the permits for these hunts have been sold.

The Deep Creek Preserve is located at 10797 SW Peace River Street in Arcadia.

The hunt is one of a series of hog hunts being held on District lands in an effort to control the damage being caused to the natural habitats.

The District only allows hogs to be controlled through hunts when the damage they cause exceeds unacceptable levels, and damage is occurring more frequently and with increasing severity.

For more information, please call the Land Management Section at the District’s Brooksville Headquarters at 1-800-423-1476 or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4467.