Florida’s freshwater supplies can’t keep up with population growth

The Sunshine State could be facing a significant water shortage as early as next year, according to a report from the Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research.

According to the EDR report which was published in June – to maintain the status quo, Florida would need to invest almost $1.7 billion into critical infrastructure projects through 2040, to avoid a significant water supply shortage.

The report notes that EDR examined projects that implemented recovery and prevention strategies for minimum flows and water levels of water bodies and aquifers and projects that benefit natural systems.

EDR found that the expenditures for these projects — which exclude Everglades conservation and restoration costs — are estimated to be around $1.58 billion, with a state share of $234.77 million. According to the report, addressing supply shortages and natural systems would need an investment of $3.27 billion between 2020 and 2040, with a state share of $561 million.

Florida TaxWatch released commentary on EDR’s report, stating Florida is “disjointed and inconsistent” with its selection process for funding water projects. The commentary also points out the 281 water-related member projects identified as budget “turkeys” which totaled $410.3 million in the fiscal year 2024-25 General Appropriations Act.

Dozens rally in support of Florida freshwater springs

Dozens of people concerned about the health of Florida springs gathered for a rally Thursday ahead of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s public workshop on a new draft rule to better protect those freshwater springs, which flow from the Floridan Aquifer, a primary source of drinking water for the state.

In Northeast Florida and in Central Florida, where Thursday’s rally was held, more than 90% of people get their water from the aquifer, according to the St. Johns River Water Management District.

But many of Florida’s springs are in trouble, polluted by high concentrations of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. That’s why FDEP in 2018 adopted Basin Management Restoration Plans, or BMAPs, to guide efforts to restore water quality in the 24 springs deemed to be “impaired” by such nutrients.

But many springs aren’t on track to meet the water quality targets laid out in those BMAPs, according to data in FDEP’s statewide annual report. And that’s partly because of water quantity: if there isn’t enough water flowing through those springs, higher concentrations of pollutants can develop, according to Florida Springs Council Executive Director Ryan Smart.

“The common denominator is flow,” Smart said, explaining the inherent connection between water quality and water quantity. “Better flow equals less pollution.”

Hickory Point boat ramps reopen, west boat ramps to close for phase two

Maintenance work at Burrell and Apopka locks may cause delays

As Florida faces water shortage, watchdog group urges state to use a more long-term planning process

To avoid a projected water shortage that state data indicates could start as soon as next year, Florida must adopt a more coordinated, comprehensive system for vetting, choosing and managing water projects, per a new Florida TaxWatch report.

The new report doubles down on the government watchdog group’s ongoing plea for the state to use a longer-term planning process for projects meant to improve water quality and supply. Right now, Florida’s way of approving such projects is largely “catch-as-can,” lacking consistency and accountability, according to Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro.

“Yeah, you get the project funded, but really, does it make a difference? Does it really have the intended impact?” Calabro said. “Can you hold the organization or the entity that gets the $5-$6 million accountable, for getting the job done on time, within budget?”

It’s difficult to impossible to answer such questions without having an objective, standardized plan of work to refer back to, Calabro said.

“You can't do that if you just go: ‘Hey, I got a good project here. Hey, I got a good project there. Hey, I've got a powerful legislator who's chairing this committee now, and may not be next year,’” Calabro said. “The easy way out is generally not the best way out.”

Renovated boat ramps at Hickory Point Recreation Complex reopened

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive temporarily closed due to localized flooding

Volunteers needed for Harris Chain of Lakes Waterway Cleanup on Sept. 21st

Volunteers on boats are needed to remove litter from the Harris Chain of lakes. There is limited availability for free Kayak or canoe rentals for this event; contact Mary Koch at 352-253-4950 to make a reservation. Litter can be dropped off at any of the three designated locations.

This event is sponsored by Keep Lake Beautiful and will take place on Sept. 21st from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Volunteers on foot are also needed to cleanup around the boat ramps and shorelines. KLB and partners will provide safety vests, trash bags, and gloves to those helping to clean the community.

Volunteers must be 18 years or older or be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to wear proper attire as well as sunscreen and insect repellent. Volunteer hours will be given to those who need them.

Please register online, and let Keep Lake Beautiful know your choice of starting location:

• Wooton Park West Boat Ramp, 400 S. Sinclair Ave., Tavares
• Tavares Recreation Park, 2030 W. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares
• Aesop's Park, 501 E. Caroline St., Tavares

SJRWMD accepting applications for Blue School grants through Sept. 30