In the early 1990s the District undertook a proactive approach towards water supply. The Upper East Coast Water Supply Plan is one of four regional Water Supply Plans, designed to ensure there is sufficient water to meet the needs of future generations. The Upper East Coast region is expected to experience substantial growth between now and the year 2020. Population is expected to increase by almost 80 percent from 1990 levels, with expansion occurring mostly in the coastal areas. Likewise, agriculture – primarily citrus located in the western portion of the region, is expected to remain a cornerstone of the region's economy.
The purpose of the Upper East Coast Water Supply Plan is to offer a framework for future water use decisions in providing adequate water supply for urban areas, agriculture and the environment through 2020. The plan estimates the future water supply needs of urban areas and agriculture, weighs those demands against historically used water sources, and identifies areas where these demands cannot be met without harming the resource and environment. Alternative water source options are also being studied to see if they are suitable in helping to meet future water demands.
Historically used sources of water may not be sufficient to meet projected water demands during some drought conditions, but with appropriate management and use of different water sources, there is sufficient water to meet the needs of the region. Studies show that the traditional source of water, the surficial aquifer, has limited potential for expansion due to potential impacts on wetland systems. Another problem with increasing the use of the aquifer is the possibility of saltwater intrusion near public water supply wells. In western portions of the region where surface water from the canal system is used for agricultural needs, the study showed that existing surface water supplies may be inadequate to meet continuing water needs.
As residents of Martin and St. Lucie counties are well aware, freshwater discharges to the St. Lucie Estuary and the Indian River Lagoon cause major havoc with the waterways. When the salinity of the estuary is decreased by too much freshwater, seagrass and oyster bed systems (which shelter and feed fish) can be damaged. Conversely, insufficient freshwater discharges increase the salinity of the system, resulting in other kinds of negative environmental impacts. The plan looks to redirect excess surface water to areas where it can be used or stored and at the same time provide new sources for public water supply.
WATER SAVINGS INCENTIVE PROGRAM (SIP): Get Grant Application (You will need to register from this link).
WATER CONSERVATION: Programs to help communities conserve water.
Big Cypress Basin
Water Supply
As residents of Martin and St. Lucie counties are well aware, freshwater discharges to the 
