April is Water Conservation Month! Conserving water year-round is an integral part of managing and protecting South Florida’s water supplies today and for future generations. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) proactively develops long-term water supply plans to monitor, evaluate and identify water sources and projects to meet the future water needs throughout its 16-county region.
Did you know a component of the SFWMD's mission is to plan for the water supplies of the region’s residents, visitors, and the environment?
Around 3 billion gallons of water are used every day in Central and Southern Florida by 9 million residents and visitors - for watering lawns, drinking and bathing, growing crops and servicing industries. Future water demands are projected to increase to approximately 4.1 billion gallons per day by 2040. One of the most effective ways to address increasing water needs is through water conservation.
During Water Conservation Month, the SFWMD joins with local governments throughout our 16-county region to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and the ways we can reduce our water use all year long.
With approximately 50 percent of residential water used for irrigation, it is important to irrigate efficiently. To promote more efficient irrigation, the SFWMD passed a year-round Landscape Irrigation Rule that limits the days and hours allowed for landscape irrigation. The year-round Landscape Irrigation Rule is a component of the District's Comprehensive Water Conservation Program, which was established to encourage more responsible use of water resources throughout South Florida.
In addition, homeowners can use these simple tips to save water both inside and outside their home:
- Make sure your rain sensor device is working properly to prevent your irrigation system from running in the rain.
- Set an irrigation timer to run only two or three days per week pursuant to your local irrigation ordinance and no irrigation between 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Visit Lawn Watering Restrictions to learn more.
- Install a “smart” irrigation controller that uses weather data or soil moisture information to decide when and how much irrigation is needed for your yard.
- Fix leaks. Finding and fixing water leaks conserves water, saves money and protects your home from damage.
- Landscape the Florida-Friendly Way planting low maintenance plants using environmentally sustainable practices.
Each of us can make a difference by reducing our water use. Together we can ensure a more sustainable water supply for the benefit of all South Floridians.