Overview
- The Southwest Florida Water Management District enacted a Modified Phase II severe shortage effective Feb. 8, cutting lawn watering to one day per week with limited hours through July 1, 2026.
- The St. Johns River Water Management District declared a Phase I moderate shortage for Duval and parts of Alachua, Baker, Bradford and Marion counties, urging voluntary conservation across all sectors.
- Existing SJRWMD winter rules remain in place: odd-numbered homes may irrigate Saturday, even-numbered homes Sunday, businesses Tuesday, with no irrigation from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Both districts say restrictions apply to all sources, including private wells, pumps, surface and groundwater, and public and private utilities.
- Officials cite rainfall totals at or below 40 inches over the past year, reduced river flows and low groundwater, noting conservation also helps maintain hydrant pressure for wildfire response.