As the drought deepens across Florida, water management districts are issuing tighter watering rules. Water-shortage orders may be issued when temporary reductions in surface and ground water uses are necessary to protect water resources from serious harm.
As of May 15, the state’s water management districts were operating under the following conditions:
- St. John’s River Water Management District: Modified Phase III Water Shortage issued May 13
- Southwest Florida Water Management District: Modified Phase III Water Shortage issued April 3
- South Florida Water Management District: Water Shortage Warning for Collier, Glades, Highlands, Lee, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties issued Feb. 6
- Suwannee River Water Management District: Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order issued April 14
- Northwest Florida Water Management District: Water Shortage Warning Order issued Feb. 12
A May 14 U.S. Drought Monitor map of Florida shows that most of the state’s traditional Citrus Belt is in an extreme drought. Much of the state’s east coast citrus-producing areas — along with Orange County and parts of Lake, Osceola, Polk and Sumter counties — are in less stringent drought conditions.
While efficient water management is always a priority, current drought conditions require an elevated level of awareness and stewardship across all operations to demonstrate agriculture’s commitment to responsible water use.
Growers are encouraged to take the following actions:
- Schedule irrigation during periods of lower evapotranspiration and in accordance with any district-specific time restrictions.
- Implement precision technologies and best management practices (BMPs) to guide irrigation decisions. (See the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ BMP for Florida citrus operations here.)
- Ensure that sprinklers are targeted only to active production areas.
- Inspect irrigation systems for leaks, misalignment or clogged spray heads.
- Stay informed on evolving conditions and additional water-use restrictions issued by your water management district.
Source: Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association
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