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About the District

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1. What is the Suwannee River Water Management District?

The Suwannee River Water Management District is one of five water management districts established by the Florida Legislature by the enactment of Chapter 373, the "Florida Water Resources Act of 1972." The District provides services to a 15 county area in north central Florida.

2. I live in the Gainesville-Alachua County area. How do I know what water management district I live in?

If you are a property owner, your tax bill will indicate which district you live in. You can also do a search through the Florida Water Management Districts Permitting Portal.

3. Part of my property taxes goes to the water management district. What do I get in return?

The District provides services in the areas of water supply, water quality, flood control, and natural systems as prescribed by Chapter 373, Florida Statutes. Further details are available in the District’s strategic plan and work plan and budget.

4. Why do I have to pay taxes to the District if I have my own well?

The ground waters of the State of Florida are considered the property of all the state and therefore not owned by individual land owners. The ad valorem taxes that are levied by the District are not charges for the use of water, which is a state resource, but are charges to support the ongoing management activities of the District.

5. How does the District calculate my property taxes?

The District provides a millage rate to the tax collector. The tax collector applies the millage to your property value, which is established by the property appraiser.

6. Why have my District taxes gone up from last year?

The taxes paid to the Suwannee River Water Management District are calculated on the basis of the millage rate established by the District and the property valuation established by your county Property Appraiser. The District has not increased its millage since 1994.

7. Who do the water management districts report to?

For all practical purposes, staff reports to the relevant District governing board and the governing boards report to the Governor. Additionally, Chapter 373, Florida Statutes, gives the Florida Department of Environmental Protection(DEP) "general supervisory authority" over the state's five water management districts and directs DEP to delegate water resources programs to them where possible.

8. How is the Suwannee River Water Management District governed?

The District is governed by a nine member Governing Board, which is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Governing Board members are volunteers and serve without compensation. The Governing Board employs an executive director, legal counsel, and an independent auditor. The Executive Director employs staff to carry out District responsibilities.

9. What does the Suwannee River Water Management District do?

Chapter 373, Florida Statutes, instructs the District to provide for the management of water and land-related resources. Management activities are focused on water supply, water quality, flood protection and natural systems. The District in turn adopts budgets, rules, policies, programs, projects, and activities in order to carry out the above legislative mandates.

10. Where can I find information about the Suwannee River Partnership?

The Suwannee River Partnership was formed in 1999 as a coalition of state, federal and regional agencies, local governments, and private industry representatives working together to reduce nitrate levels in surface waters and groundwater.

11. Does the Suwannee River Partnership offer any cost share funding for farmers?

Yes, the Suwannee River Partnership administers several cost share programs available for farmers. Please contact the District at 386.362.1001 for details.

12. How do I do business with the District?

Bids & Contracts

13. How do I apply for a job at the District?

Jobs

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District Lands

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1. Why are there locked gates on District lands?

With the exception of a few areas used for local utilities, all of the District’s 160,000 acres are available for non-motorized use. Certain roads are closed to vehicles due to concerns over safety, sensitive natural features, vandalism, trash dumping, or the cost of upkeep. Often, a special use authorization can be obtained for vehicle access to particular areas by calling the District at 386.362.1001 or 800.226.1066 (Florida only) or by emailing recreation@srwmd.org.

2. How do I offer land to the District for purchase?

To offer property to the District, you need to submit a completed Property Offer Form to the Director of Land Acquisition and Management. Land acquisition coordinators will work with you to obtain any other information needed.

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General

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1. I need to have my water turned on. Who do I call?

Your local utility company. The District is not a water utility company.

2. Where can I get my drinking water tested?

Please contact your local Department of Health for information on water testing.

3. I saw someone dumping what appeared to be oil or chemicals into the river. Who should I call to report it?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection at 386.362.0417 or 904.807.3300.

4. Someone dumped garbage and broken glass along the river shoreline. Who can I call to have it removed?

Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and/or the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

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Minimum Flows and Levels

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1. What are minimum flows and levels (MFLs) and how will setting them benefit natural resources?

Setting MFLs is part of the District’s planning for adequate water supplies while also protecting water resources from significant harm resulting from permitted water withdrawals. For more information see the MFL Fact Sheet.

2. What is the schedule for establishing minimum flows and levels (MFLs)?

The District is required to provide an MFL priority list and establishment schedule to the Department of Environmental Protection annually. See the list for the current year.

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Nitrate Information

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1. What is nitrate?

Nitrate-nitrogen (nitrate) is a nutrient required by aquatic flora for growth and reproduction. However, when high concentrations of nitrates make their way into groundwater and surface waters, problems often arise.

2. What are the effects of nitrate on health and the environment?

High nitrate concentrations may create an imbalance in a natural surface water system, causing excessive growth of algae and other vegetation. In shallow areas an overabundance of algae blocks the light needed by underwater vegetation. Algae take up dissolved oxygen as they die and decompose. The resulting lack of oxygen affects fish, shellfish, and aquatic invertebrates.

High nitrate levels can create health concerns, too. Concentrations that exceed the federal drinking water standard (10 milligrams of Nitrate as Nitrogen per liter of water) can result in methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby" syndrome.

More Information

• For information about health risks related to nitrates, please visit the Florida Department of Health website.
• For information about nitrate levels within the District, use our interactive water quality data map.

3. Where do nitrates come from?

Sources of nitrates in groundwater and surface waters are:

• Animal waste
• Atmospheric deposition
• Fertilizers
• Septic tanks

4. Are Nitrates a problem in the District?

Elevated nitrate concentrations have been found in groundwater, springs, and rivers in the District, particularly in the Suwannee River Basin. Monitoring and studies are underway to identify trends in nitrates.

Reports and studies are available. Please use our Online Contact Form to request these documents.

5. How is the problem being addressed?

The District is working with other agencies and individuals to monitor and reduce the level of nitrates in our groundwater and surface waters. More information about water quality improvement projects can be found on our Water Quality webpage.

The Suwannee River Partnership was formed in 1999 to coordinate efforts between government agencies, farmers and growers, and local citizens to find solutions to the nitrate problem in the Middle Suwannee basin.

The Department of Health offers a publication titled "Drinking Water: Is Yours Safe?" This brochure addresses the problem of lead, bacteria, nitrates and other contaminants in drinking water. Request copies from your nearest County Health Department office, the main Department of Health office in Tallahassee or download it from the Florida Department of Health website.

For more information on nitrate, see visit our Water Data Portal.

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Permitting

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1. What is a floodway?

A floodway is the channel of a river and a portion of the adjacent flood plain that is reserved to discharge the 100-year (one percent annual chance) flood such that there will be a limited increase in the 100-year flood height. For the regulatory definition of the floodway, please see Rule 40B-4.1020, Florida Administrative Code.

2. Do I need a permit to build a residential structure on the river?

You need a General Works of the District permit to build a residential structure within the floodway of the Suwannee, Santa Fe, Alapaha, Withlacoochee, and Aucilla rivers.

3. What is the building setback from the river?

No construction may take place within 75 feet of the top of the river bank. For a definition of this requirement, please see Rule 40B-4.3030, Florida Administrative Code.

4. Are there restrictions on the amount and type of clearing a homeowner may do on river property?

The District requires permits prior to clearing river property. Local governments may require permits also.

There are three impact zones on river lots:

1. For property located within a floodway and within the first 75 feet adjacent to the normally recognized bank of water, clearing is limited to that necessary to provide reasonable pedestrian access or to remove diseased or dead vegetation.

2. For property located within a floodway but outside of the 75 foot setback, clearing is allowed for the construction of structures, associated water supply, waste water disposal, and private driveway access facilities. Removal of diseased and dead vegetation is also authorized.

3. Property outside of the floodway is regulated by local government. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection requires permits for any wetland clearing in this zone.

5. Do I need a permit to dig a pond?

You need an Environmental Resource Permit to dig a pond. District staff will assist you in locating the pond in an area that will not impact wetlands.

6. What is a wetland?

A wetland is an area that often holds water and contains soils that support water-loving vegetation. For the regulatory definition of wetlands, please see Section 373.019 of the Florida Statutes.

7. Do I need a permit for my commercial building?

You need an Environmental Resource Permit for construction of commercial buildings, parking areas, and roads. Projects with less than a quarter acre of impervious area may qualify for a simple permit (a noticed general permit).

8. Do I need a permit to use water?

You need a permit for any use of water other than household (domestic) use, water for fire fighting, and temporary construction dewatering.

9. Do I need a permit for drilling or digging a well?

You need a permit for well construction. Any well larger than two inches casing diameter must be constructed by a licensed water well contractor. Please contact District staff for a list of licensed contractors.

10. Do I need a permit for construction of a septic tank and drain field system?

The District does not regulate septic tank/drain field systems. Please contact your county health department office for these permits.

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Recreation

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1. Is the Suwannee River deep enough for boating activities?

The depth of the Suwannee River varies a great deal, depending on current rain conditions. The District does not evaluate boating conditions on a daily basis. We do maintain river levels (level above mean sea level). Therefore, contact a local outfitter for specific information about boating conditions.

2. Where can I get a map of the river, springs, and/or launch sites?

The District publishes a boat ramp/canoe launch map and a springs brochure. These publications are available by calling the District at 386.362.1001, 800.226.1066 or via email at recreation@srwmd.org. Printable versions are also available on the recreation pages of our website.

3. Where can I rent a boat, canoe, or kayak?

Local vendors can provide vessel rental as well as transportation and trip information. Information on vendors can be obtained from the local chambers of commerce or by contacting the State of Florida’s Nature and Heritage Tourism Center in White Springs by phone at 386.397.4461.

4. Can I camp along the river?

The District and Florida State Parks have developed camping facilities on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. For more information on these facilities, contact the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at 800.868.9914. Elsewhere, canoe and boat camping are allowed on District lands along the Suwannee and other rivers by special use authorization(SUA). And SUA can be obtained at no charge by calling the District at 386.362.1001, 800.226.1066 or emailing recreation@srwmd.org.

5. Is camping allowed on District lands?

Drive-in camping by individuals is allowed at Goose Pasture in Jefferson County. Group camping in designated areas on District lands, and canoe and boat camping along the rivers on District lands are allowed by special use authorization (SUA). An SUA can be obtained at no charge by calling the District 386.362.1001, 800.226.1066 (Florida only) or via email at recreation@srwmd.org.

6. What is the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail and where can I get information on it?

Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is a system of public and private recreation and visitor facilities focused on paddling the Suwannee River from White Springs to the coastal town of Suwannee. For more information, call 800.868.9914.

7. How can I reserve a space at one of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail cabins or river camps?

These areas are managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Recreation and Parks. Reservations for river camps are made through the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail at 800.868.9914. Reservations for cabins are made through  Reserve America (800.326.3521 or 866 I CAMP FL).

8. Where is the best place to boat on the Suwannee River?

Due to rocks and shoals in the middle and upper Suwannee River, most motor boats stay downriver from Troy Springs in Lafayette County. Because of less boat traffic, paddlers may prefer the upper and middle Suwannee River areas.

9. Is fuel for my boat available on the Suwannee River?

Fuel can be obtained from local marinas in the town of Suwannee; it is a short walk to gas stations from the boat ramps in Fanning Springs (CR 340 at Rock Bluff) and Branford. No fuel is available on the upper reaches of the Suwannee. Fuel is available on the Steinhatchee River in the town of Steinhatchee.

10. Who establishes no-wake zones on the rivers?

The District does not have the authority to establish no-wake zones. Counties may establish them by ordinance; the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may declare no-wake zones during times of flooding.

11. Whom do I call to report boaters who violate no-wake zones?

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 386.758.0525.

12. What are sturgeons, and are they dangerous?

The Gulf sturgeon is a protected species of fish that is found in the Suwannee River and its tributaries. Swimming in the water with them is not dangerous. However, they do jump out of the water and serious injuries to boaters have occurred.

13. If I’m looking for a place to swim, where on District lands can I go?

There are three designated swimming areas on District lands — Falmouth Springs and Suwannee Springs, located in Suwannee County, and the beach at Atsena Otie in Levy County.

14. While on a family outing at a local spring, we witnessed people drinking alcohol and trashing the place. Whom do we report this to and who is responsible for management of local springs?

The land surrounding a spring may be either publicly or privately owned. In most cases, disturbances and littering may be reported to the local sheriff’s office. On District-owned property, you may call 386.362.1001, 800.226.1066 (Florida only) or by emailing recreation@srwmd.org.

15. Are all-terrain vehicles allowed on District lands?

ATVs are allowed on designated roads at Mallory Swamp in Lafayette County. An ATV trail is open on this tract from the weekend after spring turkey season and closes the weekend before the opening of muzzle-loading season (generally from mid-April to early September). For safety and resource protection reasons, ATV use is prohibited elsewhere on District lands.

16. Where is the best place for bike riding? How about horseback riding?

The best bicycling opportunities are on the White Springs, Gar Pond, and Big Shoals tracts and at the Anderson Springs tract on Twin Rivers State Forest. The best horseback riding opportunities are at R.O. Ranch near Mayo and the Mattair Springs tract near Live Oak. More information on Best Recreational Opportunities is available on the District’s website.

17. Does the District lease property for hunting?

The District has 90,000 acres open for public hunting. All hunting on District lands is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission under their Wildlife Management Area program. There are no lease agreements with individuals or hunt clubs.

18. What can I hunt on District properties?

All hunting on District lands is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission under their Wildlife Management Area program. Species hunted vary by wildlife management area (WMA).

19. How can I get a special use authorization?

Call the District at 386.362.1001 or 800.226.1066 (Florida only) or email recreation@srwmd.org. Self-issued SUAs for ATV users are available at the Mallory Swamp parking area; self-issued SUAs for equestrians are available at the R.O. Ranch trailhead.

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River and Lake Levels

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1. Where can I find information on rainfall amounts, groundwater levels, and river levels?

For current conditions, see the rainfall amounts, groundwater levels, real-time river levels, and hydrologic conditions reports pages. For past conditions and analysis, search our Document Center.

2. Where can I get the historic high and low levels for rivers?

See the Historical Extreme High Elevations PDF.

3. What does flood stage mean?

River flood stages are determined by the National Weather Service. A flood stage is the point at which some type of physical or economic hardship starts to take place at a specified location (or station) on the river. It does not necessarily mean that water is over the banks of the river.

4. When will rising water reach my home?

The key to knowing is to know your river. If you’ve never experienced the river at or near flood stage, you may not have all the information you will need to help you guesstimate. For more information, see the "When will rising water reach your home? PDF.

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Surplus Lands Program

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1. Why is the District declaring some lands as surplus and then selling them?

The District declares land as surplus when it’s ownership by the District no longer serves a conservation purpose.  When the District is able to sell surplus lands to private individuals, it also returns that parcel to the tax rolls of the County in which it is located.

2. What happens with the proceeds from the sale of surplus lands

Generally, proceeds from surplus land sales will be used to purchase lands that have water resource value than lands that were sold. Sale of P2000 lands are provided to the state and sale of Florida Forever lands can be used to purchase other lands with greater water resource value or for restoration or water resource development purposes identified in the District’s Florida Forever Annual Work Plan.

3. Is there an amendment to the Florida Constitution that restricts the sale of public conservation lands?

Yes, Article X Section 18, adopted in 1998, provides that lands designated for natural resource conservation purposes may be disposed of only if the members of the governing board of the entity holding title determine the property is no longer needed for conservation purposes and only upon a vote of two-thirds of the governing board. The lands listed for surplus were approved by the District’s Governing Board following the procedure listed above.

4. What criteria are used in identifying surplus lands?

District lands are evaluated for their water resource value for floodplain management and the protection of surface waters, wetlands, springs and aquifer recharge. Parcels that do not have high water resource value are then screened to ensure that their disposition will not compromise future management or public use of other District-owned lands.

5. What about lands that contain archeological sites or habitat for listed species?

The District’s Governing Board may consider factors that are secondary to its mission of protecting water resources and will determine the importance of such factors on a case by case basis.

6. How are land holdings declared surplus?

Once evaluations are complete, staff sends its recommendation to the Governing Board’s Lands Committee to determine which parcels will be forwarded to the Governing Board for consideration. The recommendation may include a provision to retain certain restrictions on the property that is sold to ensure environmental qualities remain preserved. The Governing Board reviews these recommendations and may declare lands surplus in accordance with Florida Statutes.

7. Are surplus lands decisions made in a public meeting?

All discussions and decisions regarding surplus lands take place in open public meetings that are advertised for the purpose of receiving public input.

8. How will the District make the surplus lands available to members of the public that may be interested in buying them?

The District posts surplus land sales on its website, sends notices out via its listserv and/or may list the surplus lands with real estate firms that have been prequalified by the District .  Once the District has determined that the land is not wanted by other Governmental entities and has complied with other statutory requirements, the District may choose to offer the opportunity to purchase to adjacent property owners via certified mail.  Notice of such offering is posted on the District website and also published in the local newspaper.  If that is not successful, then the District will offer the property to the public at large.

9. How much will the District charge for surplus lands?

State statues prohibit the District from selling land for less than appraised value. Therefore, the District requires appraisals on each property.  The Governing Board may also require that the purchasing party assume all costs associated with the purchase, including document preparation and recording fees.  

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Water Conditions

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1. What are the watering restrictions in the Suwannee River Water Management District?

When in effect, mandatory restrictions are posted in the News Flash area on the District’s home page. However, the District encourages all citizens to voluntarily conserve and to eliminate unnecessary water use.

2. Where can I get information on road flooding?

Many access roads become impassable before rivers reach flood stage. Contact your local emergency management coordinator about road flooding.

3. Is foaming in the river caused by pollution?

Foaming generally occurs during periods of high flow or high agitation of water. In most cases foaming is not caused by pollution. “Natural” foaming results from a variety of naturally occurring organic compounds in the water. As wind or currents stir the water foam is produced.

4. Is it likely that an agricultural irrigation well is affecting water levels in my residential well?

In most cases agricultural irrigation wells will have little to no effect on your residential well. Before the District issues a permit for any agricultural irrigation water use an evaluation is made to determine that no harm will be done to other existing and legal water users.

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Water Conservation

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1. How do I know if I have to adhere to the landscape irrigation rule?

If you water your landscape, have a single 4-inch well, and use less than 100,000 gallons per day, you most likely need to adhere to this rule.

2. How often can I water my lawn and landscape?

If it’s during Eastern Standard Time, you can choose one day a week to water, not between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If it’s during Daylight Savings Time, you can choose two days a week to water, not between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

3. What if I want to water more than this allows?

You will need to submit a water use permit application, submit an application fee, and provide the reason that additional watering is necessary. If all of the appropriate criteria for permit issuance are met, a water use permit will be issued.

4. What if I have a new landscape and lawn that needs more watering?

You may water a new lawn and landscape at any time of day for the initial 30 days following installation and every other day for the following 30 days for a total of one 60-day period, using the minimum irrigation necessary for establishment.

5. Do I fall under these rules if I irrigate with reclaimed water?

The rule regulates irrigation obtained from a well, utility, or surfacewater body. Hand watering and irrigation using reclaimed water and rain barrels are exempt.

6. Does the rule apply to irrigation of my vegetable garden at home?

The rule applies to irrigation of lawns and landscapes. Vegetable gardens are exempt.

7. Do the regulations apply to farmers?

No. Farmers are subject to other water conservation rules.

8. Was this rule adopted in response to drought conditions?

No. This is a permanent rule adopted to address current and future water needs and to protect our rivers, springs, and groundwater supply.

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Water Shortage Order

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1. Why was the water shortage order lifted in some counties but not others?

Groundwater levels in some, but not all, regions of the District rebounded following record rainfall from two tropical storms. The order was rescinded only for those areas where groundwater levels improved significantly.

2. We’ve received a lot of rain lately. Do we still need restrictions?

Yes. Recent rains haven’t been enough to reverse the effects of long-term, historic drought. To stretch our present water supply until it is replenished, all water users are asked to conserve.

3. My water comes from my private well. Do the water restrictions apply to me?

Yes. The restrictions apply to all water users whether their water comes from a private well or a public utility.

4. If our groundwater is going to Jacksonville, why do I have to follow restrictions when people living there do not?

Groundwater is a shared resource so we all must share in conserving it. We don’t know to what extent neighboring cities may be responsible for low groundwater levels that are impacting our rivers and springs. We do know that we shouldn’t wait for others to act before we reduce our own water use. This is our opportunity to become leaders in water conservation for our region and state. Together we’ll set the example.

5. How can I tell which water management district I live in?

The Suwannee district covers all or parts of 15 counties. If you own property, your tax bill will list your water management district. You can also call 386.362.1001 to find out if you live in the Suwannee district.

6. I see farmers watering fields at all hours, for long periods of time. Don’t they have restrictions?

Yes. The water shortage order places restrictions on the use of overhead irrigation systems, end guns, and other inefficient water use. Most farmers already have consumptive use permits that require the use of conservation best management practices. To water large plots of farmland, irrigation systems sometimes must operate nearly round-the-clock. To offset the extended time periods, farmers may retrofit their systems to low-pressure and low-volume, which use less water. The use of treated wastewater for irrigation is exempt from restrictions.

7. Who enforces the restrictions?

Violation of the water shortage order is a second-degree misdemeanor (Chapter 40B-21, F.A.C. and Section 373, Florida Statutes) punishable by 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. City and county officials and local law enforcement agencies are authorized and required to enforce the order. The District encourages conservation education first. As a last resort the District will refer violations to local law enforcement for appropriate response. If a city or county has its own irrigation ordinance, violations may be subject to associated penalties.

8. How do I report a violation?

The most convenient way is to fill out the Water Restrictions Violation Reporting Form on the District’s website: www.mysuwanneeriver.com/watershortage. The reports will be handled by District staff or routed to an appropriate enforcement official. You may also phone 386.362.1001 or 800.226.1066, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

9. My home owners association (HOA) requires that all lawns be kept lush and green or residents will be fined. If I comply with the water shortage order and my lawn turns brown or dies, can the HOA issue

Chapter 373.185(3)(b), Florida Statutes addresses this. The following excerpt (see italics) should be helpful in working with your HOA, which may not be aware of the law.
(a) The Legislature finds that the use of Florida-friendly landscaping and other water use and pollution prevention measures to conserve or protect the state’s water resources serves a compelling public interest and that the participation of homeowners’ associations and local governments is essential to the state’s efforts in water conservation and water quality protection and restoration.
(b) A deed restriction or covenant may not prohibit or be enforced so as to prohibit any property owner from implementing Florida-friendly landscaping on his or her land or create any requirement or limitation in conflict with any provision of part II of this chapter or a water shortage order, other order, consumptive use permit, or rule adopted or issued pursuant to part II of this chapter.

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Water Supply Planning

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1. What is a water supply assessment?

Water supply assessments evaluate existing and projected water uses over a 20-year period and determine whether groundwater is available to meet such demands without causing significant harm to water resources and natural systems.

2. What is a water supply plan?

The District is statutorily required to develop regional water supply plans for areas where groundwater sources are unable to meet demand over 20 years. Alternative water supplies and conservation strategies will be used to help meet water needs in such areas.

3. What is an alternative water supply?

The District's traditional source of water comes from groundwater pumped from the Upper Floridan aquifer. Other sources are referred to as alternative water supplies; the District also completes water resource development projects (see Florida Statute 373.019). Water conservation is universally considered as the "least cost alternative water supply," to be routinely implemented and practiced by water users. Reclaimed water, storm water, and surface water (captured predominantly during wet weather flows) have also been identified as potentially feasible alternative water supplies within our District.

4. What is a water conservation strategy?

The District works with all water users to ensure that water conservation is implemented in order to extend our water supplies. The District has established permanent limits on lawn watering and landscape irrigation for homeowners and businesses and is also working with all permitted users to develop and implement water conservation plans as part of their consumptive use permits.

5. What is water resource development?

Water resource development includes the formulation and implementation of water resource management strategies led by a water management district. These projects include a variety of strategies to provide sustainable environmental benefits including, but not limited to, groundwater recharge augmentation, water storage, and water conservation.

6. What is a water resource caution area?

As identified by a water management district, a water resource caution area is a geographic area that has existing water resource problems or is projected to develop water resource problems during the next twenty years.